Origin of Hibiscus surattensis L. var. mastersianus (Hiern) Hochr.
Hibiscus surattensis L. var. mastersianus (Hiern) Hochr. is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Malvaceae. It is a native species to Southeast Asia, specifically to India, Sri Lanka, and the Philippines. The plant is commonly found in lowland forests, along streams and on roadsides.
Common Names of Hibiscus surattensis L. var. mastersianus (Hiern) Hochr.
Hibiscus surattensis L. var. mastersianus (Hiern) Hochr. has several common names such as the Surratt hibiscus, Philippine gumamela, and Indian hibiscus. In Sri Lanka, the plant is known as the Mal basa (??? ???) which translates to "flowering tree."
Uses of Hibiscus surattensis L. var. mastersianus (Hiern) Hochr.
The leaves and flowers of Hibiscus surattensis L. var. mastersianus (Hiern) Hochr. have been used for a variety of purposes. In traditional Ayurvedic medicine, the roots of the plant are used to treat constipation, fever, and coughs. The bark and flowers are also used for their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. In the Philippines, the leaves and flowers are used in traditional medicine to treat headaches, toothaches, and skin irritations.
The flowers of Hibiscus surattensis L. var. mastersianus (Hiern) Hochr. are also used for ornamental purposes. They are popularly grown in gardens and parks for their attractive flowers, which range from pale yellow to deep red and have a diameter of up to 12 cm. The flowers are also used to make garlands and for decorating hair.
General Appearance of Hibiscus surattensis L. var. mastersianus (Hiern) Hochr.
Hibiscus surattensis L. var. mastersianus (Hiern) Hochr. is a shrub or small tree that grows up to 5 meters tall. Its leaves are simple, ovate, and bright green. The plant produces large, showy flowers that are solitary or in small clusters. The flowers have five petals, a prominent stamen column, and a long tubular calyx. The fruit is a capsule that splits into several sections when mature.
Light Requirements
Hibiscus surattensis L. var. mastersianus (Hiern) Hochr. typically requires a lot of sunlight, about 6-8 hours a day to grow properly. This makes the plant a perfect fit for outdoor gardens with ample sunlight and raised planters. If you grow the plant indoors, ensure it's in a room with plenty of natural light or close to a window.
Temperature Requirements
H. surattensis var. mastersianus grows well in temperatures between 60°F to 90°F (15.5°C to 32°C). The temperature at night should not be below 50°F (10°C) during the colder months. Consistent temperatures within these ranges promote optimal growth and blooming for this plant. Temperatures below these levels can cause stunted growth and inhibit blooming.
Soil Requirements
Well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter is preferred for the growth of H. surattensis var. mastersianus. The plant requires a slightly acidic soil pH of 6-6.5. If you grow the plant outdoors, it should be planted in well-draining soil in raised garden beds or pots. If growing indoors, ensure the soil has good drainage. Adding a good quality fertilizer helps promote growth and blooming.
Cultivation Methods
Hibiscus surattensis L. var. mastersianus (Hiern) Hochr. is best grown in light, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It is tolerant of acidic to slightly alkaline soil conditions. Planting should be done in a location that receives full sun to partial shade. The plant can be propagated by seeds, cuttings, or layering.
Watering Needs
Proper watering is crucial for the healthy growth of Hibiscus surattensis L. var. mastersianus (Hiern) Hochr., and it should be watered deeply but less frequently. The plant prefers slightly moist soil but cannot tolerate waterlogged conditions. It is essential to avoid watering the leaves and flowers to prevent the spread of fungal diseases. In hot summer months, it may require more frequent watering as compared to winters.
