Convolvulus schweinfurthii Engl. - A Detailed Description
Convolvulus schweinfurthii Engl. is a plant species that belongs to the family Convolvulaceae. It is an African native plant, particularly widespread in East Africa, Ethiopia, Somalia, and Sudan. The species was first described by the German botanist Adolf Engler in 1895. It is commonly known by several names, including wild cotton, Schweinfurth's bindweed, and sand bindweed.
The plant has several practical uses. Its roots and leaves are often used in traditional African medicine to treat various ailments, including fever, stomach ache, and respiratory problems. Additionally, the plant has been used in some cultures as a traditional contraceptive.
The general appearance of Convolvulus schweinfurthii Engl. is a thick, bushy plant that grows up to 2m tall. Its leaves are green and covered with soft hairs, giving the plant a woolly appearance. The plant produces white or pink funnel-shaped flowers that bloom in the evening and at night. The flowers contain nectar that attracts several nocturnal pollinators such as moths and bats. The fruits of the plant are tiny capsules that contain numerous small, black seeds.
Light Requirements
Convolvulus schweinfurthii Engl. requires full sun to grow and thrive. This plant should receive direct light for at least six hours per day. Therefore, it is recommended to grow it in a spot with no shade.
Soil Requirements
This plant prefers to grow in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal soil pH range should be between 6.0 and 7.0. Sandy loam is an excellent soil type for Convolvulus schweinfurthii, which provides adequate drainage for the plant roots.
Temperature Requirements
Convolvulus schweinfurthii is a hardy plant that can withstand a wide range of temperatures. It will grow well in an environment with temperatures ranging from 10 to 30 degrees Celsius, but it can withstand temperatures below zero degrees Celsius in the winter.
Water Requirements
To establish good growth and development, Convolvulus schweinfurthii requires regular watering. The plant must receive adequate water during the growing period. However, it is essential to avoid over-watering the plant as it can lead to root rot. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Cultivation Methods
Convolvulus schweinfurthii Engl. requires a sunny and warm location to thrive. The plant grows best in sandy, well-draining soils with a pH range between 6.5 and 7.5. It is recommended to plant the seeds directly into the garden bed after the last frost has passed. Space the seeds about six inches apart and cover them with a thin layer of soil. Germination will begin in about one week.
Watering Needs
The plant needs regular watering to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. As a general rule of thumb, provide the plant with about one inch of water per week. During excessively hot and dry weather, increase the amount of water to prevent the soil from drying out completely. Avoid getting water on the leaves since this can encourage fungal growth.
Fertilization
Convolvulus schweinfurthii Engl. is not a heavy feeder and does not require frequent fertilization. However, you can apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer once a month during the growing season to improve the plant's performance. Alternatively, you can use compost to enrich the soil before planting the seeds or the seedlings.
Pruning
Pruning Convolvulus schweinfurthii Engl. is not necessary. However, you can remove any dead or damaged growth to maintain the plant's appearance. It is also possible to cut back the stems after the plant has finished flowering to promote bushier growth.
Propagation of Convolvulus schweinfurthii Engl.
Convolvulus schweinfurthii Engl. is a beautiful flowering plant that can be propagated using several methods:
1. Seed propagation
The easiest and most common way to propagate Convolvulus schweinfurthii Engl. is by seed. The plant produces small, black, ovoid seeds that need to be collected when they are fully mature. The seeds should be sown immediately in a well-draining potting mix and covered with a thin layer of soil. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and place the pot where it can receive bright, indirect sunlight. The seeds should germinate in around two weeks. Once the seedlings have two true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
2. Stem cuttings
Convolvulus schweinfurthii Engl. can also be propagated by stem cuttings. Take a cutting from the plant's stem, ensuring it is at least 6 inches long and has two to three sets of leaves. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cutting in a rooting hormone powder. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix, keeping it moist but not waterlogged. Place the pot in a warm, bright spot and avoid direct sunlight. The cutting should root within three to four weeks.
3. Layering
Another propagation method for Convolvulus schweinfurthii Engl. is layering. This method involves bending a low branch to the ground and covering it with soil. Once the branch has rooted, cut it off from the parent plant and transplant it to a new location.
Whichever propagation method you choose, ensure you provide the plant with the appropriate growing conditions, including well-draining soil, plenty of sunlight, and regular watering.
Disease Management
Convolvulus schweinfurthii Engl. is susceptible to various diseases that can impact the health and yield of the plant. Below are some common diseases that affect the plant, along with management strategies:
Fungal Diseases
Fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, leaf spot, and stem rot can infect Convolvulus schweinfurthii Engl. To manage these diseases, it is recommended to remove and dispose of infected plant parts. Applying a fungicide can also help in controlling fungal diseases.
Bacterial Diseases
Bacterial diseases such as bacterial wilt and crown gall can cause significant damage to the plant. The use of pathogen-free planting material and soil sterilization can help prevent the occurrence of these diseases. The application of copper-based fungicides can also help control bacterial diseases.
Viral Diseases
Viral diseases such as cucumber mosaic virus and tomato spotted wilt virus can also infect Convolvulus schweinfurthii Engl. There is no cure for viral diseases, so prevention is crucial. Monitoring and controlling insect populations can help prevent the spread of viruses.
Pest Management
Convolvulus schweinfurthii Engl. can also be affected by different pests, such as:
Aphids
Aphids are small insects that suck sap from the plant, leading to reduced growth and yield. The use of insecticidal soap or neem oil can help control aphids. Encouraging natural predators such as ladybugs can also help manage aphid populations.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are another common pest of Convolvulus schweinfurthii Engl. They feed on plant sap, which can cause the plant to wither and die. Spraying the plant with water or using predatory mites can help control spider mites.
Cutworms
Cutworms are the larval stage of several species of moths. They feed on the stem of the plant, which can cause the plant to wilt and die. Placing collars around the base of the plant, using Bacillus thuringiensis var. Kurstaki, or removing cutworms manually are effective ways to manage cutworms.
Overall, preventing infestations and monitoring populations are essential in managing pests in Convolvulus schweinfurthii Engl. It is also essential to use cultural practices such as crop rotation and adequate irrigation to maintain the plant's health and minimize pest and disease incidence.
