Overview
Centella gymnocarpa M.T.R.Schub. & B.-E.van Wyk, also known as Centella, is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the Apiaceae family. It is native to South Africa and can be found growing in moist areas, including forests, stream banks, and marshes.
Common Names
Centella gymnocarpa is also commonly referred to as "Water Pennywort," "Kangaroo's Food," and "Tiger's Herb" due to its usage as a food source and medicinal plant by many indigenous communities.
Appearance
Centella gymnocarpa is a creeping plant that grows up to 20cm in height. Its leaves are kidney-shaped, with a diameter of around 10mm, and have small white or pink flowers that bloom in the summer months. The stems are thin and wiry, with roots that can spread across the soil and form a thick mat.
Uses
Centella gymnocarpa has been used for centuries as a traditional medicine for various ailments, including wound healing, anxiety, and cognitive function. The plant contains compounds such as triterpenoids and flavonoids that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
It is also popularly used as a culinary ingredient in dishes such as soups, salads, and stir-fries. The leaves of the plant have a slightly bitter, earthy taste and are often consumed raw or cooked.
Light Requirements
Centella gymnocarpa M.T.R.Schub. & B.-E.van Wyk requires partial shade to full sun exposure. It is best to provide bright but indirect sunlight to this plant to prevent sunburn and leaf damage. It can also tolerate low light conditions, but this may lead to slower growth.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers warm and humid conditions, with average temperatures ranging from 20 to 30°C. It cannot withstand frost or extreme temperatures below 10°C, which can cause damage to the leaves and growth inhibition.
Soil Requirements
Centella gymnocarpa M.T.R.Schub. & B.-E.van Wyk thrives in moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, with a range between 6 and 7.5. It is important to keep the soil constantly moist but not waterlogged to prevent root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Centella gymnocarpa M.T.R.Schub. & B.-E.van Wyk is commonly found in subtropical and tropical regions of the world. It grows well in warm and humid areas with plenty of rainfall, but it can also survive in drier areas with regular watering. This plant prefers partial shade over direct sunlight and grows well in moist soils rich in organic matter. Propagation of this plant can be done through seeds or stem cuttings.
Watering Needs
Proper watering is crucial to maintain the healthy growth of Centella gymnocarpa M.T.R.Schub. & B.-E.van Wyk. Watering this plant regularly during the growing season, mainly from spring to fall, is essential in maintaining its health. The soil should be kept consistently moist and never allowed to dry out entirely, but overwatering should also be avoided as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
To maintain optimal growth, Centella gymnocarpa M.T.R.Schub. & B.-E.van Wyk requires adequate nutrients. Applying organic fertilizers every two months during the growing season is recommended for this plant. These fertilizers should be applied to the base of the plant and always watered in thoroughly to prevent root burn.
Pruning
Regular pruning is required to keep Centella gymnocarpa M.T.R.Schub. & B.-E.van Wyk in good shape. Prune the plant during the dormant season, typically in winter, to remove any dead, diseased or damaged branches. The pruning will help stimulate new growth and enhance the plant’s overall appearance.
Propagation of Centella gymnocarpa
Centella gymnocarpa is a herbaceous perennial plant that is native to southern Africa. It is commonly known as Water pennywort or Bushman's hat. The plant is enduring and grows rapidly, making it an excellent vegetation option for anyone who wants to cultivate it.
1. Propagation by Seeds
Propagation of Centella gymnocarpa is done through seeds. When planting the seeds, it is recommended to scarify them to eliminate their hard coating and allow for easy germination. The seeds should then be sowed either in trays or directly on the ground when the soil temperature is approximately 20°C. The seeds can take up to one month to germinate.
2. Propagation by Cuttings
Another method of propagating Centella gymnocarpa is through cuttings. It is recommended to make the cuttings from the plant's basal portions as they have a higher success rate than those obtained from the top portions. The cuttings ought to be treated with rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining potting mixture. The pot should be kept in a warm place with indirect sunlight, and the plants should develop roots within six weeks.
3. Propagation by Division
Centella gymnocarpa can also be propagated through plant division. The plants should be dug out and then separated into smaller parts. Each part should have healthy roots as well as shoots that come up from the rhizomes. The new cuttings should be planted into the soil prepared with compost and then watered deeply to settle the soil around the roots.
Overall, Centella gymnocarpa is an easy plant to propagate and can be done through seeds, cuttings, or division. Take your time in choosing the one that best suits your situation and start propagating today!
Disease and Pest Management of Centella gymnocarpa
Centella gymnocarpa is generally a hardy plant that tends to be resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may still be attacked by certain pests and diseases, especially if grown in unsuitable conditions. It is important to be aware of the following diseases and pests and manage them appropriately to protect the plant's health and growth.
Common Diseases
Fungal diseases: Centella gymnocarpa is susceptible to fungal infections, such as leaf spot, stem rot, and root rot. These diseases are characterized by the appearance of dark spots on the leaves or stem, wilting, and stunted growth. To prevent the spread of fungal diseases, it is important to keep the plant dry and well-ventilated. You can use fungicides to treat these diseases.
Bacterial diseases: Bacterial leaf spot is a common bacterial disease that affects Centella gymnocarpa. This disease is characterized by the appearance of dark brown spots on the leaves, which may enlarge and cause the leaves to shrivel. To prevent bacterial diseases, remove the affected leaves and stems and avoid overwatering. You can use copper sprays or systemic antibiotics to treat bacterial diseases.
Viral diseases: The most common viral disease that affects Centella gymnocarpa is the yellow vein mosaic virus. This disease is characterized by the appearance of yellow veins and mottling on the leaves. Unfortunately, there is no known cure for viral diseases. You should remove and destroy the affected plants to prevent the spread of the disease.
Common Pests
Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects suck the sap from the leaves and stems, causing curling, yellowing, and stunted growth. You can control aphids by manually removing them or using insecticidal soap.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars of various moth and butterfly species may feed on Centella gymnocarpa leaves, causing holes and weakening the plant. Control them by manually removing them or using Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) products that specifically target caterpillars.
Mites: These tiny pests feed on the underside of the leaves, causing discoloration and premature leaf drop. Treat with insecticidal soap or mitigate environmental conditions that favor their growth such as high temperatures and low relative humidity.
By implementing an appropriate management plan, such as the ones suggested above, you can maintain the health of your Centella gymnocarpa plant. Regular inspection and quick action are key strategies to prevent plant damage caused by diseases and pests.
