Origin
Enicostema axillare (Lam.) A. Raynal ssp. littorale auct. non (Blume) A. Raynal, commonly known as the coast false picrorhiza, is a herbaceous plant species belonging to the family Gentianaceae. This species is native to the coastal regions of India, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia.
Common Names
Enicostema axillare is commonly known as the coast false picrorhiza, false picrorhiza, Indian snake root, and irula kudineer in Tamil.
Uses
The plant has several medicinal uses. The extract of Enicostema axillare is known to possess hepatoprotective properties and is used for treating liver disorders such as jaundice and hepatitis. The plant is also considered as an antipyretic, febrifuge, and used for treating dyspepsia and snakebites. Additionally, Enicostema axillare is used in traditional medicine as an anti-inflammatory agent and is also used in the treatment of diabetes and obesity. The whole plant is used for medicinal purposes.
General Appearance
Enicostema axillare is a herbaceous plant that grows up to a height of 3 feet. The stem of the plant is erect, slightly branched, and has four longitudinal lines on its surface. The leaves are arranged opposite each other and are sessile, oblong-lanceolate, and glabrous. The flowers are small, greenish-white, and arranged in axillary cymes. The fruit of Enicostema axillare is a capsule, which opens longitudinally, and has several seeds.
Light Requirements
The Enicostema axillare (Lam.) A. Raynal ssp. littorale auct. non (Blume) A. Raynal requires bright sunlight to grow. It is important to place the plant in a location where it receives ample sunlight throughout the day. It can withstand some shade, but too much shade can hinder its growth.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the Enicostema axillare (Lam.) A. Raynal ssp. littorale auct. non (Blume) A. Raynal to grow is between 20°C to 30°C. The plant cannot tolerate extreme temperatures and should be protected from frost. It is best to keep the plant in a warm, well-ventilated area.
Soil Requirements
The Enicostema axillare (Lam.) A. Raynal ssp. littorale auct. non (Blume) A. Raynal thrives in well-draining soil. It grows best in loamy soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter and provide good aeration to the roots. Proper drainage is essential as the plant cannot survive in waterlogged conditions.
Cultivation
Enicostema axillare (Lam.) A. Raynal ssp. littorale auct. non (Blume) A. Raynal is a hardy plant that can grow in a wide range of temperatures and climates. It thrives in full sunlight and well-draining soils. The plant can be grown in containers or directly in the ground.
When planting in containers, ensure that the pot has adequate drainage holes. The soil mix should be well-aerated and have good drainage.
For direct planting in the ground, loosen the soil and add compost or manure to improve the soil structure. The plant should be watered immediately after planting.
Watering
Enicostema axillare (Lam.) A. Raynal ssp. littorale auct. non (Blume) A. Raynal requires moderate watering during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can cause root rot.
During the dormant season, the plant requires less watering, but the soil should never completely dry out.
Fertilization
The plant requires minimal fertilization. A general-purpose fertilizer can be applied once a month during the growing season. Excessive fertilization can lead to rapid growth and weak stems.
Pruning
Enicostema axillare (Lam.) A. Raynal ssp. littorale auct. non (Blume) A. Raynal can be pruned to improve its shape and promote bushy growth. Pruning should be done in the early spring before new growth appears.
Dead or damaged branches can be removed at any time of the year.
Propagation methods for Enicostema axillare (Lam.) A. Raynal ssp. littorale auct. non (Blume) A. Raynal
The plant Enicostema axillare (Lam.) A. Raynal ssp. littorale auct. non (Blume) A. Raynal can be propagated by using several methods:
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Enicostema axillare are small and black. They can be collected from mature fruits and sown in seedbeds at a depth of around 1cm. The soil should be kept moist, and the seedlings will typically emerge within 7 - 10 days. Once the seedlings have grown large enough to handle, they can be transplanted to individual pots or directly to the field.
Cutting Propagation
This method is typically used for softwood cuttings. The cuttings should be taken in early spring, around 10 - 15cm long and preferably taken from the top part of the plant. The leaves should be removed from the lower part of the stem, and the cuttings should be dipped into rooting hormone before planting into potting medium or in the field. It is essential to maintain high humidity levels in the early stages of growth to ensure rooting.
Division Propagation
Enicostema axillare can also be propagated by dividing mature plants. This method should be undertaken in early spring. Firstly, carefully dig up the entire plant from the soil and separate the roots and shoots, ensuring each divided portion has enough root and shoot structures present. Plant the divided sections into new holes or into pots. Place them in a shaded area and maintain high humidity levels in the initial period for better establishment.
Propagation is essential for Enicostema axillare as it is considered an endangered plant species. By utilizing these three propagation methods, it is possible to help sustain the plant population and save it from extinction.
Disease Management for Enicostema axillare (Lam.) A. Raynal ssp. littorale auct. non (Blume) A. Raynal
Enicostema axillare is a hardy plant that is quite resistant to diseases. However, there are still some common pathogens that may affect the plant, such as fungal infections and leaf spot diseases. To manage these diseases, it is important to provide good growing conditions for the plant and minimize stress.
In case of a fungal infection, it is advisable to remove all infected leaves and stems and discard them. This can prevent the spread of the fungus to the rest of the plant. Fungicides may also be used to control fungal infections, but it is important to choose a fungicide that is safe for use on Enicostema axillare.
Leaf spot is another common disease that affects Enicostema axillare. This is a fungal disease that causes small brown or black spots to appear on the leaves. The spots can merge and eventually cause the leaves to die. To manage leaf spot, it is important to remove all infected leaves and stems and dispose of them properly. Proper watering, feeding, and pruning can also reduce the incidence of leaf spot.
Pest Management for Enicostema axillare (Lam.) A. Raynal ssp. littorale auct. non (Blume) A. Raynal
Enicostema axillare is also susceptible to certain pests. Common pests that might affect the plant include aphids, mites, and whiteflies. These insects can cause significant damage to the plant, especially if left unchecked.
To manage aphids, mites, and whiteflies, it is important to monitor the plant regularly and take action as soon as any pests are detected. Insecticidal soaps or oils are useful for controlling these pests. It is important to choose an insecticide that is safe for use on Enicostema axillare and to follow the instructions carefully.
Another effective way to manage pests is to encourage natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings in the garden. These predators can help to control aphids and other pests naturally, reducing the need for chemical insecticides.
Overall, with proper care and management, Enicostema axillare can remain relatively free of diseases and pests, enabling it to thrive in the garden.
