Origin and Common Names
Elatostema besseanum H.Winkl. is a species of flowering plant in the Urticaceae family. It is native to the Philipines and is commonly known as "Alibangbang" or "Alibangbang-tunical".Appearance
The Elatostema besseanum H.Winkl. plant is a small, fast-growing subshrub that can grow up to 1 meter tall. It has simple, alternate, and toothed leaves with a sparsely hairy surface. The flowers are small and greenish-white in color and are clustered together in axillary inflorescences. Its fruit is a small, green, and fleshy drupe.Uses
Elatostema besseanum H.Winkl. has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as inflammation, cough, and fever. Its leaves can be boiled and used to make a tea which is known to have diuretic properties. In addition to its medicinal uses, it is also known for its aesthetic value. Its leaves and flowers are often used in making floral arrangements and decorations. In summary, Elatostema besseanum H.Winkl. is a small flowering subshrub that is native to the Philippines. Commonly known as "Alibangbang" or "Alibangbang-tunical", it has toothed leaves, greenish-white flowers, and fleshy drupes. It is used in traditional medicine and in floral arrangements and decorations.Growth Conditions for Elatostema besseanum H.Winkl.
Elatostema besseanum H.Winkl. is a small herbaceous plant that can grow up to 20cm tall. It is mostly found in the Philippines, particularly in the provinces of Luzon, Biliran, and Mindanao. It prefers to grow in moist, shaded areas, and in places with cool to moderate temperatures.
Light Requirements
Elatostema besseanum H.Winkl. prefers to grow in partially shaded to fully shaded areas. Direct sunlight can cause damage to its leaves, and it may not thrive in areas with too much light. It is also recommended to avoid placing the plant in areas with high-temperature and low-humidity conditions as this may affect its growth.
Temperature Requirements
Elatostema besseanum H.Winkl. prefers to grow in cool to moderate temperatures. It can tolerate temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C, but it may not thrive in areas with extreme heat or cold. During the winter months, it is recommended to protect the plant from frost and ensure that it is kept in a warm location.
Soil Requirements
Elatostema besseanum H.Winkl. prefers to grow in moist, well-draining soils. It can thrive in a variety of soil types, including sandy loam, clay loam, and humus-rich soils. It is important to ensure that the soil is well-draining as the plant does not tolerate water-logged soils. Adding organic matter to the soil, such as compost or aged manure, can help improve soil structure and fertility.
Overall, Elatostema besseanum H.Winkl. is a relatively easy plant to care for as long as its preferred growing conditions are met. Providing the right amount of light, temperature, and soil moisture can help ensure its healthy development.
Cultivation Methods
Elatostema besseanum H.Winkl. is a tropical plant that prefers warm temperatures, high humidity, and bright but indirect light. It can be grown outdoors in areas with a similar climate or indoors in a well-lit room. The plant thrives in well-draining soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5.
Propagation is commonly done by stem cuttings. Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted into individual pots. The plant should be repotted every two years to ensure the roots have enough space to grow.
Watering Needs
Elatostema besseanum H.Winkl. needs to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant thoroughly, ensuring that the soil is saturated and excess water can drain away. Allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering again. In areas with high humidity, misting the leaves can help maintain moisture levels.
Fertilization
The plant benefits from occasional fertilization with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Typically, fertilizing once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) is sufficient. During the winter months, the plant enters a period of rest and does not require as much fertilizer.
Pruning
Elatostema besseanum H.Winkl. benefits from pruning to maintain a compact shape and promote bushiness. Prune back any leggy or straggly growth and remove yellowing or dead leaves regularly. Pruning can be done any time of the year.
Propagation of Elatostema besseanum H.Winkl.
Elatostema besseanum H.Winkl. can be propagated through either seeds or vegetative methods.
Propagation through Seeds
The seeds of Elatostema besseanum H.Winkl. can be collected from mature and healthy plants. After collecting the seeds, they should be dried and stored in a cool and dry place until sowing time. When sowing the seeds, it is important to use a well-draining soil mix and keep it moist until germination occurs. After germination, the seedlings should be kept in a partially shaded area until they are mature enough to be transplanted.
Vegetative Propagation
Another way to propagate Elatostema besseanum H.Winkl. is through vegetative methods such as cuttings and division.
Cuttings
To propagate Elatostema besseanum H.Winkl. through cuttings, the stem cuttings should be taken from mature and healthy plants. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone before planting in a well-draining soil mix. The soil should be kept moist until the cuttings develop roots and are ready for transplantation.
Division
Division is another vegetative propagation method for Elatostema besseanum H.Winkl. This method involves dividing the plant into smaller sections and planting them in separate containers. When dividing, it is important to ensure that each section has a viable root system. These separated sections should be kept in shaded areas and watered regularly until they have established themselves.
Disease and Pest Management for Elatostema besseanum H.Winkl.
Elatostema besseanum H.Winkl. is generally a healthy plant that is not severely affected by pests or diseases. However, it can develop some issues that require management to prevent damage and keep the plant healthy.
Common Diseases
The most common diseases that can affect Elatostema besseanum include:
- Leaf Spot: This disease is caused by fungal pathogens and results in brown or black spots on leaves. It can cause defoliation and weaken the plant if not controlled. To manage leaf spot, remove infected leaves and avoid overhead watering to prevent the spread of spores. Use fungicides as a last resort.
- Root Rot: This is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, causing them to become black and mushy. It is caused by overwatering or poor drainage. To manage root rot, improve drainage and reduce watering. Treat the plant with fungicides designed to control root rot.
- Powdery Mildew: This disease is caused by fungal pathogens and results in a white powdery coating on leaves, stems, and flowers. It can inhibit photosynthesis and cause defoliation. To manage powdery mildew, improve air circulation around the plant and reduce humidity. Use fungicides as necessary.
Common Pests
Elatostema besseanum is not commonly attacked by pests, but these pests may cause damage:
- Spider mites: These pests suck the sap from leaves and stems, causing yellowing and wilting. To manage spider mites, keep the plant well-watered and misted, and use insecticidal soaps or oils.
- Whiteflies: These pests feed on sap and cause a sticky residue on leaves and attract ants. To manage whiteflies, use yellow sticky traps and insecticidal soap or oil.
- Scale insects: These pests feed on sap and excrete a sticky substance that attracts ants and can cause leaf yellowing. To manage scale insects, remove them manually with a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soap.
Regularly inspecting the plant for any signs of pests or diseases and taking action quickly can help prevent severe damage and keep Elatostema besseanum H.Winkl. healthy and thriving.
