Origin
Gastrolychnis involucrata is a flowering plant species that belongs to the family of nightshades, Solanaceae. It is native to the high-altitude regions of central and southern South America, particularly found in Bolivia, Peru, and Argentina.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known as "chilco," "bonpland," or "matabuey" in the regions where it grows.
Appearance
Gastrolychnis involucrata is an evergreen shrub that grows up to 4 meters tall. Its leaves are elliptical to ovate, leathery, and dark green in color. The flowers of this species are bell-shaped, small, solitary or in clusters, and come in various colors, including pink, red, and white. The fruit of this plant is a berry that is approximately 1cm in diameter and turns yellow or red when mature.
Uses
Gastrolychnis involucrata has been used traditionally by the indigenous people of South America as a medicinal plant. The leaves of the plant are used to treat coughs, bronchitis, and other respiratory ailments. The bark and roots have been utilized to treat digestive issues, such as dysentery and diarrhea. The fruits of the plant have been eaten raw or cooked and used to make jams or jellies. Moreover, this plant is also an ornamental plant and is used in landscaping for its attractive flowers and edible fruits.
Light Requirements
Gastrolychnis involucrata grows best in full sun, but it can also tolerate partial shade. However, if the plant is grown in too much shade, it may become leggy and fail to produce many flowers.
Temperature Requirements
Gastrolychnis involucrata is native to the Andes Mountains in South America and likes cooler temperatures. It grows best in areas where the temperature stays below 80°F during the day and around 55°F at night. The plant does not tolerate hot temperatures very well and may die if exposed to prolonged periods of heat.
Soil Requirements
Gastrolychnis involucrata prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, as long as they drain well. It is important to avoid planting the plant in soil that stays too wet or that doesn't drain properly, as this can cause root rot and other problems.
Water Requirements
Gastrolychnis involucrata requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. The plant prefers soil that is evenly moist but not waterlogged. It is important to avoid letting the soil dry out completely, as this can cause the plant to wilt and drop its leaves.
Fertilizer Requirements
Gastrolychnis involucrata benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 will work well for this plant. It is important not to over-fertilize, as this can cause the plant to grow too quickly and become weak and spindly.
Cultivation
Gastrolychnis involucrata is a relatively easy plant to cultivate, making it a good choice for beginners. It can be grown indoors or outdoors, depending on the climate conditions.
The plant prefers well-drained, sandy soil that is kept moist. It grows well in full sun to partial shade and is hardy to frost.
The best time to plant Gastrolychnis involucrata is during the spring or early summer. Transplanting should be done carefully to avoid disturbing the roots.
Watering Needs
Gastrolychnis involucrata requires moderate watering. The soil should be kept moist, but not soggy. Overwatering can cause root rot and other diseases.
The frequency of watering should be adjusted based on the climate conditions, with more frequent watering required during hot and dry periods.
Fertilization
Gastrolychnis involucrata benefits from regular fertilization. A balanced fertilizer with equal proportions of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be applied every two to three months during the growing season to improve growth and flowering.
However, excessive fertilization can lead to reduced flowering and root burn. It is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions and not to exceed the recommended application rates.
Pruning
Pruning Gastrolychnis involucrata is not necessary, but it can aid in shaping the plant and promoting new growth. Deadheading spent flowers can encourage the plant to produce more blooms throughout the growing season.
Pruning can be done during early spring, before new growth begins. It is best to use clean, sharp shears or pruners to avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation of Gastrolychnis involucrata
Gastrolychnis involucrata can be propagated through two methods: seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed propagation
Seeds of Gastrolychnis involucrata can be collected from the plant when the seed capsules turn brown. The collected seeds can be sown in a well-draining potting mix. The seeds require light to germinate, so they should only be covered lightly with soil. The pot should be kept in a warm, well-lit area with consistent moisture until the seeds germinate, which typically takes between two to four weeks.
Vegetative propagation
Gastrolychnis involucrata can also be propagated through stem cuttings. The stem cuttings should be taken from the plant during its active growth season, typically in the summer. The cuttings should be at least 10cm long and should have several leaves. The leaves on the lower half of the cutting should be removed, and the stem should be dipped in rooting hormone powder before planting. The cutting should then be planted in a well-draining potting mix and kept in a humid environment until roots develop. The cutting should also be kept consistently moist and planted in a well-lit area until it establishes roots and begins to grow.
Disease Management
Gastrolychnis involucrata is generally a healthy plant that is not susceptible to many diseases. However, like all plants, it can sometimes contract diseases. The following are some of the most common diseases of Gastrolychnis involucrata:
- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and poor drainage. To avoid root rot, water the plant only when the soil is dry to the touch, and make sure that the pot has drainage holes. If the plant does contract root rot, the affected parts should be removed, and the plant should be repotted in fresh, dry soil.
- Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that can be treated with copper fungicides. To prevent leaf spot, avoid getting water on the leaves of the plant and do not water the plant from above. Instead, water the plant at the base.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can be treated with horticultural oil or neem oil. To prevent powdery mildew, maintain good ventilation around the plant and avoid overhead watering.
- Botrytis blight: This fungal disease can be treated with fungicides. To prevent Botrytis blight, avoid overwatering the plant and provide good ventilation.
Pest Management
Gastrolychnis involucrata is generally resistant to pests. However, it can sometimes be affected by the following pests:
- Spider mites: Spider mites can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. To prevent spider mites, maintain good humidity around the plant.
- Mealybugs: Mealybugs can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. To prevent mealybugs, inspect the plant regularly for signs of infestation.
- Aphids: Aphids can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. To prevent aphids, maintain good ventilation and avoid overfertilizing the plant.
