Origin
Gastrolychnis involucrata (Cham. & Schlecht.) A.& D. Löve ssp. tenella (Tolm.) A.& D. Löve is a plant species that belongs to the evening primrose family, Onagraceae. This plant is native to South America, particularly in Chile and Argentina, but can also be found in other parts of the world as an ornamental plant.
Common Names
Gastrolychnis involucrata is commonly known as Chilean lanterns or Chilean candle. It is also known as "copihue de la cordillera" in Chile, which means "the copihue of the mountains". The name "copihue" refers to the Chilean national flower.
Uses
Gastrolychnis involucrata is mostly used as an ornamental plant due to its unique and attractive appearance. The plant's fragrant flowers are bell-shaped and come in a range of colors, including white, pink, and red. These flowers bloom from late spring to summer and are known to attract bees and butterflies.
The plant's leaves are also used in traditional medicine as they contain high levels of antioxidants, which can be attributed to their anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. The leaves and roots are used to treat abdominal pains, diarrhea, fever, and even cancer in traditional medicine.
General Appearance
Gastrolychnis involucrata is a perennial herb that grows up to 30 cm in height. It has a slender stem that is covered in tiny hairs and bears lance-shaped leaves that are about 2-4 cm long. The leaves are mostly found at the base of the plant, with smaller leaves growing on the stem. The plant produces a single stalk that bears the flowers. Each flower is enclosed in a green, lantern-like calyx, which is what gives the plant its unique appearance. The plant's fruit is a cylindrical capsule that is about 2.5 cm long and contains numerous black seeds.
Light Requirements
Gastrolychnis involucrata ssp. tenella thrives in filtered sunlight or partial shade. It is not a fan of direct sunlight, particularly during the hottest part of the day. In areas with high levels of light, it should be planted in an area where it is protected from the sun's rays. Avoid planting it under trees with dense canopies or in very shaded areas, as this will limit its growth.
Temperature Requirements
The temperature range for Gastrolychnis involucrata ssp. tenella is between 15°C to 23°C (59°F to 74°F). It is best suited to mild to warm temperatures, which make it an ideal choice for regions with a Mediterranean climate. It cannot tolerate extreme hot or cold temperatures, and frost can be fatal to the plant. When growing Gastrolychnis involucrata ssp. tenella, it should be protected from extreme temperatures, particularly during winter and summer.
Soil Requirements
Gastrolychnis involucrata ssp. tenella prefers well-drained, slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil. It thrives in sandy or gravelly soil, and it is essential to ensure that the soil has good drainage to prevent waterlogging and root rot. The plant is not particularly sensitive to soil nutrients, but it needs to be fertilized with a good quality all-purpose fertilizer during the growing season. Water the plant deeply whenever the topsoil feels dry, and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Cultivation
Gastrolychnis involucrata (Cham. & Schlecht.) A.& D. Löve ssp. tenella (Tolm.) A.& D. Löve is a plant that requires well-draining soil for optimal growth. The plant should be grown under partial shade to ensure it gets sufficient light without being exposed to direct sunlight. It can be propagated through seedlings or stem cuttings.
Watering
The plant should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out partially before watering again. Avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. During dry seasons, the plant may require more frequent watering.
Fertilization
Gastrolychnis involucrata (Cham. & Schlecht.) A.& D. Löve ssp. tenella (Tolm.) A.& D. Löve benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer should be used every two weeks to ensure healthy growth and blooming. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant season.
Pruning
The plant typically requires very little pruning as it tends to maintain its neat, compact shape naturally. Any dead or damaged foliage can be removed to keep the plant looking healthy and tidy. It is also advisable to remove any spent flowers to encourage the plant to produce more blooms.
Propagation of Gastrolychnis Involucrata ssp. Tenella
Gastrolychnis involucrata ssp. tenella is a beautiful flowering plant that can be propagated through several methods. The following are the most common propagation methods used for this plant:
Propagation through Seeds
Seeds are the most common and easiest way to propagate G. involucrata ssp. tenella. Collect the seeds from the plant once they are mature. Sow the seeds in well-draining soil and moisten the soil regularly. Keep the soil moist and the seeds warm until germination, which can take anywhere from one to two weeks depending on the conditions.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
Propagation through stem cuttings is another common method of propagation for G. involucrata ssp. tenella. Take cuttings from the plant during the active growth phase. Use sharp and sterilized pruning shears to cut 4 to 6-inch stems from the plant. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the stem and dip the cut end in a rooting hormone powder. Plant the cutting in well-draining soil and keep the soil moist. The cutting should root within six weeks.
Propagation through Division
G. involucrata ssp. tenella can also be propagated through division. Divide the plant during the dormant phase when it is not actively growing. Use a sharp and sterilized pruning shear to cut the plant into sections with at least one stem and root system each. Plant each division in well-draining soil and keep the soil moist. The division should establish within a few weeks.
By using the propagation methods mentioned above, you can easily propagate G. involucrata ssp. tenella and add this beautiful plant to your garden.
Disease Management
Gastrolychnis involucrata is generally a healthy plant but may, at times, be affected by some diseases. Here are some common diseases and ways to manage them:
- Root rot: Overwatering or poorly drained soil could cause root rot. To avoid this, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering the plant. If the plant has root rot, remove the affected parts and replant in well-draining soil.
- Powdery mildew: This is a common fungal disease that often affects plants with poor air circulation. Treatment involves removing the affected parts and spraying with a fungicide. Introducing good air circulation around the plant, pruning and thinning, can help minimize the chance of powdery mildew.
- Leaf spot: Leaf spot may happen due to fungal infections from the soil. Removing and destroying infected leaves, pruning the plant, and spraying with a fungicide can help control this disease.
Pest Management
Gastrolychnis involucrata is not frequently affected by pests, but here are some common pests and ways to manage them:
- Aphids: These pests feed on sap from plants and often attack new growth. They can be controlled by spraying the plant with a strong stream of water, using insecticidal soap or neem oil, or introducing natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings.
- Cutworms: These are caterpillars that cut seedlings off near the ground. A simple mechanical barrier, such as a cardboard collar, can deter them. Alternatively, use insecticides that contain Bacillus thuringiensis, or plant resistant cultivars.
- Spider mites: These pests can cause leaves to yellow and curl. Washing the plant to remove dust, boosting humidity, and using insecticidal soap or neem oil sprays can deter them. Introducing natural predators such as ladybugs or predatory mites can also help reduce spider mite populations.
