Origin and Common Names
Kelleronia revoilii (Franch.) Chiov. var. macropetala Chiov. is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the family Asparagaceae. This plant is native to Ethiopia and Kenya, and can be found in regions with an altitude of 2000-3000 meters above sea level. It is commonly known as the giant blue lily or the Ethiopian giant lily.
General Appearance
Kelleronia revoilii grows up to six feet in height, making it one of the tallest lilies in the world. It has a cylindrical stem with a width of up to 12cm, and a cluster of leaves that are up to 100cm in length. The giant blue lily blooms in early summer, producing large inflorescences with up to 20 vivid blue flowers that have a diameter of 10cm. Each flower has six petals and numerous stamens that are yellow in color. The plant also produces a large subterranean bulb that acts as a storage organ.
Uses
Kelleronia revoilii is mainly used as an ornamental plant due to its striking appearance. In its native habitat, the bulb of the plant is used by local communities as a source of food during times of drought and famine. Extracts from the plant are also believed to possess medicinal properties, and are used to treat a range of ailments including respiratory infections, fever, and gastrointestinal disorders.
Light Requirements
Kelleronia revoilii var. macropetala Chiov. requires bright, indirect light for optimal growth. It should be placed in a location where it can receive partial shade, especially during the hottest parts of the day. Direct sunlight can cause leaf burn and damage to the plant. However, too much shade can result in leggy growth and a lack of blooms.
Temperature Requirements
This plant thrives in a warm and humid environment. The ideal temperature range for Kelleronia revoilii var. macropetala Chiov. is between 18-28°C (64-82°F). Temperatures below 10°C (50°F) should be avoided as they can cause damage to the plant's leaves and stems, and may even result in death. A consistently warm and humid environment will promote healthy growth and encourage blooming.
Soil Requirements
The soil in which Kelleronia revoilii var. macropetala Chiov. is planted should be well-draining and rich in nutrients. A mixture of peat moss, sand, and perlite is recommended. The soil should be kept moist at all times, but not waterlogged, as excess water can cause root rot. A balanced fertilizer can be applied periodically during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Cultivation
Kelleronia revoilii (Franch.) Chiov. var. macropetala Chiov. is a hardy plant, but it requires specific conditions for cultivation. The plants need well-drained soil with good organic matter content, and it should be slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5-7.0). Full sun to partial shade is ideal for the plant's growth.
It is best to plant the Kelleronia revoilii (Franch.) Chiov. var. macropetala Chiov. in the spring or early summer seasons when the temperature is warm and stable. They can be grown in pots and containers or directly in the ground. When planting in pots or containers, make sure to use a quality potting mix that is rich in organic matter and has excellent drainage properties.
Watering needs
Watering the plant is crucial in its growth. Kelleronia revoilii (Franch.) Chiov. var. macropetala Chiov. demands moist soil, but it needs to be well-drained and not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. As a general rule, water the plant when the top inch of the soil is dry to touch. During hot summers, the plant may require frequent watering.
Fertilization
Fertilization is essential to stimulate the plant's growth and blooming. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to Kelleronia revoilii (Franch.) Chiov. var. macropetala Chiov. during the growing season, from spring to fall. Make sure to follow the product's label instructions and always fertilize the plants during their growth phase. Avoid fertilizing the plant during the winter season when the plant goes dormant.
Pruning
Pruning the Kelleronia revoilii (Franch.) Chiov. var. macropetala Chiov. can help to maintain its shape and enhance its blooming. Prune the plant after it finishes blooming, either in the fall or early spring. Remove any dead or damaged stems and old flowers. If the plant has outgrown its space, it can be pruned back hard, up to one-third of its total height. However, avoid severe pruning as it may lead to reduced blooming.
Propagation of Kelleronia revoilii (Franch.) Chiov. var. macropetala Chiov.
Kelleronia revoilii (Franch.) Chiov. var. macropetala Chiov. commonly known as the "Scented gardenia" is propagated by two methods- by using seeds or by cuttings.
Propagation by seeds:
The seeds of Kelleronia revoilii (Franch.) Chiov. var. macropetala Chiov. need to be collected preferably in late spring or early fall. The seeds must be cleaned and dried before storage. The storage spot must be cool and dry. The seeds remain viable for up to 2 years. The potting mix should be sand, perlite, and peat in a 1:1:1 ratio, kept moist. The seeds should be covered with the potting soil mix, approximately twice the size of the seed. Germination temperature must be between 18-22°C, and seeds should be exposed to indirect sunlight. The seeds are likely to germinate within 30-90 days. Once the seedlings have produced two sets of true leaves, they may be transplanted into larger containers.
Propagation by cuttings:
Cuttings of Kelleronia revoilii (Franch.) Chiov. var. macropetala Chiov. can be propagated at any time of the year, but preferably in summer. Select a non-flowering shoot and take the cuttings, making sure that it has a node. Dip the end into a rooting hormone powder or gel and plant into a pot filled with sand or vermiculite. The pot should be covered with a clear plastic bag to retain moisture and humidity. The cuttings should be kept warm, with indirect sunlight, at a temperature of 18-25°C. The roots will form in 2-3 weeks, and plants generally require a month to establish in the pot before they are transplanted into a larger container.
Disease Management
Kelleronia revoilii (Franch.) Chiov. var. macropetala Chiov. is generally not susceptible to many diseases. However, like most plants, it is susceptible to some common fungal diseases such as Gray Mold (Botrytis cinerea), Leaf and Stem Blight (Alternaria kikuchiana), and Powdery Mildew (Erysiphe cichoracearum).
The best way to manage fungal diseases is through prevention. Good cultural practices such as cleaning up any fallen debris or plant material, ensuring proper spacing between plants, and avoiding overhead watering can greatly reduce the risk of fungal infections. In case of an outbreak, measures such as the use of fungicides and removal of infected plants may be necessary.
It is important to note that the use of fungicides should be done with caution and as a last resort, as some strains of fungi have developed resistance to commonly used fungicides.
Pest Management
Kelleronia revoilii (Franch.) Chiov. var. macropetala Chiov. is generally not susceptible to many pests. However, it may be attacked by some common pests such as aphids and spider mites.
Aphids and spider mites can be controlled by using insecticidal soaps, neem oil, or horticultural oils. These products should be used carefully according to the instructions on the label, as they can harm beneficial insects such as pollinators and predators that help control pest populations.
Additionally, promoting a healthy ecosystem in the garden through the use of companion planting and diversification of plant species can also help control pest populations naturally.
