Origin
Centella flexuosa (Eckl. & Zeyh.) Drude, also known as twisty centella or wiry pennywort, is a perennial herb that is native to Southern Africa, specifically found in South Africa, Swaziland, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique.
Common Names
The plant is commonly referred to as twisty centella or wiry pennywort due to its thin and twisted stem.
General Appearance
The plant has thin and wiry stems that grow up to 8 inches (20cm) tall. Its leaves are small, rounded, and slightly cup-shaped. The leaves and stem are often tinged with a reddish-brown color. The plant produces small, white or pink flowers that grow in clusters around the leaf axils.
Uses
Centella flexuosa has been used in traditional medicine to treat several ailments such as asthma, diarrhea, and wounds. The plant is also used as a culinary herb in some African countries, with its leaves and stems being added to stews and soups.
Light Requirements:
Centella flexuosa grows best in partially shaded areas with indirect sunlight. It does not do well in direct, intense sunlight and may suffer from leaf burn. Therefore, it is best to place the plant in an area that receives filtered light or bright indirect sunlight.
Temperature Requirements:
Centella flexuosa prefers warm to hot temperatures and is not frost tolerant. It can grow well in temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. When grown in temperatures below 15°C, growth may slow down or become stunted.
Soil Requirements:
The ideal soil for Centella flexuosa should be moist, well-draining, and rich in organic matter. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. However, the soil should be able to hold moisture well and never allow the plant to dry out.
Cultivation methods
Centella flexuosa typically grows in moist, shaded areas in its natural habitat. When cultivating this plant, it's important to replicate these conditions as closely as possible. Plant the young seedlings in rich, well-draining soil that's kept constantly moist. This plant grows well in tropical or subtropical climates, and it's essential to keep the temperature above 20°C to avoid stunting the plant's growth.
Watering needs
Since Centella flexuosa thrives in moist conditions, it's vital to keep the soil consistently damp. Water the plant regularly, but be careful not to overwater, as this may cause root rot. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant from the bottom to avoid wetting the leaves, which can result in fungal diseases.
Fertilization
When it comes to fertilizing Centella flexuosa, it's important to avoid overfeeding the plant. Fertilize the plant once a month with a balanced fertilizer, following the package instructions. Avoid using fertilizer with high nitrogen content, as this may affect the plant's growth. Too much fertilizer can lead to weak growth and may even kill the plant, so it's crucial to fertilize sparingly.
Pruning
Pruning Centella flexuosa is not usually necessary, but you can pinch back the growing tips to control the plant's size and promote bushier growth. You can also remove any dead or yellowing leaves to improve the plant's appearance. When pruning, use clean, sharp tools, as this will help prevent the spread of disease.
Propagation of Centella flexuosa (Eckl. & Zeyh.) Drude
Centella flexuosa (Eckl. & Zeyh.) Drude can be propagated through both seeds and vegetative means.
Propagation through Seeds
Seeds of Centella flexuosa are small and should be sown on the surface of the soil. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. If the seeds are sown in a flat, they should be transplanted into individual containers when they have a few true leaves.
Vegetative Propagation
Centella flexuosa can also be propagated through vegetative means. Stem cuttings can be taken from a healthy mother plant and rooted in moist soil. Cuttings should be taken in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Roots should develop within a few weeks and then the new plant can be transplanted into individual containers.
Division is another way to propagate Centella flexuosa. This method involves separating the plant into smaller sections, each of which can be potted up and grown on. It is best to do this in the spring when growth is resumed.
Regardless of the propagation method, new plants should be kept in a warm, humid location until they have become established.
Disease and Pest Management for Centella flexuosa (Eckl. & Zeyh.) Drude
Centella flexuosa (Eckl. & Zeyh.) Drude is a medicinal plant that belongs to the family Apiaceae. It is popularly known as "Brahmi" and is used in Ayurvedic medicine as a memory enhancer and for the treatment of anxiety, stress, and insomnia. Like any other plant, Centella flexuosa is susceptible to pests and diseases, which can reduce its yield and quality. This article will provide some information about the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggest ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
The following are some of the common diseases that might affect Centella flexuosa:
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes circular brown spots on the leaves of the plant. The spots can coalesce to form larger irregular lesions that can lead to defoliation. The disease is favored by warm and humid conditions. To manage leaf spot, it is essential to practice good sanitation by removing infected leaves and debris from the garden. Fungicide sprays can also be used in severe cases.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as white powdery growth on the leaves and stem of the plant. The disease is favored by dry and warm conditions. To manage powdery mildew, it is essential to maintain good air circulation around the plant and provide adequate water to the roots. Fungicide sprays can also be used in severe cases.
Root Rot
Root rot is a fungal disease that causes the roots of the plant to rot. The disease thrives in wet and poorly drained soil. To manage root rot, it is essential to maintain proper drainage around the plant and avoid overwatering. Fungicide drenches can also be used in severe cases.
Common Pests
The following are some of the common pests that might affect Centella flexuosa:
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They can cause the leaves to curl and stunt the growth of the plant. To manage aphids, it is essential to spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny insects that feed on the leaves of the plant and can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. To manage spider mites, it is essential to maintain proper humidity levels around the plant and spray it with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Thrips
Thrips are small, slender insects that feed on the leaves of the plant and can cause silvering and distortion of the leaves. To manage thrips, it is essential to spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
In conclusion, it is essential to practice good management practices, such as maintaining proper sanitation, providing adequate water and nutrients, and monitoring the plant for any signs of pests or diseases. By doing so, one can ensure that Centella flexuosa remains healthy and productive.
