Overview
Englerina schubotziana (Engl. & K.Krause) Polhill & Wiens is a species of flowering plant in the family Fabaceae. It is an evergreen shrub with a rounded, spreading growth habit. The plant is native to southern Africa, where it can be found growing in the rocky hillsides and mountainsides of the Drakensberg Range.
Common Names
Englerina schubotziana is commonly known as the Drakensberg pea, mountain sweet pea, and leopard bush.
Appearance
The plant typically grows to a height of 1-2 meters, with a spread of up to 3 meters. It has a dense, bushy growth habit, with numerous branches that are covered in shiny, dark green leaves. The leaves are composed of three leaflets and are up to 6cm in length. The plant produces clusters of small, fragrant, pink to purple flowers that bloom in the spring and summer months. The flowers are followed by small, black seed pods.
Uses
Englerina schubotziana is primarily grown as an ornamental plant for its attractive foliage and showy blooms. It can be used as a specimen plant in gardens, or as a hedge or screen. The plant is also known to have medicinal properties, with various parts of the plant used in traditional herbal remedies for a range of ailments.
Light Requirements
Englerina schubotziana is a plant that prefers bright or indirect sunlight. The plant cannot tolerate direct sunlight, particularly in the afternoon, as it can scorch its leaves. Hence, it is best to keep the plant in a location that receives partial sun or filtered light.
Temperature Requirements
Englerina schubotziana requires a warm and consistent temperature for optimal growth. It thrives in temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. The plant cannot tolerate temperatures below 10°C or above 30°C, and sudden fluctuations in temperature can cause harm to the plant. The ideal temperature for this plant is 20°C to 22°C during the day and around 15°C at night.
Soil Requirements
The soil mix used for Englerina schubotziana should be well-draining and rich in organic matter. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and coarse sand provides an excellent soil environment for the plant. The pH of the soil should be between 5.5 and 6.5, which is slightly acidic.
Additional factors like soil texture, water-holding capacity, and nutrient content can also affect the plant's growth. The soil should not be too compact or too loose, as it can affect the plant's root growth. The plant requires regular watering, but the soil should not be waterlogged or too dry. Adding organic mulch to the topsoil helps retain moisture and provides nutrients to the plant.
Cultivation Methods
Englerina schubotziana is a hardy plant that will grow well in most soils, provided they are well-drained and not too acidic. It is a low-growing groundcover that spreads readily through stolons. This plant prefers a partially shaded environment with high humidity levels, so it would be best cultivated under tree canopies or in a greenhouse. Englerina schubotziana also prefers sandy soil and should be planted at a depth of around 8 mm.
Watering Needs
Englerina schubotziana requires a consistent supply of water to maintain its lush, green foliage. It should be watered regularly but not excessively, as damp conditions can lead to root rot. Ideally, the soil should be moist to the touch but not waterlogged. In the event of extended dry periods, more frequent watering may be necessary, to prevent the plant from drying out.
Fertilization
Englerina schubotziana is a fairly low-maintenance species that does not require a lot of fertilization. During growth periods, it would be best to apply a slow-release organic fertilizer, such as compost, that will help to enrich the soil. Overfeeding this plant can lead to excessive growth, which may make pruning more difficult. It is also a good idea to avoid fertilizing the plant during the winter months when it is experiencing dormancy.
Pruning
To maintain the health and longevity of Englerina schubotziana, it is essential to prune it regularly. Pruning should be done at the end of the growing season or when the plant has become too dense. This process entails removing dead or diseased foliage and thinning out crowded areas. Removing spent flowers will also encourage more healthy growth. When pruning Englerina schubotziana, it is important to use clean and sharp tools to reduce the risk of infection.
Propagation of Englerina schubotziana
Englerina schubotziana, commonly known as the red butterfly plant, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to southern Africa. It produces small, red-orange flowers that resemble butterflies and has ornamental value in gardens. Propagating this plant is fairly easy, and there are several methods to choose from:
Seed Propagation
Englerina schubotziana produces seeds that are small and black. The seeds can be collected from mature plants and sown in a well-draining potting mix. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. The seeds will germinate in 14-21 days, and the seedlings can be transplanted to individual pots when they have developed a few true leaves.
Division
The plant can be propagated by dividing the root mass. Carefully remove the plant from the soil and gently separate the roots into smaller sections. Each section should have at least one healthy shoot. Plant each section in well-draining potting mix and keep the soil moist until the plant has established itself.
Cuttings
Englerina schubotziana can also be propagated by cuttings. Take cuttings from mature plants, using sharp and sterilized pruning shears. The cuttings should be around 10cm long and have at least two pairs of leaves. Remove the lower pair of leaves and dip the stem into rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix and keep it moist. It should root in around 3-4 weeks.
Disease Management
Englerina schubotziana is generally a disease-resistant plant, but it can still be affected by some fungal infections such as leaf spot, powdery mildew, and rust. The following are some ways to manage these diseases:
- Leaf spot: Remove the infected leaves and dispose of them properly. Avoid overhead watering to prevent the spread of the disease.
- Powdery mildew: Improve the air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering. Use a fungicide spray if the infection is severe.
- Rust: Remove the infected leaves and dispose of them properly. Use a fungicide spray to prevent the spread of the disease.
It is important to note that prevention is always better than cure. Keeping the plant in good health by providing the right growing conditions, proper watering, and fertilization can go a long way in preventing diseases.
Pest Management
Englerina schubotziana is generally resistant to pests, but it can still be affected by mealybugs and spider mites. The following are some ways to manage these pests:
- Mealybugs: Remove the mealybugs by hand or wash the plant with a strong water spray. Use an insecticide spray if the infestation is severe.
- Spider mites: Improve the air circulation around the plant and avoid dry conditions. Use an insecticidal soap spray or neem oil if the infestation is severe.
Again, prevention is the key. Regularly inspect the plant for any signs of pest infestations and take appropriate measures early on to prevent the spread of the pests.
