Overview
Indigofera viscidissima Baker subsp. orientalis J.B.Gillett, commonly known as sticky indigo or sticky-leaved indigo, is a flowering plant belonging to the family Fabaceae. It is native to the African continent and is widely distributed in countries such as Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Ethiopia. The plant is known for its use in traditional medicine and has been studied for its potential pharmacological properties.Description
Sticky indigo is a shrubby plant that can grow up to 1-2 meters tall. Its stems are erect and woody and have a brownish color. The leaves are compound with 5-9 leaflets and are bright green in color. The leaflets are elliptic to obovate in shape and are covered in short hairs, giving the plant a sticky texture. The flowers are small, pink or purplish in color, and are arranged in dense spike-like racemes. The fruit is a pod that contains 5-10 seeds and is brown or black in color.Uses
The plant has a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly in East African countries. The roots, leaves, and stem of the plant are used to treat a variety of ailments such as fever, coughs, and diarrhea. The plant extracts have also been studied for their potential pharmacological properties, including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antitumor activities. In addition to its medicinal uses, the plant is also used for erosion control and as a source of fuelwood and fodder for livestock.Cultivation
Sticky indigo is suited for cultivation in tropical and subtropical regions where it can grow in a variety of soils, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. The plant requires regular watering and is tolerant of drought conditions. It can be propagated by seeds or stem cuttings, and the seeds need to be scarified or soaked in water before planting to enhance germination. The plant can be harvested for medicinal use after 2-3 years of growth.Light Requirements
Indigofera viscidissima Baker subsp. orientalis J.B.Gillett plants typically require full sun exposure. They cannot thrive well in areas with low sunlight conditions. Planting them in shaded areas might weaken their growth and development. Therefore, they need an area that is free from obstruction and allows enough sunlight exposure throughout the day.
Temperature Requirements
The subspecies Indigofera viscidissima Baker subsp. orientalis J.B.Gillett grows in warm climates. However, they have high tolerance to heat and can perform well in temperatures ranging from 18-35°C. These plants cannot withstand frosty conditions, and planting them in areas with temperatures below 5°C is not advisable.
Soil Requirements
Indigofera viscidissima Baker subsp. orientalis J.B.Gillett grows well in well-drained soils. They do not thrive well in waterlogged or flooded soils. The plants require soils rich in organic matter and have a pH range of 5.5-7.5. The ideal soil type is sandy loam, which allows drainage and root development.
In conclusion, for Indigofera viscidissima Baker subsp. orientalis J.B.Gillett to grow well, it requires full sunlight exposure, warm temperatures ranging from 18-35°C, and well-drained soils rich in organic matter.
Cultivation Methods
Indigofera viscidissima Baker subsp. orientalis J.B.Gillett commonly referred to as Oriental indigo is a hardy plant suitable for cultivation in various regions. It thrives in loamy soil with a pH range of 5.5 -7.5. The plant needs to be grown in bright, full sunlight to stimulate growth. Planting can be done in spring or autumn. Oriental indigo prefers to be planted in areas that have good drainage as it cannot tolerate waterlogging. The use of organic matter such as compost can be added to improve soil quality and moisture retention. Oriental indigo can also be grown in pots as long as it is not in direct exposure to scorching sunlight.
Watering Needs
Oriental Indigo requires regular watering for optimum growth. Young plants should be watered every two to three days as they establish. However, mature plants can tolerate dry conditions, but excessive drought stresses the plant. It's essential to water the plant deeply this ensures that the roots can develop deeply and efficiently extract water and nutrients from the soil. Irrigation should be done at the base of the plant and not on the foliage, especially during the flowering phase to avoid fungal infections.
