Overview of Centella capensis (L.) Domin
Centella capensis (L.) Domin, also known as the Cape pennywort, is a perennial herbaceous plant belongs to the family Apiaceae. This plant is native to the coastal regions of South Africa and is characterized by its medicinal and therapeutic properties, which have been used for centuries by indigenous peoples in traditional medicine.
General Appearance of Centella capensis
Centella capensis is a low-lying plant with a creeping stem that usually grows up to 25 centimeters long. The plant's leaves are succulent with a slightly rounded shape and have a distinct red margin around the leaf margin. The flowers of Centella capensis are small, pink, and white-colored, arranged in umbrella-shaped clusters atop slender and hairy stalks. The fruits produced by this plant are tiny, smooth, and brown in appearance.
Common Names of Centella capensis
Centella capensis is known by several common names, including Cape pennywort, water pennywort, and plakkie (in Afrikaans), which are also used interchangeably with other plants belonging to the Centella genus.
Uses of Centella capensis
Centella capensis is known for its medicinal and therapeutic properties. The plant has several active compounds that have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antitumor properties. It is commonly used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as wounds, skin infections, and stomach ulcers. The leaves and stems of Centella capensis are consumed as food, and the plant is also used in cosmetics and personal care products such as soaps and shampoos.
In conclusion, Centella capensis is a highly beneficial plant, with a wide variety of applications in traditional medicine and skincare products. Its unique appearance and growth pattern make it a recognizable plant in its native region of South Africa.
Growth Conditions for Centella capensis (L.) Domin
Centella capensis (L.) Domin is a perennial, low-growing herbaceous plant with creeping stems and tiny, scalloped leaves. It is commonly found in wet, marshy areas and along the margins of streams, rivers, and ponds. Understanding the growth conditions for this plant can help promote its healthy development.
Light Requirements
Centella capensis prefers partial to full shade, making it an ideal option to place under the shade of trees or near the edge of a body of water. Excessively bright sunlight can cause leaf burn and negatively affect growth, making it vital to adjust the plant's location to ensure the leaves receive adequate shade.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives in warm climates, and temperatures ranging from 20 to 30? are ideal for its growth. This plant prefers to grow in a warm, humid atmosphere. In colder temperatures, growth may slow down dramatically.
Soil Requirements
Centella capensis requires wet soil with ample drainage to prevent waterlogging. It grows best in soil with a lot of organic matter, such as rotting leaves and compost. Loam, sand, and clay soils are acceptable, but the soil can’t be too compact or too sandy. The ideal pH range is from 6.5 to 7.5. For better growth conditions, adding a nitrogen-rich fertilizer can be useful.
By providing the right growth conditions, the Centella capensis plant can be grown successfully, helping to improve the appearance and vitality of a garden or landscape.
Cultivation Methods
Centella capensis is primarily grown from seeds, but cuttings can also be used. For seed propagation, sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix and keep the soil moist. Maintain a temperature between 20 and 25°C for optimal seed germination. The seeds take around 2-3 weeks to germinate.
For cuttings, take a stem cutting from an established plant and remove the lowest leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in well-draining soil. Place the plant in a warm, humid environment and keep the soil moist until the cutting develops roots.
Watering Needs
Centella capensis prefers consistently moist soil, but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the soil surface begins to dry out, but do not let it dry completely between watering sessions. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases, so be cautious not to water the plant excessively.
Fertilization
Centella capensis is not a heavy feeder and can survive in nutrient-poor soil. However, for optimal growth and plant health, feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Alternatively, use a slow-release fertilizer while planting the seedlings or repotting the plant.
Pruning
Centella capensis often grows as a groundcover plant and does not require extensive pruning. However, you can trim the plant to encourage bushier growth or prevent it from becoming invasive. Pruning must be done in spring before new growth starts. Pinch back the tips of the stems or use clean shears to cut back the plant, leaving some foliage on the stems.
Propagation of Centella capensis (L.) Domin
Centella capensis (L.) Domin, commonly known as the creeping pennywort or thick-leaved pennywort, is a perennial herb native to Africa and Madagascar. The plant is renowned for its traditional medicinal uses and is also grown as a groundcover for landscaping purposes. Propagation of Centella capensis can be done through various methods such as:
Seed Propagation
The plant produces seeds that can be collected and sown during the spring season. The seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours before sowing in seed trays containing well-drained potting mix. The trays should be kept in a shaded area and watered regularly to maintain moisture. The seedlings can be transplanted to individual pots once they have developed their true leaves.
Vegetative Propagation
Centella capensis can be propagated vegetatively through stem cuttings or divisions. Stem cuttings should be taken from the parent plant during the active growth phase and treated with rooting hormone before being planted in potting mix. The cutting should be kept in a warm and moist environment until roots develop. Divisions can be made by separating clumps of the parent plant and planting them in individual pots.
Sucker Propagation
The plant produces runners or stolons that can form new plantlets at the nodes. These plantlets, also known as suckers, can be separated from the parent plant and planted in individual pots or directly in the desired location. The suckers should be planted at the same depth as the parent plant and kept moist until they establish roots.
Regardless of the method chosen, Centella capensis requires a well-drained soil, moderate watering, and protection from direct sunlight during the establishment phase.
Disease Management for Centella capensis
The Centella capensis is relatively disease-resistant but may still fall victim to certain diseases. One of the most common diseases is leaf spot, which appears as small water-soaked spots on leaves, eventually turning reddish-brown or black. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves, control humidity levels, and avoid watering foliage. The plant may also be treated with copper-based fungicides or neem oil. Powdery mildew might also affect this plant. To prevent powdery mildew, maintain optimal air circulation, and avoid overwatering. Fungicides may also offer effective control.
Pest Management for Centella capensis
Although relatively pest-resistant, the Centella capensis can suffer from a few insect pests. One common pest is spider mites which are usually identified by yellowish spots on leaves and webbing on the plant. To control spider mites, spray the plant with a mixture of neem oil and water or use insecticidal soap. Another insect that may affect Centella capensis is the whitefly, which will cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. To manage whiteflies, use insecticidal soap or spray the undersides of leaves with neem oil. Finally, the plant may be attacked by aphids which will cause distortion of leaves and stunt growth. Use insecticidal soap or apply neem oil to control aphids.
