Overview
Commelina lagosensis C.B.Clarke var. subglabra A.Chev. is a flowering plant from the family Commelinaceae. This plant is known for its attractive appearance and is used for ornamental purposes in home gardens and parks.
Origin
Commelina lagosensis C.B.Clarke var. subglabra A.Chev. is native to West and Central Africa, particularly in countries such as Nigeria, Cameroon and Congo.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as 'Blue Spiderwort' or 'Lagos Commelina'.
General Appearance
Commelina lagosensis C.B.Clarke var. subglabra A.Chev. is a perennial herb that grows up to 30cm in height. It has oval-shaped leaves that are a dark green color with visible veins. The flowers are blue or purple in color and shaped like a cup. Each flower has three petals and six stamens, and they bloom in the summer. The plant has a fibrous root system and can spread quickly, making it a popular choice for ground cover and borders.
Uses
Apart from its ornamental use, Commelina lagosensis C.B.Clarke var. subglabra A.Chev. is also believed to have medicinal properties. The plant has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including fever, stomach pains, and headaches. The plant extract has also been found to have antioxidant properties and can be used to improve skin health.
Light Requirements
Commelina lagosensis C.B.Clarke var. subglabra A.Chev. requires bright but filtered light to grow. It is not recommended to expose the plant to direct sunlight, as it can lead to leaf scorching and other damage. The plant can thrive in a partially shaded area, such as under a tree canopy or in a greenhouse.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm and humid conditions for optimal growth. The ideal temperature range for Commelina lagosensis C.B.Clarke var. subglabra A.Chev. is between 20 and 30°C (68-86°F). Temperatures below 15°C (59°F) can cause stunting and yellowing of leaves, while higher temperatures may lead to leaf drop and slower growth.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-draining, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. The pH of the soil should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging between 5.5 and 7.0. Soil that is too wet or too dry can lead to root rot or dehydration, respectively. It is recommended to feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
Cultivation Method of Commelina Lagosensis C.B.Clarke var. Subglabra A.Chev.
The Commelina lagosensis C.B.Clarke var. subglabra A.Chev. plant is tropical and thrives well in warm and humid environments. It can be cultivated outdoors or indoors. When growing outdoor, it's best to choose a spot that receives partial to full sun and has well-draining soil. If planting indoors, keep it near a window that receives good natural light.
Watering Needs of Commelina Lagosensis C.B.Clarke var. Subglabra A.Chev.
The watering needs of Commelina lagosensis C.B.Clarke var. subglabra A.Chev. are moderate. Water the plant when the topsoil feels dry. Ensure that the soil is thoroughly soaked but drain out the excess water from the pot. Overwatering can lead to root rot and affects the overall health of the plant.
Fertilization of Commelina Lagosensis C.B.Clarke var. Subglabra A.Chev.
Commelina lagosensis C.B.Clarke var. subglabra A.Chev. is a heavy feeder and requires regular fertilization during the growing season. Use balanced water-soluble fertilizers with a 10-10-10 ratio or similar every two weeks to promote healthy growth. However, be sure not to over-fertilize the plant as this may damage it.
Pruning of Commelina Lagosensis C.B.Clarke var. Subglabra A.Chev.
Commelina lagosensis C.B.Clarke var. subglabra A.Chev. seldom needs pruning as it grows naturally and doesn't tend to overgrow. However, you can regularly remove any yellowing or dead leaves to maintain the health and appearance of the plant. You can also control the plant's size by cutting back the stems in early spring or early summer to promote lateral growth.
Propagation of Commelina Lagosensis C.B.Clarke var. subglabra A.Chev.
Commelina Lagosensis C.B.Clarke var. subglabra A.Chev. can be propagated using different methods which include:
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Commelina Lagosensis C.B.Clarke var. subglabra A.Chev. can be collected from the mature fruit capsules. The capsules usually change color from green to brown when they are mature. The seeds are very small and numerous. They can be sown directly in the garden or in seed trays filled with well-draining soil. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil and kept moist until germination occurs. Germination usually takes around two weeks. The seedlings should be transplanted when they are big enough to handle.
Division
Commelina Lagosensis C.B.Clarke var. subglabra A.Chev. can also be propagated by division. This method involves separating the plant's roots and replanting them. To divide the plant, gently lift it from the soil and remove any excess soil around the roots. Look for natural breaks or divisions in the root system and separate them with a sharp, sterilized knife. Replant each division in a separate container or in the garden. Water thoroughly and keep the soil moist until new growth appears.
Cutting
Finally, Commelina Lagosensis C.B.Clarke var. subglabra A.Chev. can also be propagated using stem cuttings. Take a 5 to 10 cm long cutting from a healthy stem, making sure it has at least one node. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cutting in rooting hormone. Insert the cutting into moist potting soil, making sure at least one node is underground. Cover the pot with a clear plastic bag to create a greenhouse-like environment that will encourage rooting. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and place the pot in indirect light. New growth should appear in four to six weeks.
Disease Management
Commelina lagosensis C.B.Clarke var. subglabra A.Chev. is susceptible to various plant diseases. Some of the common diseases that may affect this plant include:
- Leaf spot - this is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant, causing them to develop spots or lesions. To manage this disease, it is important to remove and destroy all infected leaves, avoid overhead irrigation and apply a fungicide as directed.
- Bacterial wilt - this is a bacterial disease that causes the plant to wilt and eventually die. It is important to practice good sanitation, avoid overwatering, and use disease-free planting material.
- Root rot - this disease is caused by fungi that infect the roots of the plant, causing them to rot. To prevent root rot, ensure proper drainage of the soil, avoid overwatering and use disease-free planting material.
Pest Management
Commelina lagosensis C.B.Clarke var. subglabra A.Chev. is also susceptible to various pests. Some of the common pests that may affect this plant include:
- Aphids - these are small insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. To manage aphids, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil as directed.
- Caterpillars - these are the larvae of butterflies and moths that feed on the leaves of the plant, causing holes and defoliation. To manage caterpillars, handpick them off the plant or use a natural insecticide such as Bacillus thuringiensis.
- Mites - these are tiny arthropods that feed on the underside of leaves, causing stippling and yellowing. To manage mites, spray the plant with a miticide as directed.
