Description of Cyphostemma subciliatum
Cyphostemma subciliatum is a species of succulent plant belonging to the family Vitaceae. It is native to the eastern and southern parts of Africa, specifically found growing in countries such as Kenya, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe.
Common Names
Cyphostemma subciliatum is commonly known by a variety of names, depending on the region. In Kenya, it is referred to as Mwene-muti or Mkoka. In some parts of Tanzania, it is called Mgarabu while in Zimbabwe it is known as Ikhathazo or Mukanga.
Appearance
The plant has a thick, woody, and strong stem which can grow up to 3 meters high, and has a diameter ranging between 10 and 20 cm. The leaves are large and deeply lobed with a diameter of up to 30 cm. The flowers are borne in clusters and are small and green in color. The fruit is a berry that is ovoid in shape and about 1 cm across.
Uses
Cyphostemma subciliatum has a variety of medicinal uses. The roots and stem are used in treating different ailments in traditional medicine. The plant parts contain compounds such as terpenoids, anthocyanins, and alkaloids which are said to have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-tumor properties. The plant is also used for making ropes, baskets, and matting, and some communities use it for fuelwood.
However, it is important to note that the use of this plant for medicinal purposes should only be done under the guidance of a medical professional, as it has not been fully tested for efficacy and safety.
Light Requirements
Cyphostemma subciliatum is a plant that grows well under bright but indirect sunlight. It requires a minimum of 6 hours of light exposure every day. The plant can tolerate partial shade, but excessive shading can lead to leggy growth and poor flower production.
Temperature Requirements
Cyphostemma subciliatum is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, and it thrives in warm temperatures. The plant prefers a temperature range of 18 to 30 degrees Celsius. In colder regions, it is best grown under protection or indoors during the winter months.
Soil Requirements
Cyphostemma subciliatum grows best in well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. A well-draining soil prevents waterlogging, which can cause root rot. The pH of the soil should be slightly acidic, ranging between 5.0 to 6.5. It is essential to ensure that the soil is not compacted as it can hinder the growth and development of the plant.
Cultivation Methods
The Cyphostemma subciliatum (Baker) Desc. ex Wild & R.B.Drumm. thrives well in warm and dry climates. Therefore, it is suitable for outdoor cultivation in regions with warm temperatures that range from 15-30°C. The plant prefers well-drained soils and requires ample sunlight for growth. It is ideal for growing in sandy or rocky soils, although loamy soils also work well.
Watering Needs
The plant does not require consistent watering and is tolerant to drought conditions. However, it is essential to water it occasionally, especially during the growing season. During dry periods, you should irrigate the plant once a week to help sustain its growth. It is also important to avoid waterlogging, as it may cause root rot that could damage the plant.
Fertilization
Applying organic manure such as compost, chicken manure or cow dung is recommended before planting. This provides the plant with adequate nutrients that it needs to grow well. You can also fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Nitrogen-based fertilizers work best since they help it develop healthy foliage. However, avoid overfertilizing as this could damage the plant.
Pruning
Regular pruning helps to keep the plant's growth in check. It is best to prune the plant before the start of new growth each spring. This helps to prevent the plant from becoming too leggy or bushy. Additionally, removing dead or damaged parts of the plant promotes healthy growth and reduces the risk of disease. If you notice any diseased parts of the plant, it is best to remove them immediately.
Propagation of Cyphostemma subciliatum
Cyphostemma subciliatum, commonly known as the wild grape or tokoberek, can be propagated through various methods such as seeds, cuttings and division of plant.
Seed propagation
The plant bears fruit, which contains several seeds that can be used for propagation. The seeds should be harvested when they are ripe and sown in well-draining soil mixed with sand. The seeds should be sown at a depth of about 1 cm in the soil. Germination usually occurs within two weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted to their final location after 6-8 weeks. It is important to ensure that the seedlings are watered adequately, but not over-watered, as this can lead to rotting of the roots.
Cutting propagation
Cuttings are another way to propagate Cyphostemma subciliatum. The cuttings should be taken from mature stems of the plant during the growing season. The cuttings should be about 15 - 20 cm long and should be taken from the leaf nodes. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a mixture of soil and sand. The mixture should be kept moist, and the cuttings should be placed in a shaded area. The cuttings should develop roots in about 4-6 weeks and can be transplanted to their final location after 6-8 weeks.
Division of plant
Cyphostemma subciliatum can also be propagated through division of the plant. This method can be used to propagate mature plants that have developed multiple stems. The plant should be carefully dug up, and the stems should be separated from the root ball. Each stem should have roots and should be planted in a well-draining soil mixture. The new plants should be watered adequately and kept in a shaded area until they establish roots.
Disease Management for Cyphostemma subciliatum
Cyphostemma subciliatum is generally a healthy plant, but it may be affected by a few diseases from time to time. Here are some of the common diseases that may affect Cyphostemma subciliatum and how to manage them:
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a common disease that affects many different types of plants, including Cyphostemma subciliatum. Symptoms of powdery mildew include a white or gray powdery substance on the leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage powdery mildew, try removing the affected parts of the plant and spraying with a fungicide. Also, make sure that the plant is well-ventilated.
Crown Rot
Crown rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of Cyphostemma subciliatum. Symptoms of crown rot include wilting, yellowing, and browning of the plant's leaves. To prevent crown rot, make sure that the plant is not overwatered and that the soil is well-drained. If you suspect that your plant has crown rot, remove the affected parts of the plant and replant in fresh soil.
Pest Management for Cyphostemma subciliatum
Cyphostemma subciliatum is also susceptible to pest infestations. Here are some of the common pests that may affect Cyphostemma subciliatum and how to manage them:
Aphids
Aphids are small insects that feed on the sap of plants, including Cyphostemma subciliatum. Symptoms of an aphid infestation include distorted and yellowed leaves. To get rid of aphids, try spraying the plant with a mixture of water and dish soap. You can also introduce natural predators, such as ladybugs, to control the aphid population.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause significant damage to Cyphostemma subciliatum. Symptoms of a spider mite infestation include yellowed leaves with stippling and webbing on the undersides of the leaves. To manage spider mites, try spraying the plant with a mixture of water and insecticidal soap. You can also introduce natural predators, such as predatory mites or ladybugs, to control the spider mite population.
