Overview:
Kedrostis angulata (P.J.Bergius) Fourc. is a member of the Cucurbitaceae family and is commonly known as Climbing cucumber, Bitterbobbejaankomkommer, Wildekomkommer, or Kwanganum. This plant is a climbing or trailing perennial herb that is indigenous to southern Africa. It is commonly found growing in regions of South Africa, including the Karoo, Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and Mpumalanga.
Appearance:
Kedrostis angulata is a fast-growing herbaceous plant that has an annual climbing or trailing habit. Its stems are slender and smooth, growing up to 3m long. Its leaves are simple, alternate, and broad, with serrated margins. The leaves are also palmately lobed, with three to five lobes, and are usually around 15 cm in diameter. Its flowers are small and white, and its fruit is fleshy, ovoid in shape, and red when ripe. Its seeds are round, approximately 5mm in diameter, and black in color.
Uses:
Kedrostis angulata has several medicinal properties and is used for various purposes in traditional medicine. Its roots and stems are used to treat a range of ailments, such as asthma, colic, and coughs. The fruit pulp is used as a laxative, while the seeds are used to treat arthritis, back pains, and to increase male fertility. The plant is also used as a source of food in some cultures, where the fruit is consumed raw or cooked. The fruit is also used to flavor traditional beer and other traditional alcoholic beverages. In addition, the bitter fruit of Kedrostis angulata is used as a natural insecticide.
Cultivation:
Kedrostis angulata is relatively easy to grow, and it is an important plant in traditional medicine, food, and farming in South Africa. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sunlight. It is a drought-tolerant plant and can grow in arid areas. The plant can be propagated using seeds or stem cuttings. The seeds should be sown in the spring, and the stems should be propagated during the rainy season. When grown in the garden, the plant is often supported by a trellis or fence, to allow the vines to climb or trail.
Light Requirements
Kedrostis angulata is a plant that requires a lot of sunlight to grow properly. It is recommended to place it in a spot where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. However, it shouldn’t be placed under direct, scorching sunlight as it may cause damage to the plant. A bright spot close to a south-facing window or a spot on the balcony that receives plenty of sunlight is ideal for growing Kedrostis angulata.
Temperature Requirements
Kedrostis angulata is a tropical plant; therefore, it thrives in warm and humid environments. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 18°C to 30°C (65°F to 85°F). At low temperatures, the plant tends to become dormant and stops growing. Therefore, it’s advisable to keep the plant away from cold drafts and frost, which can cause harm to the plant.
Soil Requirements
Kedrostis angulata plants require well-draining soil that can retain some moisture without becoming waterlogged. A mixture of peat moss, sand, and perlite or vermiculite will provide the ideal soil quality for the plant. These soil mixes will ensure adequate drainage while retaining the required moisture levels. It’s also advisable to fertilize the plant regularly to ensure the optimum growth and to keep it healthy.
Cultivation of Kedrostis angulata
Kedrostis angulata is a climber plant that belongs to the pumpkin family and is native to southern Africa. It is a fast-growing and low maintenance plant that can be easily cultivated in gardens or pots.
For successful cultivation of Kedrostis angulata, it is important to choose a location that receives partial to full sunlight, and has moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can tolerate a range of soil types but will thrive in fertile soils with a pH of around neutral or slightly acidic.
Watering Needs
The plant requires moderate watering, and the soil should be kept evenly moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, it is important to increase the frequency of watering, especially during hot and dry weather conditions. However, it is equally important to avoid over-watering, which can cause root rot and other fungal diseases.
During the winter months, the plant should be watered sparingly to prevent waterlogging, which can cause the roots to rot.
Fertilization
To enhance growth and development, Kedrostis angulata requires regular fertilization. It is important to apply a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season every two to three weeks. The fertilizer should be diluted with water before application to avoid burning the roots. Additionally, the plant can benefit from an application of compost or well-rotted manure at the beginning of each growing season.
Pruning
Kedrostis angulata does not require regular pruning but can be pruned to encourage bushier growth and control its size. The plant can be pruned immediately after flowering, and any dead or damaged branches should be removed at any time of the year to promote new growth. It is also important to remove climbing stems from walls or trellis to avoid damaging structures or neighboring plants.
Propagation of Kedrostis angulata (P.J.Bergius) Fourc.
Kedrostis angulata (P.J.Bergius) Fourc. can be propagated easily using different methods. Some of the effective propagation methods for Kedrostis angulata are discussed below:
Seed propagation
Seeds are the most common method of propagation for Kedrostis angulata (P.J.Bergius) Fourc. The seeds must be allowed to dry for a few days after harvesting, and then planted in seed trays or small pots filled with well-draining soil mix. The seeds should be covered with a layer of soil to ensure proper germination.
Stem cutting propagation
Kedrostis angulata (P.J.Bergius) Fourc. can also be propagated using stem cuttings. This method involves taking a stem cutting that is about 10-15cm long and planting it in well-draining soil mix. The cutting should be planted vertically, with at least half of the cutting buried in the soil. The cutting should be watered regularly to ensure proper growth.
Division propagation
Division is another effective method of propagating Kedrostis angulata (P.J.Bergius) Fourc. This method is best used when the plant is mature and has several root clumps. With the help of a sharp knife, carefully divide the root clumps, making sure to have at least 1-2 shoots in each division. Plant each division in a separate pot containing well-draining soil mix.
Disease and Pest Management for Kedrostis angulata
Kedrostis angulata, also known as the Climbing cucumber, is susceptible to a number of disease and pest problems. In order to maintain the health of these plants and promote maximum growth, it is important to manage these issues as soon as they appear. Below are some common problems associated with Kedrostis angulata and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Leaf spot: Kedrostis angulata is prone to leaf spot, which is caused by a fungus. The spots usually start small and grow larger, with a yellow or brown halo around them. To prevent leaf spot, avoid overhead watering and remove any infected leaves as soon as they're noticed. If the problem is severe, a fungicide can be applied.
Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a common problem for Kedrostis angulata, particularly in humid conditions. This fungal disease causes white or gray powdery patches on the leaves. To manage powdery mildew, ensure good air circulation around the plant, avoid overhead watering, and remove any infected leaves. Fungicides may also be used.
Root rot: Kedrostis angulata is susceptible to root rot, which is caused by overwatering or poorly-draining soils. Symptoms include yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and wilting. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering.
Common Pests
Spider mites: These small insects feed on the plant's sap, causing stippling on the leaves and a general weakening of the plant. To manage spider mites, wash the plant down with a strong jet of water, prune off any heavily infested leaves, or use insecticidal soap.
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the leaves, causing them to curl and distort. They can also transmit viruses. To manage aphids, wash the plant down with a strong jet of water, prune off any heavily infested leaves, or use insecticidal soap.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars can cause significant damage to the leaves and fruit of Kedrostis angulata. To manage caterpillars, handpick them off the plant, or use a biological insecticide such as Bacillus thuringiensis.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure the health and vitality of your Kedrostis angulata plants, while minimizing the impact of disease and pests.
