Overview
Cicendia exaltata Griseb. is a perennial plant species that is native to North America. It belongs to the family Rubiaceae which includes other well-known plants such as coffee.Common Names
Cicendia exaltata is commonly known as tall cicendia, northern cicendia, or simply cicendia. It gets its name from its elongated stem which can grow up to 60 cm in height.Appearance
Cicendia exaltata has dark green leaves that are lance-shaped and arranged in opposite pairs along the stem. Its flowers are small, white, and star-shaped. They bloom in June and July and give way to small brownish-black seed capsules.Uses
Cicendia exaltata has no known medicinal uses, but it is valued for its aesthetic appeal. It is often cultivated as an ornamental plant because of its attractive white flowers and thin, elongated stems. Cicendia exaltata is also used by landscapers as a ground cover due to its ability to spread through rhizomes. It prefers moist soils and part shade. Overall, Cicendia exaltata is a beautiful addition to any garden.Light Requirements
Cicendia exaltata Griseb. typically grows in areas with full sun exposure. This plant requires bright light to thrive and should receive direct sunlight for at least six hours a day.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature for Cicendia exaltata Griseb. growth is between 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C). This plant is not frost-tolerant and will not survive in temperatures below freezing. It is essential to keep the temperature within the optimal range to promote healthy growth.
Soil Requirements
Cicendia exaltata Griseb. grows best in well-draining, moist soil. This plant prefers loamy soils, which are a combination of sand, silt, and clay in relatively equal parts. The soil should have a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0 and must be rich in organic matter. Adding compost to the soil can significantly improve the soil structure and increase the amount of nutrients available to the plant.
Watering Requirements
Cicendia exaltata Griseb. requires regular watering to maintain moist soil. The plant should be watered regularly during the growing season, particularly during the hot summer months. Overwatering should be avoided, as it can lead to root rot, which can damage or kill the plant.
Fertilizer Requirements
Applying a balanced fertilizer during the growing season can significantly improve the growth of Cicendia exaltata Griseb. This plant requires a fertilizer that is high in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. The fertilizer should be applied every four weeks during the growing season.
Cultivation Method for Cicendia exaltata Griseb
Cicendia exaltata Griseb. grows well in well-drained soils with a pH of 5.5 - 6.5. It prefers a partially shaded environment and requires some direct sunlight for proper growth and development. The plant is propagated through seeds, and it requires a temperature range of 20 - 25? for the seeds to germinate.
Watering Needs for Cicendia exaltata Griseb
Cicendia exaltata Griseb. requires regular watering to keep the soil moist at all times. It does not tolerate dry conditions, and excessive watering may lead to root rot. Watering should be done early in the morning or late in the evening, and the soil should not be soaked with water.
Fertilization for Cicendia exaltata Griseb
Cicendia exaltata Griseb. requires regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and development. A balanced fertilizer that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium should be applied to the soil every four weeks during the growing season. Organic fertilizers may also be used, and they should be applied in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
Pruning for Cicendia exaltata Griseb
Cicendia exaltata Griseb. requires minimal pruning as it is a low-growing plant that does not require shaping. However, dead and damaged leaves should be removed regularly to promote healthy growth and prevent the plant from becoming susceptible to diseases and pests. Pruning should be done using clean and sharp tools to avoid injuring the plant.
Propagation of Cicendia exaltata Griseb.
Cicendia exaltata Griseb. can be propagated through different methods such as:
Seed propagation
Seeds of Cicendia exaltata Griseb. can be collected from mature plants. The seeds must be stored in a dry place and sown during the planting season. The ideal time to plant the seeds is during the spring or early summer. The soil must be kept moist but not water-logged during the germination period. It takes about 2 to 4 weeks for the seeds to germinate. Nursery-grown seedlings of Cicendia exaltata Griseb. can also be transplanted to the desired location.
Vegetative propagation
Cicendia exaltata Griseb. can also be propagated through vegetative methods. This method requires taking stem cuttings from mature plants. The cuttings should be about 5-6 inches long and should include a few leaves. The cuttings should be planted in a pot filled with good-quality potting soil. The soil should be kept moist but not water-logged. It takes about 3-6 weeks for the cuttings to produce roots and begin to grow.
Division of plant
Cicendia exaltata Griseb. can also be propagated through dividing mature plants. The process involves digging up the plant and dividing it into two or more sections. Each section must have some roots attached to it. The divided portions can be replanted in the desired location. It is best to do this in the early spring or fall when the plant is dormant.
Air layering
Another way of propagating Cicendia exaltata Griseb. is through air layering. This method involves making a small incision in the stem of the plant and wrapping it with moist sphagnum moss. The moss should be covered with plastic wrap, and the roots will start to grow within a few weeks. Once the roots are established, the stem can be cut from the mother plant and replanted in the desired location.
Disease and Pest Management for Cicendia exaltata Griseb.
Cicendia exaltata Griseb. is a hardy plant that is relatively resistant to diseases and pests. However, it may still be affected by a few common problems. Here are some of the key diseases and pests that may pose a risk to the health of your Cicendia exaltata plant and how to manage them.
Diseases
One of the most common diseases that can affect Cicendia exaltata is powdery mildew. This disease appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, it is recommended to prune any infected leaves or stems and dispose of them. You can also apply a fungicide to help prevent the disease from spreading.
Another disease that can impact Cicendia exaltata is rust. This disease will appear as orange or yellowish spots on the leaves of the plant. It is recommended to prune the affected leaves and dispose of them. You can also apply a fungicide to reduce the spread of the disease.
Pests
Aphids are a common pest that can affect Cicendia exaltata. These pests feed on the sap of the plant and can cause wilting and leaf distortion. To manage aphids, try spraying the affected parts of the plant with a strong stream of water or use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Spider mites can also pose a risk to the health of Cicendia exaltata. These pests are tiny and difficult to see but can cause yellow or brown spots on the leaves and a fine webbing on the plant. To manage spider mites, try washing the affected parts of the plant with a strong stream of water. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the pests.
Overall, by taking proactive steps to manage diseases and pests, you can help your Cicendia exaltata plant remain healthy and vibrant for years to come.
