Englerina concinna Polhill & Wiens
Englerina concinna Polhill & Wiens is a plant species that originated from Africa. It is commonly known as the 'fine-leaved englerina', and belongs to the family of Apiaceae. The name 'concina' means 'neat' or 'elegant', referring to the plant's overall appearance.
General Appearance
The Englerina concinna is a herbaceous perennial plant that reaches a height of up to 30cm. It grows in bushes with a maximum spread of about 30cm. The leaves are dark green and feathery, with a maximum length of about 3cm. The flowers are white in color, arranged in an umbrella-shaped structure, and bloom from September to November.
Uses
There are several traditional medicinal uses attributed to Englerina concinna. In some African cultures, the roots are boiled and used as a remedy for body pains, while the leaves are used to treat stomach ailments. Some also believe that the plant has diuretic properties that help in the treatment of urinary disorders.
Additionally, the plant is grown as an ornamental in horticulture for its delicate and elegant appearance.
Overall, Englerina concinna Polhill & Wiens is an elegant plant that has traditional medicinal uses and is grown as an ornamental too. Its delicate appearance and ornamental value make it a favorite among garden and plant enthusiasts.Light Requirements:
Englerina concinna Polhill & Wiens thrives under dappled sunlight or partial shade. Direct sunlight can cause sunburn on its leaves. Therefore, it is best to place the plant where it receives indirect sunlight. In case the plant is grown indoors, consider placing it near east or west-facing windowsills so that it receives adequate sunlight.
Temperature Requirements:
This plant prefers warm temperatures and grows well in environments with a temperature range between 20 to 30 °C (68 to 86 °F). It cannot tolerate cold temperatures and frost and thus needs to be protected from such harsh weather conditions. A stable indoor temperature between 20 and 25 °C (68 and 77 °F) is ideal for the plant to thrive.
Soil Requirements:
The Englerina concinna Polhill & Wiens plant grows well in well-draining soil with good aeration. The ideal soil pH level ranges between 4.5 to 7.5, slightly acidic to neutral. The soil should also be rich in organic matter. A well-draining potting mix can be prepared with a mixture of peat moss, perlite, vermiculite, and some sand to ensure proper water drainage. Additionally, it is best to avoid soil with heavy clay as it holds excess moisture, leading to plant diseases and root rot.
Cultivation
Englerina concinna Polhill & Wiens is a low-maintenance plant that can be grown both indoors and outdoors. If grown indoors, it requires bright, indirect sunlight and a well-draining soil mix. Outdoors, it prefers a shaded area with slightly acidic soil.
Watering Needs
Englerina concinna Polhill & Wiens has moderate water needs. Overwatering can cause root rot, so it's better to let the soil dry out a bit between waterings. During the growing season, water the plant once a week. During the dormant season, reduce the frequency of watering to once every two weeks.
Fertilization
To encourage healthy growth, fertilize Englerina concinna Polhill & Wiens once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Use a half-strength solution to prevent fertilizer burn. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant season.
Pruning
Pruning Englerina concinna Polhill & Wiens is not necessary, but you can pinch back the tips of the stems to encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves to keep the plant looking neat and healthy.
Propagation of Englerina concinna Polhill & Wiens
Englerina concinna can be propagated through seed or vegetative means.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Englerina concinna can be collected from mature fruits. The seeds are small and should be sown in well-draining soil mix. A seed tray or pots can be used for sowing the seeds. The seeds should be covered lightly with the soil mix and kept moist but not waterlogged.
The tray or pots should be kept in a shaded area until the seeds germinate, which typically takes about 2-3 weeks. Once the seeds have germinated, they can be moved to a brighter location with filtered light. The seedlings can be transplanted to individual pots once they have developed a few leaves.
Vegetative Propagation
Englerina concinna can also be propagated through stem cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from the upper part of the stem and should be about 6-8 cm in length. The cuttings should be taken in the early morning and should be planted immediately in a well-draining soil mix.
The cuttings should be inserted in the soil mix up to half of their length and should be placed in a shaded area. The soil mix should be kept moist but not waterlogged. The cuttings will develop roots within a few weeks and can be transplanted to individual pots once they have developed a few leaves.
Disease Management
The plant Englerina concinna Polhill & Wiens can be susceptible to a few fungal diseases, including powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot. Powdery mildew appears as a white, powdery substance on the leaves, stems, and flowers and can stunt growth and decrease yield. Rust is identified by orange or yellow spots on the leaves and stems and can cause defoliation. Leaf spot causes small brown spots on the leaves that enlarge and merge, ultimately leading to chlorosis, defoliation, and stunted growth.
To prevent the onset of these diseases, it is essential to water the plant early in the morning, allowing ample time for the leaves to dry. Ensure proper nutrient balance and avoid over-fertilizing as this can weaken the plant's defense mechanisms. Remove and destroy infected plant parts immediately or as soon as possible and avoid crowding the plants to prevent the spread of fungal spores.
Fungicides can be used to manage these fungal diseases, but it is best to apply them preventively before disease onset to improve their efficacy. Copper-based fungicides are often used to manage fungal diseases like powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot on Englerina concinna.
Pest Management
The plant Englerina concinna Polhill & Wiens can be attacked by insect pests, including spider mites and aphids. Spider mites cause yellowing of the leaves, stunted growth, and webbing on the plant's underside. Aphids are identified by clusters of small, soft-bodied insects on the leaves and stems, causing the leaves to curl and yellow, leading to stunted growth.
To prevent these pests' onset, physical removal of infected plant parts, including leaves, is recommended. Regularly inspect the plants and avoid overcrowding to prevent pest infestation. A strong jet of water can be used to dislodge small numbers of spider mites and aphids from the plant. Use organic insecticides or insecticidal soaps to manage an infestation, and be sure to follow the product label's instructions to avoid crop injury or chemical damage.
As a last resort, chemical insecticides can be used to manage the pest populations, but it is best to consult with a pest management specialist to select the proper insecticide for the specific pest and reduce negative effects on beneficial insects or non-target species.
