Origin
Charadrophila capensis Marloth, commonly known as the Cape marsh pennywort, is a plant species that originates from South Africa. It is mainly found in the Western Cape region.
Common names
Aside from Cape marsh pennywort, this plant also goes by several common names, which include
- Cape swamp-pennywort
- Waterawedbessie
- Bergcrassula
- Marsh-leaf pennywort
Uses
Charadrophila capensis Marloth is traditionally used as a medicinal plant by the San people. They use it as a treatment for headache, stomach-ache, and other digestive ailments. Some also use the plant as a poultice to help relieve skin ailments like eczema and rashes.
Moreover, the plant is also an essential component for the survival of several aquatic birds and insects. In particular, the Cape marsh pennywort plays a crucial role in providing habitat for the endangered butterfly known as Wolkberg Zulu.
General Appearance
The Cape marsh pennywort, Charadrophila capensis Marloth, is a creeping perennial plant that thrives in wetland areas. It has a narrow, hairless stem, which can grow up to 50 cm. The leaves are alternate, fleshy, and elliptic to ovate in shape, measuring up to 6 cm long and 2 cm wide. During summer, the plant sprouts small, white flowers that emerge along the leaf axils.
Charadrophila capensis Marloth is a fascinating plant that offers numerous benefits to both humans and wildlife. Its unique features and properties make it a valuable species that requires proper protection and conservation.
Light Requirements
The Charadrophila capensis Marloth plant thrives in full sun conditions for optimal growth and development. The plant requires a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight daily for robust growth. Inadequate light leads to poor growth, weak stems, and small leaves.
Temperature Requirements
The Charadrophila capensis Marloth plant prefers moderate temperatures between 18 to 25°C to grow successfully. Although the plant can tolerate some variations in temperatures, it does not do well in extreme conditions. Low temperatures below 10°C can stunt growth and eventually lead to death while high temperatures above 35°C cause leaf scorching and water loss.
Soil Requirements
The Charadrophila capensis Marloth plant prefers well-draining, moist, and fertile soils to grow optimally. The plant cannot tolerate waterlogged soils as they cause root rot and other diseases that can lead to death. The ideal soil pH for this plant is between 6.5 to 7.5. Adding organic matter to the soil can improve soil fertility, enhance aeration, and support root growth.
Cultivation Methods for Charadrophila capensis Marloth
Charadrophila capensis Marloth, commonly known as the silver torch, requires warm temperature and a lot of sunlight to grow. It is a slow-growing plant that needs well-draining sandy soil with a pH of 6.5-7.
You can either cultivate the plant using seed or vegetative propagation. For vegetative propagation, stem cuttings or root division methods are recommended.
The plant requires enough space to spread out its leaves and stems. You should plant it at a distance of 30-45cm from each other to allow the adequate space for growth with no competition.
Watering Needs for Charadrophila capensis Marloth
Charadrophila capensis Marloth requires moderate watering. It does not tolerate waterlogging, so you must avoid over-watering the plant, especially during the rainy season.
You should water the plant regularly during the growing season, but let the soil dry out in between watering to avoid root disease, such as root rot.
The silver torch requires less water during the dormancy period and should be watered sparingly during this period.
Fertilization for Charadrophila capensis Marloth
Charadrophila capensis Marloth grows well in nutrient-rich soil.
You should fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. It is recommended to use a low-nitrogen fertilizer with higher levels of phosphorus and potassium.
The plant requires minimal feeding during the dormant period and should only be fertilized sparingly.
Pruning for Charadrophila capensis Marloth
Charadrophila capensis Marloth requires minimal pruning. Only cut off any dead or yellowing leaves from the plant regularly.
You can prune severely to control the plant's size if it becomes too large or to rejuvenate an older plant. However, it is best to wait until the plant is mature before pruning.
When pruning, use clean and sharp tools to avoid leaving any wounds that could lead to infections.
Propagation of Charadrophila capensis Marloth
Charadrophila capensis Marloth, also known as the Cape Flats conebush, is a shrub that is indigenous to the Cape Flats area of Cape Town, South Africa. The plant has small, white or pink flowers and can grow up to 2 meters in height. If you are interested in propagating this plant, here are some methods you can try:
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Charadrophila capensis Marloth is through seeds. The seeds of this plant can be collected in late summer or early autumn when the seed pods have dried out. Once you have collected the seeds, you can plant them in seed trays or pots with a well-draining soil mix. The seeds should be sown just beneath the surface of the soil. Keep the soil moist and place the trays or pots in a warm, sunny spot. The seeds should germinate within 2-3 weeks and can be transplanted once they have grown 2-3 true leaves.
Cuttings Propagation
Another method of propagating Charadrophila capensis Marloth is through cuttings. This method works best in late summer or early autumn when the plant is dormant. To take a cutting, select a healthy stem and make a clean cut just below a node. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the stem and place it in a well-draining soil mix. Add rooting hormone to the cut end of the stem and water the soil. Cover the pot with a plastic bag to create a humid environment. Place the pot in a warm, bright spot but out of direct sunlight. The cutting should develop roots within 4-6 weeks.
Division Propagation
Division propagation is a method that involves separating an established plant into smaller sections and replanting them. This method works well for Charadrophila capensis Marloth, especially if the plant is getting too big for its pot or area. To divide the plant, gently remove it from its pot or area and shake off the excess soil. Use a clean, sharp knife to divide the plant into smaller sections, making sure each section has roots and shoots. Replant the sections in new pots or areas with a well-draining soil mix and water regularly.
Disease Management
Charadrophila capensis Marloth is a hardy plant species, resistant to most diseases. However, some diseases may affect the plant, such as:
- Leaf spots: Caused by fungal or bacterial infections, this disease manifests as black or brown spots on the leaves. The best management practice is to remove infected leaves and improve air circulation around the plant. Fungicides can also be applied to control the disease.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by soil-borne pathogens and often leads to yellowing, wilting, and death of the plant. Avoid overwatering and ensure well-draining soil to prevent root rot. Fungicides can also be applied to control the disease.
Pest Management
Charadrophila capensis Marloth is not frequently affected by pests. However, some pests that may affect the plant include:
- Aphids: These small insects suck sap from the plant and can cause stunting and yellowing of leaves. The best management practice is to physically remove aphids from the plant or apply insecticidal soap.
- Caterpillars: Caterpillars can defoliate the plant and stunt growth. Handpicking and applying Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) can be effective in managing caterpillar infestations.
