Origin
Justicia matammensis (Schweinf.) Oliv. belongs to the family Acanthaceae and is native to Cameroon and Nigeria in West Africa.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Matameye Justicia in English and Ya-Thilli in Hausa language.
Uses
The whole plant of Justicia matammensis is known for its medicinal and culinary properties. In traditional medicine, the leaves, stem, and roots of the plant are used to treat various infections, inflammations, and pains. The plant is also used in improving digestion and appetite. In addition, some communities use the leaves of the plant for culinary purposes such as preparing soups.
General Appearance
Justicia matammensis is an annual or perennial herb that grows up to 1.5 meters tall. The plant has erect stems that are green or purplish in color and covered with simple, glandular hairs. The leaves are arranged oppositely, simple, elliptic, and have a length of about 9 cm. The flowers are borne in axillary or terminal inflorescences, and are pink to purple in color. The fruits are capsules that contain numerous tiny seeds that are dispersed by wind or water.
Light Requirements
Justicia matammensis requires bright, indirect light to thrive. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, especially during the morning hours, but should be shielded from intense afternoon sun. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and stunt growth. Therefore, it is best to place the plant near a window that receives bright, indirect light throughout the day.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Justicia matammensis is between 65-80°F (18-27°C). The plant can tolerate temperatures as low as 50°F (10°C) for short periods, but prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can cause damage to the leaves and roots. Similarly, high temperatures above 85°F (29°C) can cause the plant to wilt, lose its leaves, and even die.
Soil Requirements
Justicia matammensis prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It is important to use a potting mix that allows for adequate water drainage, as the plant does not like to sit in water. The soil pH should be kept between 5.5-6.5, which is slightly acidic. Adding perlite, sand, or vermiculite to the soil mix can increase drainage and aerate the soil, creating optimal growing conditions for the plant.
Cultivation
Justicia matammensis grows well in a soil that is well-drained, fertile, and rich in organic matter. It prefers a neutral to slightly acidic soil pH level around 6.0 to 7.0. This plant thrives best in a location that receives full sun or partial shade. It can be propagated through seed or stem cuttings.
Watering Needs
The watering frequency for Justicia matammensis depends on the climate, soil type, and the stage of growth. Generally, it requires regular watering, with the soil kept evenly moist but not waterlogged. During dry periods, it might require more frequent watering to maintain adequate soil moisture. However, it is important not to overwater the plant as that can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Justicia matammensis benefits from regular fertilization to maintain healthy growth and flowering. Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer once every two months during the growing season (spring and summer). Alternatively, a liquid fertilizer can be applied monthly. However, avoid overfertilization that can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowering.
Pruning
Pruning is not strictly necessary for Justicia matammensis but can aid in maintaining its shape and size. Generally, trim back excessive or damaged branches or stems. If you wish to maintain a particular size and shape, prune back the plant once a year just after flowering. This will promote bushier growth and encourage more flowers.
Propagation of Justicia matammensis
Justicia matammensis (Schweinf.) Oliv. is a beautiful and unique plant that can be propagated by various means. The plant is a member of the Justicia genus, a group of flowering plants that are native to Africa. Justicia matammensis is commonly known as the Matama justicia and is an evergreen shrub that can grow up to 2 meters tall.
Propagation Methods
Propagation of Justicia matammensis is usually carried out using the following methods:
Seeds:
Justicia matammensis can be propagated by sowing the seeds. The seeds should be collected from the matured fruits and sown either on the nursery beds or in containers. The seeds require a suitable germination environment, with appropriate moisture and temperature conditions. Germination of the seeds usually takes between 2 to 3 weeks.
Cuttings:
Justicia matammensis can also be propagated by the use of cuttings. For this method, stem cuttings of about 10 to 15 cm long are collected from the parent plant, preferably from the upper part of the stem. The cuttings should be healthy, free from diseases and pests, and have at least 4 to 5 leaves. The cuttings are then planted on a nursery bed or in a container filled with a suitable rooting medium, such as sand or vermiculite. The rooting medium should be moist, and the cuttings should be kept in a shaded area to enhance root development. Rooting of the cuttings usually occurs after 4 to 5 weeks.
Division:
Division is another propagation method that can be used for Justicia matammensis. This method involves dividing the parent plant into smaller sections, each containing a clump of roots. The divided sections are then replanted in suitable locations where they can grow to maturity. This method is best carried out during spring when the plant is actively growing.
Propagation of Justicia matammensis requires patience, care, and attention to detail. With proper propagation techniques, one can easily propagate this plant to increase its population and enhance its beauty.
Disease Management
Justicia matammensis is a hardy plant, but it can be susceptible to a few diseases. Here are some of the most common diseases that can affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant. Symptoms include brown spots on the leaves, which may eventually turn yellow and drop off. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected leaves, avoid wetting the leaves when watering, and apply a fungicide if necessary.
Root Rot
Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant. Symptoms include wilting, yellowing, and stunted growth. To manage this disease, improve drainage, avoid overwatering, and remove infected plants to prevent the spread of the disease.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant. Symptoms include a powdery white coating on the leaves. To manage this disease, prune affected areas, increase airflow around the plant, and apply a fungicide if necessary.
Pest Management
Justicia matammensis is relatively pest-resistant, but there are a few common pests that can affect the plant. Here are some of the most common pests and ways to manage them:
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny arachnids that feed on the sap of the plant, causing yellowing, wilting, and stunted growth. To manage this pest, remove heavily infested leaves, increase humidity around the plant, and apply a miticide if necessary.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant and secrete a sticky substance. Symptoms include yellowing, wilting, and stunted growth. To manage this pest, remove and destroy heavily infested leaves, apply insecticidal soap or oil, and introduce natural predators like ladybugs.
Caterpillars
Caterpillars are the larval stage of butterflies and moths and can chew on the leaves of the plant, causing holes and ragged edges. To manage this pest, remove and destroy heavily infested leaves, introduce natural predators like birds, and apply a BT (Bacillus thuringiensis) insecticide if necessary.
