Overview of Englerina subquadrangularis (De Wild.) Polhill & Wiens
Englerina subquadrangularis (De Wild.) Polhill & Wiens is a plant species belonging to the family Leguminosae, commonly known as the pea family. It is one of the species endemic to Southern Africa and is native to the dry savannah regions of Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. This plant species can also be found in other African countries such as Angola and Namibia.
General Appearance of Englerina subquadrangularis
The Englerina subquadrangularis plant has a shrubby and herbaceous appearance. It is a perennial plant that grows up to 60 cm tall with a woody rootstock. Its stem is usually prostrate or trailing, with 2-7 leaflets, and branches at nodes. The leaves are pinnate, with 4-8 pairs of leaflets with the terminal leaflet being larger than the other leaflets.
The flowers of this plant species are small, measuring about 6mm in diameter, and are usually a light to dark pink color. They are arranged in clusters of 2-5 flowers at the end of the stem.
Common Names of Englerina subquadrangularis
Englerina subquadrangularis is known by different common names across its native regions. Some of the common names include “Pink Stars,” “Tshetlha,” “TLhotsi,” and “Pea Root.”
Uses of Englerina subquadrangularis
The Englerina subquadrangularis plant species is of great importance to the people living in the areas where it is found. The plant's roots are traditionally used by the indigenous people for various medicinal purposes, mostly as a decoction for treating various ailments such as stomach disorders, respiratory problems, fever, and headaches. The plant also has pesticidal properties that are used for controlling ticks and lice.
The plant is also beneficial as animal feed during the dry season due to its high protein content. It is an important component of grazing land in southern Africa, and it is used to control soil erosion.
Finally, this plant species is also an ornamental plant and is grown for its beautiful pink flowers that bloom during the summer months.
Growth Conditions for Englerina subquadrangularis
Englerina subquadrangularis is a fast-growing, succulent plant that is found in the savannah regions of Africa. It requires specific growing conditions to thrive.
Light
The plant requires bright, indirect sunlight to grow well. It should not be placed in direct sunlight as it may lead to sunburn and damage to the plant.
Temperature
The optimal temperature range for this plant is between 15? to 30?. It can tolerate higher temperatures up to 40?, but extreme hot conditions can affect the growth and development of the plant. During the winter months, the plant prefers cooler temperatures.
Soil
The plant requires well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. The soil should be a mix of sand, perlite, and peat moss to enable adequate drainage. The plant requires a regular water supply during the growing season while avoiding letting the plant sit in water to prevent root rot.
Fertilizer
The plant does not require regular fertilization to grow well. However, if you want to promote faster growth, occasional fertilizer application should be done in spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer.
Propagation
The plant can be propagated with stem cuttings. The cuttings should be allowed to callous over for a few days then planted in well-draining soil and watered moderately to prevent the cuttings from rotting.
Pests and Diseases
The plant is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, mealybugs and spider mites can infest it, causing significant damage if not controlled. The use of insecticidal soap or neem oil spray can help control these pests.
Cultivation Methods for Englerina subquadrangularis
Englerina subquadrangularis is native to semi-arid regions of southern Africa. To cultivate it successfully, you need to imitate its natural habitat. First, choose a suitable location with well-draining soil that has good aeration. The plant prefers full sun, but partial shade is acceptable in the intense summer months.
When planting Englerina subquadrangularis, loosen the soil and mix it with some compost before planting. The plant is sensitive to root disturbance, so try not to damage the roots while you are planting. Plant the shrub at the same depth as it was in the pot
Watering Needs for Englerina subquadrangularis
Englerina subquadrangularis is a drought-resistant shrub. Therefore, it is essential to take care not to overwater it. Water it thoroughly during planting and then let it establish in its new environment. After that, water it only when the soil is dry to the touch. During the growing season, you can water it about once a week, but in the dormant season, you can water it less often.
Fertilization of Englerina subquadrangularis
Englerina subquadrangularis is not a heavy feeder. Applying some compost when planting the shrub is usually enough for the first year. After the first year, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer, such as a balanced 10-10-10, in spring. Apply the fertilizer at half strength, following the instructions on the package. Do not apply any fertilizer after the middle of summer because it may stimulate the growth of tender new leaves that may not harden before winter.
Pruning Englerina subquadrangularis
Englerina subquadrangularis is a low-maintenance shrub that doesn't require a lot of pruning. If you want to shape it or keep it to a certain size, prune it in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This shrub blooms on new growth, so avoid pruning it in late summer or autumn because you may remove potential blooms. When pruning, use clean and sharp pruning tools to make smooth cuts.
Propagation of Englerina subquadrangularis
Englerina subquadrangularis, also known as the African Spiderwort, is a hardy and low-maintenance plant native to Africa. It can grow up to 2 feet tall and produces lovely purple flowers. The plant can be propagated through different methods, including:
Seeds
Propagation through seeds requires caution and patience as the germination rate of the seeds is low. The best time to sow the seeds is during spring or autumn when the temperature is mild. The soil should be moist and fertile, with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. The seeds should be planted at a depth of about 1cm, and the soil should be kept moist until the seeds germinate, which can take up to 20 days. After the seedlings reach about 2 inches in height, they can be transplanted into individual pots and placed in a sunny location.
Division
Propagation through division is a faster and more reliable method. The best time to divide Englerina subquadrangularis is during spring or autumn. The plant should be dug out of the soil, and the root system should be gently pulled apart to separate and replant the divisions. The divisions should be planted in a pot with well-draining soil, keeping it moist until the roots establish.
Cuttings
Propagation through cuttings requires a sharp, sanitized knife to cut a stem from the parent plant. The ideal time for taking cuttings is during the growing season when the plant is actively growing. The cutting should be about 3-4 inches long and should have at least two leaves. The lower part of the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone, and it should be inserted into a pot with well-draining soil. The cutting should be kept in a moist and warm environment, and misted regularly until it develops roots.
Overall, Englerina subquadrangularis can be propagated through different methods, and each method has its advantages and disadvantages. Understanding each method can help gardeners to choose the best one suited for their needs and gardening conditions.
Disease Management for Englerina subquadrangularis
Englerina subquadrangularis is generally a hardy plant with few disease problems, but it can still fall prey to several ailments, some of which can be serious.
One common disease that affects Englerina subquadrangularis is powdery mildew, which appears as white, powdery spots on the foliage. It can be controlled through regular pruning and cleaning of old or diseased branches. Application of a fungicide is also effective, especially early in the season before the disease fully sets in.
Another disease that might affect the plant is rust, which causes yellow, orange, or brownish spots on the foliage. Rust can be prevented through good cultural practices, such as watering the plant in the morning, providing good air circulation, and keeping the foliage dry as much as possible. Fungicides can also be used to control rust.
Pest Management for Englerina subquadrangularis
Englerina subquadrangularis is generally resistant to pests, but it can occasionally become infested by aphids, spider mites, and thrips.
Aphids suck the sap from the foliage, leaving behind sticky honeydew and deformed leaves. Small infestations can be controlled by washing the plant with a hose or a mild detergent spray, while more severe infestations require the use of insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Spider mites, on the other hand, feed on the underside of the foliage, causing yellowing and stippling. They can be controlled through regular watering, providing adequate humidity, and applying a miticide as needed.
Thrips cause damage by piercing the foliage and sucking the sap, leaving behind distorted or discolored leaves. They can be controlled by removing infested plant parts, keeping the foliage dry, and using sticky traps or insecticides as needed.
Preventative measures, such as frequently inspecting the plant for signs of disease and pests, maintaining good cultural practices, and treating any issues promptly, can help keep Englerina subquadrangularis healthy and thriving.
