Origin
Cynoglossum amabile Stapf & Drummond, commonly known as Chinese forget-me-not, is a flowering plant native to eastern Asia, specifically China, Korea, and Japan.
Common Names
Aside from Chinese forget-me-not, Cynoglossum amabile goes by other common names such as hound's tongue, lady blue, or Korean forget-me-nots.
Uses
Cynoglossum amabile is primarily cultivated as an ornamental plant, with its beautiful blue flowers and long blooming period from late spring to early summer. It is a popular choice for gardens, borders, and containers. The plant is also utilized in traditional Chinese medicine to relieve cough and soothe the throat.
Appearance
Cynoglossum amabile grows to a height of 30-50cm and spreads 20-30cm. Its lance-shaped leaves are hairy and green or dark green in color, with visible veins. The flowers usually grow in clusters and are about 7mm in diameter with five petals. They range in color from blue, pink, purple, or white, and have a yellow center. The plant prefers full sun exposure and well-drained soil.
Light Requirements
The plant Cynoglossum amabile Stapf & Drummond thrives well in full sun to partial shade. It is essential to provide enough light to the plant as it is crucial for its growth and development. The plant requires at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. In case the plant is grown indoors, it should be placed near a window that receives plenty of sunlight. If inadequate light is provided, the plant becomes weak, lanky, and may not produce flowers as expected.
Temperature Requirements
The plant Cynoglossum amabile Stapf & Drummond requires a temperature range of 20°C to 25°C for optimal growth. The minimum temperature must stay above 10°C, while the maximum should not exceed 30°C. If the temperature is too high, the plant is susceptible to heat stress and may start wilting. In contrast, low temperatures may lead to poor growth or even death of the plant. Winter frost can also be fatal to this plant, and it must be protected or grown indoors during winter.
Soil Requirements
The plant Cynoglossum amabile Stapf & Drummond prefers well-draining, rich, and slightly acidic soil. A soil pH between 6.0 and 6.5 is best suited for the plant. The soil should be rich in organic matter and nutrients to support the plant's growth. If the soil is too compact and poorly drained, the plant may not grow correctly and may develop root rot due to waterlogging. The plant requires regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Cultivation Methods
Cynoglossum amabile Stapf & Drummond is an easy-to-grow plant that requires a well-drained soil with high nutrient content. They grow best in full sun or partial shade, and the ideal temperature for growth is between 60-70°F (15-21°C). When planting, ensure to space the plants 12-15 inches apart to allow enough room for growth.
Watering Needs
Cynoglossum amabile Stapf & Drummond plants require regular watering to thrive, especially during hot and dry periods. Watering should be deep and infrequent, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between watering. Ensure to water at the base of the plant and avoid wetting the foliage to prevent leaf diseases.
Fertilization
Fertilizing Cynoglossum amabile Stapf & Drummond is necessary to ensure optimal growth and flowering. Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 formula, every two weeks during the growing season. Ensure to follow the instructions on the fertilizer package to prevent over-fertilization, which can damage the plant.
Pruning
Cynoglossum amabile Stapf & Drummond plants do not require much pruning, but deadheading spent flowers is recommended to promote continued blooming. Pinch back the tips of stems early in the growing season to encourage bushier growth and prevent the plant from becoming leggy. In the fall, cut back the stems to 1-2 inches above the soil level to prepare for the winter season.
Propagation of Cynoglossum amabile Stapf & Drummond
Propagation is the process of reproducing a plant from one or more parts of the parent plant. There are several methods of propagating Cynoglossum amabile Stapf & Drummond.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating Cynoglossum amabile Stapf & Drummond. The seeds can be sown directly in the ground or started indoors and transplanted. Sow the seeds in spring or in fall, in well-draining soil. The seeds need light to germinate, so they should only be lightly covered with soil. Water the soil regularly to keep it consistently moist until the seeds sprout, which can take up to 21 days. When the seedlings are big enough, transplant them to their permanent location in the garden.
Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings propagation is another way to propagate Cynoglossum amabile Stapf & Drummond. Cuttings should be taken from new growth in late spring or early summer. Use a sharp and sterilized knife to cut a 4-6 inches piece of stem with at least 4 leaves. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting and dip it in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining, moist potting mix. Cover it with a plastic bag to increase humidity and place it in a brightly lit area but out of direct sunlight. After several weeks, the cutting should develop roots. Transplant it into a larger pot or the garden after it has established itself.
Division Propagation
Division propagation is another way to propagate Cynoglossum amabile Stapf & Drummond. This method is best done in spring or fall, when the plant is dormant. Dig up the plant and gently separate the roots into smaller sections with a sharp knife or spade. Each division should have several shoots and a healthy root system. Plant each division in a prepared spot in the garden and water it well.
Disease and Pest Management for Cynoglossum amabile Stapf & Drummond
Cynoglossum amabile Stapf & Drummond, also known as Chinese hound's tongue, is a plant species that belongs to the Boraginaceae family. This plant is native to China, and it is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens due to its beautiful blue flowers and appealing foliage. However, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can damage its growth and cause significant losses. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect Cynoglossum amabile and how to manage them.
Diseases
Crown rot: Crown rot is a fungal disease caused by Sclerotium rolfsii that affects the roots and stem of the plant. This disease typically occurs during warm and humid weather conditions. Symptoms of crown rot include yellowing and wilting of the leaves, stunting of the plant, and collapse of the crown. To manage crown rot, it is essential to prevent overwatering and ensure that the soil drains well. Avoid planting in areas where plants with this disease were previously grown.
Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease caused by Erysiphe cichoracearum that affects the leaves and stems of the plant. Symptoms of powdery mildew include the formation of a white powdery coating on the surface of the leaves and distortion of the leaves. To manage powdery mildew, it is essential to maintain adequate air circulation around the plant, provide adequate spacing between plants, and water the plant from the base to avoid getting the leaves wet.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small insects that feed on the sap of the plant. Feeding by aphids can cause curling of the leaves, reduced growth, and a decrease in the quality of flowers. To manage aphids, it is essential to remove them manually, prune infected leaves, and encourage the presence of natural predators like ladybirds that feed on them.
Slugs and snails: Slugs and snails are mollusks that crawl on the plant and feed on the foliage. Their feeding can cause large holes and tears in the leaves, which can affect the plant's growth and beauty. To manage slugs and snails, it is essential to handpick them, use physical barriers like copper tape or eggshells, and apply slug pellets.
By following the above management practices, Cynoglossum amabile can be kept healthy and free from disease and pests, allowing it to thrive and provide its beautiful blue flowers and foliage in gardens.
