Overview
Dissotis senegambiensis (Guill. & Perr.) Triana var. alpestris (Taub.) A.Fern. & R.Fern. is a plant belonging to the Melastomataceae family and is native to sub-Saharan Africa.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the Purple-Haired Dissotis, or African rosegay.
General Appearance
The Purple-Haired Dissotis is a small, herbaceous plant that grows up to 12 cm tall. The stems are thin, flexible, and hairy, with leaves that are oppositely arranged. The leaves are elliptic, with a pointed tip and a round base, measuring 2 – 5 cm in length and 1 – 3 cm in width. The flowers are bright pink or purple and replicate a rosette shape, with each flower measuring around 1 cm in diameter. It blooms from January to December.
Uses
The Purple-Haired Dissotis has several uses. It is often used for ornamental purposes due to its bright flowers, making for good decoration. As a medicinal plant, it has been utilized to treat various illnesses such as diarrhea, stomach pains, and headaches. Its roots and leaves are typically employed to treat these ailments. The plant's roots have also been used to make a red dye in various African communities.
Growth Conditions for Dissotis senegambiensis var. alpestris
Dissotis senegambiensis var. alpestris is a herbaceous plant that thrives in a wide range of environmental conditions. For optimal growth, it requires appropriate light, temperature, and nutrient-rich soil.
Light Requirements
The plant prefers bright, indirect light or partial shade. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, leading to low plant growth or even death. Therefore, it is advisable to place the plant in areas where there is filtered light, in a greenhouse, or near a window where the sun's rays are less intense.
Temperature Requirements
Dissotis senegambiensis var. alpestris grows well in temperatures ranging from 15-27°C (59-81°F). However, the plant's optimal growth ranges between 20-24°C (68-75°F). At colder temperatures, the plant becomes frost-sensitive and can die if exposed to freezing conditions. On the other hand, if temperatures exceed 27°C (81°F), the leaves tend to turn yellow, and the plant may not grow well.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining, loose, and nutrient-rich soil, with a pH range of 5.5-7.0. Soil that holds too much water can lead to root rot, which ultimately affects the plant's growth. Dissotis senegambiensis var. alpestris thrives well in soil that has been amended with organic matter such as compost or manure.
Overall, to keep Dissotis senegambiensis var. alpestris healthy and thriving, it is crucial to provide adequate environmental conditions and proper care.
Cultivation methods:
Dissotis senegambiensis (Guill. & Perr.) Triana var. alpestris (Taub.) A.Fern. & R.Fern. is a versatile plant that can be grown in a range of soils, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. It thrives in well-draining soil and can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. To plant from seeds, lightly cover the seeds with the soil and keep the soil moist. Germination usually occurs within one to three weeks. To propagate from cuttings, cut a 3-4 inch piece of stem, remove the lower leaves, and plant the stem in moist soil. Water the stem regularly until it roots, which usually takes 2-4 weeks.
Watering needs:
Watering is crucial for the growth and survival of Dissotis senegambiensis (Guill. & Perr.) Triana var. alpestris (Taub.) A.Fern. & R.Fern. The plant should be watered regularly, at least once a week. The amount of water required for the plant depends on the soil type, temperature, and humidity levels. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Prolonged exposure to soggy soil can cause root rot or fungal infections. Waterlogging can be prevented by ensuring that the soil is well-draining and by ensuring proper irrigation.
Fertilization:
Fertilization is important for the growth and development of Dissotis senegambiensis (Guill. & Perr.) Triana var. alpestris (Taub.) A.Fern. & R.Fern. The plant should be fertilized twice a month during the growing season, which is usually in spring and summer. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to promote healthy growth. The fertilizer should be applied at the base of the plant and watered in to prevent leaf burn. Avoid over-fertilizing the plant as this can lead to excessive growth and weaken the plant.
Pruning:
Pruning helps maintain the shape and size of Dissotis senegambiensis (Guill. & Perr.) Triana var. alpestris (Taub.) A.Fern. & R.Fern. The plant should be pruned regularly to prevent it from becoming too leggy or to remove dead or diseased parts. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring, just before the new growth begins. Use a clean and sharp pair of pruning shears to make sharp and clean cuts. Prune one-third to one-half of the plant's foliage, focusing on the leggy or unhealthy parts.
Propagation of Dissotis senegambiensis var. alpestris
Dissotis senegambiensis var. alpestris can be propagated through different methods, which mainly include:
Seed propagation
The plant produces seeds that can be collected when mature. The seeds need to be cleaned of any debris and sown in a well-draining soil mix. Cover the seeds lightly with soil and water them well. Place them in a warm, humid environment, protected from direct sunlight. Seedlings should appear in about 2-4 weeks.
Division
The plants can be divided to obtain new individuals by separating the rootball into smaller sections. This method is typically performed in early spring. Use a sharp, clean knife to divide the plant into several sections, making sure each section has roots and healthy stems. Plant each section into a pot with a well-draining soil mix and water them well. Keep the plants in a warm and humid environment, protected from direct sunlight.
Cutting propagation
Softwood cuttings can be taken from the plant in spring or summer. The cuttings should be approximately 5-10cm in length and have at least two nodes. Remove the lower leaves, leaving two-four leaves at the top to help the cutting transpire. Dip the cutting in a rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining soil mix. Place the pot in a warm, humid environment, protected from direct sunlight. It will take about 4-6 weeks for roots to appear.
Disease Management
Dissotis senegambiensis var. alpestris is generally a disease-resistant plant. However, it may be affected by fungal diseases, such as leaf spot and powdery mildew.
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes brown, black, or gray spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, affected leaves should be removed immediately, and fallen leaves should be cleaned up to reduce the spread of the fungus. Fungicides may also be applied according to label instructions.
Powdery mildew is another fungal disease that causes a white or grayish powdery coating on the leaves. This disease can be managed by improving air circulation around the plant, reducing humidity, and ensuring proper watering and fertilization. Fungicides may also be applied as a preventive measure.
Pest Management
The plant may be also affected by pests, such as mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites.
Mealybugs are small, white, cottony insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They can be managed by using a cotton swab dipped in alcohol to remove them or by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap. Neem oil may also be used according to label instructions.
Aphids are tiny, pear-shaped insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing distorted growth and yellowing leaves. They can be managed by removing them by hand or by spraying the plant with a strong stream of water. Insecticidal soap or neem oil may also be used.
Spider mites are small, reddish-brown pests that feed on the plant's sap, causing yellowing and wilting leaves. They can be managed by spraying the plant with a strong stream of water or by using insecticidal soap or neem oil according to label instructions.
