Overview
Dissotis johnstoniana Baker f. var. strigosa Brenan, commonly known as strigose dissotis or creeping dissotis, is a species of flowering plant in the Melastomataceae family. It is native to sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in Angola, Cameroon, and Nigeria.
Appearance
Strigose dissotis is a low-growing perennial plant that typically reaches a height of 10-25 cm and spreads widely from the rootstock. Its stems are slender and hairy with leaves that are elliptical or almost circular in shape, about 1-4 cm long and 0.5-2 cm wide. The leaves are smooth and bright green on the upper surface, while the underside is usually hairy. The plant produces pale pink to purple flowers that are about 1 cm across.
Uses
Strigose dissotis is used in traditional medicine for various purposes. In Nigeria, the leaves are boiled and the resulting decoction is used to treat stomach pain, diarrhea, and dysentery. The plant is also used as an herbal remedy for fever, respiratory disorders, and headaches. Additionally, the leaves of strigose dissotis are sometimes eaten as a vegetable, either cooked or raw. However, it is not commonly cultivated for food or medicinal purposes.
Cultivation
Strigose dissotis is not widely cultivated but can be grown in most soils that are well-drained, moist, and rich in organic matter. It prefers partial shade to full sun and can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. The plant is often found in grasslands, woodlands, and forest clearings in its native range and can be used in landscaping as groundcover or border plants. It is considered a weed in some areas, particularly in Australia and Pacific islands, where it has become invasive in some natural areas.
Light Requirements
The Dissotis johnstoniana Baker f. var. strigosa Brenan grows well in full sun, but it can also tolerate partial shade. It is an ideal plant for gardens that receive about 6-8 hours of sunlight per day. Insufficient light can cause the foliage to become thin and leggy or lead to stunted growth.
Temperature Requirements
The plant requires a warm, humid climate to thrive. It is best suited for areas with temperatures ranging from 65-78°F (18-26°C). Temperature fluctuations below 45°F (7°C) and above 90°F (32°C) can cause damage or death to the plant. The Dissotis johnstoniana Baker f. var. strigosa Brenan can grow as a perennial in areas where temperatures remain moderate throughout the year.
Soil Requirements
The Dissotis johnstoniana Baker f. var. strigosa Brenan can grow in a wide variety of soils. It prefers well-draining soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.2). The plant can tolerate moisture but cannot withstand waterlogging, which can cause root rot. Enriching the soil with organic matter before planting can improve soil fertility and drainage.
Cultivation Methods for Dissotis johnstoniana Baker f. var. strigosa Brenan
For successful growth of Dissotis johnstoniana Baker f. var. strigosa Brenan, it is recommendable to grow them in a suitable medium. The plant requires well-draining and moist soil for optimal growth. You can achieve this by adding coarse sand and organic matter to the soil to improve its texture and fertility.
When planting, ensure to space the plants about 6 inches apart to enable adequate airflow and prevent overcrowding. You can grow Dissotis johnstoniana Baker f. var. strigosa Brenan both indoors and outdoors, in hanging baskets or pots.
Watering Needs
The Dissotis johnstoniana Baker f. var. strigosa Brenan plant requires frequent watering to maintain sufficient moisture levels in the soil. Ensure to water the plant deeply every time the soil feels dry to the touch. However, avoid overwatering the plant as this could lead to root rot and other water-related diseases.
The frequency of watering will depend on the prevailing weather and soil conditions. During the hot and dry season, you may need to water the plant more frequently than during the wet season.
Fertilization
Fertilization is an important aspect of the Dissotis johnstoniana Baker f. var. strigosa Brenan plant's care, especially when grown in containers. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season, applying it every four to six weeks to improve the plant's overall growth and vigor. Avoid over-fertilizing the plant, as this could lead to toxicity and affect its health.
Pruning
Regular pruning of the Dissotis johnstoniana Baker f. var. strigosa Brenan plant will help maintain its shape and promote bushier growth. It is recommendable to prune the plant after the blooming phase to encourage new growth. Use sharp and sterilized pruning tools to prevent the spread of diseases.
To prune, snip off the dead and wilted flowers and stems, cutting just above a leaf node. You can also pinch off the tips of the growing branches to encourage lateral growth and fuller foliage.
Propagation of Dissotis johnstoniana Baker f. var. strigosa Brenan
Dissotis johnstoniana Baker f. var. strigosa Brenan can be propagated through both seed and vegetative methods:
Propagation by Seed
The seeds of Dissotis johnstoniana Baker f. var. strigosa Brenan can be sown directly into well-draining soil or potting mix. The seeds should be lightly covered with soil and kept moist but not waterlogged. The ideal temperature for germination is around 20-25°C. Germination can take up to 3 weeks.
Propagation by Cuttings
Dissotis johnstoniana Baker f. var. strigosa Brenan can also be propagated by stem cuttings. Softwood cuttings can be taken in spring or early summer, while hardwood cuttings can be taken in autumn or early winter. The cuttings should be 5-10cm in length and should be taken from healthy plants with no signs of disease or pests.
The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in well-draining soil or potting mix. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. The ideal temperature for rooting is around 20-25°C. It can take up to 6 weeks for the cuttings to root.
Disease and Pest Management for Dissotis johnstoniana Baker f. var. strigosa Brenan
Dissotis johnstoniana Baker f. var. strigosa Brenan is a relatively disease-resistant plant. However, it is still susceptible to a few pests and diseases. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and how to manage them:
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are tiny insects that suck the sap from the plant’s leaves and stems, causing them to curl and distort. One way to manage aphids is by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water, which can dislodge them. Another option is to use insecticidal soap or neem oil, which are effective in killing the pests without harming the plant.
Spider mites: Spider mites are another common pest that can damage the leaves of the plant. They can cause leaves to turn yellow and dry out. The best way to control spider mites is by keeping the plant well-watered, as mites tend to thrive in dry conditions. You can also try using insecticidal soap or neem oil to control their population.
Diseases
Root rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that can occur when the plant is overwatered or planted in poorly-draining soil. The fungus attacks the plant’s roots, causing them to rot and die. To manage root rot, it is important to plant the Dissotis johnstoniana Baker f. var. strigosa Brenan in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. Fungicides can also be used to control the disease.
Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that can affect the leaves of the plant, causing a white powdery substance to appear on them. The best way to manage this disease is by removing the affected leaves and disposing of them properly. You can also try using fungicides to control the disease.
By following these disease and pest management practices, you can keep your Dissotis johnstoniana Baker f. var. strigosa Brenan healthy and thriving.