Fertilization
The application of the right type and quantity of fertilizers is essential for the uniform growth of the plant and to ensure healthy blooming. During the growing season from spring to early fall, the plant should be fertilized every three to four weeks with a balanced fertilizer that contains equal amount of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. The application of organic fertilizers like compost, aged manure, or bone meal once a year will promote soil fertility and also result in healthy growth.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential maintenance practice for Hibiscus surattensis L. var. mastersianus (Hiern) Hochr. that will result in a well-shaped bush and increased blooming. The plant should be pruned in early Spring before the start of the growing season. Dead and diseased wood should be removed, and weak or leggy branches should be pruned to encourage new growth. Regular removal of spent flowers will encourage the plant to produce more flowers. The plant should not be pruned, except for removal of dead or damaged wood, in the Fall or Winter, as it can cause new growth, which is susceptible to frost damage.
Propagation of Hibiscus surattensis L. var. mastersianus (Hiern) Hochr.
Hibiscus surattensis L. var. mastersianus (Hiern) Hochr., commonly known as Masters' Hibiscus, is a beautiful and popular plant among gardeners for its bright red flowers. It can be propagated through various methods such as:
Seeds
Seeds are the most common method of propagation for the Hibiscus surattensis L. var. mastersianus (Hiern) Hochr. plant. The seeds can be sown directly into the soil or in seedling trays. Proper care must be taken during the germination of the seeds, including providing adequate moisture, warmth, and light. The ideal soil temperature for seed germination ranges from 70-85°F.
Cuttings
Cuttings are another effective way to propagate the Hibiscus surattensis L. var. mastersianus (Hiern) Hochr. plant. Cuttings can be taken from mature plants in the spring or early summer. The cuttings should be taken from healthy stems and leaves and should have at least one node. They should be dipped in rooting hormone powder and then planted in a potting mix that is well-draining. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. The cuttings should root within 4-6 weeks.
Division
Division is another method of propagation that can be used for Hibiscus surattensis L. var. mastersianus (Hiern) Hochr. plants. This method involves dividing the root ball of a mature plant into several sections and then planting the sections separately. It is important to ensure that each section has sufficient roots and shoots to grow independently. This method is best done during the fall or early spring.
In conclusion, Hibiscus surattensis L. var. mastersianus (Hiern) Hochr. can be propagated using seeds, cuttings, and division methods. Each propagation method has its benefits and challenges, and gardeners can choose the method that suits them best. Good care and suitable conditions for plant growth will ensure a successful propagation process.
Disease Management
Hibiscus surattensis L. var. mastersianus (Hiern) Hochr. is susceptible to various diseases that can negatively affect plant growth and yield. Some of the common diseases include:
- Anthracnose: It is a fungal disease that attacks the leaves, stem, and fruits of the plant, leading to leaf spots, stem blight, and fruit rot. To manage this disease, it is essential to keep the plants dry by avoiding overhead watering and keeping the soil well-drained. Fungicide application can also help prevent anthracnose.
- Powdery Mildew: This is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, stem, and flowers of the plant, causing a white powdery substance to form on the plant's surface. To manage powdery mildew, it is necessary to ensure good air circulation around the plants and avoid overhead watering. Fungicide application can also help control powdery mildew spread.
- Leaf Spot: It is a fungal disease that causes circular yellow spots on the leaves of the plant. The spots usually grow and merge, leading to defoliation. Manage leaf spot by regularly removing infected leaves and avoiding overcrowding of plants. Fungicide application can also help control leaf spot spread.
Pest Management
Hibiscus surattensis L. var. mastersianus (Hiern) Hochr. is also susceptible to pests that can damage the plant and reduce yield. Some of the common pests include:
- Aphids: They are small, soft-bodied insects that usually gather on the undersides of the leaves. The aphids pierce the leaves, sucking the sap, leading to stunted growth and deformation of the leaves. To manage aphids, it is necessary to use insecticidal soap or neem oil, which can repel or kill them.
- Spider Mites: They are tiny pests that feed on the underside of leaves, which leads to yellowing, wilted, and deformed leaves. To manage spider mites, it is necessary to regularly spray the plants with water to increase their humidity levels. Predatory mites can also be introduced in the garden to control the population of spider mites.
- Thrips: They are small insects that suck plant sap, leading to the appearance of silver-white patches on leaves. They also transmit a virus that causes yellowing of leaves. To manage thrips, one can use yellow sticky traps to capture them and remove infected parts.
