Origin
Justicia pulegioides C.B.Clarke subsp. late-ovata C.B.Clarke is a species of plant that belongs to the Acanthaceae family. It is native to India and Sri Lanka.
Common Names
Justicia pulegioides C.B.Clarke subsp. late-ovata C.B.Clarke is commonly known as Shama in Ayurveda. In Sri Lanka, it is referred to as Deregaha. Other common names include Blue Justicia and Buddha's Tears.
Uses
Justicia pulegioides C.B.Clarke subsp. late-ovata C.B.Clarke has a variety of medicinal uses. It is traditionally used in Ayurveda as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent. It is also known to be effective in treating colds, flu, fever, and respiratory infections. Additionally, it has antioxidant properties and can help improve digestion.
General Appearance
Justicia pulegioides C.B.Clarke subsp. late-ovata C.B.Clarke is a perennial plant that grows up to 1 meter in height. It has dark green leaves that are ovate-lanceolate in shape and measure around 10-20 cm in length. The flowers are blue or purple, and they bloom in the summer. The plant produces thin, stringy seed pods that contain numerous black seeds. Overall, the plant has a bushy and attractive appearance.
Growth Conditions for Justicia pulegioides C.B.Clarke subsp. late-ovata C.B.Clarke
Justicia pulegioides C.B.Clarke subsp. late-ovata C.B.Clarke is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Acanthaceae family. This plant is native to India and thrives in tropical and subtropical regions. It is commonly known as the slender snakeroot or the Indian water willow. The plant has unique growth conditions that allow it to flourish.
Light Requirements
Like most plants, the Justicia pulegioides C.B.Clarke subsp. late-ovata C.B.Clarke requires ample light to grow and thrive. Placement in an area that receives partial to full sunlight is ideal for the plant. Insufficient light will lead to a decrease in the plant's growth rate, smaller leaf size, and paler leaf color.
Temperature Requirements
The Justicia pulegioides C.B.Clarke subsp. late-ovata C.B.Clarke requires a warm and humid environment. This plant grows well in temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C with a minimum temperature of 16°C. However, it cannot tolerate frost or extremely cold temperatures and may die in such conditions.
Soil Requirements
Justicia pulegioides C.B.Clarke subsp. late-ovata C.B.Clarke prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should range from 6.0 to 7.5. The plant also requires regular watering to maintain optimal growth conditions.
In conclusion, the Justicia pulegioides C.B.Clarke subsp. late-ovata C.B.Clarke is a tropical and subtropical plant that requires ample levels of sunlight, warm temperatures, and well-drained soil to grow and thrive. Proper care of the plant will lead to vigorous growth, beautiful foliage, and attractive flowers.
Cultivation Methods
The Justicia pulegioides C.B.Clarke subsp. late-ovata C.B.Clarke plant requires well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH ranging from 5.5 to 7.0. The plant prefers partial shade to full sun exposure.
You can cultivate this plant either indoors or outdoors. If you choose to grow it indoors, ensure that you place it near a window where it can get sufficient sunlight. However, if you opt for outdoor cultivation, the plant thrives in USDA hardiness zones 8a to 11b.
Watering Needs
The Justicia pulegioides C.B.Clarke subsp. late-ovata C.B.Clarke plant requires moderate watering. Water the plant when the top layer of soil is dry, but ensure that you do not overwater the plant as it can cause root rot.
The watering frequency may depend on the climate and temperature in your area. During hot summers, you may need to water the plant more frequently, while in winter, you may need to water the plant less frequently.
Fertilization
The Justicia pulegioides C.B.Clarke subsp. late-ovata C.B.Clarke plant requires moderate fertilization. Fertilize the plant once every month during the growing season, which is from spring to fall.
Use a balanced fertilizer that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. You can also use organic fertilizers such as compost or manure.
Pruning
Pruning the Justicia pulegioides C.B.Clarke subsp. late-ovata C.B.Clarke plant is not necessary. However, if you notice any diseased, damaged, or dead leaves, remove them immediately.
Trimming the plant occasionally can help maintain its shape and size. Cut back any overgrown branches or stems to encourage new growth and promote bushiness in the plant.
Propagation of Justicia pulegioides C.B.Clarke subsp. late-ovata C.B.Clarke
Justicia pulegioides C.B.Clarke subsp. late-ovata C.B.Clarke is commonly known as dwarf water willow. It is a perennial herb that forms thick clusters consisting of short, upright stems with typical square-shaped stems of the Lamiaceae family. Propagation of this plant can be done through two methods:
Vegetative propagation
Vegetative propagation of Justicia pulegioides can be done through stem cutting.
- Select a healthy stem and cut it at a length of 3-4 inches.
- Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone.
- Plant the stem in a pot filled with a well-drained soil mix consisting of coco peat, perlite, and vermiculite.
- Maintain the soil moisture regularly and keep the pot in a shaded area.
- Rooting is expected to occur in 2-3 weeks, and transplant to a bigger pot when the plant outgrows the current one.
Seed propagation
Justicia pulegioides can also be propagated through seeds.
- Collect the seed pods when they turn brown and dry, and the seed inside can be heard to rattle.
- Clean the seeds by removing any remaining debris and allow to air dry.
- Prepare a well-drained soil mix consisting of sand, coco peat, and vermiculite in equal proportion.
- Once the soil is ready, sow the seeds on the surface and press them lightly to ensure that they are in contact with the soil.
- Water the soil and keep it moist, but avoid over-watering.
- Seedlings will emerge in two to three weeks and should be transplanted to bigger pots when they outgrow the current one.
Propagation of Justicia pulegioides C.B.Clarke subsp. late-ovata C.B.Clarke is an easy process that can be carried out using either seed propagation or stem cutting propagation.
Disease Management
Justicia pulegioides C.B.Clarke subsp. late-ovata C.B.Clarke is susceptible to several diseases. One common disease is powdery mildew, which causes white powdery spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, it is important to ensure proper air circulation and avoid overcrowding the plants. Additionally, infected leaves should be removed and destroyed to prevent the spread of the disease.
Another disease that can affect this plant is leaf spot, which causes brown spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, it is important to avoid overhead watering, as moisture on the leaves can promote the growth of the fungus. Fungicides can also be used to control leaf spot.
Pest Management
Justicia pulegioides C.B.Clarke subsp. late-ovata C.B.Clarke can also be affected by pests. One common pest is spider mites, which can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. To manage spider mites, it is important to regularly inspect the plants and remove any infested leaves. Additionally, spraying the plant with soapy water can help to control the pest.
Aphids are another common pest that can affect this plant. They can cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. To manage aphids, it is important to regularly inspect the plants and remove any infested leaves. Insecticidal soap can also be used to control the pest.
