Origin
Dorstenia barterii Bureau var. subtriangularis (Engl.) Hijman & C.C.Berg is a species of flowering plant in the family Moraceae. It is native to tropical Africa, ranging from Sierra Leone to Angola.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as "Amaranth Dorstenia," "Yoruba Balm," or "Yoruba Peppermint" in English. In Yoruba language, it is known as "ewe inisi" or "ewe eyin iyeye."
Uses
The leaves of the Dorstenia barterii var. subtriangularis plant are used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments in African countries. In Nigeria, the leaves are used to treat respiratory problems, such as cough, sore throat, and bronchitis. They are also used as a headache remedy and to relieve menstrual cramps. The plant is also used as a natural insect repellent.
General Appearance
Dorstenia barterii var. subtriangularis is a small to medium-sized perennial plant that can grow up to 1.2 meters tall. It has a woody stem, and its leaves are alternate, ovate, and have serrated edges. The plant has small, unisexual flowers that are greenish-yellow in color and are arranged in clusters on short stalks. The fruit of the plant is a fleshy, yellowish-green structure that is small and rounded. The plant has a distinctive aroma and is often grown for its ornamental value.
Light Requirements
Dorstenia barterii Bureau var. subtriangularis (Engl.) Hijman & C.C.Berg prefers to grow in partial shade or filtered sunlight. Direct sunlight can cause leaf burn and may hinder proper growth. Therefore, it is best to place the plant in an area with bright but indirect light.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Dorstenia barterii Bureau var. subtriangularis (Engl.) Hijman & C.C.Berg to grow is between 60°F and 80°F (15°C-27°C). It cannot tolerate frost or extremely cold temperatures, so it is best to keep the plant in a warm and regulated environment.
Soil Requirements
When it comes to soil, the plant prefers a well-draining and porous potting mix. A mixture composed of equal parts of peat, perlite and sand is an ideal choice. It can also thrive in slightly alkaline soils with a pH range of 7.0 to 7.5. The soil must be kept moist but not waterlogged, and it is important to ensure adequate drainage to avoid root rot.
Cultivation methods
Dorstenia barterii Bureau var. subtriangularis (Engl.) Hijman & C.C.Berg is a tropical plant that can be grown both indoors and outdoors. It prefers an area with bright, indirect sunlight and well-draining soil. The plant thrives in temperatures above 55°F.
Watering needs
Dorstenia barterii Bureau var. subtriangularis (Engl.) Hijman & C.C.Berg prefers to be kept slightly moist, so try to water it once a week. When watering the plant, make sure to not let the soil become waterlogged. The plant is sensitive to overwatering, which can cause root rot and lead to the plant's death.
Fertilization
Dorstenia barterii Bureau var. subtriangularis (Engl.) Hijman & C.C.Berg prefers to be fed with balanced, slow-release fertilizers. Applying fertilizer in the growing season, during spring and summer, can help to achieve the best results.
Pruning
Dorstenia barterii Bureau var. subtriangularis (Engl.) Hijman & C.C.Berg does not require extensive pruning. Still, pruning away any unhealthy leaves or stems will help maintain its overall health. You can also pinch off the tips of the stems to promote bushier growth.
Propagation of Dorstenia barterii Bureau var. subtriangularis (Engl.) Hijman & C.C.Berg
Dorstenia barterii Bureau var. subtriangularis (Engl.) Hijman & C.C.Berg is a slow-growing plant that belongs to the Moraceae family. Propagation of this plant can be done through a variety of methods, including:
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Dorstenia barterii Bureau var. subtriangularis (Engl.) Hijman & C.C.Berg can be collected from mature fruits. It is important to ensure that the seeds are fresh and not dried out. The seeds can be sown in a well-draining potting mix and kept moist until they germinate. Germination usually occurs within two to three weeks.
Leaf Propagation
Dorstenia barterii Bureau var. subtriangularis (Engl.) Hijman & C.C.Berg can also be propagated through leaf cuttings. Take a healthy leaf from the plant and ensure that it has a petiole attached. Dip the base of the petiole in a rooting hormone and place it in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and cover the pot with plastic to increase humidity. Rooting should occur within a few weeks.
Division
Dorstenia barterii Bureau var. subtriangularis (Engl.) Hijman & C.C.Berg can be divided when the plant has grown quite large. Carefully remove the plant from the pot and gently separate the roots. Ensure that each division has some stem and root attached. Plant the divisions in well-draining potting mix and keep them moist until they have established.
Disease Management
Dorstenia barterii Bureau var. subtriangularis is generally resistant to most common plant diseases. However, it may occasionally develop some fungal infections, such as leaf spots and root rot.
To manage fungal diseases, it is important to maintain good air circulation around the plant by pruning and removing any dead or infected leaves. Avoid overwatering and ensure that the soil has good drainage to prevent the root rot. In some cases, fungicides may also be necessary to control the spread of the infection.
Pest Management
The plant may attract different types of pests, including spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These pests can cause significant damage to the plant, including leaf discoloration, stunted growth, and even death.
To manage pests, it is important to regularly inspect the plant for any signs of infestation. Early detection can help prevent the pests from spreading. One effective method of pest management is through natural predators, such as ladybugs and predatory mites. These insects can feed on the pests and help keep their population in check.
If natural predators are not available or effective, insecticidal soaps or oils can also be used as a more nontoxic alternative to chemical pesticides. However, be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and avoid using them during the hot midday sun or on drought-stressed plants.
Overall, maintaining proper plant care and providing optimal growing conditions can greatly reduce the risk of disease and pest infestation in Dorstenia barterii Bureau var. subtriangularis.
