Origin and Common Names
Justicia striata (Klotzsch) Bullock subsp. austromontana Hedrén, commonly known as the Hillside waterwillow, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Acanthaceae family. This plant species is native to Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras, specifically found in the highlands of Chiapas, Mexico and Guatemala.
General Appearance
Hillside waterwillow is a small to medium-sized perennial plant that can grow up to 40 cm in height. The leaves are opposite, simple, and elliptic to oblong-ovate in shape with crenulate margins. The leaves are 3-8 cm long and 1.5-3 cm wide, with a slightly hairy and matte surface. The flowers are small and tubular with white or light pink petals that are 2-3 mm long. Hillside waterwillow produces fruits that are 5-6 mm long, containing four small seeds.
Uses
In Mexico, the leaves of Hillside waterwillow are used for medicinal purposes as a remedy for coughs, diarrhea, and intestinal parasites. The leaves are typically crushed or boiled in water and consumed as a tea. Additionally, the plant is used in traditional Mexican medicine to treat inflammation and fevers. Hillside waterwillow is also used as an ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage and flowers.
Light Requirements
Justicia striata subsp. austromontana requires bright, filtered light to grow well. It should be placed in a location where it can receive bright and indirect sunlight for at least 6 hours every day. Direct sun exposure can damage the leaves and cause them to wilt.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature for Justicia striata subsp. austromontana is between 15-25°C (60-77°F). It can tolerate cold temperatures to some extent, but not extreme heat or frost. If the temperature drops below 10°C (50°F), the plant may stop growing and become dormant. Conversely, temperatures above 30°C (86°F) can stress the plant and cause leaf scorching.
Soil Requirements
Justicia striata subsp. austromontana requires well-draining soil with good organic matter content. A combination of sand, loam, and peat moss is ideal for growing this plant. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.0-7.0 pH. Regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer is recommended to maintain soil fertility and promote healthy growth.
Cultivation
Justicia striata (Klotzsch) Bullock subsp. austromontana Hedrén is a tropical plant that thrives well both indoors and outdoors. The plant requires well-drained soil with a pH range of 5.5-6.5. It grows best in bright, indirect sunlight, and it prefers temperatures above 60°F. During the colder months, it is best to keep the plant indoors in a warm environment to protect it from frost and snow.
Watering Needs
The watering needs of Justicia striata (Klotzsch) Bullock subsp. austromontana Hedrén vary between seasons. During the growing season, which is early spring to late summer, the plant should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can cause root rot and even death of the plant. During the dormant season, which is winter to early spring, the frequency of watering should be reduced to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
Fertilization
In moderate soil conditions, the plant does not require much fertilization. However, during the growing season, the application of a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks can provide the necessary nutrients for healthy growth. A fertilizer high in nitrogen can also be used to encourage foliage growth.
Pruning
Justicia striata (Klotzsch) Bullock subsp. austromontana Hedrén requires minimal pruning. Pinching the tips of the plant stems during the growing season can encourage branching and a fuller appearance. Dead or yellowed leaves should be removed to prevent pest and disease issues. Regularly inspecting the plant for any signs of stress or damage can help to detect any issues early enough to take corrective action.
Propagation of Justicia striata (Klotzsch) Bullock subsp. austromontana Hedrén
Justicia striata (Klotzsch) Bullock subsp. austromontana Hedrén, commonly known as the mountain justicia, is a beautiful herbaceous plant that can be propagated using the following methods:
Seed propagation
The seeds of mountain justicia can be sown directly in the garden or in containers filled with good quality potting mix. The ideal time for sowing the seeds is in spring or summer. Before sowing, the seeds can be soaked in water for a day or two to improve germination. The container or garden bed should be kept moist until the seeds have germinated, which usually takes around 2-3 weeks.
Cutting propagation
Mountain justicia can also be propagated using cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is during the growing season, which in most regions is spring or summer. Take a cutting that is around 5-7 cm in length, making sure that it has at least one node. Remove the lower leaves from the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder. Plant this cutting in a container filled with moist potting mix and cover it with a plastic bag to create a humid environment. Keep the container in a warm, bright spot, but avoid direct sunlight. Roots should develop within 2-3 weeks.
Division propagation
Justicia striata can also be propagated by dividing mature plants. This method is best done in spring or autumn. Carefully dig up the plant and divide the clumps into smaller sections, each with at least one healthy shoot and a good root system. Replant the divided sections in a suitable location, making sure to water them well and keep them moist until they are established.
Disease Management
Justicia striata is generally resistant to diseases but may be susceptible to some fungal diseases such as leaf spot caused by several fungi including Cercospora spp., Colletotrichum spp., and Septoria spp. In severe infections, leaf spots can coalesce, resulting in defoliation and reduced growth and plant vigor.
To manage fungal diseases, avoid overhead watering as this can increase humidity levels which favor fungal growth. Ensure good air circulation around the plant, and remove and destroy infected leaves and plant debris to prevent the spread of disease. Applying fungicides may also be helpful in controlling severe infections; however, it is best to consult with a professional on the appropriate fungicide to use.
Pest Management
Common pests that may affect Justicia striata include mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. Mealybugs can be identified by the cotton-like masses they produce on leaves. Spider mites are tiny arachnids visible only through a magnifying glass and can cause leaf yellowing and defoliation. Scale insects, on the other hand, are small, immobile pests that attach themselves to stems and leaves, sucking sap from the plant.
To manage these pests, it is important to maintain good plant hygiene by removing and destroying affected plant parts. Regularly inspect the plant for early signs of infestation, particularly underneath leaves and along the stems. When infestations are light, washing the plant with a jet of water or wiping the leaves with a damp cloth can help dislodge and manage the pests. For severe infestations, applying insecticides or using beneficial insects such as ladybugs or lacewings that feed on the pests may be necessary; however, it is best to consult with a professional to determine the appropriate method of control.