Fertilization
Fertilization is essential for Oriental indigo's growth. Adding balanced fertilizers like NPK 12-12-17, which contains essential macro and micro-nutrients, benefits this plant. Fertilizer application can be done immediately after planting - apply a small amount of fertilizer at a distance of at least 15cm to avoid root burn. As the plant grows, apply an equal amount of fertilizer every 3 - 4 weeks during the summer season. However, avoid fertilizing the plant when it is flowering to avoid causing it to shed its flowers.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to maintain Oriental indigo's structured form, encourage bushiness, and promote better air circulation. Pruning should be done after winter dormancy to encourage vigorous spring growth. Use a sharp, sterilized pruning tool to prevent the spread of diseases. Cut back up to one-third of the plant's size, just above the node or bud to encourage fresh branching. Remove dry, damaged, and diseased stems to reduce the risk of fungal infections. Thin out overcrowded areas to allow more sunlight and air to reach the lower parts of the plant.
Propagation of Indigofera viscidissima Baker subsp. orientalis J.B.Gillett
There are two main propagation methods for Indigofera viscidissima Baker subsp. orientalis J.B.Gillett: seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating Indigofera viscidissima Baker subsp. orientalis J.B.Gillett. The seeds should be collected from mature plants in the fall when they are fully ripe and have turned brown. The collected seeds should be allowed to dry in a cool, dry location for several days before sowing them.
The seeds should be sown in well-drained, prepared soil in the spring after the last frost. They should be sown at a depth of 1/4 inch and spaced about 4-6 inches apart. For best results, the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Germination should occur within 14-21 days.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation can also be used for Indigofera viscidissima Baker subsp. orientalis J.B.Gillett. This method is most appropriate when the plant needs to be propagated quickly or when there is a shortage of seeds. The two main methods of vegetative propagation are through stem cuttings and layering.
Stem cuttings should be taken from new growth in the spring and summer. The cuttings should be about 4-6 inches long and should be taken from healthy plants. After removing the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting, they should be placed in a rooting hormone and inserted in a well-drained potting soil. The cuttings should be kept moist and in a warm, shady location until they take root.
Layering is another method of vegetative propagation. This method involves bending a healthy stem to the ground and covering it with soil. After several weeks, roots should appear at the point where the stem is covered with soil. Once this occurs, the new plant can be separated from the parent plant and transplanted.
Disease Management of Indigofera viscidissima Baker subsp. orientalis J.B.Gillett
Indigofera viscidissima Baker subsp. orientalis J.B.Gillett is generally a hardy plant species that can resist many diseases. However, some diseases can affect the plant if preventive measures are not taken. Some of the common diseases that might affect Indigofera viscidissima Baker subsp. orientalis J.B.Gillett are :
- Crown Gall Disease: Crown gall disease is caused by a bacterium known as Agrobacterium tumefaciens, which creates galls on the roots of the plant. The best way to control the disease is by using disease-free plants as much as possible and avoiding using contaminated soil.
- Anthracnose: Anthracnose is caused by fungi that cause leaf spots and cankers on stems. To control the disease, practice good sanitation by removing infected plant debris, avoiding overhead watering, and applying fungicides.
- Rust: Rust is another fungal disease that causes rust-colored lesions on leaves. Remove infected leaves promptly and dispose of them away from the plant to avoid contamination.
Pest Management of Indigofera viscidissima Baker subsp. orientalis J.B.Gillett
Indigofera viscidissima Baker subsp. orientalis J.B.Gillett is also susceptible to some pests, which can harm the plant's growth and health. Here are some of the common pests that might affect Indigofera viscidissima Baker subsp. orientalis J.B.Gillett:
- Aphids: Aphids are soft-bodied insects that suck the sap out of plants, causing them to weaken and become stunted. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the infestation.
- Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that feed on plant cells, causing yellow mottling and leaf drop. Use a spray of soapy water to control the infestation.
- Cutworm: Cutworms are caterpillars that chew the stems of young plants, causing them to wilt and die. Place cardboard collars or other barriers around the base of the plant to protect the stems from cutworms.
By practicing good sanitation, using healthy plants, and identifying the pests and diseases that can harm Indigofera viscidissima Baker subsp. orientalis J.B.Gillett, gardeners can help protect and maintain the health and beauty of this plant species.
