Overview
Cyathula divulsa Suess. is a plant species belonging to the family Amaranthaceae. It is a perennial herb found in Southeast Asia and other tropical regions of the world.
Common Names
Cyathula divulsa Suess. is commonly known as the "cockscomb", "cow's milk herb", or "xi xian cao" in Chinese. It is also referred to as "blast-furnace weed" or "kabukiran" in the Philippines, and "longya jing" in Vietnamese.
Appearance
Cyathula divulsa Suess. has a deep green color, and it can grow up to 0.5 to 1 meter tall. The leaves are simple, oblong, and have a rough surface with serrated edges. The plant produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that are about 2 to 3 mm long. The fruit of the plant is a capsule that contains the seeds of the plant.
Uses
The roots and leaves of Cyathula divulsa Suess. are used in traditional Chinese medicine as a treatment for various diseases, such as rheumatism, arthritis, and fractures. It is believed that the plant has anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and blood-circulation enhancing properties. The plant is also used as a diuretic, laxative, and as a remedy for urinary tract infection.
Studies have shown that the plant has potential therapeutic effects on osteoporosis, Alzheimer's disease, and liver cancer. It is believed that the plant contains various compounds such as triterpenoids, alkaloids, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, responsible for its pharmacological properties.
Light Requirements
Cyathula divulsa Suess. is a sun-loving plant that prefers full sun exposure. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight to grow and remain healthy. If the plant is grown in areas that receive partial shade, it may not develop optimally.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives in warm temperatures and cannot tolerate frost or cold temperatures. The optimal temperature range for Cyathula divulsa Suess. is between 20°C to 35°C. If the temperature falls below this range, the growth of the plant will be slowed down, and they may start to deteriorate from the tips of the leaves.
Soil Requirements
Cyathula divulsa Suess. prefers moist, well-drained soils, though it can tolerate a wide range of soil types. However, it cannot thrive in waterlogged soil conditions. The best soil pH range for this plant is between 6.5 to 7.5. It can be grown in sandy loam soils that retain moisture or clay soils. The soil should be enriched with organic matter before planting, and the plant may need additional fertilization to support its growth.
Cultivation Methods
Cyathula divulsa Suess., also known as hairy cyathula, is a perennial plant that is native to southern China, India, and Southeast Asia. The plant can grow up to 60cm tall and is best grown in light, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It thrives in full sun or light shade and can tolerate moderate drought conditions.
Propagation of Cyathula divulsa can be done through seed or stem cuttings. Sow the seeds in pots or directly in the soil during spring or autumn. It is important to water the seeds regularly until they germinate, which can take up to 3 weeks. Stem cuttings can be taken during summer and should be planted in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist until the plant's roots have fully established.
Watering Needs
Cyathula divulsa has moderate water requirements. Before watering the plant, check the soil's moisture level by inserting your finger into the soil. If the top 2cm of soil feels dry, then it is time to water the plant. Avoid over-watering the plant as that can lead to root rot.
During the summer, when the temperatures are high, the plant may require more frequent watering. In contrast, during the winter, the plant's watering needs will reduce. It is important to avoid getting water on the plant's leaves and instead water it at the base.
Fertilization
Cyathula divulsa is a heavy feeder and requires regular fertilization for healthy growth. Fertilize the plant every 4-6 weeks with a balanced fertilizer that contains equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. You can also use organic fertilizers like compost or aged manure. However, avoid fertilizing the plant during winter, as it is dormant during that period.
Pruning
Cyathula divulsa does not require heavy pruning. However, you can prune it to maintain its shape and promote bushy growth. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead or damaged branches, and cut back the remaining stems to a height of 10-15cm.
You can also pinch off the plant's terminal growth to encourage lateral branching, resulting in a bushier plant. Remove any flowers as soon as they appear if you want to direct the plant's energy towards growth instead of seed production.
Propagation of Cyathula divulsa Suess.
There are several methods of propagating Cyathula divulsa Suess., including:
Seeds
Seeds can be collected from ripe seed pods and sown in a potting mix of sand, garden soil, and compost. Keep the mix moist and warm, and germination should occur within a few weeks. Once the seedlings are large enough, they can be transplanted into individual pots or out into the garden.
Cuttings
Cuttings can be taken from mature stems of the plant. Using a sharp knife, cut a stem about 3 to 4 inches long just below a leaf node. Remove the leaves from the lower part of the stem and dip the cut end into a rooting hormone if desired. Place the cutting in a potting mix of sand, garden soil, and compost. Keep the soil moist and warm, and within a few weeks, roots should form and new growth will appear. Once the cuttings have established, they can be transplanted into individual pots or out into the garden.
Division
Cyathula divulsa Suess. can also be propagated by division. Mature plants can be dug up and carefully separated into smaller sections, making sure that each division has some foliage and roots. Replant the divisions in potting mix or back into the garden. Make sure to keep the soil moist for the first few weeks until the new plant becomes established.
Disease Management
Cyathula divulsa Suess., also known as Rat's tail or Cat's tail, is a robust perennial herb that is susceptible to various diseases. Some common diseases that may affect the plant include:
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease can cause blight and leaf spots, eventually leading to leaf drop. It spreads rapidly in humid weather conditions. To manage anthracnose, it is recommended to prune infected plant parts and apply fungicides.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease causes white powdery growth on the leaves, stems, and flowers. A lack of air circulation and high humidity can promote the growth of powdery mildew. To manage this disease, it is best to remove the infected plant parts and use preventive measures such as maintaining proper air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by fungi that attack the roots, causing the plant to wilt and die. Over-watering can contribute to root rot. To manage this disease, it is best to improve soil drainage, avoid over-watering, and use fungicides as a preventative measure.
Pest Management
Some common pests that may infest Cyathula divulsa Suess. include:
- Aphids: These tiny insects suck sap from the plant, causing leaves to curl and distort. To manage aphids, physically remove them with a strong jet of water or use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: These pests cause the leaves to turn yellow and mottled. They also spin webs on the plant, which is why they are called spider mites. To manage spider mites, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, increase soil moisture, and improve air circulation around the plant.
- Caterpillars: The larvae of moths and butterflies, caterpillars can cause significant damage to the leaves. Handpicking the caterpillars and using Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) insecticide can help manage the pest.
Regularly monitoring the plants and taking quick action to manage disease and pests can help keep Cyathula divulsa Suess. healthy and thriving.
