Origin and Common Names
Geophila obvallata (Schumach.) Didr. subsp. obvallata is a species of perennial herb that belongs to the Rubiaceae family. It is commonly known as roundleaf velvetseed and is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and Australia, including Madagascar, Thailand, India, and Sri Lanka.
General Appearance
The plant typically grows up to 50 cm in height and has prostrate stems that are covered with finely velvet-like hairs. The leaves are round to oval in shape, measuring up to 2 cm in diameter, and are attached to the stem via short stalks. The flowers are small, white, and emerge from the leaf axils.
Uses
The plant has several uses in traditional medicine, particularly in Ayurveda and Siddha systems. The roots, leaves, and stems are used to treat various ailments, including diarrhea, dysentery, fever, and respiratory infections. The plant also possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it a potential candidate for use in cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries.
Light Requirements
Geophila obvallata subsp. obvallata thrives well in partial shade or full sun. It can grow under a range of light intensities ranging from low to bright light. However, the plant growth is significantly influenced by the intensity of light exposure. Therefore, the best growth of the plant can be observed when exposed to moderate light intensity.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature for Geophila obvallata subsp. obvallata growth ranges between 20°C to 30°C. The plant can grow in a broad range of temperatures ranging from 15°C to 35°C. However, cooler temperatures may slow down the growth rate of the plant. On the other hand, higher temperatures can lead to heat stress and adversely affect plant growth. Therefore, maintaining an optimal temperature ranging between 20°C to 30°C is important for the healthy growth of Geophila obvallata subsp. obvallata.
Soil Requirements
Geophila obvallata subsp. obvallata favors well-drained soils with moderate moisture content. The plant can grow in a variety of soil types, including clay, sandy, or loamy soils. However, the ideal soil pH ranges between 6 to 7.5. The plant requires good aeration, and waterlogging should be avoided. Mulching the soil around the plant can help to retain moisture and improve overall soil quality, leading to healthy plant growth.
Cultivation Methods
Geophila obvallata grows well in both full sun and partial shade. It thrives in moist but well-drained soil that has a slightly acidic pH level. This plant is also adaptable to a variety of soils, including sand, loam, and clay. To create optimal growing conditions for Geophila obvallata, ensure you place it in a warm location with good air circulation, preferably one free from strong winds.
Watering Needs
The watering needs of Geophila obvallata are not high, and as such, it can tolerate short periods of droughts. However, it is essential to maintain consistent moisture in the soil, especially during the growing season. To avoid overwatering, ensure you wait for the top inch of the soil to dry out between watering rounds.
Fertilization
Geophila obvallata does not require a lot of fertilizers. An organic fertilizer with low nitrogen content can suffice. Fertilize it annually, ideally during the growing season, to promote healthy and robust growth. This will ensure that the plant has the necessary nutrients for proper development and flower production.
Pruning
Geophila obvallata typically does not require a lot of pruning. However, if need be, ensure you do it during the growing season, when the plant is actively growing. You can trim it to any preferred shape or size. Deadheading spent flowers and removing yellow or dead leaves regularly will also help promote healthy growth and blooming.
Propagation of Geophila obvallata (Schumach.) Didr. subsp. obvallata
Geophila obvallata (Schumach.) Didr. subsp. obvallata is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the Rubiaceae family. It is a small and creeping plant with long and thin stems that produces beautiful and tiny flowers. Propagation of this plant is important to maintain its population and to introduce it to new environments. Here are some methods for propagating Geophila obvallata:
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating Geophila obvallata. The plant produces small, black, and shiny seeds that can be harvested and sown in a well-draining soil mixture. The seeds need to be placed on the soil surface and covered with a thin layer of sand or gravel. The container should be kept in a shaded area with a consistent temperature of around 20-25°C. The seeds will germinate in 3-4 weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted once they have developed four to six leaves.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation is another method of propagating Geophila obvallata. This method involves taking stem cuttings from the parent plant and rooting them in a well-draining soil mixture. The cuttings should be taken from healthy and mature stems and should be at least 6-8 cm long. The lower two-thirds of the stem should be stripped of leaves, and the cuttings should be planted in a rooting hormone powder. The cuttings should be kept in a shaded area with temperatures between 20-25°C until they root. Rooted cuttings can then be transplanted to a suitable pot or planting location.
Division
Division is another method of propagating Geophila obvallata. This method involves dividing the parent plant into several smaller plants. This method can be done during the growing season, and it is important to ensure that each division has healthy roots and shoots. The divided plants should be transplanted to individual pots or planting locations that have well-draining soil and are kept in a shaded area.
Disease Management
Geophila obvallata is susceptible to fungal and viral diseases. The common diseases that affect it include:
- Anthracnose: It is a fungal disease causing dark spots on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. Manage anthracnose by pruning and destroying the infected parts of the plant, ensuring better air circulation, and practicing proper sanitation methods.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by fungi and can lead to wilting and death of the plant. It can be managed by avoiding overwatering and ensuring proper drainage. Fungicides can also be applied to infected plants, but prevention is the best method.
- Yellowing disease: This disease is caused by a virus and leads to the yellowing and stunting of the plant. No cure exists for this disease, and the only solution is to remove and destroy the infected plants.
Pest Management
Geophila obvallata is generally resistant to most pests, but some pests might still attack the plant. The following are the common pests that attack the plant and how to manage them:
- Aphids: The small insects feed on the plant's sap and cause stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. They can be managed by using insecticidal soaps or neem oil and maintaining a clean growing area.
- Spider mites: The tiny arthropods suck the plant sap and cause yellowing of leaves and webbing on the plant. They can be managed by spraying the plant with neem oil, insecticidal soaps, or horticultural oils.
- Scale insects: The scale insects feed on the plant sap, causing yellowing and death of leaves. They can be managed by rubbing the plant's affected parts with a cotton ball soaked in alcohol and monitoring the plant regularly.
