Overview of Cynanchum capense Thunb. x C. natalitium Schltr.
Cynanchum capense Thunb. x C. natalitium Schltr. is a hybrid plant species of the family Apocynaceae. It is a climbing, perennial herb that is native to South Africa. This plant is also known by its common names such as Natal milkweed, Natal vine, and Bosvarkrank.
Appearance of Cynanchum capense Thunb. x C. natalitium Schltr.
Cynanchum capense Thunb. x C. natalitium Schltr. is a scrambling and twining herb that can grow up to 2 meters in length. The leaves of the plant are alternate, elliptic, and glossy green in color. They measure between 5 and 15 cm long and 2-6 cm wide. The flowers of the plant are small, pale yellow, and are arranged in clusters. The seedpods of the plant are long, narrow, and torpedo-shaped, and are filled with silky hairs that aid in wind dispersal of the seeds.
Uses of Cynanchum capense Thunb. x C. natalitium Schltr.
Cynanchum capense Thunb. x C. natalitium Schltr. has various medicinal uses in traditional African medicine. The plant is known to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties and has been used to treat various ailments such as deep wounds, rheumatism, and snake bites. The plant also has a cathartic effect and is used to relieve constipation. Additionally, the plant is used as a traditional charm to ward off evil spirits.
The plant is also important in the ecology of South Africa. The leaves and stems of the plant are a food source for many herbivorous animals like the impala and black rhinoceros. The plant also plays a crucial role in butterfly ecology as several species of butterflies such as the African monarch butterfly lay their eggs on the plant and use it as a food source for their larvae.
In recent times, the plant has also been used in landscaping as an ornamental plant because of its attractive foliage, porcelain-like seed pods, and compact growth.
Light Requirements
Cynanchum capense Thunb. x C. natalitium Schltr. requires full sun exposure for optimal growth. It can tolerate partial shade but may produce fewer flowers and have a weaker growth habit in these conditions.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to South Africa and is accustomed to warm temperatures. It prefers a temperature range of 18-25°C (64-77°F) but can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°C (50°F).
Soil Requirements
The plant grows well in well-draining, loamy soils that are rich in organic matter. The preferred soil pH range is between 6 and 7.5. It can tolerate slightly acidic or alkaline soils but may exhibit stunted growth in these conditions.
Good soil fertility is necessary for strong growth and abundant flowering. Adding compost, aged manure, or a balanced fertilizer can help boost soil fertility. Excessive fertilizer, however, can lead to excessive vegetative growth and reduced flowering.
The plant is drought-resistant and can tolerate dry soil conditions. However, it grows faster and produces more flowers with consistent moisture levels. Regular watering is necessary during the summer months, but the soil must not be waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Cynanchum capense Thunb. x C. natalitium Schltr, commonly known as "Natal vincetoxicum," is a fast-growing vine that can reach up to 5 meters in height. The plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and can be propagated through stem cuttings or seeds. It is best to plant the vines in well-draining soil that has been enriched with organic matter. Natal vincetoxicum is drought-tolerant and can withstand mild frost, making it an excellent plant to cultivate in temperate regions with warm summers and mild winters.
Watering Needs
Natal vincetoxicum requires moderate watering during the growing season, especially during periods of extended drought. However, the plant does not tolerate waterlogged or poorly-draining soil and is prone to root rot. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the soil is well-draining and that excess water drains away from the roots. During the winter, reduce the watering frequency to prevent the roots from becoming waterlogged.
Fertilization
Cynanchum capense Thunb. x C. natalitium Schltr. is not a heavy feeder and does not require frequent fertilization. However, adding a slow-release fertilizer that is rich in phosphorus and potassium can help to promote healthy growth and flowering. Fertilize the plant once every six months, preferably in spring and autumn.
Pruning
Natal vincetoxicum requires little to no pruning, except for the removal of dead, diseased, or damaged foliage. Prune the plant in early spring before new growth appears to promote branching and shape the vine. Remove any long, leggy stems to encourage bushier growth and more flowers. To prevent the vine from becoming invasive, prune back unwanted growth regularly.
