Origin and Common Names
Centella calliodus, also known as Gotu Kola, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Apiaceae family. It is native to South America and is commonly found in Colombia, Brazil, and Ecuador.
Uses
For centuries, Gotu Kola has been used for its medicinal properties. Traditionally, it has been used to treat skin conditions, such as psoriasis and eczema, as well as to reduce inflammation and improve blood circulation. It has also been used to improve mental function, memory, and concentration. In Ayurvedic medicine, it is believed to balance all three doshas (vata, kapha, and pitta), promoting overall health and wellbeing.
Additionally, Gotu Kola is used in cooking and is a popular vegetable in many parts of South Asia. It can be eaten raw or cooked and is often used in salads, soups, and stir-fries.
General Appearance
Gotu Kola is a small creeping plant that has fan-shaped leaves that grow in clusters. The leaves are typically green and have rounded edges and a smooth texture. The plant produces small white or pink flowers that bloom in the summer months. It can grow up to 6 inches in height and spreads rapidly, making it an ideal ground cover plant.
Growth Conditions for Centella calliodus (Cham. & Schltdl.) Drude
Centella calliodus is a small herbaceous plant commonly found in South and Central America, particularly in the Amazonian region. The plant thrives in tropical and subtropical environments where there is enough moisture and light.
Light Requirements
Centella calliodus requires bright, indirect sunlight to grow well. The plant cannot tolerate direct sunlight, which can scorch its leaves. Therefore, it is best to place the plant in a location that receives morning or evening sunlight or where the light is filtered through a sheer curtain or mesh.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Centella calliodus is between 20 to 30°C (68 to 86°F). The plant can tolerate higher temperatures, but it may not grow as vigorously. If the temperature drops below 15°C (59°F), the plant's growth can slow down, and it may go into a dormant state.
Soil Requirements
Centella calliodus prefers well-draining, nutrient-rich soil that is slightly acidic to neutral (pH between 5.5 and 7.0). The soil should be moist but not waterlogged, as the plant's roots can easily rot in standing water. A good potting mix for Centella calliodus should contain organic matter, such as peat or compost, to help retain moisture and nutrients.
In summary, Centella calliodus requires bright, indirect sunlight, a temperature range of 20 to 30°C (68 to 86°F), and well-draining, nutrient-rich soil that is slightly acidic to neutral (pH between 5.5 and 7.0) to grow optimally.
Cultivation Methods
Centella calliodus is a perennial herb and can be propagated through seeds or stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken during the growing season and rooted in moist soil. It thrives in well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.5-6.5 and partial to full shade. The plant can be grown in beds or pots, but if grown in pots, they should be kept in larger containers to accommodate the spreading habit of the plant.
Watering Needs
Centella calliodus requires consistently moist soil, but it cannot tolerate waterlogged soil. Watering should be done thoroughly once a week, and the soil should be allowed to dry slightly between watering. If the plant is grown in pots, care should be taken not to let the water stand in the saucer, which can cause root rot.
Fertilization
Centella calliodus prefers a balanced fertilizer with a NPK ratio of 10-10-10. It should be fertilized once a month during the growing season. Over-fertilization can cause leaf burn and damage to the plant. The use of organic fertilizers is recommended over chemical fertilizers.
Pruning
Centella calliodus does not require regular pruning, but it can be cut back in the early spring to promote fresh growth. Deadheading of spent flowers can prolong blooming. The plant spreads through stolons, which can be pruned to keep the plant in bounds and prevent it from taking over the garden.
Propagation of Centella calliodus (Cham. & Schltdl.) Drude
Centella calliodus (Cham. & Schltdl.) Drude is a creeping herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Apiaceae family. It is commonly found in humid, shaded places, and it grows well in soils with high organic matter content. The plant can be propagated through various methods such as:
Propagation through Seeds
The seeds of Centella calliodus (Cham. & Schltdl.) Drude can be collected from the matured fruits during the flowering season. The seeds need to be cleaned and dried before sowing. The soil should be well-drained and moist. The seeds should be sown uniformly and covered lightly with soil. The seeds germinate within two to four weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted to their final position once they are large enough.
Propagation through Cuttings
The stem cuttings of Centella calliodus (Cham. & Schltdl.) Drude can be used for propagation. The cuttings are collected from healthy plants, and the leaves on the lower side of the cutting are removed. The cuttings are then planted in a well-drained medium and kept moist. The cuttings will start rooting within three to four weeks, and they can be transplanted to their final position once rooted.
Propagation through Division
The plant can also be divided to propagate it. The clumps are dug up during the winter, and the roots are separated into smaller clumps. Each clump should have enough roots and shoots to produce a new plant. The new plants can be transplanted to their final position and watered adequately.
Disease Management
Centella calliodus is generally resistant to most plant diseases. However, occasional fungal infections or bacterial diseases can occur. To manage any such disease, it is essential to keep the soil and surrounding area clean and free from debris. Additionally, the following measures can be taken:
- Removal of infected plant parts: Any infected leaves or flowers should be promptly removed to prevent the spread of the disease.
- Proper irrigation: Overhead watering should be avoided to minimize the risk of fungal infections.
- Application of fungicides: In serious cases, fungicides may be applied according to the instructions of the manufacturer.
Pest Management
Several pests may attack Centella calliodus, the most common of which are:
- Leaf miners: These pests tunnel through the leaves and cause distorted growth. They can be managed by applying insecticides or natural predators like parasitic wasps.
- Aphids: These tiny insects suck sap from the leaves, thereby weakening the plant. They can be removed by washing the leaves with water and soap or by the application of insecticides.
- Caterpillars: These pests can cause significant damage by eating the leaves. They can be manually removed and discarded or treated using biological controls like Bacillus thuringiensis (BT).
To prevent pest attacks, it is recommended to keep the growing area clean and free from weeds, provide adequate spacing between plants to improve air circulation, and monitor regularly for the signs of infestation.
