Geophila involucrata Hiern - Overview
Geophila involucrata Hiern is a plant species belonging to the Rubiaceae family. It is commonly known as Creeping Charlie or Marsh Bedstraw. The plant is indigenous to Southeast Asia and is widely distributed throughout the region, including Sri Lanka, India, Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia.
Appearance
Geophila involucrata Hiern is a creeping perennial herb that grows close to the ground. It has a prostrate habit and forms a dense mat-like ground cover. The plant has long, slender stems that can root at nodes as they creep along the ground. The leaves are simple, opposite, and toothed, with a unique oval to lanceolate shape, and grow up to 1.5 cm long. The flowers are small, pink to white, and are arranged in clusters at the end of the stems. The plant blooms throughout the year, with peak flowering periods in the summer months.
Uses
Geophila involucrata Hiern has several uses in traditional medicine. The plant has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for its antipyretic, antidiarrheal, and anti-inflammatory properties. It has also been used to treat snake bites, skin diseases, and respiratory ailments. The plant extract has shown promising results in a study as an anti-cancer drug. Additionally, Geophila involucrata Hiern is used in ethnobotany as a food and fodder crop and as a ground cover in landscaping and erosion control due to its dense mat-like growth habit and soil-binding ability.
Light Requirements
Geophila involucrata Hiern is a plant that thrives well under moderate shade. It is recommended to grow the plant under 50-70 percent shade coverage to ensure optimal growth. Direct exposure to sunlight causes the plant to wilt while total shade hinders its flowering and fruiting ability.
Temperature Requirements
Geophila involucrata Hiern grows well in warm conditions. The plant requires temperatures ranging from 20 to 30°C to flourish. A temperature below 20°C slows down its growth, and anything above 30°C tends to stress the plant. The plant's frost tolerance is low; it cannot withstand prolonged exposure to low temperatures below 12°C.
Soil Requirements
Geophila involucrata Hiern prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. It thrives well in sandy loam soils with a pH range between 5.5 and 6.5. The plant is relatively sensitive to waterlogging, and soils that retain water for prolonged periods can cause root rot, thus affecting its growth and development. It is recommended to plant the crop in soils that retain adequate moisture while allowing for good drainage.
Cultivation methods
The plant Geophila involucrata Hiern is a tropical species that prefers a humid and warm climate. In general, it should be grown in partial shade and moist soil rich in organic matter. Planting in well-draining soil is essential, but it should not be allowed to dry out completely. The plant can be propagated by seed or stem cuttings and should be planted in the spring or early summer.
Watering needs
The Geophila involucrata Hiern needs to be watered regularly. The soil should be kept moist during the growth period, but it should be allowed to dry out slightly between watering. Overwatering can cause root rot, so caution should be taken not to let the soil become too wet.
Fertilization
Fertilizer application is recommended during the growing period to enhance growth and flowering. A balanced fertilizer should be used at a rate of 1 pound per 100 square feet of planting area. The fertilizer should be applied at least two times per year, with the first application made in the spring and the second in the fall. Care should be taken not to over-fertilize and follow the manufacturer's recommended dosage and rate.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary, but it can improve the appearance of the Geophila involucrata Hiern. Regular pruning can shape the plant while encouraging branching and fuller foliage. Deadheading spent flowers can improve the plant's appearance and promote additional blooming. Pruning should be done after flowering to avoid interfering with the blooming cycle.
Propagation of Geophila involucrata Hiern
Geophila involucrata Hiern is a delicate and beautiful plant that can be propagated in a variety of ways. Here are some common propagation methods:
Propagation by seeds
Seeds of Geophila involucrata Hiern can be collected from mature plants and used to grow new plants. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil and kept moist. Germination usually occurs within 2-4 weeks, and the seedlings should be transferred to individual pots once they are big enough to handle.
Propagation by stem cuttings
Stem cuttings are another effective way to propagate Geophila involucrata Hiern. Cuttings should be taken from healthy, mature stems and planted in well-draining soil. The cuttings should be kept moist and should root within a few weeks. Once rooted, the new plants can be transferred to individual pots.
Propagation by division
Geophila involucrata Hiern can also be propagated by division. The plant should be carefully dug up and the roots should be separated into individual sections. Each section should have a healthy root system and a few stems or leaves. The sections can then be planted in individual pots and kept moist until they are established.
Propagation by tissue culture
Tissue culture is a more advanced method of propagation that involves growing new plants from small pieces of tissue. This method is commonly used for large-scale production of Geophila involucrata Hiern. However, it requires specialized equipment and expertise and may not be practical for the average gardener.
Disease and Pest Management for Geophila involucrata Hiern
Geophila involucrata Hiern is generally considered a low-maintenance plant that is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, as with all plants, there are still a few issues that may arise with this plant that require proper management and attention to ensure its continued growth and health.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Geophila involucrata Hiern is root rot. Root rot is caused by overwatering or poor drainage and can cause the roots to become brown and mushy. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering the plant. If root rot does occur, remove the affected plant parts and replant in fresh soil.
Another disease that can affect Geophila involucrata Hiern is leaf spot. Leaf spot is caused by a fungus and can cause brown or black spots on the leaves. To prevent leaf spot, avoid splashing water on the leaves and avoid overcrowding of plants. If leaf spot does occur, remove affected plant parts and apply a fungicide as directed.
Common Pests
While Geophila involucrata Hiern is relatively resistant to pests, there are still a few common pests that may affect the plant. One of these pests is the aphid. Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing leaves. To prevent aphids, use a strong jet of water to spray the plants and remove any affected plant parts. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat aphids.
An additional pest that may affect Geophila involucrata Hiern is the mealybug. Mealybugs are small, white, cotton-like insects that can also suck the sap from the plant, causing leaves to yellow and fall off. To prevent mealybugs, again, use a strong jet of water to spray the plants and remove any affected plant parts. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage mealybugs.
Overall, Geophila involucrata Hiern is a relatively low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention once established. With proper care and attention, including regular watering, fertilization, and pest and disease control, this plant can thrive and bring beauty to any garden or landscape.
