Overview
Cynanchum adalinae (K.Schum.) K.Schum. subsp. adalinae is a plant species belonging to the Apocynaceae family. It is commonly referred to as "Adalina's swallow-wort" and is native to various regions in Africa, including Cameroon, Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
Appearance
The plant typically grows up to 2 meters tall and has numerous stems with a milky sap. The branches are usually ascending, and the plant has a semi-woody base. The leaves are oval-shaped and have a dark green color. The plant produces clusters of small, cream-colored flowers that bloom from August to October.
Uses
While not commonly used in modern medicine, some African traditional healers use C. adalinae to treat various ailments. The roots and seeds of the plant are said to have laxative, purgative, and emetic effects. The plant is also known to be toxic to livestock, and animals must be kept away from it.
Overall, Cynanchum adalinae (K.Schum.) K.Schum. subsp. adalinae is an interesting plant with unique physical characteristics and cultural significance.
Light Requirements
Cynanchum adalinae subsp. adalinae grows well in partial to full sun. It requires at least 6 hours of sunlight per day for proper growth and development.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives in warm temperatures and is hardy to USDA zones 9-11. It cannot tolerate frost and needs to be protected during cold weather. The ideal temperature range for Cynanchum adalinae subsp. adalinae is between 18 to 30°C.
Soil Requirements
Cynanchum adalinae subsp. adalinae prefers well-drained soils that are slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.5). It can grow in a range of soil types including loamy, sandy, and clay soils, but the soil must be fertile. The plant is sensitive to salinity and does not tolerate soils with high salt content.
Cultivation
Cynanchum adalinae (K.Schum.) K.Schum. subsp. adalinae is a perennial plant that thrives in warm and dry climates. It can be grown in containers or in the ground, provided that it has well-draining soil and enough sunlight. Ideally, the plant needs to be exposed to direct sunlight for at least six hours a day.Watering Needs
This plant is drought-tolerant and can survive on minimal water. It is essential to make sure that the plant is watered deeply and infrequently to prevent root rot. It is recommended to wait until the top inch of soil is dry before watering again.Fertilization
Fertilization is not necessary for this plant since it can take most of the nutrients it needs from the soil. However, adding a slow-release fertilizer once in a year during springtime can help the plant get the necessary nutrients to encourage growth.Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Cynanchum adalinae (K.Schum.) K.Schum. subsp. adalinae, but removing the dead or damaged leaves can improve the overall growth and appearance of the plant. It is best to avoid over-pruning the plant since it can negatively impact its growth.Propagation of Cynanchum Adalinae (K.Schum.) K.Schum. Subsp. Adalinae
The Cynanchum Adalinae (K.Schum.) K.Schum. subsp. Adalinae can be propagated through four main methods, which are:
Seed Propagation
This method involves the use of seeds obtained from the plant's fruit. The seeds should be sowed in a well-draining soil mixture, and the temperature should be kept at constant moisture. This will help the seeds to germinate within a few weeks, after which the seedlings should be transplanted to individual containers. The seedlings can be transplanted into the ground after they have established themselves in the pots.
Cutting Propagation
This method is useful when one wants to propagate plants that in most cases do not root at the nodes. It involves cutting about 5 inches long stems from the plant and treating the cut ends with a rooting hormone. The cuttings should be left in a shady place to allow roots to grow, which usually takes a few weeks. The rooted cuttings can then be transplanted to individual containers or directly into the ground.
Division Propagation
Division propagation involves removing the rhizomes from the mother plant and dividing them into small sections, each containing a bud and roots. The divisions should be planted in individual containers, and after they have established themselves, they can be transplanted into the ground.
Inarching Propagation
Inarching propagation involves bending a stem from the plant to the ground and burying a part of it in the soil. After some weeks, the buried part will develop roots, and the new plant can be cut away from the parent plant and transplanted into the ground. This method requires attention and patience, as cutting the stem before roots have developed might kill the new plant.
Disease Management
Cynanchum adalinae is susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, leaf spot, and stem canker. These diseases affect the growth and yield of the plant, making it necessary to manage them effectively.
To control powdery mildew infections, apply fungicides that contain potassium bicarbonate, neem oil, or sulfur. These fungicides should be sprayed every 7 to 14 days on the leaves and stems of the plant. Also, ensure that the plant is well-ventilated to prevent the buildup of moisture on the leaves.
Leaf spot, another fungal disease affecting Cynanchum adalinae, can be managed by practicing good sanitation practices. This includes removing and destroying infected leaves and debris around the plant. Fungicides such as copper hydroxide and chlorothalonil can also be applied to manage leaf spot infections.
Stem canker, caused by the fungus Diaporthe phaseolorum var. meridionalis, can be managed by pruning off infected twigs and branches. Fungicides containing thiophanate-methyl, propiconazole, or pyraclostrobin can also be applied to manage stem canker infections.
Pest Management
Cynanchum adalinae is prone to attack by different insect pests that can cause significant damage to the plant if left uncontrolled. These pests include spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs.
To control spider mites, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Both these insecticides can be applied weekly to prevent the buildup of spider mites on the plant.
Aphids can be managed by spraying the plant with a stream of water or using insecticidal soap. Ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps are natural predators of aphids that can be introduced to the garden to control their population.
Mealybugs can be managed by rubbing them off the plant with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Alternatively, insecticidal soaps containing potassium salts of fatty acids can be applied every 7 to 10 days to manage mealybug populations.
Regular monitoring of the plant for signs of pests and diseases and taking prompt action can help in their effective management. Maintaining good sanitation practices, such as removing and destroying infected plant material, can also help in preventing the spread of pests and diseases to other plants.
