Origin of Centella dolichocarpa
Centella dolichocarpa M.T.R.Schub. & B.-E.van Wyk is a plant species that is native to Southern Africa.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Dwarf Pennywort, Sakral-teewaterpennie, or Mpondopondo.
Uses
In traditional medicine, the herb is used for its beneficial effects on the nervous system, improving memory and concentration, and treating anxiety. They also use it to alleviate skin ailments and to promote longevity.
The herb has also shown some therapeutic potential in wound healing, venous insufficiency, and even as an anti-tumor agent in some studies.
As a culinary herb, the leaves of Centella dolichocarpa can be used in salads or cooked as a vegetable.
General Appearance
Centella dolichocarpa is a small, perennial herb with a creeping growth habit. The leaves are small, circular, and slightly puckered, with distinct veins running through them. The plant produces small, insignificant flowers that are slightly pink or purple in color. The herb grows best in moist, shady areas and can often be found growing along stream banks or in marshy areas.
The plant is not very tall, usually growing to a maximum height of around 10cm, with a spread of up to 50cm.
The plant has a pleasant aroma and can be easily distinguished from other Pennywort species due to its small size and the puckered appearance of its leaves.
Light Requirements
Centella dolichocarpa M.T.R.Schub. & B.-E.van Wyk prefers moderate sunlight. It needs at least 3 hours of bright sunlight daily to grow and thrive. The plant can also tolerate partial shade, but it cannot survive in full shade. Therefore, it is essential to provide it with enough sunlight to grow healthily.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows well at an average temperature between 20-30°C (68-86°F). The minimum temperature it can tolerate is 15°C (59°F), while the maximum temperature is 40°C (104°F). Centella dolichocarpa M.T.R.Schub. & B.-E.van Wyk is a tropical plant and cannot withstand frost or freezing temperatures. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure that the temperature is appropriate for the plant's growth.
Soil Requirements
The plant thrives in moist but well-draining soil. The soil pH should be between 5.5-7.5. It also does well in a sandy loam soil rich in organic matter. Additionally, the soil should be kept damp but not waterlogged. Overwatering can cause root rot, which is detrimental to the plant's growth. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure that the soil conditions are right for the plant's optimal growth.
Cultivation
Centella dolichocarpa is an easy-to-grow plant that requires moderate temperatures and well-draining soil. It is native to South Africa and grows best in partial shade or direct sunlight. The plant can be propagated through seeds or cuttings.
Watering Needs
The plant requires consistent soil moisture to thrive, and its watering requirements vary based on the season and the location. As a general rule, it should be watered whenever the soil surface feels dry to the touch. Overwatering should be avoided as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Centella dolichocarpa does not require heavy fertilization, but a light application of organic fertilizer during the growing season can help improve the plant's overall health and growth. Fertilizer should be applied sparingly to avoid any adverse effects on the plant. Additionally, it is advisable to avoid fertilizing the plant during the dormant season.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Centella dolichocarpa, but regular trimming can help prevent the plant from becoming too leggy and ensure a more compact growth habit. However, over-pruning should be avoided, as it can stress the plant and reduce its overall vitality. Trimming can be done any time of the year.
Propagation of Centella dolichocarpa
Centella dolichocarpa M.T.R.Schub. & B.-E.van Wyk can be propagated by various methods that include:
Seed propagation
Seeds of Centella dolichocarpa can be sown during the spring season in well-draining soil. The seeds must be sown at a depth of 1 to 2 cm and kept moist until germination. Once the seedlings have developed two to three leaves, they can be transplanted to their final location.
Vegetative propagation
Vegetative propagation is the most common method of propagating Centella dolichocarpa as it takes less time and produces plants identical to the parent plant. This method involves taking a stem cutting that is 5-8 cm long and contains two to three nodes. The cutting should be stripped of its lower leaves and planted in well-draining soil. The soil should be kept moist for the first few weeks until the cutting has established roots.
Division
Centella dolichocarpa can also be propagated by dividing the root ball during the autumn or spring seasons. The plant should be carefully removed from its container or ground location and the root ball divided into smaller sections. Each section should have at least one healthy stem and root system. The divided sections can then be replanted in a well-draining soil mixture.
Disease Management for Centella dolichocarpa
Centella dolichocarpa is generally a disease-resistant plant. However, it is susceptible to a few diseases that can cause damage to the plant. Here are some common diseases that can affect the plant:
- Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that can cause black spots or lesions on the leaves. To manage it, remove infected plant parts and ensure proper ventilation and sanitation around the plant.
- Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that can cause brown or black spots on the leaves. Remove infected plant parts, ensure proper ventilation, and avoid overwatering to manage this disease.
- Cercospora fungus: Cercospora is a fungal disease that can cause yellow spots on leaves. To manage it, remove infected plant parts and avoid excessive moisture around the plant.
Pest Management for Centella dolichocarpa
Centella dolichocarpa is generally not affected by pests. However, some common pests that can attack the plant are:
- Spider mites: These pests are small insects that can suck the sap from the plant leaves, causing them to turn yellow and dry out. To manage spider mites, use insecticidal soap or oil, and ensure proper ventilation around the plant.
- Aphids: Aphids are small insects that can suck the sap from the leaves, causing the plant to wilt. To manage aphids, spray the plant with water to remove them or use insecticidal soap or oil.
- Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small insects that can affect the plant's growth by sucking sap from the leaves. To manage mealybugs, use insecticidal soap or oil, or manually remove them by wiping them off the plant with a cloth or cotton swab.
