Overview of Clerodendrum myricoides (Hochst.) Vatke var. niansanum B.Thomas
Clerodendrum myricoides (Hochst.) Vatke var. niansanum B.Thomas is a flowering plant species that belongs to the family Lamiaceae. It is commonly known as "turkey berry" and "blue glory."
Origin of Clerodendrum myricoides
Clerodendrum myricoides is an indigenous plant of tropical Africa, particularly the western region. The plant is a forest undergrowth species that thrives in humid conditions with adequate exposure to sunlight. However, the var. niansanum species is native to Cameroon, which is located in Central Africa.
General Appearance of Clerodendrum myricoides
Clerodendrum myricoides (Hochst.) Vatke var. niansanum B.Thomas is a medium-sized shrub that can grow up to 2 meters (6.6 feet) tall. The plant has a woody stem with many branches, and it produces dense foliage that is pale green in color. The leaves are oval-shaped and arranged in an opposite manner. They have a smooth texture on the upper surface and hairy on the bottom surface.
The flowers of the plant are small and arranged in clusters that grow at the axils of the leaves. They are tubular-shaped and come in colors varying from blue, lavender, pink, or white. The flowers produce nectar that attracts pollinators such as butterflies and bees.
Uses of Clerodendrum myricoides
The juice extracted from the leaves, root, and bark of Clerodendrum myricoides have various medicinal properties and are widely used in African traditional medicine. The plant is used to treat various ailments such as stomach disorders, snakebites, fever, and skin infections.
The foliage of the plant is also used as an insect repellent, and as an ingredient in herbal teas. The plant is grown in gardens and parks for ornamental purposes because of its beautiful flowers.
In conclusion, Clerodendrum myricoides (Hochst.) Vatke var. niansanum B.Thomas is a versatile plant species that has various uses ranging from medicinal to ornamental. Its beautiful blue flowers and insect-repellent properties make it a valuable addition to gardens and parks.
Light Requirements
The Clerodendrum myricoides var. niansanum prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It can also tolerate partial shade but a lack of light may result in spindly growth and fewer flowers. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves. Therefore, it is best to position the plant near a window that receives filtered sunlight or provide shade with a sheer curtain.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives in warm temperatures ranging from 18°C to 28°C (65°F to 82°F). It cannot tolerate cold drafts or temperatures below 10°C (50°F) for extended periods. It is important to maintain consistent temperatures and avoid placing the plant in areas with temperature fluctuations such as near doors and windows.
Soil Requirements
The Clerodendrum myricoides var. niansanum prefers a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil pH level between 5.5 to 7.5 is ideal for this plant. The soil should not be allowed to dry out completely between watering, but it should not remain waterlogged either. A good potting mix should contain a mixture of peat moss, sand, and perlite or vermiculite to aid drainage.
Cultivation methods
Clerodendrum myricoides (Hochst.) Vatke var. niansanum B.Thomas is a tropical plant that thrives in warm and humid conditions. It requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and can grow in loam, sandy or clay soils with a pH range of 6-7.
The plant needs a shaded spot with dappled sunlight or partial shade to thrive. It can be grown indoors, but it requires a humid environment due to its tropical origin.
Watering needs
Clerodendrum myricoides (Hochst.) Vatke var. niansanum B.Thomas requires regular watering to keep its soil moist. However, it is essential to avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot. The best time to water the plant is early in the morning or late in the evening.
It is better to use rainwater or distilled water to avoid the high levels of chlorine and fluoride found in tap water that can damage the plant. The frequency of watering can be reduced in the winter or during periods of drought.
Fertilization
Clerodendrum myricoides (Hochst.) Vatke var. niansanum B.Thomas requires regular fertilization to maintain its growth and health. You can use a balanced fertilizer once every two weeks during the growing season. However, it is essential to avoid overfertilization, as it can burn the plant's roots.
Pruning
Clerodendrum myricoides (Hochst.) Vatke var. niansanum B.Thomas requires regular pruning to remove dead or damaged leaves, encourage bushier growth, and improve its appearance. The best time to prune the plant is during the dormant period in early spring.
Use sharp and clean pruning shears to cut back up to one-third of the plant's growth. Ensure that the cuts are made above a leaf node or bud to encourage new growth. The plant may also require more frequent pruning if it outgrows its space or becomes too leggy.
Propagation of Clerodendrum myricoides (Hochst.) Vatke var. niansanum B.Thomas
Clerodendrum myricoides (Hochst.) Vatke var. niansanum B.Thomas can be propagated through different means. It can be propagated through stem cuttings, seeds and layering.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings from the plant can be taken for propagation. Take a 4-6 inch cutting from the plant's terminal growth. Strip off the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone to help stimulate growth. Place the cutting in a soilless potting mix and keep it in a warm and bright location. Keep the soil moist and roots should start to form in 2-3 weeks.
Propagation through Seeds
Seeds can also be used to propagate Clerodendrum myricoides (Hochst.) Vatke var. niansanum B.Thomas. Collect the seeds from healthy plants as soon as they are ripe. Soak the seeds in water for 24 hours before planting. Sow the seeds in a soilless potting mix and keep them moist in a warm and bright location. Germination can take 2-6 weeks.
Propagation through Layering
Layering is another option to propagate the plant. Choose a low-lying stem and scrape the bark in a small area. Apply some rooting hormone to the scraped area. Bury the scraped area in a shallow trench, keeping the rest of the stem above the soil. Water the area and keep it moist until roots form. Cut the new plant away from the parent plant and transplant it to a new location.
Disease Management
Although Clerodendrum myricoides var. niansanum is known to be a hardy plant that can withstand certain diseases, it is still vulnerable to some fungal infections such as powdery mildew and leaf spot diseases. These diseases can cause serious damage if left unchecked and may reduce the overall plant vigor and productivity. One effective approach to mitigate these diseases is to apply fungicides such as copper-based fungicides on the plants at regular intervals to disrupt the spread of the fungal pathogens.
In addition, proper sanitation practices such as keeping the plant site clean and implementing proper watering techniques, including watering the plant at the base, can also help to avoid fungal diseases. It is also recommended to remove any infected part of the plant and destroy it to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
There are several pests that can affect the growth and productivity of the Clerodendrum myricoides var. niansanum plant. Some common pests include spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. These pests can cause damage by feeding on the plant's tissues and sucking out the sap, eventually leading to stunted growth and wilting.
To manage these pests, an integrated approach, involving the use of chemical pesticides, is recommended. However, it is essential to be cautious while using pesticides and ensure that the dosage and application method are appropriate. One effective preventive measure is to maintain a clean, well-drained area around the plant and avoid overcrowding.
If a pest infestation is suspected, the first step is to identify the pest and then select an appropriate insecticide or acaricide to control it. It is also crucial to follow the manufacturer's instructions and avoid using pesticides that are toxic to beneficial insects or other organisms in the environment. Additionally, biological control methods such as the use of predatory mites and parasitic wasps can also be effective in controlling pest infestations.
Regular monitoring of the plant for pests and diseases and ensuring that plants are healthy and well-nourished can prevent most pest and disease problems.
