Englerastrum floribundum (N.E.Br.) T.C.E.Fr. var. longipes (N.E.Br.) T.C.E.Fr.
Englerastrum floribundum (N.E.Br.) T.C.E.Fr. var. longipes (N.E.Br.) T.C.E.Fr., also known as the Bushman's Candle, is a plant species in the legume family, Fabaceae. The plant is native to the southern and eastern parts of Africa, specifically in Angola, Botswana, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Swaziland, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Common Names
Bushman's Candle is the most common name for this plant species. Other names include torchwood, spear-leaved bean, and flamboyant bush.
Uses
The plant is commonly used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments such as fever, flu, chest complaints, and eye infections. In addition, it is also used as a source of fuelwood, as the large pods of the plant can be used as a firewood and produce a bright flame. The seeds of the plant are edible and can be cooked and consumed like other legumes after removing the toxins. However, the plant contains toxic compounds, and it is important to follow proper preparation and cooking methods. It is also used as an ornamental plant in gardens due to its dramatic appearance.
General Appearance
Bushman's Candle is a small tree or shrub that can grow up to 10 meters tall. The bark of the plant is grey and rough, and the leaves are compound, with 15-25 leaflets that are long and narrow, resembling a spear. The plant produces large, woody pods that can reach up to 60 cm in length and contain many seeds. The flowers of the plant are yellow and produced in large clusters, giving the plant a flamboyant appearance when in bloom.
Growth Conditions for Englerastrum Floribundum var. Longipes
Englerastrum floribundum var. longipes is a sturdy, hardy plant that is relatively easy to cultivate as long as its requirements are met. The following are the typical growth conditions required for this plant:
Light
Englerastrum floribundum var. longipes thrives in full sunlight, although it can tolerate partial shade. When grown in partial shade, it tends to flower less and produce fewer leaves. Therefore, it is recommended to plant this species in a location that receives full sunlight for optimal growth.
Temperature
This plant prefers warm temperatures and is not frost-resistant. The recommended temperature range for Englerastrum floribundum var. longipes is between 20°C and 28°C. Care should be taken to protect the plant from frostbite by moving it indoors or covering it during cold spells.
Soil Requirements
Englerastrum floribundum var. longipes prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic or neutral pH between 6.0 and 7.0. The soil should be rich in organic matter and nutrients, and it should be aerated to promote healthy root growth. Avoid water-logged soils, as this plant is susceptible to root rot.
With proper care and attention to these growth conditions, Englerastrum floribundum var. longipes can thrive and produce its beautiful flowers and leaves. Ensure that these growth requirements are met to ensure the plant remains healthy and productive.
Cultivation Methods
Englerastrum floribundum (N.E.Br.) T.C.E.Fr. var. longipes (N.E.Br.) T.C.E.Fr. is a plant that needs well-draining and slightly acidic soil with a pH of 6 to 6.5. It thrives in partial shade, and it's best to plant it in a location that receives a few hours of sunlight each day. Plant the shrub in a spacious pot with enough drainage holes, or you can plant it outdoors in well-drained soil. Ensure that the soil is moist and not soggy.
Watering Needs
The watering needs of Englerastrum floribundum (N.E.Br.) T.C.E.Fr. var. longipes (N.E.Br.) T.C.E.Fr. depend on the environment that you've planted it in. If it's in a container, it needs more frequent watering, up to twice a week, depending on the weather and humidity levels. If planted outdoors, it requires less water in well-drained soil. Check the soil first to make sure it is dry before watering it. Never let the plant sit in standing water, and always avoid overwatering it as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Englerastrum floribundum (N.E.Br.) T.C.E.Fr. var. longipes (N.E.Br.) T.C.E.Fr. requires slow-release fertilizer that contains an equal mix of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Add the fertilizer to the soil every two weeks or as directed by the product's instructions. Spread the fertilizer evenly around the plant's root system, whether planted in a container or outdoor garden bed.
Pruning
Prune Englerastrum floribundum (N.E.Br.) T.C.E.Fr. var. longipes (N.E.Br.) T.C.E.Fr. in the early spring before new growth begins. Cut back damaged, diseased, or dead branches to prevent them from spreading around the plant. Remove any overcrowded growth to promote air circulation and give the plant a more appealing appearance. Trim off branches that cross each other, rub, or touch to avoid any damage they may cause. Additionally, you can use pruning to control the plant's size and shape. Cutting back the branches will stimulate the growth of new branches, and it's best done during the plant's early development years.
Propagation of Englerastrum floribundum var. longipes
Englerastrum floribundum var. longipes can be propagated through various means. Here are some of the propagation techniques:
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Englerastrum floribundum var. longipes is through seed propagation. The plant produces seeds that can be sown in seed trays or directly in the ground. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining potting mix and covered with a thin layer of soil. Water regularly and keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate.
Cutting Propagation
Englerastrum floribundum var. longipes can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Take stem cuttings in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Cut a healthy stem about 10-15 cm long and remove the lower leaves from the stem. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and warm until the cutting roots.
Division Propagation
Englerastrum floribundum var. longipes can also be propagated through division. Divide the plant in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Carefully dig up the plant and separate the clumps into smaller pieces. Replant the smaller clumps in a well-draining potting mix and water regularly until they establish.
Disease and Pest Management for Englerastrum floribundum var. longipes
Englerastrum floribundum var. longipes is a plant that requires proper disease and pest management to keep it healthy. Here are some common diseases and pests that can affect this plant along with some ways to manage them effectively.
Diseases
Englerastrum floribundum var. longipes is susceptible to various diseases like root rot, leaf spot, and powdery mildew.
Root Rot: The root rot disease is caused by a fungus that affects the roots of the plant leading to wilting and death. The best way to manage this disease is to prevent over-watering, provide good drainage, and remove infected plants.
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot disease occurs when the fungus attacks the leaves, causing brown or black spots. The infected leaves must be removed and destroyed, and the plant must be treated with a fungicide to prevent the spread of the disease.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, leading to a white powdery coating on the plant's surface. To manage this disease, increase air circulation around the plant, avoid overhead irrigation, and use a fungicide.
Pests
Englerastrum floribundum var. longipes is also affected by pests like spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs.
Spider Mites: Spider mites feed on the plant's sap, causing yellowing and stunted growth. To manage this pest, use a miticide, increase humidity, and remove any infested leaves.
Aphids: Aphids are small insects that suck the sap from the plant, leading to deformed and stunted growth. To manage this pest, use insecticidal soap, introduce natural predators like ladybugs, and prune severely infected parts of the plant.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small insects that suck sap from the plant, leading to yellowing and leaf drop. To manage this pest, use insecticidal soap, or dip a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol and dab it on the pests.
Proper plant care, including regular watering and fertilization, can also help prevent disease and pests. Englerastrum floribundum var. longipes is a stunning plant that adds beauty to any garden or landscape if managed properly.
