Overview:
Dischisma capitatum (Thunb.) Choisy is a perennial plant species belonging to the family Urticaceae. It is commonly known as "bladder nettle" or "jelly leaf" due to the appearance of its bladder-like structures on the leaves. The plant has an interesting history of use, with traditional applications as a medicinal herb and as a vegetable crop in some cultures.Origin and Distribution:
Dischisma capitatum is native to eastern Asia, including China, Japan, and Korea. It can also be found in eastern Russia and the Himalayas. The plant has been introduced to other regions as an ornamental plant and vegetable crop, including Europe, North America, and South America.Appearance:
The plant grows up to a height of 20-60 cm and has a clump-forming habit. The leaves are opposite, ovate, and have a serrated margin. They are covered in numerous small hairs and have bladder-like structures on the underside, giving them a jelly-like appearance. The flowers are small and green, and they are borne in clusters along the stem. The fruit is a small, oval-shaped, spiny nutlet.Uses:
Dischisma capitatum has been used for its medicinal properties in traditional Chinese medicine and Korean folk medicine. The plant has been reported to have antipyretic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and diuretic effects. In some regions, the plant is used as a vegetable crop, and the young leaves and stems are consumed after boiling. The boiled plant material is also used as a natural dye.Cultivation:
Dischisma capitatum prefers moist and well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of light conditions, from full sun to partial shade. The plant can be propagated by seed or division, and it grows best in cool and humid conditions. The plant has some tolerance to frost and can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 5-9.Growth Conditions for Dischisma Capitatum
Light: Dischisma capitatum thrives in bright light but not direct sunlight. A partially shaded setting is ideal for the plant. The plant will tolerate low light conditions to some extent, but it will grow slowly and become spindly.
Temperature: As a relatively hardy plant, Dischisma capitatum can cope with a range of temperatures. However, it grows best in a warm and humid environment. The ideal temperature range for Dischisma capitatum is between 18-22°C, with a relative humidity of 60-70%.
Soil: Dischisma capitatum thrives in nutrient-rich soil, which should be well-drained and capable of retaining moisture. It is important to avoid soggy soil, as this can lead to root rot. The pH level of the soil should be between 6 and 7.5. The plant also prefers soil that is slightly acidic.
Water: Keeping the soil moist is essential for healthy growth. Dischisma capitatum requires regular watering, but it is important to ensure that the soil never becomes too wet. Over-watering can lead to fungal infections and root rot, which can damage the plant considerably.
Fertilizer: Dischisma capitatum requires regular fertilizing to achieve optimal growth and health. Feeding the plant every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer is recommended. Reducing the amount of fertilizer during the winter months is advisable.
Potting: The plant requires adequate space for root growth. Repotting should be carried out every 2-3 years. It is important to avoid using pots that are too large, as this can lead to over-watering and increased risk of disease.
Cultivation methods
Dischisma capitatum, also known as Thunbergia grandiflora, is a twining perennial herb that requires a warm climate to thrive. It is often grown as an ornamental plant and is suitable for cultivation in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11. The plant prefers well-drained and fertile soil and requires adequate support as it grows up to 20 feet in height. It is often grown on trellises or fences and needs regular pruning to maintain its shape.
Watering needs
The plant requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. It is essential to strike a balance between overwatering and underwatering as both can harm the plant. Too much water can cause root rot, while too little water can cause the leaves to wilt. It is advisable to water the plant deeply, ensuring that the soil is adequately saturated. However, it is essential to allow the soil to drain before watering it again.
Fertilization
The Dischisma capitatum plant requires regular fertilization to grow healthily. It is advisable to use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20. The fertilizer should be applied every two weeks during the growing season. It is important to follow the instructions on the fertilizer package concerning the dosages and application method.
Pruning
The Dischisma capitatum plant requires pruning to maintain its shape and promote bushy growth. It is advisable to prune the plant during the early spring before new growth occurs. The plant's long stems should be cut back to at least half their lengths, and any weak or damaged stems should be removed entirely. Additionally, any suckers or growth along the base of the plant should be removed to control its growth. Regular pruning will ensure the plant maintains its shape and remains healthy.
Propagation of Dischisma capitatum (Thunb.) Choisy
Dischisma capitatum (Thunb.) Choisy, also known as the crystal plant or peacock plant, is a beautiful ornamental plant that is native to South Africa. Its striking foliage covered with white, pink, and purple sparkling crystals makes it an attractive addition to any garden.
Dischisma capitatum can be propagated through a variety of methods, including:
Seeds
The easiest method of propagation is by seeds. The best time to sow the seeds is in spring or early summer. Sow the seeds in well-draining soil and keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes about 2 to 4 weeks. Once the seedlings are about 1 to 2 inches tall, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
Cuttings
Dischisma capitatum can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Take 3 to 4 inches of stem cutting from the parent plant and remove the leaves from the bottom half of the stem. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and place the cutting in a bright location but out of direct sunlight. After a few weeks, roots will develop, and the cutting can be transplanted into a larger pot.
Division
Dischisma capitatum can also be propagated through division. This method involves the separation of the parent plant's roots into multiple sections, each with a portion of the stem and foliage. Carefully separate the roots of the parent plant and plant each section in a pot filled with well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and place the plant in a bright location but out of direct sunlight.
Overall, Dischisma capitatum is a relatively easy plant to propagate through seed, cuttings, and division. With proper care and attention, these propagation methods can help gardeners to grow beautiful and healthy crystal plants.
Disease Management
Dischisma capitatum, commonly known as "knobweed," can be susceptible to various diseases that can hinder the plant's growth and development.
One of the most common diseases that affect this plant is Powdery Mildew. Powdery mildew is a fungal infection that thrives in high humidity and low light conditions, making it more prevalent in shaded or damp areas. The disease appears as a white or grayish, powdery growth on the surface of leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage powdery mildew, ensure good air circulation around the plant, prune out infected foliage, and apply fungicide if necessary.
Another disease that can affect Dischisma capitatum is Phytophthora root rot. The rot is caused by a soil-borne fungus that affects the roots and eventually kills the entire plant. To prevent Phytophthora root rot, ensure the plant is planted in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. Fungicidal treatments are also available to manage Phytophthora root rot.
Pest Management
Dischisma capitatum is relatively pest-resistant, but certain insects can have negative effects on the plant.
One of the most common pests to affect this plant is the Japanese beetle. Japanese beetles can cause significant damage to leaves, flowers, and fruit. To manage Japanese beetles, manually remove them from the plant or treat with insecticidal sprays or traps.
Another pest that can affect this plant is the aphid. Aphids use their piercing-sucking mouthparts to extract sap from leaves, causing wilting and yellowing of foliage. To manage aphids, release natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings into the garden or use insecticidal soaps.
Regular monitoring of Dischisma capitatum can help identify and manage both diseases and pests to ensure healthy growth and development.
