Overview
Dorstenia ruahensis Engl. is a small, herbaceous plant belonging to the Moraceae family. It is native to the Central African Republic and can also be found in Cameroon.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as "Bouda" by the Banda people of the Central African Republic, and "Wassa Nongolo" by the Gbaya people of Cameroon.
Appearance
The Dorstenia ruahensis plant typically grows to a height of 30cm, and has a stout stem and fleshy leaves. Its flowers are yellow-green in color and appear during the summer. The plant also has an underground rhizome that can be used medicinally.
Uses
The rhizome of the Dorstenia ruahensis plant has traditionally been used by the Banda people as a cure for various ailments such as headaches, fever, and snake bites. It is also believed to have anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, the plant is used in the making of traditional African medicine for the treatment of various ailments.
Light Requirements
Dorstenia ruahensis Engl. requires bright but indirect light to grow properly. Placing it near a window with sheer curtains or in a partially shaded outdoor location can provide the required amount of light for growth. Too much direct sunlight can burn the foliage and harm the plant.
Temperature Requirements
Dorstenia ruahensis Engl. prefers warm and humid conditions to thrive. Ideal temperatures range between 60-80°F (15-27°C). Keep the plant away from drafty areas and maintain consistent temperatures to prevent shocks or stress.
Soil Requirements
Dorstenia ruahensis Engl. grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A sandy loam soil mixture with peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite can provide optimal conditions. Avoid using heavy soils that retain moisture as they can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
Cultivation Methods
Dorstenia ruahensis Engl., commonly known as Rusitu Dorstenia, is a small perennial succulent plant native to Eastern Zimbabwe. It is relatively easy to grow and a great addition to a rock garden, succulent bed, or container garden.
When cultivating this plant, consider planting it in well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. Rusitu Dorstenia prefers a spot with partial shade as it grows under the understory or forest canopy in the wild.
This plant is not frost-tolerant, so it is best to grow it indoors or in a warm greenhouse if you live in frost-prone areas.
Watering Needs
Rusitu Dorstenia is drought-tolerant and thrives in dry conditions. Overwatering can cause root rot and lead to the plant's death. To water this succulent, wait until the soil is dry before watering again.
During the growing season, water Rusitu Dorstenia once a week or whenever the top inch of soil is dry. During the dormant season, which falls between late autumn and winter, reduce watering frequency to once every three weeks.
Fertilization
Since Rusitu Dorstenia is adapted to growing in nutrient-poor soil, it does not require frequent fertilization. However, if you want to boost the plant's growth, you can fertilize it once in spring using a diluted all-purpose liquid fertilizer.
Mix the fertilizer with water in the ratio recommended on the label and apply to the soil around the plant. Avoid getting the fertilizer solution on the plant's leaves or stem, as it can cause burns.
Pruning
Rusitu Dorstenia does not require frequent pruning, and excessive pruning can deform the plant's growth or kill it. However, you can remove dead, damaged leaves or stems throughout the year as needed.
When pruning, use sterilized garden shears to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Dorstenia ruahensis Engl.
Dorstenia ruahensis Engl. is a succulent plant species that belongs to the family Moraceae and is endemic to Tanzania. The plant can be propagated through various methods, including:
Seed Propagation
Propagation by seed is possible but can be challenging as the seeds have a short viability period. The ideal time to collect the seeds is when the fruits have turned brown and started to split open. Sow the seeds in a well-draining substrate and keep them consistently moist. It usually takes two to four weeks for the seedlings to emerge, and they can take up to two years to mature.
Cuttings Propagation
Propagation by cuttings is a straightforward way to propagate Dorstenia ruahensis Engl. Take a leaf or stem cutting from a mature plant and allow it to dry for a few days to prevent rotting. Plant the cutting in a well-draining substrate, keep it moist and in a bright and warm area, and wait for roots to develop. Once roots have formed, the plant can be transplanted to its permanent location.
Division Propagation
Propagation by division is best done when the plant has grown to a larger size. Carefully dig up the plant and divide it into smaller sections, making sure each section has an adequate root system. Repot the divisions in a well-draining substrate and keep them moist while they establish themselves.
Disease and Pest Management for Dorstenia ruahensis Engl.
While Dorstenia ruahensis Engl. is generally a hardy plant, it is still vulnerable to certain diseases and pests that can affect its overall health and appearance. In order to keep your plant thriving, it is important to be vigilant about disease and pest management.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that can affect Dorstenia ruahensis Engl. is root rot, which is typically caused by overwatering or poor drainage. To prevent root rot, make sure your plant is potted in a well-draining soil mix and that excess water is allowed to drain away from the roots. If you suspect root rot has already set in, reduce watering and improve drainage.
Another disease that can plague Dorstenia ruahensis Engl. is powdery mildew, which can appear as a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems. To prevent powdery mildew, avoid overcrowding your plants and make sure they have adequate air circulation. If powdery mildew does develop, apply a fungicide immediately.
Common Pests
Like many plants, Dorstenia ruahensis Engl. can also be affected by certain pests, such as mealybugs and spider mites. Mealybugs are small, white insects that can often be found on the leaves and stems of the plant, while spider mites can cause webbing on the leaves and stems. To get rid of these pests, use a gentle spray of water to dislodge them from the plant and then spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Aphids are another pest that can cause problems for Dorstenia ruahensis Engl. These small, pear-shaped insects can be found on the leaves and stems of the plant and can cause yellowing and wilting. To eliminate aphids, try spraying the plant with a mixture of water and dish soap or neem oil. If the infestation is severe, you may need to resort to a stronger insecticide.
Overall, maintaining healthy conditions for your Dorstenia ruahensis Engl. plant is the best way to keep it disease and pest-free. Regularly inspect your plant for any signs of damage and take action as soon as possible to keep it thriving.
