Origin
Dolicholus memnonia Hiern var. candida Welw. ex Hiern is a plant species that is native to Africa, particularly in Angola and Tanzania. It grows in various forest types and is known for its resistance to low light conditions.
Common Names
This plant is commonly referred to as white-leaved Dolicholus or just white Dolicholus. In Tanzania, it is known as mchanjala while in Angola, it is called kambula.
Uses
The leaves of Dolicholus memnonia Hiern var. candida Welw. ex Hiern are used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as fever, headaches, and stomach pains. They are also used to relieve fatigue and as a natural tonic. In addition, the plant is frequently used in landscaping and gardening due to its unique white foliage that contrasts well with green plants.
General Appearance
Dolicholus memnonia Hiern var. candida Welw. ex Hiern is a small tree or shrub that typically grows up to six meters tall. It has a straight trunk that is approximately 20 centimeters in diameter with smooth, gray bark. The plant's leaves are a distinctive white color and are elliptical in shape, measuring around 10-20 centimeters long and 4-10 centimeters wide. The flowers are small and white, and the fruit is a brown, oblong-shaped capsule that contains the seeds.
Growth Conditions of Dolicholus Memnonia Hiern var. Candida Welw. ex Hiern
Dolicholus memnonia Hiern var. candida Welw. ex Hiern is a rare and beautiful ornamental plant species known for its large, fragrant white flowers. The plant belongs to the Fabaceae or Leguminosae family and is native to eastern Africa, specifically Tanzania and Kenya.
Light Requirements
Dolicholus memnonia Hiern var. candida Welw. ex Hiern grows best in filtered sunlight or partial shade. The plant can tolerate direct sunlight for a few hours a day but prolonged exposure can lead to leaf scorch and wilting.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives in warm temperatures ranging from 18°C to 28°C. It can tolerate cooler temperatures but does not do well in freezing temperatures. When grown in areas with colder winters, the plant should be protected from frost with a blanket or moved indoors.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter and slightly acidic with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged as excessive moisture can lead to root rot. Adding a layer of mulch on top of the soil can help retain moisture and regulate temperature.
Dolicholus memnonia Hiern var. candida Welw. ex Hiern is a relatively low-maintenance plant that requires regular watering and occasional fertilization to thrive. Proper care and attention can help the plant reach its full potential, producing stunning white flowers that are sure to attract attention and admiration.
Cultivation methods
Dolicholus memnonia Hiern var. candida Welw. ex Hiern is a plant that requires a warm, humid environment to grow well. It does well in partial sun to full shade and prefers well-drained soil.
The plant is perennial, so it can be grown outdoors year-round in areas with mild winters. In areas where winters are cold, Dolicholus memnonia Hiern var. candida Welw. ex Hiern can be grown indoors as a houseplant.
Watering needs
The watering needs of Dolicholus memnonia Hiern var. candida Welw. ex Hiern vary depending on the climate and environment in which it is grown. The plant should be kept moist, but not overly wet. Overwatering can cause root rot and kill the plant.
During the warmer months, the plant should be watered more frequently to ensure that the soil stays moist. In the colder months, the plant can be watered less often but should not be allowed to dry out completely.
Fertilization
It is recommended to fertilize Dolicholus memnonia Hiern var. candida Welw. ex Hiern once a month during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 is ideal for this plant.
The fertilizer should be diluted to half strength and applied to moist soil. Overfertilizing can lead to damage to the plant, so it is important not to apply too much fertilizer.
Pruning
Dolicholus memnonia Hiern var. candida Welw. ex Hiern does not require frequent pruning, but dead or damaged leaves should be removed as soon as they appear. Overgrown stems can be pruned back to maintain the shape of the plant.
When pruning, it is important to use clean, sharp pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant. If the plant is being grown indoors, the pruned stems can be used to propagate new plants.
Propagation of Dolicholus memnonia Hiern var. candida Welw. ex Hiern
Dolicholus memnonia Hiern var. candida Welw. ex Hiern, commonly known as the white-leaved Dolicholus, can be propagated through several methods. Here are the most common ways to propagate this plant:
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Dolicholus memnonia Hiern var. candida Welw. ex Hiern can be used for propagation. The seeds must be sown in a well-draining potting mix that has good water retention capacity. The seeds require a warm and moist environment to germinate, so cover the sowings with a clear plastic sheet or lid. Water the seeds regularly, keeping the soil slightly moist, and place the pot in a bright, warm area but away from direct sunlight. Germination usually occurs within 2-3 weeks. Once the seedlings have sprouted, remove the plastic sheet or lid, and continue to provide bright, indirect light and regular watering.
Cuttings
A stem cutting is another way to propagate Dolicholus memnonia Hiern var. candida Welw. ex Hiern. Take a cutting from the soft, green tip of a stem that is about 10-15 cm long and has several leaves. Remove the bottom leaves and dip the cutting in a rooting hormone powder. Insert the cutting into a well-draining potting mix that is moist. Place a clear plastic sheet or lid over the pot and put it in a shaded, but warm area, away from direct sunlight. Roots should develop within 2-4 weeks. Once roots have formed, remove the plastic sheet or lid, and continue to provide bright, indirect light and regular watering.
Division
Dividing the plant is a propagation method that is done during the growing season. Carefully dig up the root ball and gently separate the plant into several pieces, each with its own set of roots. Replant each section in a prepared potting mix, ensuring it is well-watered and in a location with bright, indirect light.
Disease Management for Dolicholus memnonia Hiern var. candida Welw. ex Hiern
Dolicholus memnonia Hiern var. candida Welw. ex Hiern is generally a hardy plant species, but it can still succumb to various diseases that affect its growth and productivity. A few common diseases that can affect this plant include leaf spot, stem rot, and powdery mildew.
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes small red or brown spots on the leaves. It is usually caused by a buildup of moisture on the leaves and can be managed by removing affected leaves and avoiding overhead watering. Stem rot is another fungal disease that affects the stems and causes them to become dark brown or black. It can cause the plant to wither and die, but it can be prevented by avoiding overwatering and providing adequate drainage. Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease that is characterized by a white powdery coating on the leaves. It can be managed by pruning affected leaves, increasing airflow around the plant, and applying fungicides.
Pest Management for Dolicholus memnonia Hiern var. candida Welw. ex Hiern
In addition to fungal diseases, Dolicholus memnonia Hiern var. candida Welw. ex Hiern can also be attacked by various pests that can cause significant damage to the plant. Some common pests that can affect this plant include mealybugs, mites, and aphids.
Mealybugs are small white insects that suck the sap from the plant and can cause the leaves to curl and yellow. They can be managed by spraying the plant with a mixture of water and dish soap or with insecticides. Mites are another pest that can cause yellowing of the plant leaves and eventually lead to defoliation. They can be prevented by maintaining proper humidity levels and avoiding over-fertilization. Aphids are tiny insects that can cause deformities in the plant and can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or neem oil spray.
