Overview of Centella tridentata (L.f.) Drude ex Domin var. litoralis (Eckl. & Zeyh.) M.T.R.Schub. & B.-E.van Wyk
Centella tridentata (L.f.) Drude ex Domin var. litoralis (Eckl. & Zeyh.) M.T.R.Schub. & B.-E.van Wyk is a small herbaceous plant that is endemic to South Africa. It belongs to the family Apiaceae and is commonly known as "Coastal centella" or "Water pennywort".
General Appearance of Centella tridentata
The plant has a prostrate growth habit, meaning it grows flat along the ground, and can reach a height of up to 20 cm. It has small, rounded leaves with a distinctive shape, having three lobes that give them a trident-like appearance. The leaves are succulent and can store water, helping the plant to survive in arid coastal areas. The flowers are tiny and pink or white in color and are arranged in compact umbels at the end of the stems.
Uses of Centella tridentata
The Coastal centella has a long history of traditional use among the indigenous people of South Africa. It is used to treat a variety of ailments, including wounds, skin diseases, respiratory infections, and as a diuretic. The plant is also believed to have antivenom properties and is used to treat snake bites. In recent years, extracts from Centella tridentata have been used in cosmetics and skincare products due to their anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties.
Overall, Centella tridentata (L.f.) Drude ex Domin var. litoralis (Eckl. & Zeyh.) M.T.R.Schub. & B.-E.van Wyk is a unique and versatile plant with a wide range of traditional uses. It is a valuable resource for both traditional medicine and modern pharmaceuticals.
Light Requirements
Centella tridentata var. litoralis typically grows in areas with partial to full sunlight exposure. It prefers bright, indirect light and can tolerate some shade.
Temperature Requirements
Centella tridentata var. litoralis grows well in warm to hot climates with temperatures ranging between 20°C to 35°C. It does not tolerate frost or temperature drops below 15°C.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers moist, well-draining soil with low salinity. It grows well in sand, silt or clay soils with a pH range between 5.0 and 7.5. Centella tridentata var. litoralis can also tolerate acidic conditions, but not strongly alkaline soil.
Cultivation Methods
Centella tridentata var. litoralis grows well in warm climates of zones 10-12 and prefers moist soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. The plant favors partial shading, making it ideal for growing under protective shelters. It is also tolerant of light frosts, making it suitable for mild temperate regions. Propagation can occur through stem cuttings or seeds, with cuttings being a faster and more reliable method of propagation.
Watering Needs
The plant requires regular watering to maintain moist soil, but over-watering can lead to root rot. The frequency of irrigation depends on the climate and soil type, with sandy soil requiring more frequent watering than loamy soil types. Mulching around the plant can help maintain soil moisture levels and reduce water loss, especially during hot weather conditions.
Fertilization
Centella tridentata var. litoralis responds well to fertilizers that are high in nitrogen. A balanced NPK fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 can be applied every three months during the growing season to promote growth and healthy foliage. Organic fertilizers such as composted manure and fish emulsion can also be used to boost soil fertility and enhance the soil structure.
Pruning
Pruning helps to maintain plant shape and promotes bushy growth in Centella tridentata var. litoralis. It is recommended to prune the plant regularly, removing any damaged or diseased leaves, stems, or branches. Pinching off the growing tips can also encourage branching, leading to bushier plants with more foliage. Deadheading the flowers can prevent the plant from going to seed and promote continuous blooming throughout the growing season.
Propagation Methods for Centella tridentata var. litoralis
Propagation of Centella tridentata var. litoralis can be achieved through various methods:
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Centella tridentata var. litoralis can be collected from mature plants. The seeds should be sown in seed-raising trays containing well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and place the tray in a warm and well-lit area. Germination occurs within 1-2 weeks, depending on the soil temperature. Once the seedlings are big enough to handle, they can be transplanted into larger pots.
Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings taken from mature plants can be used to propagate Centella tridentata var. litoralis. Take cuttings of about 5-7 cm in length from the mother plant. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in a soil mix that drains well. Keep the soil moist, but not overly wet, and place a clear plastic bag over the pot to maintain humidity. Rooting occurs within 3-4 weeks. Once roots have fully developed, the plants can be transplanted to a bigger pot.
Division Propagation
Centella tridentata var. litoralis can also be propagated through division. Divide the plant into smaller sections and replant each division into separate pots. Make sure that each section has several healthy leaves and roots. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and place in a warm, well-lit area until the plants have re-established themselves.
Overall, Centella tridentata var. litoralis is a relatively easy plant to propagate. With the proper care and attention, the plant can be quickly established and thrive in a variety of conditions.
Disease Management
Centella tridentata var. litoralis is susceptible to several diseases that affect its leaves and roots.
- Leaf spot disease: This disease is caused by the fungus Cercospora. Symptoms include small, circular spots on the leaves that may be yellow or brown with a reddish margin. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves, space plants properly, and avoid overhead watering.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by the fungus Phytophthora. Symptoms include wilting, yellowing, and death of leaves. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering, plant in well-draining soil, and apply a fungicide.
Pest Management
Centella tridentata var. litoralis is also susceptible to pest infestations that damage its leaves and stems.
- Aphids: These soft-bodied insects suck the sap from the plant, causing the leaves to curl and distort. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge them, introduce natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings, or apply insecticidal soap.
- Caterpillars: Caterpillars can chew through leaves, defoliating the plant and causing stunted growth. To manage caterpillars, remove them by hand, introduce natural predators like birds or parasitic wasps, or apply a biological pesticide.
