Overview: Evolvulus fugacissimus Hochst.
Evolvulus fugacissimus Hochst. is a plant species that belongs to the family Convolvulaceae. It is commonly known as "hot water plant" or "fogfruit" due to its traditional medicinal uses.
Origin:
The plant is native to Africa, specifically Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, Tanzania, and Uganda. It is also commonly found in other African countries such as Nigeria, Madagascar, and Mozambique. It has also been introduced to other parts of the world as an ornamental plant.
Common Names:
The plant is commonly known as "hot water plant" due to its traditional use in herbal medicine as a remedy for hot water burns. It is also known as "fogfruit" due to its use in Native American medicine as a treatment for breathing problems caused by fog or mist.
Appearance:
The plant is a low-growing perennial that can grow up to 30 cm tall and 1 m wide. It has small, narrow leaves that are about 2.5 cm long and 1 cm wide. The flowers are small and blue or violet in color, and they bloom from summer to fall. The plant has a trailing growth habit and is commonly used as a ground cover.
Uses:
The plant has traditional uses as a remedy for hot water burns, as well as for treating breathing problems caused by mist or fog. The leaves and roots of the plant are used in herbal medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, headaches, and diarrhea. The plant is also commonly used as an ornamental plant, especially as a ground cover.
The plant is easy to care for, requiring little water and full sun to partial shade. It is commonly used in xeriscaping and rock gardens due to its drought tolerance.
Light Requirements:
Evolvulus fugacissimus Hochst. is a sun-loving plant and requires direct sunlight for at least 6 hours a day. It is recommended to place the plant in a place where it can receive full sunlight for optimal growth. Lack of enough sunlight can lead to stunted growth and reduced flowering.
Soil Requirements:
The soil requirements for this plant are relatively easy to meet, as it can thrive in various types of soil as long as it has good drainage. However, Evolvulus fugacissimus Hochst. prefers moist sandy loam and well-draining soils. Ensure the soil is porous with abundant organic matter to enhance proper growth of the plant.
Temperature Requirements:
The plant is frost-sensitive and grows best in warm temperatures between 60° and 85°F (16° to 29°C). It requires moderate humidity levels and therefore grows well in tropical and subtropical climates, where the temperature remains relatively high all year round. In areas with colder climates, Evolvulus fugacissimus Hochst. can be grown indoors in pots to ensure that the temperature conditions are favorable for growth.
Cultivation Methods for Evolvulus fugacissimus Hochst.
Evolvulus fugacissimus Hochst. is an evergreen perennial plant native to Africa and commonly grown in gardens for its attractive blue flowers. It requires a sunny location and well-drained soil to thrive.
Propagation of the plant can be done through seeds or cuttings. If propagating through seeds, sow them in a well-draining soil mixture and ensure that the soil is moist. When propagating through cuttings, take stem cuttings, dip them in rooting hormone, and plant them in moist soil. Allow time for the cuttings to establish roots, usually within a month.
Watering Needs for Evolvulus fugacissimus Hochst.
Evolvulus fugacissimus Hochst. requires adequate watering to thrive but can't tolerate standing water that leads to root rot. Water on schedule, usually when the topsoil is a bit dry, but don't let it dry completely.
During hot weather, increase watering frequency to help the plant cope with the high temperatures. Conversely, reduce watering during the cold season to prevent the soil from being waterlogged.
Fertilization of Evolvulus fugacissimus Hochst.
The plant requires periodic fertilization for optimal growth. Apply a balanced fertilizer every six to eight weeks during the growing season to provide nutrients that encourage growth and flowering.
Alternatively, you can top-dress with compost or spread a slow-release fertilizer around the plant's root zone. However, be mindful of over-fertilization, which can cause foliage burn or weak stems and encourage pest infestations.
Pruning Evolvulus fugacissimus Hochst.
Pruning is essential to maintain the shape of the plant and encourage new growth and more flowers. Prune the plant in early spring to remove any damaged, diseased, or dead stems and branches. Also, remove any weak stems or those that have become too leggy, leaving only those with healthy foliage.
To encourage faster growth and a bushy habit, pinch back the tips of new shoots after the plant's first flush of blooms has faded. This will encourage branching and keep the plant compact.
Propagation of Evolvulus fugacissimus Hochst.
Evolvulus fugacissimus Hochst. can be propagated by both vegetative and sexual methods. The best time to propagate is during the rainy season when the soil is moist.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation is the easiest and most common method for propagating Evolvulus fugacissimus Hochst. This method involves taking stem cuttings from the parent plant and transplanting them into a suitable potting mix. The cuttings should be taken from healthy parent plants, and the stem should be cut diagonally at a length of 10 to 15 cm. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be planted in a potting mix that contains sand, compost, and vermiculite. The cuttings should then be kept in a shaded area and watered regularly.
Sexual Propagation
Sexual propagation is another method of propagating Evolvulus fugacissimus Hochst. This method is done by collecting the seeds from the parent plant and sowing them in a suitable potting mix. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 1 cm. After sowing, the potting mix should be watered adequately. The potting mix should be kept moist and warm, and the germination period should take between 7 to 14 days. Once the seedlings emerge, they should be transplanted into individual pots.
Disease and Pest Management for Evolvulus fugacissimus Hochst.
Evolvulus fugacissimus Hochst. is a beautiful herbaceous plant that is commonly grown in gardens and landscapes for its attractive blue flowers and green foliage. Like other plants, this species is also susceptible to diseases and pests which can cause considerable damage if not managed properly. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect this plant and some simple management tips to control them.
Diseases
1. Leaf spot: This fungal disease is identified by the appearance of yellow to brown spots on the leaves. In severe cases, the leaves may turn brown and fall off. To manage this disease, remove and destroy the infected leaves regularly and use a fungicide to prevent its spread.
2. Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is another fungal disease that is caused by the growth of a white powdery substance on the leaves, stems, and flowers. It is recommended to remove the infected parts of the plant and use a fungicide to control the spread of the disease.
3. Root rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant. It is characterized by the discoloration and decay of the roots, leading to stunted growth in the plant. Over-watering and poor drainage are the major causes of this disease. To prevent root rot, ensure the plant is growing in well-draining soil and do not over-water it.
Pests
1. Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects are common pests of Evolvulus fugacissimus Hochst. They feed on the sap of the plant, causing stunted growth and deformed leaves. To manage this pest, spray the plant with a mix of water and dishwashing soap or use insecticidal soap.
2. Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny, spider-like creatures that suck the sap of the plant and cause yellowing and curling of the leaves. To manage this pest, spray the plant with water or use a miticide.
3. Snails and slugs: These pests feed on the leaves and stems of the plant, causing significant damage. To control them, handpick them or use baits or traps to capture them.
By being vigilant and regularly inspecting the plant for signs of diseases and pests, you can prevent or control their spread and enjoy a healthy, vibrant Evolvulus fugacissimus Hochst. in your garden or landscape.
