Origin
Gastrolychnis involucrata (Cham. & Schlecht.) A.& D. Löve ssp. elatior (Regel) A.& D. Löve, also known as tall maiden's tears, is a plant species native to Central and South America, specifically found in Mexico, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and northern Argentina.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as "Lluvia de Oro" in Spanish, which translates to "Golden Rain" due to its golden-yellow flowers. Additionally, it is also referred to as "Maiden's Tears"as its flowers are said to resemble the tears of a maiden.
Appearance
Gastrolychnis involucrata is a herbaceous perennial plant that can grow up to three feet in height. The plant has bright green leaves that are lance-shaped, narrow, and up to six inches long. The plant's flowers are trumpet-shaped, bright yellow-orange, and grow in clusters at the end of long stems. These flowers are about 1.5 inches in diameter and have five petals. The plant's fruit is a long, narrow capsule, containing numerous small seeds.
Uses
Gastrolychnis involucrata is mainly used as an ornamental plant to decorate gardens and landscapes due to its vibrant and attractive flowers. Additionally, the plant has some medicinal properties as it contains alkaloids and flavonoids that are said to have antifungal, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. The plant's leaves and flowers have been traditionally used by some indigenous communities to treat gastrointestinal problems and skin infections.
Light Requirements
Gastrolychnis involucrata ssp. elatior is a shade-loving plant that thrives in partial to full shade. It can tolerate some sunlight, but it is recommended to keep it out of direct, intense sunlight to avoid leaf scorching.
Temperature Requirements
Gastrolychnis involucrata ssp. elatior can survive in a wide range of temperatures but prefers cool to moderate temperatures between 10 to 25°C. It can tolerate temperatures as low as -5°C but cannot survive frost. It is important to keep the plant in a location with a stable temperature to avoid sudden temperature changes that could cause damage.
Soil Requirements
Gastrolychnis involucrata ssp. elatior prefers well-draining, humus-rich soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH between 4.5 to 7.5. It can tolerate different types of soil, including clay, loam, and sandy soil, as long as the soil has good drainage. It is recommended to amend the soil with organic matter to improve soil fertility and water retention.
Cultivation
Gastrolychnis involucrata ssp. elatior is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of temperatures, from cool to warm. It prefers well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. The plant can be grown in full sun or partial shade, although it will thrive best in bright, indirect light.
Watering Needs
Gastrolychnis involucrata ssp. elatior prefers moderate soil moisture. Water the plant once a week, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Do not overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot and other issues.
Fertilization
The plant does not require heavy fertilization, but feeding it with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every three to four weeks during the growing season will promote better growth and floral display.
Pruning
Prune the plant after flowering to promote bushier growth and to prevent it from becoming leggy. Remove any dead or damaged growth, as well as any crossing branches. You can also pinch back the tips of the branches to encourage lateral growth.
Propagation of Gastrolychnis Involucrata ssp. Elatior
Gastrolychnis involucrata ssp. elatior is a plant that is propagated using several methods, including:
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Gastrolychnis involucrata ssp. elatior is through seed propagation. Seeds can be collected from the plant during the fall when the fruits are matured. The seeds must be cleaned and stored properly before planting. It is recommended that the seeds be stored in a cool, dry place in a paper bag until they are ready to be planted. When planting, the seeds should be sown in a well-drained, rich soil mixture, covered with a thin layer of soil, and watered regularly. The seeds should germinate in about two weeks.
Cuttings Propagation
Gastrolychnis involucrata ssp. elatior can also be propagated by cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is in the spring when new growth is just starting to appear. The cuttings should be taken from the tips of the branches and should be about 6 inches long. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a soil mixture of sand and peat moss. The soil mixture should be kept moist but not wet, and the cuttings should be placed in a shaded area until they develop roots.
Division Propagation
Another method of propagating Gastrolychnis involucrata ssp. elatior is through division. Division is best done in the spring or fall when the plant is not actively growing. The plant should be carefully dug up and the root system separated into several sections. Each section should be planted in a well-drained soil mixture and watered regularly until new growth appears.
Disease and Pest Management for Gastrolychnis involucrata
Gastrolychnis involucrata is a hardy and easy-to-grow plant that is generally resistant to diseases and pests. However, like all plants, it can suffer from certain problems that can affect its growth and beauty. Here are some common diseases and pests that may affect this plant and how to manage them effectively.
Diseases
1. Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. It can cause stunted growth and reduce the plant's overall health. To manage this disease, you should remove the affected parts of the plant and dispose of them properly. You can also treat the plant with a fungicide that contains copper or sulfur. You should follow the instructions on the label carefully.
2. Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant. It can be caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or using contaminated soil. The symptoms of root rot include wilted leaves and stems, yellowing foliage, and root discoloration. To manage this disease, you should remove the plant from the soil and cut off any affected roots. Repot the plant in fresh, well-draining soil, and reduce watering to prevent overwatering.
Pests
1. Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the leaves and stems of the plant. They can cause curling leaves, stunted growth, and yellowing foliage. To manage this pest, you can spray the plant with a strong jet of water to knock the aphids off the plant. You can also use neem oil or insecticidal soap to control the infestation. You should follow the instructions on the label carefully.
2. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny, spider-like pests that suck the sap from the leaves of the plant. They can cause yellowing leaves, webbing, and stunted growth. To manage this pest, you can increase the humidity around the plant by misting it regularly. You can also spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. If the infestation is severe, you may need to use a pesticide. You should follow the instructions on the label carefully.
3. Scale Insects: Scale insects are small, oval-shaped pests that attach themselves to the stems and leaves of the plant. They can cause yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and a sticky substance on the leaves. To manage this pest, you can use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove the insects from the plant. You can also spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. If the infestation is severe, you may need to use a pesticide. You should follow the instructions on the label carefully.
By following these disease and pest management tips, you can keep your Gastrolychnis involucrata healthy and beautiful. Remember to always read the labels and use pesticides and fungicides with caution.