Propagation of Cynanchum capense Thunb. x C. natalitium Schltr.
Cynanchum capense Thunb. x C. natalitium Schltr. is commonly known as the Cape and Natal cynanchum. This plant species can be propagated through different methods that include:
Seed propagation
Seeds can be used to propagate cynanchum capense Thunb. x C. natalitium Schltr. This method is easy and ideal for small scale propagation. The seeds should be collected from ripe fruits, cleaned, and dried before planting. The seeds should be sown in trays filled with well-draining soil and kept moist. The trays should be placed in a warm area with adequate sunlight. The seeds will germinate within two to three weeks. After the seedlings have grown to a suitable size, they can be transplanted to a permanent location.
Cuttings propagation
Cuttings are a simple method to propagate cynanchum capense Thunb. x C. natalitium Schltr. This method is often used for vegetative propagation in large scale propagation. Select healthy stems from the plant, and cut it into 10-15cm long pieces. Ensure the cuttings are made from non-flowering stems. Remove the leaves from the lower part of the cutting and plant them in a well-draining rooting mix. The cuttings should be watered regularly and kept moist. They should be kept in low light conditions for the first week and then moved to a location with adequate sunshine. Roots will develop within 6-8 weeks. After the roots have developed, the cuttings can be propagated to a permanent location.
Division propagation
Cynanchum capense Thunb. x C. natalitium Schltr. can also be propagated by division in established plants. This method is most effective in the spring season. Carefully dig out the plant and divide it into several sections using a sharp knife. Each section should have at least one root system. Each division is then planted in a well-draining planting mix that is kept moist. The new plants should be protected from direct sunlight for the first few days to avoid shock. Regular watering should be done, and the new plant should be transplanted to a permanent location once the plant has been established.
Disease and Pest Management for Cynanchum Capense Thunb. x C. Natalitium Schltr.
Cynanchum Capense Thunb. x C. Natalitium Schltr., commonly known as African swallow-wort, is a South African perennial plant that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. Growing up to 1.5m tall, African swallow-wort is mostly accustomed to sandy soils, dry areas, and sunny climates. Proper disease and pest management techniques help maintain the plant's vegetative growth, floral development, and overall health.
Common Diseases Affecting Cynanchum Capense Thunb. x C. Natalitium Schltr.
The African swallow-wort is prone to different types of diseases. Here are some common diseases that affect the plant:
Fusarium Wilt
Fusarium wilt is an infectious disease caused by the fungus Fusarium oxysporum. It affects the vascular system and causes discoloration, wilting, and death of the plant. To manage this disease, apply fungicides to the soil or foliar spray, destroy the infected plants to avoid further spread, maintain proper soil drainage, and remove weeds hosting the fungus.
Root Rot
Root rot is caused by a fungus, mainly Phytophthora, Rhizoctonia, and Pythium. It causes yellowing, wilting, stunting, and root rot. To prevent root rot, maintain proper soil drainage, apply fungicide treatments, and maintain soil pH levels.
Common Pests Affecting Cynanchum Capense Thunb. x C. Natalitium Schltr.
African swallow-wort is susceptible to pests that attack the leaves, stem, roots, and flowers, causing extensive damage. Here are some common pests that infest the plant:
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are insects that attach themselves to the plant's stem, leaves and secrete a sticky liquid that attracts ants allowing fungal growth. They cause stunted growth, wilting, yellow patches and lead to death if left unchecked. To control mealybugs, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, prune infected areas, and maintain proper irrigation.
Red spider mites
Red spider mites are tiny arachnids that are difficult to see with naked eyes. They feed on plant sap, causing yellow or pale spots, stunting, and leaf shedding in severe cases. To manage the mites, use pesticides, increase humidity levels, regular pruning, and provide adequate irrigation.
Proper disease and pest management are crucial in maintaining Cynanchum Capense Thunb. x C. Natalitium Schltr.'s health, preventing loss of yield and destruction of property. Regular monitoring of the plant and implementation of appropriate management techniques will benefit growers in managing common diseases and pests that compromise the plant's health.
