Englerina woodfordioides (Schweinf.) Balle var. adolfi-friderici (Engl. & K.Krause) Balle
Englerina woodfordioides (Schweinf.) Balle var. adolfi-friderici (Engl. & K.Krause) Balle, commonly known as the "Adolf-Friedrich's Englerina," is a plant species that belongs to the family Melastomataceae. This plant is endemic to Tanzania and can be found in the Usambara and Uluguru Mountains, at elevations of 700 to 1800 meters above sea level.
General Appearance
Englerina woodfordioides var. adolfi-friderici is a small shrub or tree that can grow up to 6 meters tall. It has a single or multiple stems that are covered in light to dark brown bark. The leaves are simple, elliptic to oblong, and can reach up to 15 cm in length and 8 cm in width. The upper leaf surfaces are glossy green to dark green, while the lower surfaces are pale green and hairy. The plant produces small, pink to purple flowers that are about 1 cm in diameter, arranged in terminal cymes or panicles. The fruit is a small, round, and fleshy berry that typically contains four seeds.
Common Names
Englerina woodfordioides var. adolfi-friderici is also known by its common name, the "Adolf-Friedrich's Englerina." However, it can also be called "Mshororo" in Swahili.
Uses
Englerina woodfordioides var. adolfi-friderici is not widely used for medicinal or cultural purposes. However, the plant has potential medicinal properties, such as antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, which have yet to be thoroughly investigated. The leaves are known to be eaten and browsed by kudus, duikers, and other herbivores, while the fruit is consumed by birds and small mammals. The plant's small size and attractive foliage make it a desirable ornamental plant, although it is not widely cultivated.
Light Requirements
Englerina woodfordioides var. adolfi-friderici requires full sunlight to partial shade for optimal growth and development. It can tolerate some shade, but excessive shade can result in leggy growth and poor flowering. In its natural habitat, it typically grows in bright, open areas with ample sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers warm to hot temperatures ranging from 25-35°C (77-95°F) during the day and 18-25°C (64-77°F) at night. It can tolerate some fluctuations in temperature, but extreme temperatures can be detrimental to growth and survival. In areas with cooler temperatures, it is best grown in a greenhouse or indoors where temperatures can be controlled.
Soil Requirements
Englerina woodfordioides var. adolfi-friderici grows best in well-draining soils that are fertile, moist, and rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0-7.0. This plant does not tolerate waterlogged soils, so it is essential to provide good drainage to prevent root rot and other fungal diseases. Adding a layer of mulch around the base of the plant can help to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Cultivation Methods
Englerina woodfordioides (Schweinf.) Balle var. adolfi-friderici (Engl. & K.Krause) Balle is a small plant that can grow to about 10 cm in height. It is typically grown outdoors in a rock garden or as a ground cover in a well-draining soil. It prefers a sunny to partially shaded location for optimum growth.
Propagation is typically done by seed or division. The seed should be sown in a well-draining soil mixture, and kept moist until germination. Seeds typically sprout in about 2-3 weeks, and seedlings can be transplanted to individual pots or directly into the ground when they are large enough to handle.
Watering Needs
Englerina woodfordioides (Schweinf.) Balle var. adolfi-friderici (Engl. & K.Krause) Balle prefers a well-draining soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. It is drought-tolerant and can survive for short periods without water, but it is best to water it regularly during the growing season.
When watering, it is important to avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can increase the risk of fungal infection. Water the plant at the base, and allow the soil to dry out partially between waterings.
Fertilization
Englerina woodfordioides (Schweinf.) Balle var. adolfi-friderici (Engl. & K.Krause) Balle is a low-maintenance plant that does not require much fertilization. However, if you wish to fertilize your plants, a balanced fertilizer can be applied once a month during the growing season.
It is important not to over-fertilize the plant, as this can lead to excessive growth and weaker stems.
Pruning
Englerina woodfordioides (Schweinf.) Balle var. adolfi-friderici (Engl. & K.Krause) Balle does not require much pruning. Dead or damaged leaves can be removed as needed, but it is generally not necessary to prune the plant for shape or size.
If the plant starts to spread too much or becomes overcrowded, it can be divided in the spring to create new plants.
Propagation methods for Englerina woodfordioides var. adolfi-friderici
Englerina woodfordioides var. adolfi-friderici can be propagated by seeds, stem cuttings or division.
Seed propagation
Seeds of Englerina woodfordioides var. adolfi-friderici can be sown during the spring or summer. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil and covered lightly with soil. Germination typically occurs within 2-4 weeks. Once the seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots. The young plants should be kept in a warm and relatively humid environment until they are established.
Stem cutting propagation
Stem cuttings can be taken from healthy, mature plants during the spring or summer. Cuttings should be made from non-flowering stems and should be approximately 5-10 cm in length. Remove any leaves from the bottom half of the cutting. Dip the cut end into rooting hormone and plant into well-draining soil. Cuttings should be kept in a warm, bright environment and should be watered regularly until they have rooted and are growing well.
Division propagation
Englerina woodfordioides var. adolfi-friderici can be propagated by division during the spring or summer. Gently dig up the parent plant and carefully separate the clumps into smaller sections. Each section should have some healthy roots and foliage. Plant the sections into individual pots filled with well-draining soil and keep in a warm and bright environment until they are established.
Disease and Pest Management for Englerina woodfordioides var. adolfi-friderici
Englerina woodfordioides var. adolfi-friderici is a beautiful plant that can be easily grown in the gardens or indoor spaces. However, like any other plant, this species can be affected by various types of pests and diseases. Here are the common diseases and pests of Englerina woodfordioides var. adolfi-friderici along with their management strategies:
Common Diseases of Englerina woodfordioides var. adolfi-friderici
1. Fungal Diseases: Fungal diseases like leaf spots, stem rot, and root rot are common problems that can affect Englerina woodfordioides var. adolfi-friderici. These diseases are characterized by the appearance of black, brown, or yellow spots on the leaves and stems of the plant.
To manage these diseases, it is important to avoid overwatering the plant and to provide good air circulation. Fungicides can also be used to treat fungal diseases, but it is better to consult a professional before using any chemical on the plant.
2. Bacterial Diseases: Bacterial diseases like bacterial leaf spot and soft rot can also affect Englerina woodfordioides var. adolfi-friderici. These diseases are characterized by the slimy appearance of the leaves and stems of the plant.
To manage these diseases, it is important to avoid over-fertilization and maintain good hygiene practices. Bacterial diseases can be managed by removing the infected parts of the plant and using antibiotics or copper-based fungicides.
Common Pests of Englerina woodfordioides var. adolfi-friderici
1. Spider Mites: Spider mites are common pests that can affect Englerina woodfordioides var. adolfi-friderici. These pests are characterized by the appearance of tiny red or brown spots on the leaves of the plant.
To manage spider mites, it is important to regularly wash the plant with water and use insecticidal soap or neem oil. It is also important to maintain good humidity levels as spider mites prefer dry environments.
2. Mealybugs: Mealybugs are another common pest that can affect Englerina woodfordioides var. adolfi-friderici. These pests are characterized by the appearance of white cotton-like clusters on the leaves and stems of the plant.
To manage mealybugs, it is important to regularly inspect the plant and remove any infected parts. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be used to control mealybugs.
By following these disease and pest management strategies, the gardeners can ensure the healthy growth of Englerina woodfordioides var. adolfi-friderici and enjoy its beauty for a long time.
