Origin
Ipomoea magnusiana Schinz var. eenii (Rendle) A.Meeuse is a plant species that is native to tropical East Africa. It is primarily found in Tanzania, Uganda, and Kenya.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known by several names, including the Eenii Morning Glory, Eenii Ipomoea, and the Blue Dawn Flower.
Uses
The Eenii Morning Glory has several uses among different cultures. The plant is used in traditional medicine to treat various illnesses such as stomach pain, constipation, and inflammation. The seeds of the plant are also used as a natural laxative. The plant is also a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive blue flowers. The plant is used to decorate gardens, fences, and walls, and is also used in flower arrangements.
General Appearance
Ipomoea magnusiana Schinz var. eenii (Rendle) A.Meeuse is a climbing plant, with long, slender stems that can grow up to 5 meters long. The plant produces heart-shaped leaves that are 7-12 cm long and 5-13 cm wide. The flowers are funnel-shaped and can grow up to 5 cm in diameter. The flowers are blue with a white center and are produced in clusters. The plant requires well-drained soil and full sunlight to thrive.
Light Requirements
Ipomoea magnusiana Schinz var. eenii (Rendle) A.Meeuse thrives best in areas where it can receive full sunlight. It typically requires 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily to grow and develop effectively. When planted in shady areas, the plant tends to become lanky and does not produce as many flowers as in areas that receive full sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
This plant typically grows in warm climates and requires average to high temperatures to flourish. Ideal temperatures for growth range from 20-30°C, and growth is often stunted if temperatures fall below 10°C. Extremely high temperatures above 40°C can also cause stunt growth, leaf fall, and discoloration. Humidity does not play a significant role in the growth of Ipomoea magnusiana.
Soil Requirements
Ipomoea magnusiana Schinz var. eenii (Rendle) A.Meeuse prefers well-drained, moist soils with moderate fertility for growth. Sandy loam soil with a pH of 6.0 to 6.5 is ideal for the plant to grow and develop optimally. The plant can also tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soils. However, if planted in poorly drained soils, there is a high probability that the plant root system may experience root rot, which can stunt plant growth.
Cultivation of Ipomoea magnusiana Schinz var. eenii (Rendle) A.Meeuse
When cultivating Ipomoea magnusiana Schinz var. eenii (Rendle) A.Meeuse, it is essential to select a spot with plenty of sunlight. The plant requires a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight to thrive. The soil should be well-draining, rich in organic matter, and slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH value ranging from 6.0 - 7.0.
The plant can be propagated using cuttings or seeds. The best time to plant the seeds is during the spring when the temperature is between 20 to 25 degrees Celsius. The seeds should be sown in pots or directly into the ground at a depth of 1 cm. The cuttings should be taken during the summer or spring months, and the stem should be dipped into rooting hormone before planting.
Watering Needs of Ipomoea magnusiana Schinz var. eenii (Rendle) A.Meeuse
The plant requires regular watering to thrive, especially during the hot and dry months. However, it would be best to avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot. Instead, water the plant deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil conditions. During the winter season, reduce the frequency of watering to once a week.
Fertilization of Ipomoea magnusiana Schinz var. eenii (Rendle) A.Meeuse
Apply a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 months during the growing season to ensure healthy growth and blooming. A slow-release fertilizer rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium will provide the necessary nutrients for the plant to thrive. Avoid over-fertilization, as it can lead to excessive foliage growth and reduced blooming.
Pruning of Ipomoea magnusiana Schinz var. eenii (Rendle) A.Meeuse
To encourage bushier growth and prolonged blooming, pinch back the tips of the plant during the growing season. Remove dead or diseased leaves, stems, or flowers regularly. If the plant becomes leggy, prune it back to its original shape, leaving at least two to three leaves on each stem.
Propagation of Ipomoea magnusiana Schinz var. eenii (Rendle) A.Meeuse
Ipomoea magnusiana Schinz var. eenii (Rendle) A.Meeuse is commonly propagated through the following methods:
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Ipomoea magnusiana Schinz var. eenii (Rendle) A.Meeuse should be collected from a plant that is a genetic match to the desired variety. These seeds should be mature and dry before they are collected. Once collected, the seeds can be sowed right away or stored in a cool, dry place until they are needed.
It's recommended to soak the seeds in water overnight before planting. The seeds should then be planted about 1/4 inch deep in a well-draining soil mix. The soil should be kept moist, but not too wet, until the seeds germinate and the plant begins to establish itself.
Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings are another popular way to propagate Ipomoea magnusiana Schinz var. eenii (Rendle) A.Meeuse. Cuttings should be taken from a healthy, established plant. These cuttings should be about 3-4 inches long and should include at least two nodes.
Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting, leaving just a few at the top. Dip the end of the cutting in rooting hormone to encourage root development. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix, and keep it moist and covered with a plastic bag until roots begin to form.
Division Propagation
Division involves separating an established plant into smaller sections. This method is best done in the spring when the plant is actively growing.
To divide Ipomoea magnusiana Schinz var. eenii (Rendle) A.Meeuse, carefully remove it from the soil and separate it into smaller sections. Each section should have its own root system and several stems with leaves. Replant the sections in well-draining soil mixes and make sure to keep them moist until they begin to establish themselves.
Disease Management
Ipomoea magnusiana Schinz var. eenii (Rendle) A.Meeuse can be affected by various diseases that affect the growth and yield of the plant. The following are some common diseases that affect the plant:
- Leaf Spot: This is caused by fungi that cause yellow, brown, or black spots on the leaves. This can cause defoliation, reducing the plant's photosynthetic ability. Management of leaf spot can be done through proper sanitation, which entails removing and destroying infected leaves and stems. Fungicides may also be used to manage the disease.
- Root rot: This is caused by fungi that cause the rotting of roots. It can cause wilting, yellowing of leaves, and eventually plant death. To manage root rot, it is advisable to use well-drained soil and avoid waterlogging. Fungicides can also be used to treat the disease.
- Mosaic virus: This is caused by a virus that causes mosaic-like patterns on the leaves. The disease may cause stunted growth and deformed foliage. It is advisable to control the virus by uprooting and destroying infected plants. Avoid planting in areas where the virus has affected the plant before.
Pest Management
Ipomoea magnusiana Schinz var. eenii (Rendle) A.Meeuse can also be affected by pests that can cause damage to the plant. The following are some pests that may attack the plant:
- Spider mites: These are tiny pests that suck sap from leaves, causing yellowing, stunted growth, and leaf shedding. Spider mites can be controlled by using insecticidal soap, pesticides, or by introducing predatory mites into the garden.
- Caterpillars: Caterpillars are known to feed on the leaves of the plant, causing defoliation. You can control caterpillars by handpicking and removing them from the plant. You can also use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) or spinosad-based insecticides.
- Aphids: These are soft-bodied insects that damage the plant by sucking sap from the leaves, causing yellowing and curling of the leaves. To control aphids, you can use insecticidal soap or introduce natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings.
