Origin
Grewia gonioclinia K.Schum. var. concolor (Chiov.) Cufod. is native to Ethiopia, which is located in the Horn of Africa.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known as "Kalaicha" or "Kaloicha" in Ethiopia.
Uses
The fruit of Grewia gonioclinia K.Schum. var. concolor is commonly consumed by the local people in Ethiopia. The fruit is a good source of Vitamin C and can be eaten fresh or used to make juice or jam. The bark of the plant is also used for medicinal purposes, such as to treat skin disorders and to reduce fever.
General Appearance
Grewia gonioclinia K.Schum. var. concolor is a deciduous shrub or small tree that can grow up to 5 meters in height. It has a greyish-brown bark and is covered with small hairs. The leaves are simple, alternate, and elliptical in shape. The flowers are small and white or pink in color, and they are borne in clusters. The fruit is a small, red to purplish-black berry that is spherical in shape and contains many small seeds.
Light Requirements
Grewia gonioclinia var. concolor prefers to grow in an area with full sunlight exposure. Avoid planting the species in areas with heavy shade as it may cause the plant to develop diseases or die. However, if the plant is young, it must be kept in partial shade until it grows up.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can grow in different temperature ranges. However, the optimal temperature for the plant is between 20°C to 30°C. If the temperature goes below 5°C, it may damage the plant. Also, avoid planting in excessively humid conditions as it may contribute to plant diseases and the development of fungi in the soil.
Soil Requirements
Grewia gonioclinia var. concolor can grow in different types of soil such as sandy soil, loamy soil, or clay soil. However, for optimal growth, it requires well-drained soil that is moist and rich in organic matter. The soil should have a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. Also, avoid planting the species in areas with soil that is too compacted or poorly aerated as it may cause the roots to suffocate and the plant to die.
Cultivation Methods
Grewia gonioclinia K.Schum. var. concolor (Chiov.) Cufod. is a relatively easy plant to cultivate. It prefers a warm, tropical climate but can also tolerate cooler temperatures. The plant needs full sun exposure to thrive.
Start by planting the seedlings in well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 8.0. Additionally, the soil should be rich in organic matter. Plant the seedlings about 3 feet apart to allow for adequate air circulation and room for growth.
Watering Needs
Grewia gonioclinia K.Schum. var. concolor (Chiov.) Cufod. requires moderate watering. Water the plant once or twice a week, allowing the top 1 inch of soil to dry before watering again. Overwatering can cause root rot, so be careful not to let the plant sit in water.
During periods of intense heat or drought, water the plant more frequently to prevent wilting and dehydration.
Fertilization
For optimal growth, use a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient ratio of 10-10-10. Apply the fertilizer during the growing season, which is usually from spring to fall.
Be sure to follow the instructions on the fertilizer package and use the recommended amount for the size of your plant. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can harm the plant.
Pruning
Grewia gonioclinia K.Schum. var. concolor (Chiov.) Cufod. benefits from pruning to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. Prune the plant during the dormant season, which is usually in late winter or early spring.
Start by removing any dead, damaged or diseased branches. Next, prune back any branches that are growing in an awkward direction or are too long. Be sure to use sharp pruning shears and make clean cuts to avoid damaging the plant.
After pruning, dispose of the clippings to prevent the spread of diseases or pests.
Propagation of Grewia gonioclinia K.Schum. var. concolor
Grewia gonioclinia K.Schum. var. concolor, commonly known as the Lavender Star Flower, can be propagated through various methods. These methods include:
Seed Propagation
The Lavender Star Flower produces seeds that can be collected and sown at the beginning of the growing season. The seeds should be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist until germination occurs. It is important to note that seed-grown plants may vary in characteristics compared to the parent plant.
Cuttings Propagation
The Lavender Star Flower can also be propagated through stem cuttings. This is done by taking 10-15cm cuttings from a healthy parent plant, removing the lower leaves, and dipping the bottom end in rooting hormone. The cuttings should then be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist until they develop roots.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering is another method of propagation that can be used for the Lavender Star Flower. This is done by making a small cut on a healthy stem and wrapping moist sphagnum moss around the cut area. The moss should then be wrapped in plastic to hold in moisture. After a few weeks, roots should form in the moss and the newly formed plant can be separated from the parent plant and potted.
Propagation of the Lavender Star Flower can be done using any of the above methods, depending on the available resources and individual preference.
Disease Management:
Grewia gonioclinia K.Schum. var. concolor (Chiov.) Cufod. is generally a disease-resistant plant; however, it is essential to take necessary precautions to prevent any occurrence of diseases. Here are some of the most common diseases that affect the plant and how to manage them:
Powdery Mildew:
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, stems, flowers, and fruit of the plant. It creates a powdery white coating on the plant's surface, causing leaves to curl, yellow, and drop. To manage the disease, remove infected leaves and branches and spray a fungicide to limit its spread.
Rust:
Rust is a fungal disease that creates orange or yellow spots on the leaves, causing them to turn yellow, brown and fall off eventually. It can also spread to the stems and fruits. To manage rust, remove affected plants and prune any remaining parts. Spray a fungicide and make sure that you properly dispose of any damaged plant material.
Leaf Spot:
Leaf spot is a bacterial disease that causes black or brown lesions on the leaves. It can spread to the stems and fruit and can be severe in high humidity environments. You can manage it by spraying a bactericide and removing infected parts of the plant, ensuring that you don't water the plant from the top.
Pest Management:
Grewia gonioclinia K.Schum. var. concolor (Chiov.) Cufod. is susceptible to insect infestations, which can cause severe damage to the plant. Here are some of the most common pests and how to manage them:
Mealybugs:
Mealybugs are small, white, cotton-like insects that form a white, waxy coating on the leaves and stems of the plant. They feed on plant sap, causing yellowing and wilting of the plant's parts. Use an insecticide to manage the infestation and remove any visible mealybugs.
Aphids:
Aphids are tiny insects that curl the leaves, making them yellow and misshapen. They also produce a sticky substance called honeydew that attracts ants. Management of the infestation includes aphid-eating insects like ladybugs, applying insecticidal soap solution, or a strong spray of water to dislodge them.
Caterpillars:
Caterpillars are larvae that feed on the leaves of the Grewia gonioclinia K.Schum. var. concolor (Chiov.) Cufod. plant. Depending on the severity of the infestation, manual removal or using a pesticide is the best approach.
Regular maintenance and vigilance are essential in disease and pest management. Always keep an eye on your plant, identify the signs of infestation, and take proper preventive measures.
