Overview
Elatostema kiwuense Engl. is a species of herbaceous plant in the nettle family, Urticaceae. It is a unique plant that is endemic to Tanzania and only grows in the Kiwengoma Forest Reserve. The plant is named after the reserve where it was discovered.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Kiwengoma Elatostema or simply Elatostema. The name Elatostema comes from the Greek words "elatos" which means wooded and "stema" which means branch or twig, describing its woody branches and twigs.
Appearance
The Kiwengoma Elatostema is an evergreen herbaceous plant that grows up to 50cm in height. It has a woody stem that is covered in small, fine hairs. The leaves are soft, green and oval-shaped with a pointed tip. They grow opposite each other on the stem and are up to 9cm long and 5cm wide. The plant produces green flowers that are arranged in small clusters at the base of the leaves. It also produces small, round fruits.
Uses
Kiwengoma Elatostema is not known to have any specific uses in traditional medicine or as a food source. However, it is considered an important species for conservation, as it is endemic to the Kiwengoma Forest Reserve and grows in a limited area. The reserve is home to various endangered plant and animal species, including the African elephant, which makes the conservation efforts of the reserve important for the survival of these species.
Growth Conditions for Elatostema kiwuense Engl.
Elatostema kiwuense Engl. is a tropical plant native to East Africa, commonly found in the mountain forests of Tanzania and Kenya. Growing this plant requires specific conditions for optimal health.
Light
E. kiwuense prefers bright but indirect light. It can thrive in partial shade, but excessive exposure to direct sunlight may harm its sensitive foliage. So, placing them in shaded areas of the garden or under a canopy of taller companion plants can be beneficial.
Temperature
The plant thrives in warm temperatures ranging from 20°C-25°C, which explains why it is commonly found in mountain forests. A humid climate is necessary for it to thrive, and the temperature must remain relatively constant throughout the year as fluctuations may upset the plant's growth cycle.
Soil Requirements
E. kiwuense thrives in rich, and well-draining soil that retains moisture and has a neutral pH. A mix of peat moss, loamy soil, and compost is ideal for the plant's healthy growth. For optimal results, the soil should be consistently moist but not wet. Good drainage is necessary to prevent fungal diseases, so ensure that the pot or garden bed has adequate drainage.
These are the essential growth conditions for E. kiwuense. Providing these conditions will help the plant thrive, be healthy, and produce attractive foliage.
Cultivation
Elatostema kiwuense Engl., also known as the tiny nettle, is a small perennial herb that is easy to grow and maintain. This plant is native to Tanzania and is suited for tropical and subtropical climates. The best way to cultivate the tiny nettle is to start with seeds or stem cuttings.
The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged. To improve germination, cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil. Keep the soil moist until the seedlings have emerged.
If using stem cuttings, choose young stems and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cut ends of the stems in rooting hormone and plant in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist until the roots have formed.
Watering Needs
The tiny nettle requires consistent moisture but should not be overwatered. It is best to water the plant deeply but only when the soil has started to dry out. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues.
It is also important to avoid getting water on the leaves of the tiny nettle as this can cause fungal diseases. Instead, water at the base of the plant.
Fertilization
The tiny nettle benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer that is higher in nitrogen to encourage foliage growth. Fertilize every two weeks during the growing season, or as directed on the fertilizer packaging.
It is important not to over-fertilize as this can lead to salt build-up in the soil.
Pruning
The tiny nettle does not require much pruning but can benefit from periodic trimming to encourage bushier growth. Trim back any long stems to a node or leaf axil to promote new growth.
Remove any dead or diseased leaves and stems as needed to keep the plant looking healthy.
With proper care and maintenance, the tiny nettle can thrive and make an attractive addition to any indoor or outdoor space.
Propagation of Elatostema kiwuense Engl.
Elatostema kiwuense Engl. can be propagated using either above-ground stem cuttings or through its seeds.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Propagating Elatostema kiwuense Engl. by stem cuttings is the most commonly used method. Cuttings should be taken during the plant’s active growth phase and when its stems are mature enough to handle without breaking. The cuttings should be taken from the healthy and disease-free stems measuring around 8-10 cm. They should be cut at a 45-degree angle, and any leaves on the lower half of the stem should be removed to reduce moisture loss. Dip the cuttings in the rooting hormone and plant in well-draining soil in a pot or planting bed. Cover the pot with a plastic bag to retain moisture. Place the plant in indirect light or a shady area to prevent excess sunlight, which may damage the delicate cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation by Elatostema kiwuense Engl. seeds is also possible. The seeds should be fresh and collected from the ripe fruit. Clean the seeds to remove fruit pulps and dry them in the sun or an open-air area. Prior to sowing, soak seeds in water for about 24 hours to soften the seed coat. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mixture and kept in a warm, moist environment with moderate indirect light. Seedlings should emerge within three to four weeks, and they can be transplanted into pots or planting beds after six months.
Disease Management
Elatostema kiwuense Engl. is generally resistant to diseases, but like all plants, it is vulnerable to some disease infestations. One common disease that may affect this plant is anthracnose, which is caused by the fungus Colletotrichum gloeosporioides. Symptoms of anthracnose include small, dark, water-soaked lesions on the leaves. These lesions may enlarge and cause the leaves to fall prematurely.
To manage anthracnose, it is essential to remove and destroy all infected plant material. Fungicides are also effective against anthracnose, but they should be applied as a preventive measure rather than a curative measure. Copper-based fungicides or those containing mancozeb are effective in managing anthracnose in Elatostema kiwuense Engl.
Pest Management
Elatostema kiwuense Engl. is vulnerable to pest attacks, although they are not common. One common pest that may affect this plant is spider mite, which are tiny arachnids that feed on the plant's sap. Spider mites may cause leaf yellowing, leaf drop, and webbing on the plants.
To manage spider mite infestations, it is essential to identify them early. This plant should be regularly inspected, and the undersides of leaves should be closely examined for signs of spider mites. Infected plants should be isolated, and the leaves should be gently washed with a strong stream of water to remove the spider mites. The application of insecticidal soap or horticultural oil is an effective method of controlling spider mites.
Another common pest that may affect this plant is mealybugs. Mealybugs are small, oval-shaped insects covered with a white, waxy secretion. They feed on the plant's sap, causing it to weaken and turn yellow, and may also produce honeydew that attracts ants.
To manage mealybug infestations, it is essential to remove and destroy all infected plant material. Insecticidal soaps and horticultural oils are effective in controlling mealybugs. Systemic insecticides can also be applied to control highly infested plants.
