Drake-brockmania haareri (Stapf & C.E.Hubb.) S.M.Phillips
Drake-brockmania haareri is a species of flowering plant in the family Melastomataceae. It is a small shrub that is endemic to the island of São Tomé, located off the coast of West Africa in the Gulf of Guinea. This plant is commonly known as "Topé-fomba" or "Djagro-djagro" by the locals.
Appearance
The plant grows up to 1 m tall, with a woody stem and shiny, dark green leaves. The leaves are oval-shaped and have a pointed tip, reaching up to 9 cm in length. Its purple-pink flowers have five petals and grow in clusters at the end of the branches, reaching up to 6 cm in diameter. The flowers and leaves are covered in fine hairs, giving them a slightly fuzzy texture.
Uses
Due to its rarity and restricted distribution, there are currently no known uses for Drake-brockmania haareri in human medicine or traditional practices. However, the plant is a valuable resource for research and conservation efforts in the region.
The São Tomé Island is globally recognized as a biodiversity hotspot, home to many endemic species that are highly vulnerable to habitat loss and other threats. The preservation of Drake-brockmania haareri and other endemic plants is essential for maintaining the ecological integrity of the island and supporting the local ecosystem.
Light requirements
Drake-brockmania haareri requires bright, filtered light to grow properly. Direct sunlight exposure for an extended period can harm the plant. Hence, it is best suited for locations where the plant receives bright but indirect sunlight.
Temperature requirements
The recommended temperature range for Drake-brockmania haareri growth is between 60°F and 75°F (15°C-24°C). It is sensitive to temperature changes, so it is essential to keep the plant away from drafty windows and doors. Keep the plant away from air conditioning and heating vents.
Soil requirements
Drake-brockmania haareri requires well-draining soil mix with a pH range between 5.5 and 7.5. A common preference is a peat-based mix. Adding some perlite to the soil ensures good drainage, preventing the soil from getting over-saturated. When planting in a new pot or refreshing the soil, make sure to use a pot with drainage holes at the bottom.
Cultivation methods
The Drake-brockmania haareri plant, also known as the "Silver Dollar Plant," thrives in well-drained soil, and direct sunlight. It is best to plant during the spring season. It is recommended to use a sandy loam soil and mix it with peat moss to increase drainage. The best pH for the soil has a range of 6.1 to 6.5. This plant also prefers moderate to high humidity.
Watering needs
The watering needs for the Drake-brockmania haareri depend on the period of growth. During the active growth stages, it requires more water to maintain its foliage. This includes more watering throughout the summer season and spring. During the winter season, watering needs to be kept minimal to avoid over-saturating the soil. The plant should be watered when the top few centimeters of soil start to dry out.
Fertilization
The Silver Dollar Plant requires fertilization during its active growth stages. Fertilize the plant every three to four weeks during the summer and spring season. Fertilizer should be mixed with water, and the mixture should be applied to the base of the plant. It is best to use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of macro-nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential part of caring for the Drake-brockmania haareri plant. Pruning aids in maintaining a compact shape and overall health of the plant. It is best to trim during the summer and spring season. Pruning should be done by pinching off new growth using a clean and sharp pair of shears. If the plant starts to look slightly uneven, cut the long branches to allow the smaller branches to receive more sunlight.
Propagation of Drake-brockmania haareri
Drake-brockmania haareri is commonly known as Brockman's slipper orchid. It is a terrestrial orchid found in Africa, specifically in Tanzania, Kenya, and Ethiopia. The plant has a unique appearance with narrow leaves and flowers that are reddish-brown in color. It is grown as an ornamental plant and can be propagated using several methods.
Division
The most common method for propagating orchids is division. This method involves removing a part of the plant and potting it separately. Drake-brockmania haareri can be divided during repotting. Care should be taken when dividing the plant to ensure that each division has sufficient roots and leaves to grow independently.
Seed Propagation
Drake-brockmania haareri can also be propagated through seeds. The process involves collecting mature capsules and extracting the seeds using sterilized equipment. The seeds are then sown in a suitable potting medium and placed in a humid environment. The ideal temperature range for seed germination is between 20-25 °C.
Keiki Propagation
Keikis are miniature plants that grow on the stem of orchids. Drake-brockmania haareri can produce keikis, which can be removed and potted separately once they have sufficient roots and leaves. Keiki propagation is a natural method of propagation that does not require any special equipment or materials.
In conclusion, Drake-brockmania haareri can be propagated through division, seed propagation, and keiki propagation. Each method has unique advantages, and the choice of method depends on the grower's preference and availability of resources.
Disease Management
The plant Drake-brockmania haareri can succumb to a variety of fungal diseases, causing damage to the leaves, stems, and roots. One of the most common diseases that affect this plant is powdery mildew, which appears as a white powdery substance on its leaves. Another disease that can damage the plant is root rot, caused by overwatering or poor soil drainage.
To manage powdery mildew, it is recommended to remove the affected leaves and stems, dispose of them properly, and apply a fungicide. To prevent root rot, always ensure proper drainage, avoid overwatering, and reduce humidity around the plant.
Pest Management
Several pests can attack the Drake-brockmania haareri, such as spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. Spider mites can cause leaf discoloration and defoliation, while scale insects and mealybugs attack the stems and leaves, causing them to wilt and turn yellow.
To manage spider mites, it is recommended to remove damaged leaves, isolate the plant, and apply a miticide. Scale insects and mealybugs can be removed manually with a soft cloth, and then the plant can be treated with an insecticide. Regularly inspect the plant to prevent the infestation of pests.