Origin
Coleus rotundifolius (Poiret) A. Chev. & E. Perrot is a plant native to West and Central Africa, including countries such as Nigeria, Cameroon, and Uganda.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known as African coleus, round-leaf coleus, or the breadroot plant.
Uses
Coleus rotundifolius is primarily used for food and medicinal purposes. The plant's tuberous roots are rich in starch and are a staple food for many indigenous communities in Africa. The roots are dried, ground, and mixed with water to make a paste or dough, which is then used to make various bread-like dishes. In addition to its use as a food source, the plant has also been traditionally used to treat a variety of ailments, including coughs, headaches, and stomach disorders.
General Appearance
The Coleus rotundifolius plant is a perennial herb that grows up to 2 meters tall. The leaves are large, rounded, and have a slightly hairy texture. They are typically green, but may have a purple tinge. The plant's flowers are small and white or light blue in color and grow in clusters toward the top of the plant. The most distinctive feature of the plant is its large, tuberous roots, which can grow up to 50 centimeters in length and have a knobby, irregular shape.
Light Conditions
Coleus rotundifolius prefers to grow in bright but indirect light. It can tolerate some direct sunlight but will thrive better if placed in an area where it can receive filtered light. Too much direct sunlight can cause the plant to wilt and its leaves to turn yellow.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows well in warm temperatures, with ideal daytime temperatures ranging between 20°C to 30°C. At nighttime, the temperature should not fall below 15°C. Coleus rotundifolius cannot withstand frost, and if exposed to low temperatures for an extended period, it can cause stunted growth and eventual death of the plant.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-drained, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. The pH of the soil should range from 6.0-7.0 for the optimal growth of Coleus rotundifolius. It thrives best in the soil with good moisture retention capacity, but without the soil becoming waterlogged, which can lead to root rot. Adding additional organic matter like compost to the soil can provide the required nutrients for the plant's growth.
Cultivation Methods for Coleus Rotundifolius
Coleus rotundifolius is a herbaceous perennial plant that is native to West Africa. It is commonly known as African coleus or traditionally as ndoleh. This plant requires full sun or partial shade to grow well. It grows well in well-drained soil but can tolerate a range of soil types. Coleus rotundifolius can be grown in pots, raised beds, or directly in the garden soil. They make good container plants, but they will require more watering if grown in pots.
Watering Needs for Coleus Rotundifolius
Coleus rotundifolius requires moderate watering. This plant does not like to be waterlogged, so it is essential to ensure that the soil is well drained. Water the plant when the soil feels dry to the touch, but avoid overwatering as this may cause root rot. During the hotter months, the plant will require more frequent watering, while in the colder months, reduce the frequency of watering.
Fertilization for Coleus Rotundifolius
For optimal growth and health, it is recommended to fertilize Coleus rotundifolius during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer containing equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply the fertilizer once a month to provide the necessary nutrients for growth. It is important to follow the instructions on the fertilizer label and avoid over-fertilizing as this can cause damage to the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Coleus rotundifolius, but it can help to keep the plant neat and tidy. If the plant becomes leggy, prune the stems back to just above a healthy node. This will encourage new growth and a bushier plant. Deadheading the spent flowers will encourage the plant to produce more blooms. Use clean, sharp pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation of Coleus rotundifolius
Coleus rotundifolius is a small plant native to Africa and Madagascar. It is a member of the Lamiaceae family, which also includes mint and lavender. The plant is typically propagated through several methods, including seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation by seeds is the most common method of raising Coleus rotundifolius, especially for commercial growers. To ensure successful sprouting, use fresh seeds and sow them in a well-drained potting mix. The ideal temperature for germination is 20-25°C.
It takes about 1-2 weeks for the seeds of Coleus rotundifolius to start germinating. Once germinated, make sure to keep the seedlings in a warm, bright area with moist soil. Once they establish roots and start growing, transplant the seedlings to larger pots or into the ground outdoors.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is another effective way to propagate Coleus rotundifolius. Cuttings are taken from healthy, mature plants and can be rooted in water or directly in soil. Make sure to choose a stem that is healthy and free of pests and diseases.
To propagate by cuttings, follow these steps:
- Take a cutting that is at least 5-7cm in length with a few leaves attached.
- Remove any leaves that would be below the water or soil line when the cutting is planted.
- Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone powder and plant in soil or put the cutting in water until roots appear. After this, transplant the cutting to soil.
- Keep the soil moist and provide bright, indirect light to encourage growth.
- The cutting should begin to grow a new root system and will eventually turn into a mature plant.
Propagation by Division
Propagation by division involves separating the plant into multiple sections, all of which have their own roots and stem. This method works best when the plant is overgrown or the roots are growing in a tight mass.
To propagate by division, follow these steps:
- Carefully remove the entire plant from the soil.
- Separate the individual sections, making sure that each section has roots and a stem attached.
- Plant each section in its own pot or in the ground at least 15 cm apart.
- Keep the soil moist and provide bright, indirect light to encourage growth.
- The separated sections will each grow into mature plants.
Disease Management for Coleus rotundifolius (Poiret) A. Chev. & E. Perrot
Coleus rotundifolius is susceptible to a variety of diseases. Proper disease management is necessary for healthy plant growth. The following are some of the common diseases of Coleus rotundifolius:
Fusarium Wilt
Fusarium wilt is a fungal disease that attacks the plant's vascular system, causing wilting, yellowing, and eventually death of the plant. Management of this disease requires the use of fungicides, such as copper-based fungicides or systemic fungicides like thiophanate-methyl. It is also important to remove affected plants and avoid planting coleus in the infected soil.
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a common problem in coleus plants, appearing as small brown or black spots. Management involves keeping the foliage dry and avoiding overhead watering. If the infestation is severe, fungicides like propiconazole or chlorothalonil can be used.
Pest Management for Coleus rotundifolius (Poiret) A. Chev. & E. Perrot
Coleus rotundifolius is susceptible to different types of pests that can interfere with plant growth and crop yield. Below are common pests affecting coleus and ways to manage them:
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are one of the main pests that are attracted to coleus plants. These pests feed on the plant's sap, causing it to turn yellow and weaken. Management involves the use of insecticidal soaps or neem oil to get rid of mealybugs.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are another type of pests that commonly affect coleus plants. They thrive in hot, dry environments and may cause the plant to look discolored or have webbing. Management involves rinsing the plant with water, maintaining a high humidity level, and using insecticidal soaps or neem oil to control the pests.
Whiteflies
Whiteflies are small flying insects that commonly infest coleus plants. These pests suck the sap from the leaves, causing yellowing and stunted growth. Management involves the use of insecticidal soaps, neem oil, or natural predators like ladybugs to control the whiteflies.
