Desmostachys brevipes (Engl.) Sleumer var. oblongifolia (Engl.) Boutique
Desmostachys brevipes (Engl.) Sleumer var. oblongifolia (Engl.) Boutique is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Acanthaceae. The plant is native to tropical West Africa and is commonly known as 'Giraffe's Tongue' or 'Short-stalked Desmostachys' due to its unique leaf shape. It is a small shrub, which usually grows up to 1 m in height.
General Appearance
The plant has soft, woody stems and bright green leaves, which are narrow, elongated, and blade-like in appearance. The leaves can grow up to 20 cm in length and have serrated edges. The flowers are tubular and pale pink in color, with five petals and a protruding stamen.
Common Uses
Desmostachys brevipes (Engl.) Sleumer var. oblongifolia (Engl.) Boutique has various medicinal properties and is used in traditional African medicine. The parts of the plant, including leaves, stem, and roots, are used to treat various health issues, including cough, chest pain, skin infections, and inflammation. Additionally, the plant is also used for making natural insecticides and as a food source for wildlife.
Light Requirements
The Desmostachys brevipes (Engl.) Sleumer var. oblongifolia (Engl.) Boutique requires full sunlight exposure to grow optimally. Partial shades may also work, but they can affect their productivity and growth rate. Therefore, the plant requires a spot that allows for full light exposure.
Temperature Requirements
The Desmostachys brevipes (Engl.) Sleumer var. oblongifolia (Engl.) Boutique grows optimally under tropical or subtropical conditions. The plant thrives in temperatures ranging between 20-32°C, and it can tolerate temperatures of up to 35°C. Temperatures below 16°C may slow down its productivity, or with time, the plant may fail to grow altogether.
Soil Requirements
For the Desmostachys brevipes (Engl.) Sleumer var. oblongifolia (Engl.) Boutique plant, well-drained soil with good water retention capacity works best. The soil should be rich in minerals and organic matter. A slightly acidic to a neutral soil pH of 6-7.5 works well. The plant requires a constant supply of nutrients to grow and thrive. The soil type can range from sandy loam to clay loam soil types.
Cultivation Method of Desmostachys Brevipes (Engl.) Sleumer var. Oblongifolia (Engl.) Boutique
The Desmostachys brevipes (Engl.) Sleumer var. oblongifolia (Engl.) Boutique is a tropical plant that requires a warm climate to grow. It can be propagated through vegetative methods such as cuttings, grafting or budding, or by seeds. When planting seeds, it's vital to sow them in well-draining soil and cover with a thin layer of sand. The plant should be grown in a semi-shade position to avoid direct sunlight.
Watering Needs of Desmostachys Brevipes (Engl.) Sleumer var. Oblongifolia (Engl.) Boutique
The plant prefers a moderately moist soil that should be watered frequently during the growing season. However, the soil should never be waterlogged as this could lead to the development of root rot. The most effective way to ensure the plant gets enough water is to check the soil moisture periodically and adjust watering accordingly.
Fertilization of Desmostachys Brevipes (Engl.) Sleumer var. Oblongifolia (Engl.) Boutique
For proper growth and development, the plant requires a balanced and controlled supply of nutrients. Fertilization should be done fortnightly during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer at a recommended rate. It's important to avoid over-fertilizing the plant as it may lead to stunted growth or the development of weak and succulent leaves.
Pruning of Desmostachys Brevipes (Engl.) Sleumer var. Oblongifolia (Engl.) Boutique
Pruning is an essential part of maintaining the plant's shape and size. It should be done in the early spring before the start of the growing season and can be repeated in autumn. The plant should be pruned to remove any dead, damaged, or diseased parts that may affect its overall growth. When pruning, it's important to use clean and sharp tools to avoid damaging the plant or spreading diseases.
Propagation of Desmostachys brevipes (Engl.) Sleumer var. oblongifolia (Engl.) Boutique
There are different methods available for the propagation of Desmostachys brevipes (Engl.) Sleumer var. oblongifolia (Engl.) Boutique. One of the most common methods is through seeds. However, this plant can also be propagated using cuttings or division.
Propagation by Seeds
To propagate Desmostachys brevipes (Engl.) Sleumer var. oblongifolia (Engl.) Boutique by seeds, it is advisable to use fresh seeds. The seeds should be planted in a well-draining soil mix, and kept moist but not wet. The soil temperature should be kept between 20-25°C, which is optimal for seed germination. Germination usually takes place in about 2-3 weeks. Once the seedlings have grown and are strong enough, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation of Desmostachys brevipes (Engl.) Sleumer var. oblongifolia (Engl.) Boutique by cuttings is also possible. The cuttings should be taken from a mature plant during its growing season. The cuttings should be about 15-20 cm long and have at least two nodes. The leaves on the lower nodes should be removed, and the cutting should be planted in a well-draining soil mix. The soil should be kept moist and the cutting should be kept away from direct sunlight until it has rooted. Rooting usually takes about 4-6 weeks.
Propagation by Division
Desmostachys brevipes (Engl.) Sleumer var. oblongifolia (Engl.) Boutique can also be propagated by division. This method is done by separating the plant into two or more sections, each with its own root and shoot system. The divisions should be planted in a well-draining soil mix and watered thoroughly. It is important to keep the divisions out of direct sunlight until they have become established.
Disease and Pest Management for Desmostachys brevipes (Engl.) Sleumer var. oblongifolia (Engl.) Boutique
Desmostachys brevipes (Engl.) Sleumer var. oblongifolia (Engl.) Boutique is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, the following problems may occur:
Diseases
1. Leaf Spot
This fungal disease causes yellow or brown spots on the leaves, often with a yellow halo. The spots may merge, and the leaves may become distorted or drop prematurely. To manage leaf spot, remove the infected leaves and provide good air circulation by spacing the plants further apart. Avoid overhead watering to prevent the spread of the disease. Apply a fungicide if necessary.
2. Stem and Root Rot
This disease is caused by fungi that invade the stem and roots, causing the plant to wilt and collapse. To prevent stem and root rot, avoid overwatering and ensure good drainage. Remove infected plants and do not plant in the same location for several years. Apply a fungicide if necessary.
Pests
1. Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny, sap-sucking pests that can multiply rapidly and cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. To manage spider mites, spray the leaves with water to dislodge the pests or use an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray. Avoid using broad-spectrum insecticides that can harm beneficial insects.
2. Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the leaves and stems, causing the plant to become stunted and deformed. To manage aphids, spray the plant with water or use an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray. Encourage natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings.
By following these disease and pest management methods, you can help ensure the health and vitality of your Desmostachys brevipes (Engl.) Sleumer var. oblongifolia (Engl.) Boutique plant.
