Overview
Cynomorium coccineum L. subsp. coccineum is a unique, non-photosynthetic, and parasitic plant found in arid and semi-arid regions of the world. The plant is known for its medicinal uses and often called desert thumb.
Origin
Cynomorium coccineum L. subsp. coccineum is native to the Mediterranean regions, the Middle East, and parts of Africa and Asia, such as Morocco, Spain, Sinai, Iran, and China. The plant grows in dry, sandy, and rocky soils and requires low rainfall to survive, typically up to 250mm/year.
Common Names
Cynomorium coccineum L. subsp. coccineum is known by various names worldwide. In Arabic, it is called 'Tarthuth' or 'Sitharagh', in Chinese 'Suoyang' or 'Rou Cong Rong', and in Spanish 'Codo de Fraile' or 'Hierba de Sanado'.
Uses
Cynomorium coccineum L. subsp. coccineum has a long history of medicinal uses, especially in traditional Chinese, Arabian, and Mediterranean medicine. The plant is rich in phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and tannins that give it potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties. It is used to treat various ailments, such as impotence, infertility, constipation, hemorrhoids, flu, and sexual dysfunction. Additionally, the plant has a high nutritional value, containing essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. The young stems and female flowers of the plant are also edible and used in some cuisines, such as pickles or soup.
General Appearance
Cynomorium coccineum L. subsp. coccineum is a fleshy, cylindrical, and dark-brown reddish plant that grows up to 30cm in height and 4 cm in diameter. The plant lacks leaves, stems, and roots and obtains nutrients from the roots of other plants through its haustoria or succulent stems. The plant reproduces sexually by producing male and female flowers that appear on the same stalk from June to August. The mature fruits are small and brown, resembling raisins, and contain numerous tiny seeds.
Light Requirements
Cynomorium coccineum L. subsp. coccineum, commonly known as the Red Cynomorium or the Maltese Mushroom, prefers to grow in full sunlight to partial shade. It can tolerate low light conditions, but it may affect its growth rate. In its natural habitat, it can be found growing in open spaces, rocky outcrops, and sand dunes where it receives ample sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The Red Cynomorium grows best in warm temperatures between 20°C and 30°C (68°F to 86°F). It is important to note that the plant cannot tolerate frost and prefers a warm, dry climate. In cooler temperatures, the plant may become dormant until warmer temperatures prevail.
Soil Requirements
The Red Cynomorium can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or rocky soils. In its natural habitat, it is commonly found growing in alkaline, clay, and sandy soils. The plant prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate nutrient-poor to moderately fertile soils. It is known to grow in soils with relatively low moisture levels, but it requires some water to survive.
Cultivation of Cynomorium coccineum L. subsp. coccineum
Cynomorium coccineum L. subsp. coccineum is a parasitic plant that requires a host to grow. The host plant should be in close proximity to the cultivation site. The ideal soil for cultivation is sandy soil with a pH ranging from 6.5 to 8.0. The plant also requires plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures, making it suitable for cultivation in arid and semi-arid regions.
Watering Needs of Cynomorium coccineum L. subsp. coccineum
As the plant is parasitic, it absorbs water from its host plant and does not require additional watering. The host plant should be watered regularly to ensure that the Cynomorium coccineum L. subsp. coccineum has access to sufficient moisture.
Fertilization of Cynomorium coccineum L. subsp. coccineum
The plant does not require any fertilization, as it absorbs nutrients from its host plant. However, it is essential to ensure that the host plant receives adequate nutrition to facilitate the growth of the Cynomorium coccineum L. subsp. coccineum.
Pruning of Cynomorium coccineum L. subsp. coccineum
Cynomorium coccineum L. subsp. coccineum does not require pruning, as it is a parasitic plant that does not produce any leaves or branches. However, it is essential to remove any dead or diseased host plant parts to prevent the spread of disease to the Cynomorium coccineum L. subsp. coccineum.
Propagation of Cynomorium coccineum L. subsp. coccineum
Cynomorium coccineum L. subsp. coccineum, commonly known as Maltese fungus or desert thumb, is a parasitic plant that belongs to the family Balanophoraceae. Propagation of this plant can only be achieved through seeds or branching from the parent plant.
Propagation by seeds
Cynomorium coccineum L. subsp. coccineum plants produce small, brownish seeds that can be collected and sown in the appropriate soil mix. The seeds must be sown immediately after collection, as they have a short viability period. The containers should be kept moist and placed in a shaded area until germination occurs.
Germination can take up to several months, and it is an unreliable process. Once the seed germinates, the plant establishes a parasitic connection with a host plant. The host plant must be present for the seedling to thrive, and it is recommended to use host plants known to sustain the fungus.
Propagation by branching
Propagation of Cynomorium coccineum L. subsp. coccineum by branching involves removing a branch from the parent plant and planting it in the appropriate soil. A rooting hormone can be applied to increase the chances of successful propagation.
This propagation method can be more efficient than sowing seeds, as the plant already has a connection to a host plant. However, care must be taken to ensure that the parent plant is not damaged during the process.
Disease and Pest Management for Cynomorium Coccineum L. subsp. Coccineum
Cynomorium coccineum L. subsp. coccineum, commonly known as Malta Manna or desert thumb, is a parasitic plant known for its medicinal properties. Although it is resistant to most diseases and pests, there are a few things that can affect the growth of the plant, and it is essential to take measures to manage them. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that affect this plant and how to manage them:
Diseases
Root rot: Root rot is a common fungal disease that occurs due to waterlogged soil, poor drainage, and high humidity levels. This can cause the roots to rot and die, leading to stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and wilting. To manage root rot, remove the infected plant from the soil, cut off the damaged roots, and apply a fungicide to the remaining roots. Repot the plant in a new, well-draining soil mix and avoid overwatering.
Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that manifests as white or gray spots on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. It is caused by high humidity levels and can be managed by maintaining good air circulation, reducing humidity levels, and removing infected parts of the plant. Use a fungicide to control the spread of the disease.
Pests
Spider mites: Spider mites are small, yellowish-green pests that suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and drop off. They thrive in dry conditions and can be managed by using a miticide, spraying the plant with water to increase humidity levels, and regularly wiping the leaves with a damp cloth to remove the pests.
Scale insects: Scale insects are small, brown pests that feed on the sap of the plant, causing yellowing of leaves and stunted growth. They secrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which attracts ants. To manage scale insects, remove them with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol, spray insecticidal soap, or neem oil solution on the plant, and avoid overwatering.
In conclusion, taking good care of Cynomorium coccineum L. subsp. coccineum will help prevent diseases and pests from attacking the plant. Ensure the plant has enough light, water, and nutrients, and maintain a clean growing environment. Early detection and management of diseases and pests are key to maintaining the plant's health and productivity.
