Overview
Jasminum rotundatum Knobl. is a native flowering plant of the Philippines. It belongs to the Oleaceae family and is commonly known as a Round-leaf Jasmine or 'Sampaguita'.
Appearance
The plant has slender branches that can reach up to 3 meters in height. The leaves of the plant are green, shiny, and rounded with pointed tips. The leaves are arranged alternately and can grow up to 4 cm wide and 6 cm long. The plant bears fragrant white flowers with five petals and a tubular calyx. The flowers are usually about 2 cm in diameter and are clustered at the tips of the branches. The flowers bloom during the summer months and early autumn.
Uses
Jasminum rotundatum Knobl. is commonly used as an ornamental plant due to its fragrant white flowers. In the Philippines, it is known as 'Sampaguita' and is considered as one of the national symbols of the country. It is often used to make flower garlands, and its flowers are used in the perfume industry. In traditional medicine, the leaves of the plant are crushed, boiled, and used as a poultice to treat skin diseases and abscesses.
The plant is also known to attract bees and butterflies due to its fragrant flowers, making it an excellent choice for pollinator gardens. Additionally, it is used in traditional medicine as an herbal remedy for fever and headache.
Light Requirements
Jasminum rotundatum Knobl. requires full sun exposure to grow and thrive. Full sun exposure means that the plant should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight in a day. Too little light will result in poor growth and the plant may not bloom.
Temperature Requirements
Jasminum rotundatum Knobl. grows well in temperate to hot climates. The plant can tolerate high temperatures up to 95°F (35°C) but prefers a temperature range between 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C). The plant will not tolerate frost or freezing temperatures and cannot survive in cold climates.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-drained soil, which is neither too wet nor too dry. Soil pH should be neutral to slightly acidic, with a pH range between 6 to 7.5. The plant prefers fertile soil enriched with organic matter. Adding compost to the soil before planting can be helpful for providing the required nutrients. Avoid planting the plant in heavy clay, boggy or sandy soils as these soils will not provide enough nutrients required for growth.
Cultivation methods for Jasminum rotundatum Knobl.
Jasminum rotundatum Knobl. can be grown in gardens and in pots. The plant prefers well-drained sandy loam soil or red laterite soil. The soil should have a pH range between 5.5 to 7.0. The plant requires medium sunlight with a temperature range between 20°C to 36°C. In colder regions, the plant can be grown indoors with adequate light and temperature. The plant can be propagated through seeds or cuttings.
Watering needs for Jasminum rotundatum Knobl.
The plant requires regular watering during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. The frequency of watering can be adjusted according to the weather conditions. During the winter season, the plant can be watered sparingly to avoid waterlogging of the roots.
Fertilization of Jasminum rotundatum Knobl.
The plant requires regular fertilization during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10:10:10 can be applied monthly. Organic fertilizers can also be used. During the winter season, the frequency of fertilization can be reduced to every two months.
Pruning of Jasminum rotundatum Knobl.
The plant requires pruning to maintain its shape and promote new growth. The plant can be pruned after the flowering season in the fall. The old and weak branches can be removed, and the remaining branches can be pruned to the desired shape. Deadheading the spent blooms can promote new flower growth. The plant can be pruned lightly during the summer season to promote bushy growth.
Propagation of Jasminum rotundatum Knobl.
Jasminum rotundatum Knobl. can be propagated through various methods. The most common methods are by seeds, cuttings, and layering.
Propagation through Seeds
The seeds of Jasminum rotundatum Knobl. can be sown directly into the ground or in seed trays. The seeds must be collected from mature fruits, which turn black when ripe. They can be sown in a well-draining soil mixture with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The soil should be kept moist until germination occurs, which may take two to four weeks.
Propagation through Cuttings
Jasminum rotundatum Knobl. can be propagated through stem cuttings. Softwood cuttings, which are taken from new growth, are preferred over hardwood cuttings. Cuttings must be prepared from the parent plant using a sharp and sterile knife. The lower leaves must be removed, and the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone before planting in well-draining soil. The soil must be kept moist to ensure the success of propagation.
Propagation through Layering
Jasminum rotundatum Knobl. can also be propagated through layering. In this method, a low branch of the parent plant is bent, and a small nick is made in the bark to expose the cambium layer. The exposed area is covered with rooting hormone, and the branch is secured to the ground with a U-shaped wire. Roots will form from the exposed area, and the new plant can be cut off from the parent once it has established its own roots.
Disease and Pest Management for Jasminum rotundatum Knobl.
Jasminum rotundatum Knobl., commonly known as round-leaved jasmine, is a beautiful and fragrant plant that blooms pink or yellow flowers in the spring. It is relatively easy to grow, but both pests and diseases can affect its healthy growth. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
1. Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers. It thrives in humid conditions and can weaken the plant over time. To manage powdery mildew, prune off infected parts of the plant and dispose of them away from the garden. Treat the plant with a fungicide such as neem oil or potassium bicarbonate.
2. Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, causing them to turn brown and soft. It is caused by overwatering or poor drainage. To manage root rot, improve the drainage of the soil by adding perlite or sand. Reduce watering and allow the soil to dry out between waterings. If root rot persists, remove and destroy the infected plant and replant with fresh soil.
Common Pests
1. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the sap from the leaves, turning them yellow and causing them to fall off. They also spin webs on the leaves. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with water to dislodge them. Treat the plant with insecticidal soap, neem oil or spinosad. Also, consider introducing natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings.
2. Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the plant sap and excrete a sticky substance called honeydew. This can attract ants and promote the growth of sooty mold. To manage aphids, spray the plant with water to dislodge them. Treat the plant with insecticidal soap, neem oil, or pyrethrin-based insecticide. Also, consider introducing natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings.
Regular inspections of the plant can help to catch and manage any diseases or pests early. Proper care and maintenance, such as providing adequate water, nutrients, and sunlight, can also help to prevent attacks by diseases and pests. By taking precautions and being vigilant, you can help maintain the health and beauty of your Jasminum rotundatum Knobl. plant.
