Origin
Dissotis sessilis, commonly known as the pink lady, is a species of flowering plant in the Melastomataceae family. The plant is native to tropical Africa, and it is commonly found in Angola, Cameroon, Côte d'Ivoire, Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Common Names
Dissotis sessilis is known by various common names, including Pink Lady, Sabaeo, and Princess Flower. In Kenya, it is commonly called Monene or Mmonene, meaning "that which does not sleep" in the local language, as the plant flowers all year round.
Uses
Dissotis sessilis has several medicinal uses. The leaves are used as an herbal remedy for various ailments such as stomach ache, diarrhea, and dysentery. The plant has also been used as an infusion for the treatment of urinary tract infections and gonorrhea. The roots are also reported to have antimicrobial properties.
Furthermore, the plant has ornamental uses due to its attractive pink flowers. In some countries, it is used as a garden plant, ground cover, or decorative hedge.
General Appearance
Dissotis sessilis is a herbaceous perennial plant that grows up to 60cm tall. It has a spreading habit, with stems that are up to 2 meters long, which tend to form rooting branches when they touch the ground. The leaves are oval-shaped, green in color, and arranged oppositely on the stem.
The flowers are pink, purple, or white, and they are arranged into clusters that are up to 10cm in diameter. The petals are four in number, and they are fused at the base, forming a tube. The fruit is a hard capsule, containing many small seeds.
Growth Conditions for Dissotis sessilis Hutch. ex Brenan & Keay
Dissotis sessilis Hutch. ex Brenan & Keay, also known as the trailing Dissotis, is a common perennial herb that grows in tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and Asia. The plant is often seen in open grasslands, along roadsides, and in disturbed areas such as abandoned fields and fallow lands. It is a highly adaptable plant that can grow in a wide range of conditions. Here are some of the growth conditions that Dissotis sessilis prefers:
Light
Dissotis sessilis prefers full sun to partial shade. The plant can grow in shaded areas, but it may not reach its maximum height or produce as many flowers. In areas with high light intensity, the plant may require more water to prevent wilting.
Temperature
Dissotis sessilis grows best in warm to hot temperatures. The plant can tolerate temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C, but it may not survive in areas with extremely cold temperatures. Frost can damage the leaves and stems of the plant, so it is important to protect it during cold weather.
Soil
Dissotis sessilis can grow in a wide range of soils, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. The plant prefers soils that are well-drained and rich in organic matter. It can tolerate soils with a pH ranging from 5.6 to 7.5. However, the plant may not grow well in waterlogged soils.
Overall, Dissotis sessilis is a versatile plant that can adapt to a wide range of growing conditions. With proper care and maintenance, the plant can thrive and produce beautiful flowers throughout the year.
Cultivation
When it comes to cultivating Dissotis sessilis Hutch. ex Brenan & Keay, it is important to note that this plant prefers warm temperatures and humid conditions. It grows in a variety of soil types, but the soil should be well-draining to prevent waterlogging.
Propagation for Dissotis sessilis can be done through seeds, stem cuttings, or division. If propagating through seeds, it is best to sow them in warm soil and keep them moist to encourage germination. Stem cuttings can be taken from mature plants and rooted in moist potting soil. Division may be the easiest method, but care must be taken not to damage the plant's roots.
Watering Needs
Dissotis sessilis requires regular watering, especially during the dry season, to maintain soil moisture. However, care must be taken not to overwater the plant as this can lead to root rot. It is best to water when the top inch of soil has dried out, and the soil is still slightly moist.
The watering frequency may vary depending on the location and the season. During winter, it is best to water less frequently to prevent waterlogging and avoid frost damage.
Fertilization
A balanced, all-purpose fertilizer can be applied to Dissotis sessilis during the growing season to promote healthy growth. However, care must be taken to avoid over-fertilization as this can lead to root burn. It is recommended to fertilize once every two to three months with a balanced fertilizer with a 10-10-10 ratio.
Organic options such as compost or well-rotted manure can also be used to fertilize the soil, but it is important to test the soil's nutrient levels to determine the appropriate amount of organic matter to add.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Dissotis sessilis, but it can help to maintain the plant's shape and prevent it from becoming too leggy. It is best to prune in the early spring before new growth begins.
To prune, simply trim back any overgrown or dead stems, and shape the plant as desired. Care must be taken not to remove too much foliage at once, as this can stress the plant.
Propagation of Dissotis Sessilis Hutch. Ex Brenan & Keay
Dissotis sessilis Hutch. ex Brenan & Keay, commonly known as the trailing dissotis, is a beautiful ornamental plant that belongs to the Melastomataceae family. The plant is native to tropical parts of Africa and can be propagated by several methods as follows;
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method used to grow Dissotis sessilis. The seeds are collected from the plant when they are mature and dry. The seeds are then cleaned to remove any debris, and they are soaked in water overnight to soften the outer covering. Afterward, the seeds are sown in a well-prepared seedbed and covered lightly with soil. The soil should be kept moist, and germination will occur within a few days.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation is another technique used to propagate Dissotis sessilis. Stem cuttings of approximately 15cm in length are taken from the parent plant. The leaves on the lower 3cm of the cutting are removed and dipped in rooting hormone powder to assist with the rooting process. The cuttings are then placed in a prepared soil medium and kept moist. Within two to three weeks, roots should start to develop, and the cutting can be transplanted into a larger pot or directly into the ground.
Division Propagation
Division propagation is an ideal technique for mature Dissotis sessilis plants on which new growth is appearing from underground. The parent plant is dug up and divided into smaller clumps, ensuring that each clump has roots attached. The small clumps are planted in pots or directly into the ground, ensuring that the soil is kept moist during the early stages of growth.
All these propagation techniques are effective in producing healthy and vigorous Dissotis sessilis Hutch. Ex Brenan & Keay plants.
Disease Management
Dissotis sessilis Hutch. ex Brenan & Keay can be affected by several diseases that can impact the overall health and growth of the plant. Here are some common diseases and ways to manage them.
Leaf Spot Disease
Leaf spot disease is a fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, it is important to always maintain a clean growing area. Remove any affected leaves as soon as possible so that the fungus does not spread. Also, avoid overhead watering as this can lead to an increase in humidity and the likelihood of developing the disease. Fertilize the plant to improve its resistance to leaf spot disease.
Powdery Mildew Disease
Powdery mildew disease is another common fungal disease that can affect Dissotis sessilis. It manifests as powdery white spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, it is important to avoid watering the plant late in the day and keep it in a well-ventilated area. Also, remove any part of the plant that is affected and treat with a fungicide.
Pest Management
Dissotis sessilis Hutch. ex Brenan & Keay can be affected by pests that can suck the sap and weaken the plant. Here are some common pests and ways to manage them.
Aphids
Aphids are small insects that can cause discoloration of leaves and weaken the plant. They reproduce quickly, so it is important to remove them as soon as possible. To manage this pest, you can spray the plant with water or insecticidal soap. Alternatively, you can introduce natural predators such as ladybugs that will feed on the aphids.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are also common pests that can infest Dissotis sessilis. They are tiny and can be difficult to spot with the naked eye. Spider mites feed on the sap of the leaves and cause discoloration and leaf drop. To manage this pest, regularly check the plant for any sign of infestation. Use a strong spray of water on the plant to remove the spider mites or treat with a pesticide.
