Cyathula albida Lopr.
Cyathula albida Lopr. is a plant species from the family Amaranthaceae that has its origin in the Philippines, specifically in Luzon, Mindanao, and Palawan, where it commonly grows in open wet grasslands, fallows, and along rivers and streams.
Common names
Cyathula albida Lopr. is locally known by different names in the Philippines, such as "kidagdag," "alibangbang," "sungud-sungod," "katad-katad," "labong-bakong," and "buta-butaan."
Uses
The plant Cyathula albida Lopr. has several traditional medicinal uses among local communities in the Philippines. The leaves and stem bark are used to treat fever, gastrointestinal disorders, respiratory infections, and as a diuretic.
Studies have also shown the plant's potential in treating diabetes and high blood pressure due to its rich flavonoid content. Cyathula albida Lopr. extracts have been found to have antidiabetic, antihyperglycemic, and antihypertensive properties.
In addition, the plant also has cultural significance in some Philippine communities. The leaves are sometimes used to make traditional woven mats, and the plant is also used as a natural dye for textiles.
General appearance
Cyathula albida Lopr. is a perennial herb that can grow up to 1.5 meters in height. Its stems are erect, glabrous, and brownish-purple in color. The leaves are alternate, ovate to oblong-ovate in shape, and have a pointed tip and a rounded base. The flowers are greenish, small, and arranged in dense spikes. The fruits are tiny, dry, and indehiscent.
Light Requirements
Cyathula albida Lopr is a plant that requires a good amount of sunlight to grow properly. As an ideal plant, it requires full sun exposure for at least six to eight hours every day. As Cyathula albida Lopr is not shade tolerant, it is better to avoid areas with too much shade.
Temperature Requirements
Cyathula albida Lopr grows well in moderate climatic conditions. The plant needs temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C to grow properly. The ideal temperature range for the plant is between 25°C to 28°C. Cyathula albida Lopr does not tolerate extreme temperatures and temperature fluctuations so it is important to maintain consistent temperatures for optimal growth.
Soil Requirements
Cyathula albida Lopr needs well-drained soil to grow healthily. The ideal soil pH range for the plant is between 5.5 to 7.5. The soil should be enriched with organic matter and should be able to retain moisture effectively. Well-composted soil enriched with nitrogen and phosphorus would be particularly beneficial for the plant's growth.
Cultivation Methods
Cyathula albida Lopr. is a herbaceous plant that thrives in tropical and subtropical regions. It prefers well-drained soils and full sunlight exposure. The plant can grow up to a height of 90 centimeters and spreads up to 40 centimeters in width. To cultivate this plant, it is essential to select a site with well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. The planting should be done during the rainy season, which provides the optimum conditions for the plant to grow efficiently.
Watering Needs
Cyathula albida Lopr. requires regular watering, especially during the dry season. It is essential to water the plant sufficiently to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, as this can cause root rot. During the rainy season, it is not necessary to water the plant, as the rainwater is sufficient.
Fertilization
The plant requires regular fertilization to thrive. It is advisable to use an organic fertilizer, which provides the necessary nutrients to the plant. The fertilizer application should be done twice a year, during the rainy season. The first application should be done during the planting, and the second application six months later.
Pruning
Cyathula albida Lopr. requires minimal pruning. The pruning should be done after the flowering period to remove any diseased or dead branches. It is also advisable to trim the plant to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. Pruning can help stimulate the plant to produce more flowers and improve the overall appearance of the plant.
Propagation of Cyathula albida Lopr.
Cyathula albida Lopr., also known as white cyathula, is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Amaranthaceae. This species is native to Asia and is commonly cultivated as an ornamental plant for its attractive foliage and showy flowers. Propagation of this plant can be done using the following methods:
Seed propagation
Propagation of Cyathula albida Lopr. can be easily done through seeds. The seeds of this plant can be collected from matured flowers and sown directly into the soil. It is important to ensure that the soil is well-drained and fertile. Sowing should be done at a depth of 1-2 cm and kept moist until germination. Germination usually occurs within 2-3 weeks. Thin the seedlings to one plant per pot after they develop true leaves and transplant them into the main garden bed when they reach 10-15cm height.
Cuttings propagation
Cyathula albida Lopr. can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem from the parent plant and cut it at an angle of 45 degrees. Remove the leaves from the bottom 2/3 of the cutting and dip the end in rooting hormone powder. Place the cutting in a pot filled with a well-draining mix of soil and sand, and water it thoroughly. Cover the pot with a plastic bag to retain moisture. Within 2-3 weeks, the cutting will start to produce roots and new growth. Once the plant is well established, it can be transplanted into the main garden bed.
Division propagation
Cyathula albida Lopr. can also be propagated by division. This method is best done during the spring season. Dig up the entire plant and carefully divide the clump into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has several healthy stems and roots. Replant the divisions immediately in a well-drained soil. Water the transplants thoroughly and cover them with a layer of mulch to retain soil moisture. The plant will soon produce new growth from the stems and roots.
Overall, Cyathula albida Lopr. is an excellent ornamental plant that is relatively easy to propagate. Seed propagation, cutting propagation and division propagation are all viable methods that can be used to reproduce this plant in large quantities.
Disease Management
Cyathula albida Lopr. is mostly resistant to diseases, but under certain conditions, it can suffer from fungal and bacterial infections. Here are some common diseases that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Leaf and Stem blight
Leaf and stem blight is caused by the fungus Rhizoctonia solani. It can cause wilting, yellowing, and necrosis of the leaves and stems. To manage this disease, the affected parts of the plant should be removed and destroyed. Avoid overhead watering, as it can promote fungal growth. You can also apply a fungicide containing copper or sulfur to prevent the infection.
Root Rot
Root rot is caused by the soil-borne fungus Pythium spp. It can cause yellowing, wilting, and stunting of the plant. To manage this disease, make sure that the soil has good drainage and is not waterlogged. Avoid overwatering and improve the soil's structure by adding organic matter. You can also apply a fungicide containing mefenoxam or metalaxyl to prevent the infection.
Pest Management
Cyathula albida Lopr. is also not highly susceptible to pests, but some insects can cause damage to the plant. Here are some common pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Aphids
Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that suck the sap from the plant's leaves and stems. This can cause yellowing, curling, and distortion of the leaves. To manage this pest, you can remove them physically from the plant by spraying with water. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill them.
Spider mites
Spider mites are tiny arachnids that feed on the plant's sap, causing yellowing and stippling of the leaves. They are commonly found on the underside of the leaves and can spin webs. To manage this pest, you can wash the leaves with water to remove them physically. You can also use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or a miticide containing abamectin or bifenthrin to kill them.
Whiteflies
Whiteflies are small, white insects that feed on the plant's sap and cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. They are commonly found on the underside of the leaves and can fly away when disturbed. To manage this pest, you can remove them physically from the plant by spraying with water. You can also use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or a systemic insecticide containing imidacloprid to kill them.
