Origin
Centella glabrata L. var. natalensis Adamson, also known as Natal pennywort, is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the Apiaceae family. It is native to Africa and can be found in the eastern regions of South Africa, Swaziland, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe.
Common Names
Natal pennywort is known by various common names such as African pennyworth, entlahla, mafutha-a-litsitsi, soapwort, and umdalo.
Appearance
Centella glabrata L. var. natalensis Adamson is a creeping perennial herb that grows well in damp soils and moist areas. It has slender, branching, and smooth stems with delicate, small, and green leaves that vary in shape from round to kidney-shaped. The leaves are smooth, flat, and shiny, and can grow up to 4 cm in diameter. The flowers of Natal pennywort are small and inconspicuous, and are either white or pink. The plant can grow up to 10 cm in height and can spread up to 1 meter.
Uses
Natal pennywort is a popular medicinal plant that has been used for centuries in traditional African medicine. The leaves are harvested for their therapeutic properties and are used to treat various ailments such as skin infections, wounds, fever, and headache. The plant is also used for its anti-inflammatory properties and is known to help with digestive problems such as bloating and constipation. The leaves of Centella glabrata L. var. natalensis Adamson are also rich in vitamins and minerals and are consumed as a vegetable in some African communities.
Light Requirements
Centella glabrata L. var. natalensis is a shade-loving plant that thrives under low to moderate amounts of sunlight. It can tolerate full sun, but it's best to provide it with filtered or dappled light. Too much direct sunlight can cause discoloration of the leaves and stunted growth.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is natural to sub-tropical and tropical regions and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures between 20°C to 32°C (68°F to 90°F). It cannot tolerate frost or temperatures below 10°C (50°F). It requires a warm and humid climate with sufficient moisture to grow well.
Soil Requirements
The optimal soil type for Centella glabrata L. var. natalensis is well-draining, fertile, and rich in organic matter. The pH level of the soil should be between 5.5 to 6.5. The plant can grow in a variety of soil types, but it grows best in loamy and sandy loam soils. Heavy clay soils should be avoided as they can lead to root rotting. Waterlogged soil should also be avoided, as it can cause plant death.
Cultivation
Centella glabrata L. var. natalensis Adamson can be grown both indoors and outdoors, depending on the climate. The plant thrives in well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It also prefers partial shade to full shade, making it an ideal option for people living in hot regions. If grown indoors, ensure the plant is placed near a windowsill or an area with plenty of natural light.
Watering Needs
Centella glabrata L. var. natalensis Adamson requires consistent watering. The soil should stay moist but not waterlogged. Watering should be done when the surface of the soil feels dry. This may vary depending on the climate, so ensure to monitor the plant regularly.
Fertilization
Fertilization will help boost the growth of the Centella glabrata L. var. natalensis Adamson plant. The use of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer every four to six weeks during the growing season is recommended. It is essential to follow the instructions on the packaging and avoid over-fertilization, which could lead to burning the plant's roots.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to the growth and maintenance of Centella glabrata L. var. natalensis Adamson. Pinch the tips of the plant regularly to encourage bushier growth. Trim off any old growth and keep the plant tidy. This should be done periodically as the plant grows to ensure it remains compact and robust.
Propagation of Centella glabrata L. var. natalensis Adamson
There are several ways to propagate Centella glabrata L. var. natalensis Adamson:
1. Division
Division is a popular propagation method for Centella glabrata L. var. natalensis Adamson. It involves separating a clump of the plant into smaller sections, each with its own roots and stems.
To propagate through division, choose a mature plant and carefully dig it up. Then, tease apart the clump with a sharp, clean tool and replant the sections in a new location.
2. Stem cuttings
Another propagation method is through stem cuttings. Cut a six-inch-long stem from a healthy plant and remove the lower leaves, leaving only a few at the top. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and place it in a pot with a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and warm until the cutting produces roots.
3. Seed sowing
Centella glabrata L. var. natalensis Adamson can also be propagated through seed sowing. Sow the seeds in a pot with moist, well-draining soil mix. Cover the pot with plastic wrap to create a greenhouse environment and place it in a warm, bright location. Keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate.
Regardless of the method you choose, it's important to keep the soil consistently moist and provide the plant with bright, indirect light. With proper care, your new Centella glabrata L. var. natalensis Adamson plants will thrive and grow lush and healthy.
Disease and Pest Management for Centella glabrata L. var. natalensis Adamson
Centella glabrata L. var. natalensis Adamson, commonly known as Natal pennywort, is a herbaceous perennial plant that may suffer from various diseases and pests. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and some ways to manage them.
Diseases
Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a common disease that appears as brown or black spots on the leaves. It is caused by the fungi, Phyllosticta centellae and Cercospora sp. Use fungicides like chlorothalonil or copper-based fungicides, removing diseased leaves, and avoiding overhead irrigation to manage leaf spot.
Root rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, causing them to rot and turning the plant yellow. It can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage and avoiding overwatering. Infected plants should be removed, and the soil must be treated with fungicides.
Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as white or gray powdery growth on the leaves and stems. It can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation and avoiding overhead irrigation. Use fungicides that contain sulfur, neem oil, or potassium bicarbonate to manage powdery mildew.
Pests
Spider mites: Spider mites may appear as tiny red spiders on the undersides of leaves, causing the leaves to turn yellow or brown. They can be controlled by spraying the plants with neem oil or insecticidal soap every five to seven days.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white, and powdery insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing the leaves to turn yellow. They can be controlled by spraying the plants with a solution of water and insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Slugs and snails: Slugs and snails are common pests that may feed on the leaves of the plant, leaving behind large holes. They can be controlled by handpicking or by placing baits like beer traps around the plant.
By implementing the above measures, the disease and pest management of Centella glabrata L. var. natalensis Adamson can be effectively managed, maintaining the health and vitality of the plant.
