Introduction
Dalechampia scandens L. var. cordofana (Hochst. ex Webb) Müll.Arg. belongs to the family Euphorbiaceae and is commonly known as the Cordovan Dalechampia. It is a tropical vine commonly found in parts of Africa.Origin
The Cordovan Dalechampia is native to the tropical regions of Africa, particularly in Ethiopia, Sudan, and Tanzania. However, it has been introduced in other regions as an ornamental plant and is now also found in Asia, the Americas, and several Pacific islands.Common Names
Aside from Cordovan Dalechampia, this plant is also known by several other names, including Purple Wings, Calico Flower, and Star Flower. In the Philippines, it is called Pasau or Pasau-malaki, while in Indonesia, it is referred to as Hurak.Description
The Cordovan Dalechampia is a woody vine that can grow up to 5 meters in length. Its leaves are big, broad, and heart-shaped. The plant produces small flowers that are usually green in color but can turn pink or purple when mature. What makes this plant unique is its floral bracts, which look like wings and can be as big as 10 cm long and 6 cm wide. These bracts are usually purple or green in color with white, pink, or yellow markings.Uses
The Cordovan Dalechampia is primarily used as an ornamental plant because of its unique and attractive floral bracts. It is commonly grown on trellises and arbors to add a touch of color and texture to outdoor spaces. In some cultures, the plant is believed to bring good luck and fortune, and it is often given as gifts for weddings and other special occasions. Aside from its ornamental value, the Cordovan Dalechampia is also known for its medicinal properties. Its leaves have been traditionally used to treat fever, headaches, and other ailments in parts of Africa and Asia. The plant's bark and roots are also believed to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.Growth Conditions for Dalechampia scandens L. var. cordofana
Dalechampia scandens L. var. cordofana, commonly known as Purple Wings, is an evergreen vine that is native to Africa. It is a popular ornamental plant that can be seen growing on trellises or hanging baskets. Here are the typical growth conditions for this plant:
Light Requirements
Purple Wings thrive in bright light, but they can also tolerate some partial shade. When grown indoors, they should be placed near windows that receive plenty of sunlight or under grow lights. Too much direct sunlight can burn the leaves, so some filtered light is ideal.
Temperature Requirements
Purple Wings prefer warm temperatures between 18 to 25°C (65 to 77°F). They can tolerate cooler temperatures, but they may become less active during the dormancy period. In colder climates, Purple Wings can be grown indoors or in greenhouses to maintain optimal temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Purple Wings prefer well-draining soil with a pH range between 5.5 and 7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter and should hold moisture well. A good potting mixture for Purple Wings should consist of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. When planting Purple Wings in the ground, make sure to amend the soil with compost and other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
Watering Requirements
Purple Wings like consistent moisture, but they do not tolerate water-logged conditions. Allow the soil to dry slightly between watering to prevent root rot. When watering, make sure to saturate the soil thoroughly. Avoid getting water on the leaves because this can promote fungal growth.
Fertilizer Requirements
Purple Wings benefit from regular fertilization during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20. Apply the fertilizer once a month by following the package instructions. If using a slow-release fertilizer, follow the instructions for application and frequency.
By providing the right growth conditions, Purple Wings can thrive and produce beautiful foliage and flowers.
Cultivation methods
Dalechampia scandens L. var. cordofana (Hochst. ex Webb) Müll.Arg. is a tropical vine that prefers bright, indirect light and high humidity. It can be grown indoors or outdoors, provided that the temperature remains above 60°F (15°C).
If growing the plant indoors, choose a bright location with filtered light. Outdoors, the plant can be grown in partial shade or filtered light. Provide support for the vine to climb, such as a trellis or a stake.
Watering needs
The plant should be watered regularly, but not over-watered. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Allow the soil to dry slightly before watering again. During the summer, the plant may need to be watered more frequently than in the winter.
Avoid getting water on the leaves of the plant, which can cause damage or promote the growth of fungus or mildew.
Fertilization
Dalechampia scandens L. var. cordofana (Hochst. ex Webb) Müll.Arg. should be fertilized every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer, diluted to half strength. Too much fertilizer can cause the leaves to turn yellow or the plant to become leggy.
During the winter, reduce fertilization to once a month, or not at all.
Pruning
The plant benefits from occasional pruning to keep it from becoming too leggy or to remove any damaged or dead leaves or stems. Prune in the spring or summer, after the plant has finished flowering.
Prune the plant back to a node or a leaf with a bud to promote new growth. The plant can be pruned heavily, but avoid over-pruning to prevent damage to the plant.
Propagation of Dalechampia scandens L. var. cordofana
Dalechampia scandens L. var. cordofana (Hochst. ex Webb) Müll.Arg., commonly known as the Sierra Leone bowtie vine, is a creeping or climbing plant that is native to tropical regions of Africa. It is a popular ornamental plant prized for its distinctive leaves and showy flowers.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation of Dalechampia scandens L. var. cordofana can be achieved by seeds. Fresh seeds need to be scarified to allow water entry and better germination rate. Seeds should be soaked in tepid water for 24 hours before planting. Sow seeds 6mm deep in a well-drained seed-raising mix. Keep soil moist but not wet and pots in a shaded area for two weeks or until seedlings are visible. Transplant seedlings to larger containers when they have grown two leaves and the primary root.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Dalechampia scandens L. var. cordofana can also be propagated by stem-cuttings. Cut a 10-15cm healthy young stem that has no flowers or buds. Dip the lower end of the stem in a rooting hormone powder and plant it in a rooting mix that has vermiculite to help retain moisture. Water the cuttings and cover with a clear plastic bag or a glass jar to maintain humidity. Place the container in a bright, humid area but avoid direct sunlight. The cuttings will develop roots after two to six weeks, depending on the temperature. After the roots are visible, transplant to a larger container and maintain the same conditions, with increasing exposure to sunlight as they grow.
Disease and Pest Management for Dalechampia scandens L. var. cordofana (Hochst. ex Webb) Müll.Arg.
Dalechampia scandens L. var. cordofana (Hochst. ex Webb) Müll.Arg. is a beautiful and hardy plant. Despite its hardiness, it is susceptible to several pests and diseases. The best way to manage them is to prevent them from occurring in the first place. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that can affect the plant and how to manage them.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases affecting Dalechampia scandens L. var. cordofana is powdery mildew. It is a fungal disease that affects the leaves and stems of the plant. Powdery mildew can be managed by using fungicides that contain sulfur or neem oil. It is also important to keep the plant well-ventilated and not water it from above to prevent water from settling on the leaves.
Another fungal disease that can affect the plant is leaf spot. It appears as brown spots on the leaves and can be managed by cutting off the infected leaves and using copper-based fungicides or neem oil sprays.
Common Pests
Dalechampia scandens L. var. cordofana is also susceptible to several pests, including spider mites and mealybugs. Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and eventually die. They can be managed by spraying the plant with a mixture of water and neem oil. Mealybugs are soft-bodied pests that leave a waxy residue on the leaves. They can be removed by wiping them off with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
The plant can also be affected by scale insects, which are small and usually dark in color. They can be managed by removing the insects using a brush and spraying the plant with insecticidal soap. It is essential to keep the plant clean and free from debris as it can attract pests and diseases.
Regularly inspecting the plant for pests and diseases, keeping the plant clean, and maintaining ideal growing conditions such as adequate sunlight and proper watering can significantly reduce the risk of pest and disease infestations in Dalechampia scandens L. var. cordofana.
