Overview:
Centella ternata M.T.R.Schub. & B.-E.van Wyk, commonly known as the Indian pennywort, is a small perennial herb native to India, Sri Lanka, and other parts of Asia. The plant is well-known for its medicinal uses and is widely used in traditional medicine.
Common Names:
The plant is commonly known by various names in different parts of the world. In India, it is called Brahmi, Jal-Brahmi, or Mandukaparni. In Sri Lanka, it is known as Gotu Kola, while in China, it is called Ji Xue Cao. In Indonesia, it is known as pegagan.
Appearance:
The plant has small, fan-shaped leaves with a smooth texture and slightly notched edges. The leaves are attached to thin, long stems that grow horizontally above the ground. The stems are thin and branching, and the plant has small pink or white flowers that bloom in the summer. The plant grows up to a height of 20cm, and the leaves have a diameter of 1-3cm.
Uses:
The plant has long been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. The leaves of the plant are rich in saponins, tannins, and flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-microbial properties. The plant is known to improve brain function, reduce anxiety, and enhance memory. It is also used to treat skin disorders and wounds, as it has the ability to accelerate the healing process. In addition, the plant is used to treat respiratory problems such as asthma and bronchitis. The plant is also rich in vitamin C and is used to boost the immune system and promote overall health.
Light Requirements
The plant Centella ternata M.T.R.Schub. & B.-E.van Wyk requires moderate to low light exposure for optimal growth. Direct sunlight must be avoided because it can cause sunburn to the leaves. It is advisable to grow the plant under partial shade to ensure the leaves do not wilt.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is native to regions that experience warm to hot temperatures. Therefore, it can grow well under temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. Temperature fluctuations must be avoided because they can lead to wilting of the leaves.
Soil Requirements
Centella ternata grows well in humus-rich soil that is moist but well-drained. The soil should have a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. The plant can also grow in soil with a slightly acidic pH range of 5.5 to 6.0. Phosphorus and potassium nutrients are vital for the growth of the plant, and the soil must be rich in these nutrients. The plant can also thrive in pots containing a mixture of peat, sand, and organic compost.
Cultivation Methods for Centella Ternata
Centella Ternata is a versatile plant that can be cultivated both indoors and outdoors. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter, with a slightly acidic to neutral pH.
The plant thrives in partial shade or filtered sunlight and cannot tolerate direct sunlight. When grown indoors, it is best to place the plant near a south-facing window, but ensure that it is not exposed to direct sunlight for an extended period.
It is best to propagate the plant from cuttings or division as seeds can be challenging to germinate.
Watering Needs for Centella Ternata
Centella Ternata enjoys moist soil but does not tolerate waterlogged roots. Over-watering can cause leaf drop and ultimately damage the plant.
Water your Centella Ternata plant when the soil surface feels dry to the touch. It is essential to ensure that the plant gets enough water but not too much water.
The plant requires more frequent watering during the summer months, and less frequent watering during the winter months when growth slows down.
Fertilization for Centella Ternata
Centella Ternata is a low-maintenance plant that does not require frequent fertilization. However, it benefits from periodic application of a well-balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, which provides essential nutrients for healthy growth.
Fertilize your Centella Ternata plant once a month during the growing season, reducing the frequency during the winter months when growth slows down.
Never apply fertilizer to dry soil, always ensure the soil is moist before application to prevent root burn.
Pruning Centella Ternata
Centella Ternata does not require extensive pruning. However, regular pinching of the tips will encourage branching and prevent the plant from becoming leggy.
Remove any yellow or wilted leaves to prevent the plant's resources from being used to maintain these leaves, causing stress and damage to the plant.
If the plant becomes overgrown, it can be cut back to promote new growth and rejuvenate the plant. Ensure that you sterilize your pruning shears to prevent the spread of disease.
Propagation of Centella ternata M.T.R.Schub. & B.-E.van Wyk
Centella ternata M.T.R.Schub. & B.-E.van Wyk can be propagated through various means including:
Seed propagation
Seeds can be sown in a well-drained, moist soil mix. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and provide ample moisture for it to germinate.
Cutting propagation
This method involves taking cuttings from an existing Centella ternata M.T.R.Schub. & B.-E.van Wyk plant and planting them in a rooting hormone, sterilized soil and watering frequently until rooted.
Division propagation
Centella ternata M.T.R.Schub. & B.-E.van Wyk can be divided by carefully pulling apart clumps of the plant and planting them in new areas at the same depth as the original plant.
In conclusion, Centella ternata M.T.R.Schub. & B.-E.van Wyk can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, and division. Each method requires careful attention to detail to ensure successful propagation.
Disease Management
Centella ternata can suffer from different types of diseases, including:
Leaf spot
Leaf spot is a common disease in Centella ternata that occurs due to the attack of fungal pathogens. Symptoms include the appearance of small spots on leaves that can merge into bigger patches. The affected leaves turn yellow and eventually wither. To manage leaf spot, it is important to practice good sanitation and remove infected plant debris. Fungicides can also help control the spread of the disease.
Root rot
Root rot is a fungal disease that causes the roots of Centella ternata to decay, leading to stunted growth. The fungus responsible for this disease thrives in moist conditions and can easily infect plants that are overwatered. To prevent root rot, it is crucial to avoid overwatering and provide good drainage. Fungicides can also be used to manage the disease in severe cases.
Pest Management
Centella ternata can also be vulnerable to pest attacks. Some of the common pests that affect the plant include:
Aphids
Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that suck sap from the plants, causing leaves to curl and wilt. To manage aphids, you can spray the plant with a forceful jet of water to dislodge them or use insecticidal soap or neem oil. It is important to monitor the plant regularly and remove any heavily infested leaves.
Caterpillars
Caterpillars are the larvae of moths or butterflies that feed on the leaves of Centella ternata, causing ragged holes and damage to the plant. To manage caterpillars, you can manually remove them from the leaves or use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) which is a natural and safe insecticide.
Overall, prevention is the key to disease and pest management in Centella ternata. Regular monitoring, good sanitation, and proper cultural practices are essential to keep the plant healthy and productive.
