Centella verticillata (Thunb.) Fourc.
Centella verticillata, also known as water pennywort, is a plant species in the Apiaceae family. It is native to Asia and can be found in many countries around the world, including India, China, Japan, Korea, Vietnam, and Indonesia. The plant is well known for its medicinal uses and is often used in traditional Chinese medicine.
Common Names
The plant is commonly referred to by several different names, including water pennywort, marsh penny, gotu kola, brahmi, and Asiatic pennywort.
Uses
Centella verticillata has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat a variety of conditions, including respiratory infections, skin problems, and anxiety. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help calm inflammation and support overall health.
In addition, the plant has been used to improve cognitive function and memory, and is believed to help reduce anxiety and stress. It is also used to support healthy skin, and is often found in topical creams and ointments.
Appearance
Centella verticillata is a low-growing plant with small, fan-shaped leaves. It grows in moist, marshy areas and can be found in shallow water or floating on the surface of ponds. The leaves are bright green and have a slightly bitter taste. The plant produces small, white or pink flowers that bloom in the summer.
The plant has a trailing growth habit and can spread rapidly, making it an excellent ground cover. It is also easy to grow and can be grown in containers or in a garden bed with well-draining soil.
Light Requirements
Centella verticillata is a shade-loving plant and prefers moderate to low light conditions. Direct sunlight exposure can harm the plant and cause its leaves to scorch. Hence, it is best to grow the plant in filtered or dappled sunlight. A location that gets a few hours of indirect sunlight per day should be ideal.
Temperature Requirements
Centella verticillata is a tropical plant and thrives well in warm and humid climates. The optimum temperature range for the plant's growth is between 20 to 30°C. The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but prolonged exposure to temperatures below 10°C may cause the plant to die. Therefore, it is crucial to protect the plant from freezing temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Centella verticillata requires loose, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant thrives in slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The soil should be kept moist but not soggy. Overwatering can cause root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. Adding peat moss, vermiculite, or perlite to the soil can help with water retention and soil aeration.
Cultivation methods
Centella verticillata (Thunb.) Fourc. is a perennial herb that thrives well in tropical and subtropical areas. It prefers a sunny spot but can tolerate partial shade. The plant grows best in well-draining soils rich in organic matter. Before planting, prepare the soil by loosening it with a garden fork or tiller to a depth of 12-15 inches. Remove weeds and debris from the soil.
You can propagate the plant through seeds, cuttings, or by dividing the roots. Plant the seeds or cuttings about 1-2 inches deep into the soil and keep the soil moist. The plant usually germinates in 7-14 days.
Watering needs
Centella verticillata (Thunb.) Fourc. is a water-loving plant and needs regular watering to thrive. It prefers moist soil but dislikes water-logged conditions that can cause root rot. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more frequently during hot, dry weather. Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation to water the plant slowly and deeply. Ensure that the soil is moist to a depth of at least 6 inches.
Fertilization
To ensure optimal growth and health, Centella verticillata (Thunb.) Fourc. requires regular fertilization. Apply a slow-release fertilizer to the plant every three months or a liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Avoid over-fertilization that can burn the plant's leaves and stunt its growth.
Pruning
Centella verticillata (Thunb.) Fourc. requires minimal pruning but benefits from removing dead or damaged leaves occasionally. Also, pinch back the plant's tips to stimulate branching and promote bushiness. Trim the plant to keep it within the designated space and to prevent overgrowth. Prune back the plant in spring to promote new growth and ensure a healthy and robust plant.
Propagation of Centella verticillata (Thunb.) Fourc.
Centella verticillata (Thunb.) Fourc. is a perennial herb that belongs to the Apiaceae family and is commonly known as Gotu Kola. The plant is propagated through various methods including:
Seed Propagation
Centella verticillata can be propagated from seeds, which are sown in a well-draining medium. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 1 cm and kept moist. The optimum temperature for seed germination is between 25-30 degrees Celsius. Germination occurs within 7-21 days. Once the seedlings emerge, they should be thinned to avoid overcrowding and promote healthy growth.
Division
Division is another method of propagating Centella verticillata. This method involves dividing a mature plant into smaller sections and replanting each section. Divide the plant during the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. This process is facilitated by carefully digging up the plant, separating the roots of the plant into smaller sections, and replanting each section in a suitable location.
Cuttings Propagation
Propagation of Centella verticillata through cuttings is possible and effective. Use a clean, sharp pair of scissors or knife to take cuttings from a healthy, mature plant. The cuttings should be taken from the stem nodes and be at least 10 cm long. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone to encourage root formation and plant in a well-draining medium. The cuttings should be kept moist and in a warm location and should root within 4-6 weeks.
Overall, Centella verticillata (Thunb.) Fourc. can be propagated through seed propagation, division, and cuttings propagation, making it a relatively easy plant to propagate.
Common Diseases of Centella Verticillata
Centella verticillata is prone to fungal diseases like Anthracnose and Powdery Mildew. Anthracnose hinders the growth of the plant, and the leaves begin to develop brown or black spots. Powdery Mildew, on the other hand, is characterized by white or grayish-white powdery growth on the leaves, stems, and other plant parts.
Pest Management for Centella Verticillata
Centella verticillata is also susceptible to pest attacks, with spider mites and aphids being some of the most common. Spider mites cause yellowing and browning of leaves and can quickly spread to the entire plant. Similarly, aphids, which are tiny green insects, suck the sap from the plant's leaves and stems, causing them to curl and turn yellow.
Controlling Diseases and Pests of Centella Verticillata
To control fungal diseases, pruning the affected leaves and using appropriate fungicides can help prevent further spread. For example, applying copper-based fungicides has been known to be effective in controlling both Anthracnose and Powdery Mildew in Centella verticillata. On the other hand, managing pests requires the use of natural or chemical pesticides.
A simple homemade insecticidal soap containing liquid soap and water can help control spider mites and aphids. Alternatively, neem oil, which is derived from the neem tree, is an organic pesticide that is effective in controlling various pests in Centella verticillata.
It is essential to monitor the plant regularly, remove all dead and diseased leaves, and make sure that the growing conditions are optimal. Preventing diseases and pests is always more effective than trying to control them once they have already taken hold.
