General Appearance
Echites bispinosa L.f. is a woody, climbing plant that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. It can grow up to 12 meters tall with a stem diameter of up to 8 cm. The leaves of the plant are opposite, simple, and elliptical with a glossy appearance. They are also leathery and measure up to 20 cm long and 10 cm wide.
Origin and Common Names
Echites bispinosa L.f. is native to tropical regions of Africa, including Angola, Cameroon, and Senegal. It is also found in Madagascar and Mauritius. The plant has several common names, including snake vine, white twinevine, cobra plant, and matamata vine.
Uses
The plant has several medicinal uses among different African communities. The roots and leaves are used to make an infusion that is used to treat fever, malaria, and snake bites. Additionally, some people use the plant to treat stomach ailments such as diarrhea and dysentery.
Some communities also use the plant for cultural purposes. For example, in some parts of Cameroon, the plant is used to make baskets, while in Mozambique, it is a popular ornamental plant grown in gardens and public spaces.
Light Requirements
Echites bispinosa L.f. grows best in areas with partial to full sunlight exposure. When grown indoors, it is recommended to place the plant near a window where it can receive adequate amounts of natural light. Inadequate light may cause the plant to grow slowly or even wither, whereas excessive light may lead to sunscald or leaf burn.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm, tropical temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. Temperatures below 10°C can severely damage the plant's growth, leading to wilted leaves and reduced overall vigor. It is recommended to grow Echites bispinosa L.f. in a greenhouse or a warm, sheltered location if grown in colder climates.
Soil Requirements
Echites bispinosa L.f. grows best in well-draining, fertile soils that are rich in organic matter, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The plant is susceptible to root rot, so it is crucial to make sure the soil is not waterlogged. A mixture of coarse sand, perlite, and peat moss can be used to improve the soil's drainage. Fertilizer can be applied during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
Cultivation Methods
Echites bispinosa L.f., also known as black calabash, is a tropical plant that thrives in warm, humid climates. It grows well in loamy and sandy soil types with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. The plant prefers well-drained soil and partial shade. It can be propagated from cuttings or seeds. If propagated from cuttings, they should be placed in a well-drained potting mix and kept in a warm, humid location. If propagated from seeds, they should be sown in warm soil and kept moist until germination.
Watering Needs
When it comes to watering Echites bispinosa, it is best to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. The plant is sensitive to overwatering and can develop root rot. During the hot summer months, the plant may require more frequent watering. However, during the cooler months, reduce watering and allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Fertilization
Echites bispinosa generally benefits from regular fertilizer applications. Use a balanced fertilizer once every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). While the plant can tolerate a range of fertilizer strengths, it is best to dilute the fertilizer to half strength to prevent chemical burn on the roots and foliage. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant season (fall and winter).
Pruning
Echites bispinosa requires regular pruning to maintain its shape and size. Prune the plant in the spring before new growth appears. Cut back any leggy or spindly branches, leaving only healthy stems. Remove any dead, damaged or diseased foliage. When pruning, use sharp, sterile pruning tools to prevent the spread of disease. If the plant is grown indoors, reduce the pruning to mainly removing any yellow or brown leaves to promote bushier growth.
Propagation of Echites bispinosa L.f.
Echites bispinosa L.f. can be propagated using several methods, which include:
Seed Propagation
One of the easiest methods of propagating this plant is through seeds. Collect seeds from fully matured fruits, discard the non-viable ones and plant the rest directly into the soil in a pot. The pot should be filled with a well-draining soil mix, which should be moistened adequately by watering. The seeds should be planted just beneath the soil surface and covered with a thin layer of soil. Place the pot in a warm, bright location but avoid direct sunlight. Germination takes about 2-4 weeks after planting.
Cuttings Propagation
Echites bispinosa L.f. can also be propagated using semi-hardwood cuttings. The cuttings should be collected in the morning from healthy, mature plants. The cuttings should be about 5-7 inches long with at least 2 nodes. Remove the lower leaves from the cuttings, dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder and plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix, preferably a mix of peat and perlite. Water the soil mix thoroughly immediately after planting and place the pot in a bright location, away from direct sunlight. The cuttings should root within 3-4 weeks.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering is another method of propagating Echites bispinosa L.f. This method involves inducing roots formation in a stem section while still attached to the parent plant. Select a healthy branch, remove the leaves and bark around a node, dust with rooting hormone powder, place a handful of moist sphagnum moss around the node and wrap the moss with plastic wrap to retain moisture. After several weeks, roots should develop, and the stem section can be planted in a new pot filled with well-draining soil.
Disease and Pest Management for Echites bispinosa L.f.
Echites bispinosa L.f., commonly called the devil's potato, is a shrub species with various medicinal properties. This plant is prone to several diseases and pests, which can lead to stunted growth, yield loss, and sometimes, death. Effective management of these diseases and pests is essential to keep the plant healthy and maintain its productivity.
Common Diseases
1. Leaf spot: This is a fungal disease that causes circular or angular spots on the plant's leaves, leading to their yellowing and premature dropping. To manage this disease, remove and dispose of the affected plant debris, keep the plants well-spaced, and use a fungicide spray such as copper-based products at the first sign of infection.
2. Root rot: Root rot is a disease caused by fungi such as Pythium and Phytophthora. It causes discoloration of the roots, leading to wilting, yellowing, and eventually, the death of the plant. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering the plants, avoid planting in waterlogged soils, and use a soil drench with fungicides such as metalaxyl or azoxystrobin.
3. Powdery mildew: This is a fungal disease that causes a white powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. It can affect the plant's growth and reduce its yield. To manage this disease, improve air circulation around the plant, avoid overhead watering, and use sulfur-based fungicides or neem oil.
Common Pests
1. Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny arachnids that suck the sap of the plant, causing stunted growth, yellowing, and leaf drop. To manage this pest, use a strong stream of water to wash off the mites, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil, and remove and dispose of heavily-infested plant parts.
2. Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small insects that secrete a white, powdery substance and feed on the plant's sap. They cause wilting, yellowing, and distortions of the leaves and stems. To manage this pest, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove the insects, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil, and improve the plant's health through proper watering and fertilization.
3. Scale insects: Scale insects are small, oval insects that attach themselves to the plant's leaves and stems and suck sap from the plant. They cause yellowing, stunted growth, and wilting of the plant. To manage this pest, use a cotton swab dipped in alcohol to remove the insects, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil, and prune and dispose of heavily-infested plant parts.
