Overview
Dissotis pachytricha R.E.Fr. var. orientalis A. & R. Fern. is a perennial herb that belongs to the Melastomataceae family.
Origin
This plant is native to Africa, specifically in Cameroon, Chad, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Nigeria, and Sudan.
Common Names
Dissotis pachytricha R.E.Fr. var. orientalis A. & R. Fern. is commonly known as Thicket Dissotis or Oriental Dissotis.
Uses
In traditional medicine, the root of Dissotis pachytricha R.E.Fr. var. orientalis A. & R. Fern. is used to treat malaria, diarrhea, and fever. The leaves are also used to treat wounds and are believed to have anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties.
Appearance
This plant has pink-purple flowers with yellow centers. The leaves are oval-shaped and can be up to 10 cm long, with a dark green color on the top and a light green color beneath. Its stem is hairy and can reach up to 50 cm in height.
Light Requirements
Dissotis pachytricha R.E.Fr. var. orientalis A.& R.Fern. typically thrives in bright indirect light or partial shade. It prefers spots where it can receive a few hours of morning or evening sun, but direct sunlight can damage its leaves and prevent it from growing to its full potential.
Temperature
This plant prefers a warm and humid environment. It generally grows best when the temperature is between 16-26°C (60-80°F). It is essential to avoid exposing the plant to cold drafts or sudden temperature fluctuations, which can cause stress and impact its overall growth.
Soil Requirements
Dissotis pachytricha R.E.Fr. var. orientalis A.& R.Fern. prefers moist and well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It requires soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH level between 5.5-7.0. Adding perlite or sand can help improve soil drainage and prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot and other fungal diseases.
Cultivation Methods:
The Dissotis pachytricha R.E.Fr. var. orientalis A.& R.Fern. prefers a location with partial shade or filtered sunlight. It thrives in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. This plant can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil, with a pH range of 5.6 to 7.5. It is best to plant this species in the spring when the last frost has passed.
Watering Needs:
The Dissotis pachytricha R.E.Fr. var. orientalis A.& R.Fern. grows well when the soil is consistently moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, it is best to water the plant frequently and deeply to ensure the roots have sufficient access to water. Be sure to avoid overhead watering to decrease the chances of fungal infections.
Fertilization:
The Dissotis pachytricha R.E.Fr. var. orientalis A.& R.Fern. benefits from regular fertilization during its growing period. The addition of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer will facilitate growth and enhance blooming. Apply the fertilizer following the package directions, and be sure not to over-fertilize as it may lead to root damage.
Pruning:
Pruning the Dissotis pachytricha R.E.Fr. var. orientalis A.& R.Fern. is not mandatory, but it can be necessary for shaping the plant and encouraging new growth. Prune the plant after the blooming period, removing any dead or diseased wood and trimming it back to promote bushier growth. Use a clean and sterilized pair of pruning shears to avoid spreading diseases.
Propagation of Dissotis pachytricha R.E.Fr. var. orientalis A.& R.Fern.
Dissotis pachytricha R.E.Fr. var. orientalis A.& R.Fern. can be propagated through various methods such as seeds, stem cuttings, and division.
Propagation through Seeds
The easiest way to propagate Dissotis pachytricha R.E.Fr. var. orientalis A.& R.Fern. is through seeds. The plant produces small, rounded seeds during the flowering season that can be collected and sown in a seedbed or potting mix. The seedbed or potting mix should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Germination usually occurs within 2-3 weeks.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
Dissotis pachytricha R.E.Fr. var. orientalis A.& R.Fern. can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Take a 4-5 inch long cutting from the plant's stem, remove the lower leaves, and plant the cutting in a potting mix. Keep the soil moist and provide bottom heat to encourage rooting. Roots should develop within a few weeks, and the cutting can be transplanted to a larger container or directly into the ground.
Propagation through Division
Dissotis pachytricha R.E.Fr. var. orientalis A.& R.Fern. can also be propagated through division. This is best done during the spring when the plant is actively growing. Carefully dig up the plant and separate the clumps into smaller pieces, making sure to keep each division intact with roots. Transplant each division into a container or directly into the ground and keep the soil moist until the plant becomes established.
Disease and Pest Management for Dissotis pachytricha R.E.Fr. var. orientalis A. & R.Fern.
Like any other plant species, Dissotis pachytricha R.E.Fr. var. orientalis A. & R.Fern. is prone to various diseases and pests. Below are common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggestions to manage them:
Diseases
Root rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of plants, causing them to rot and eventually die. The disease is caused by overwatering or poor drainage. To manage root rot, ensure that the plant is not overwatered, and the soil has good drainage. If the infection is severe, it might be necessary to repot the plant into fresh soil or treat it with a fungicide.
Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes circular spots or blotches on plant leaves. The disease is caused by moisture on the leaves and poor air circulation. To manage leaf spot, avoid overhead watering, and provide good air circulation around the plant. Remove affected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide if necessary.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small sap-sucking insects that can cause stunted growth and deformation of the plant. They are attracted to tender young leaves and shoot tips. To manage aphids, remove them from the plant manually or use a strong stream of water to wash them off. Alternatively, treat the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larvae of moths and butterflies that feed on plant leaves, causing damage to the plant's foliage. To manage caterpillars, manually remove them from the plant or treat the plant with a Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) insecticide.
Regular monitoring of the plant, proper sanitation, and good cultural practices such as proper watering and fertilization can help prevent diseases and pests from infesting Dissotis pachytricha R.E.Fr. var. orientalis A. & R.Fern.
