Origin and Common Names
Centella glabrata L. var. bracteata Adamson, also known as pennywort or gotu kola, is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the Apiaceae family. This plant is commonly found in India, Sri Lanka, and other Southeast Asian countries, where it has been used for centuries in traditional medicine.
Appearance
This plant has a creeping habit and can quickly spread across the ground. Its leaves are small, round, and bright green, and they grow in clusters on long, thin stems. The plant produces small, white or pink flowers that bloom throughout the year.
Uses
Centella glabrata has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including anxiety, depression, and cognitive decline. It has also been used to improve circulation, support liver and kidney health, and ease skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema.
In recent years, Centella glabrata has gained popularity as a supplement and ingredient in topical creams and serums due to its potential anti-aging and skin-healing properties. It is known for its ability to increase collagen production, improve skin elasticity, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Light Requirements
Centella glabrata L. var. bracteata Adamson typically grows well in partially shaded to fully shaded areas. It is not suitable for full sunlight exposure as it can result in sunburn and stunted growth. In shaded areas, it can thrive with reduced light levels that are filtered through the leaves of taller trees or buildings.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for Centella glabrata L. var. bracteata Adamson growth is between 20 to 28 degrees Celsius. Below 20 degrees Celsius growth may slow down, and if the temperature drops drastically, it may lead to frost damage. The plant is also sensitive to high temperatures above 30 degrees Celsius, where it may result in dehydration and wilt.
Soil Requirements
Centella glabrata L. var. bracteata Adamson grows well in loose, moist soils with good drainage capabilities. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, with a range of 6 to 7. The plant's roots can easily rot in waterlogged soils, so the soil should not become waterlogged. Adding organic matter such as compost or decomposed leaves before planting the plant can help retain moisture in soil and improve soil structure.
Cultivation Methods
Centella glabrata L. var. bracteata Adamson requires warm and humid conditions to grow successfully. It can be cultivated in pots or in the ground and prefers well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH of 6.0 to 6.5. Seeds can be sown in the nursery and then transplanted when they grow up to 2-3 inches tall, or they can be directly sown in the ground.
Watering Needs
Centella glabrata L. var. bracteata Adamson requires regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. In hot and dry weather conditions, it may need watering twice a day. Overwatering could cause root rot, so it's essential to regulate the frequency and amount of watering to prevent waterlogging.
Fertilization
This plant requires regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer every two to three weeks to enhance growth and ensure optimum nutrient uptake. A slow-release fertilizer can be applied to the soil surface or mixed with water and applied to the foliage. Organic fertilizers can also be used to enrich the soil with essential nutrients.
Pruning
Centella glabrata L. var. bracteata Adamson requires minimal pruning. Any dried, dead or diseased leaves should be removed to maintain the plant's health and hygiene. Proper pruning could also promote bushier growth and a more vigorous plant. Pruning should be conducted during the growing season to prevent stress and ensure quick recovery.
Propagation of Centella glabrata L. var. bracteata Adamson
Centella glabrata L. var. bracteata Adamson, also known as Gotu Kola is a herbaceous, perennial plant that is native to Asia, Africa, and the South Pacific. The plant is commonly used for medicinal and culinary purposes. Propagation of this plant can be done through several methods including:
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Centella glabrata L. var. bracteata Adamson can be done through seeds. The seeds should be collected from ripe fruits and should be sown in well-draining soil. The best time to sow the seeds is during the spring season. The soil should be kept moist until the germination of the seeds.
Division Propagation
Division propagation of Centella glabrata L. var. bracteata Adamson can be done by dividing the root clump. This method of propagation is usually done during the spring season. The plant should be lifted and divided into smaller clumps, ensuring that each clump has a minimum of two leaves and sufficient roots. The divided clumps can then be planted back in well-draining soil.
Stem Cutting Propagation
Propagation of Centella glabrata L. var. bracteata Adamson can also be done through stem cuttings. This method of propagation is best done during the spring season. The stem cuttings should be taken from the basal portion of the plant, and should be 10-15 cm long. The leaves should be removed from the lower two-thirds of the stem, and the cuttings should be planted in well-draining soil, ensuring that the soil is kept moist.
Overall, Centella glabrata L. var. bracteata Adamson can be propagated by seeds, division, or stem cutting, and the best time to perform these propagation methods is during the spring season.
Disease and Pest Management for Centella glabrata L. var. bracteata Adamson
Centella glabrata L. var. bracteata Adamson, commonly known as Asiatic pennywort or gotu kola, is a hardy plant that is resistant to most pests and diseases. However, it is not immune to them, and some common issues that can affect the plant are:
Diseases
Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that affects the leaves and stems of the plant. It causes small, dark spots to appear on the leaves, which can grow in size and eventually turn yellow and fall off. To manage this disease, it is important to practice good sanitation and remove any infected leaves or stems immediately. Fungicides can also be applied to prevent the disease from spreading.
Root rot: Root rot is caused by a fungus that attacks the roots of the plant. The plant may appear wilted and have yellow leaves. The roots may also appear brown and mushy. To manage this disease, it is important to avoid overwatering and ensure that the soil is well-drained. Fungicides can also be applied to prevent the disease from spreading.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They can cause the leaves to curl and turn yellow, and can also transmit diseases. To manage this pest, it is important to practice good sanitation and remove any infected leaves or stems immediately. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be applied to control the population.
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that suck the sap of the plant and cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. They thrive in dry, dusty conditions. To manage this pest, it is important to keep the plant well-hydrated and increase the humidity. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be applied to control the population.
By following good cultural practices, such as providing adequate water, fertilization, and sunlight, and paying close attention to signs of disease and pests, the problems can be identified and dealt with before they become severe and cause permanent damage to the plant.
