Description of Enicostema axillare (Lam.) A.Raynal subsp. axillare
Enicostema axillare, also known as Vishalyakarani in Ayurveda, is a perennial herb native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. It belongs to the family Gentianaceae and is commonly found in moist and shady places. The plant is known for its medicinal properties and has been used in traditional medicine for various ailments.
General Appearance
The plant can grow up to a height of one meter and has long and slender stems with opposite leaves. The leaves are lance-shaped, usually about 3-6 cm long. The flowers are small and greenish in color and appear in clusters at the axils of the leaves. The fruit is a capsule.
Common Names
In addition to Vishalyakarani, Enicostema axillare is known by various common names including Chota-Chirayata, Nimaghal, and Shilauni.
Uses
The plant has been used in traditional medicine for its antipyretic, antidiabetic, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also used to treat liver ailments and digestive disorders such as dysentery and diarrhea. The plant extract is also used as a natural pesticide and has been found to have insecticidal properties.
Light Requirements
The Enicostema axillare requires a lot of light for its growth and development. It thrives in sunny areas and grows best in full sunlight. It is not tolerant of shade and its growth may be stunted or even inhibited by shading.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is native to tropical and subtropical regions and requires warm temperatures for optimal growth. The optimal temperature range for Enicostema axillare growth is between 20-30°C. Temperatures outside of this range may slow growth or cause damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
The Enicostema axillare grows well in well-drained soils that are loamy, sandy, or clayey. It can tolerate a wide variety of soil pH, but prefers slightly acidic soils. The soil should be moist, but not waterlogged, and should have good drainage to prevent waterlogging. Additionally, organic matter should be added to the soil to improve nutrient retention and support healthy plant growth.
Cultivation of Enicostema axillare (Lam.) A.Raynal subsp. axillare
Enicostema axillare (Lam.) A.Raynal subsp. axillare is a native Indian plant that can be grown in home gardens or in commercial farms. The plant prefers warm climates and thrives in well-drained soils. It can be propagated from seeds or stem cuttings.
When planting, it is important to maintain a distance of at least two feet between plants to ensure adequate air circulation and prevent overcrowding. The plant should receive six to eight hours of sunlight daily. Proper spacing ensures that each plant gets enough sunlight, helping it to grow strong and healthy.
Watering Needs of Enicostema axillare (Lam.) A.Raynal subsp. axillare
Enicostema axillare (Lam.) A.Raynal subsp. axillare has medium water requirements and thrives in well-drained soils. The plant should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist, but excessive watering should be avoided as it can lead to root rot.
The best practice is to water the plant once every three to four days. However, this can vary depending on the weather and soil type. In hot and dry weather, the plant may require more frequent watering. It is important to monitor the soil moisture level and adjust the watering schedule accordingly.
Fertilization of Enicostema axillare (Lam.) A.Raynal subsp. axillare
Enicostema axillare (Lam.) A.Raynal subsp. axillare has moderate nutrient requirements and can benefit from organic fertilizers. The best time to fertilize is during the plant's active growing season, which is from spring to fall.
Organic fertilizers such as compost, cow dung, or vermicompost can be applied once every two to three weeks. The fertilizer should be spread evenly around the plant's base and mixed with the soil. It is important not to over-fertilize as this can result in leaf burn and root damage.
Pruning of Enicostema axillare (Lam.) A.Raynal subsp. axillare
Enicostema axillare (Lam.) A.Raynal subsp. axillare requires minimal pruning. However, it is important to remove diseased or damaged branches and leaves to prevent the spread of infection to other parts of the plant.
The best time to prune is during the plant's dormant season, which is from late fall to early spring. It is also advisable to remove any dead flowers or fruits to promote the growth of new ones.
Propagation of Enicostema axillare (Lam.) A.Raynal subsp. axillare
Enicostema axillare (Lam.) A.Raynal subsp. axillare is a perennial herb that grows in tropical and subtropical regions. The plant has numerous medicinal properties and is widely used in traditional medicine. Propagation of the plant can be carried out through various methods:
Seed propagation
Seeds of Enicostema axillare can be sown directly in the field during the rainy season. The seeds germinate within 10-12 days. The seedlings have to be transplanted to the main field after 4-6 weeks of growth. Seed propagation is used to establish the plantation of this medicinal plant.
Cuttings propagation
Propagation through cuttings is also possible in Enicostema axillare. Cuttings of 15-20 cm can be collected from the mature healthy plant during the beginning of the rainy season. The cuttings have to be treated with rooting hormone and planted in a rooting medium. After root development, the cuttings can be transplanted to the main field.
Tissue culture propagation
Tissue culture propagation is yet another method used to propagate Enicostema axillare. Tissue culture techniques can ensure the production of disease-free, genetically identical plants. This method involves in-vitro culture of explants like shoot-tips, nodal segments, or leaf sections in a sterile environment using appropriate hormones.
Overall, propagation of Enicostema axillare is vital for the maintenance and production of this medicinal plant. Suitability of different methods depends on various factors like available resources, time, and economic feasibility
Disease management
Enicostema axillare (Lam.) A.Raynal subsp. axillare is susceptible to several diseases, including:
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease is characterized by circular or irregular brown spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, infected leaves should be removed and destroyed. Applying a fungicide to healthy leaves can also prevent further infections.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by fungal pathogens that attack the roots, causing them to rot. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering the plant and ensure it is planted in well-draining soil. Applying a fungicide to the soil can also prevent infections.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected plant parts and apply fungicide to healthy parts of the plant.
Pest management
Enicostema axillare (Lam.) A.Raynal subsp. axillare is also susceptible to pests, including:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause significant damage to the leaves by sucking out the sap. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Whiteflies: These pests are small, winged insects that feed on the sap of the plant. To manage whiteflies, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Caterpillars: These pests can chew on the leaves of the plant, causing significant damage. To manage caterpillars, manually remove them from the plant or use a pesticide specifically designed to target them.
Regularly inspecting the plant for signs of disease or pests and promptly addressing any issues that arise can help keep Enicostema axillare (Lam.) A.Raynal subsp. axillare healthy and thriving.
