Overview:
Englerina swynnertonii is a flowering plant species that belongs to the family Fabaceae.
Origin:
The plant is native to East Africa, specifically found in Tanzania and Kenya.
Common Names:
The plant has a few common names such as Swynnerton's moha, Swynnerton’s pea, and poached-egg-mohaa.
Appearance:
Englerina swynnertonii is a shrub or small tree that can grow up to 6 meters high. The plant has compound leaves with small leaflets that are rounded or oblong in shape. The leaves are dark green and shiny and are arranged alternately on the stem. The flowers of Englerina swynnertonii are white with a yellow center and are borne in clusters. The fruit is a pod with a few seeds that are dispersed by animals.
Uses:
Englerina swynnertonii is used in traditional medicine by the Maasai people to treat various conditions such as respiratory infections, joint pain, and rheumatism. The plant is also used as a shade tree due to its dense foliage. Furthermore, the plant is known to attract bees, which is beneficial for pollination and honey production.
Light Requirements
Englerina swynnertonii grows best in bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can scorch the leaves. It is best to place the plant near a bright window but out of direct sun.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Englerina swynnertonii is between 60°F (15°C) to 80°F (27°C). It is important to avoid exposing the plant to temperatures below 50°F (10°C) or above 90°F (32°C). Temperatures that are too hot or too cold can cause stunted growth or damage to the leaves.
Soil Requirements
Englerina swynnertonii prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A potting mix that contains peat moss, perlite and vermiculite is a good choice. The soil should be kept evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Overwatering can cause root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.
Cultivation Methods
Englerina swynnertonii is a tropical plant that is typically grown in warm and humid climates. It thrives well in partial shade to full sunlight. The plant requires well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH level. Before planting, amend the soil with compost or organic matter and ensure that the soil is loose and aerated. Transplant the plant to its permanent location when it reaches a height of 4-6 inches.
Watering Needs
Englerina swynnertonii thrives in moist soil, but it should not remain soggy. During the growing season, water the plant regularly, ensuring the soil is moist, but not wet. Reduce watering in the winter months to avoid waterlogging, which may lead to root rot. Be sure to avoid getting water on the foliage, as this can cause fungal infections.
Fertilization
Englerina swynnertonii requires periodic fertilization to encourage growth and promote flowering. Apply a balanced, organic fertilizer every two to three months during the growing season. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can result in the production of excessive foliage and few flowers.
Pruning
Englerina swynnertonii requires occasional pruning to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. Prune the plant just after the flowering season is over. Remove any dead or diseased branches, as well as any stems that are crossing over each other. Cut back the plant by one-third to encourage new growth.
Propagation of Englerina swynnertonii
Englerina swynnertonii, commonly known as Swynnerton's leadwort, is a perennial herbaceous plant species that is native to Tanzania and Kenya. Propagation of this plant species can be done by either sowing of seeds or vegetative propagation using cuttings. Both methods of propagation have their unique advantages and disadvantages.
Sowing of Seeds
Propagation of Englerina swynnertonii can be reliably achieved through the sowing of seeds. The best time to sow these seeds is during the spring or early summer when the weather is mild. Before sowing, the seeds should be cleaned and soaked in warm water for about 24 hours to break their dormancy. After soaking, the seeds should be planted in a well-draining soil mix and covered with a thin layer of soil. The container should then be covered with a plastic sheet to create a humid environment for the seeds to germinate.
The container should be placed in a location where it can receive indirect sunlight and kept moist by regular watering. Germination may take between 2-6 weeks, after which the plastic sheet should be removed. As the seedlings grow, they should be gradually exposed to more sunlight and the container should be kept well-watered.
Vegetative Propagation using Cuttings
Vegetative propagation of Englerina swynnertonii can be achieved by taking cuttings from healthy plants during the summer season. The cuttings should be taken from non-flowering stems and should be about 4-6 inches long. Before planting, the lower leaves of the cutting should be removed, and the cut end should be treated with a rooting hormone to encourage root growth.
The cuttings should then be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept in a location where they can receive indirect sunlight. They should be kept moist by regular watering, but care should be taken not to overwater the cuttings as this can cause them to rot. After a few weeks, the cuttings should start to develop roots and new leaves, indicating successful propagation.
Propagation of Englerina swynnertonii can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. Whether through sowing of seeds or vegetative propagation using cuttings, the resulting plants will provide an eye-catching addition to any garden or indoor space.
Disease Management
The Englerina swynnertonii is known to be a relatively disease-resistant plant. However, it is still susceptible to some diseases, including:
- Leaf spot: This disease causes the leaves to have dark spots and can make them drop prematurely. To manage this disease, remove all the affected leaves and ensure proper air circulation to reduce humidity around the plant.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by fungus and leads to the death of the plant. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering the plant and ensure proper soil drainage.
Pest Management
Englerina swynnertonii is also susceptible to some pests, including:
- Thrips: These pests cause the leaves to have a silvery appearance. To manage this pest, remove all the affected leaves and use insecticidal soap to kill the remaining thrips.
- Spider mites: These pests cause the leaves to have a mottled appearance and webbing. To manage this pest, wash the leaves with a strong spray of water and use insecticidal soap to kill the remaining spider mites.
Regular inspection of the plant is crucial in identifying any infestations or diseases early and managing them promptly. It is also advisable to use organic pest and disease control methods, including neem oil and insecticidal soap, to reduce the negative impact on the environment.
