Overview
Kickxia elatine, also known as Sharp-leaved fluellen, is a species of flowering plant in the family Plantaginaceae. It is a small annual or biennial herb, native to Europe but introduced in many other parts of the world.
Appearance
Kickxia elatine typically grows to a height of 10-50 cm. Its stems are erect, slender, and hairy. The leaves are lanceolate, up to 5 cm long, and have serrated margins. The flowers are small, light blue to violet, with a distinctive orange spot on the lower lip. They grow in clusters from the leaf axils and bloom from June to September.
Common names
Common names of Kickxia elatine include sharp-leaved fluellen, sharp-leaved cancerwort, standing hedge-parsley, tumbling bonnets, strawbottle, and wild snapdragon.
Uses
Kickxia elatine has been used in traditional medicine for various purposes. The leaves have been used to treat wounds, cuts, and bruises. The plant has also been used to treat respiratory problems, such as bronchitis and asthma. In addition, it has been used as a diuretic and laxative.
The leaves of Kickxia elatine can also be eaten as a salad green or cooked as a vegetable. However, its small size and bitter taste make it less desirable for culinary use.
Light Requirements
Kickxia elatine is a sun-loving plant and prefers full sunlight for optimal growth and flowering. It can tolerate some shades but grows best in open areas receiving direct sunlight for at least 6-8 hours a day.
Temperature Requirements
Kickxia elatine grows well in temperate to warm climates with an average temperature range of 15-20°C. It can tolerate high temperatures up to 35°C but is not frost-tolerant and cannot survive freezing temperatures. The plant also requires a well-ventilated environment to prevent heat stress.
Soil Requirements
Kickxia elatine prefers well-draining sandy or loamy soils with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. The soil must be moist and fertile, enriched with organic matter to support healthy growth. The plant can also grow in rocky or poor soils but may require frequent watering and supplemental fertilization.
Cultivation Methods of Kickxia elatine (L.) Dumort.
Kickxia elatine (L.) Dumort., also known as Sharp-leaved Fluellen, is a hardy perennial plant that grows well in a variety of soils. The plant is easy to cultivate, and the seeds can be directly sown in the ground or started indoors and transplanted outside later.
To start, choose a location with well-draining soil and full sun. Plant the seeds shallowly, no more than 1/4 inch deep, and keep the soil moist until germination, which typically occurs within a week.
Watering Needs of Kickxia elatine (L.) Dumort.
Once established, Kickxia elatine (L.) Dumort. requires minimal watering. The plant is drought-tolerant, and excessive watering can lead to root rot and other moisture-related diseases. Water the plant only when the soil is dry to the touch, and avoid wetting the foliage as much as possible.
Fertilization of Kickxia elatine (L.) Dumort.
Kickxia elatine (L.) Dumort. thrives in poor soil and does not require fertilization. However, if you want to give the plant an extra boost, you can apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring. Be sure not to over-fertilize, which can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flower production.
Pruning of Kickxia elatine (L.) Dumort.
Kickxia elatine (L.) Dumort. does not require extensive pruning. However, you can pinch back the growing tips of the plant in the spring to encourage bushier growth and more flowers. Deadheading spent blooms will also promote longer blooming periods.
Propagation of Kickxia elatine
Kickxia elatine, commonly known as sharp-leaved fluellen or sharpleaf cancerwort, is a small annual herb that belongs to the family Plantaginaceae. It is a popular ornamental plant due to its colorful flowers and easy-growing nature. Propagation of Kickxia elatine can be done through various methods such as seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation by seeds
Propagation of Kickxia elatine by seeds is the easiest and most common method. Collect the mature seed pods from the plant when they begin to turn brown and dry. Allow the pods to open and remove the seeds. Sow the seeds in a well-drained potting soil, cover them with a thin layer of soil and keep the soil moist. Germination will occur after 7-14 days if the temperature is between 20-25°C. After the seedlings emerge, remove the weaker ones, and keep only the healthiest.
Propagation by cuttings
Kickxia elatine can also be propagated by stem cuttings taken in summer. Cut a few 4-5 inch long stem cuttings from healthy plants and remove the lower leaves leaving just two leaves at the top. Dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder and plant them into a pot filled with well-drained potting soil. Water the potted cuttings and keep them in a humid and warm place, out of direct sunlight. It takes about 3-4 weeks for the roots to appear.
Propagation by division
Propagation of Kickxia elatine by division is another method, best done in spring or autumn when the plant is actively growing. Carefully dig up the plant, separate the roots into smaller sections, and replant them in a pot filled with well-drained soil. Water the plant well and keep it in a cool, bright place until the roots establish.
By following these propagation methods for Kickxia elatine, one can quickly multiply their plants and enjoy their bright blooms throughout the year.
Disease Management
Kickxia elatine (L.) Dumort. is susceptible to various diseases that can affect its growth and productivity. The common diseases that might affect this plant include:
- Leaf Spot: A fungal disease that causes small, circular spots on the leaves, which later turn brown with a yellow halo. To manage this disease, remove and destroy the affected leaves and avoid overhead watering, which can facilitate the spread of the disease.
- Powdery Mildew: An airborne fungal disease that causes a grayish or white powdery coating on the leaves, flowers, and stems. To manage this disease, ensure proper air circulation around the plant, avoid overhead watering, and apply fungicides as necessary.
- Rust: A fungal disease that causes yellow or orange spots on leaves and stems, later developing into powdery masses. To manage this disease, remove and destroy the affected parts and apply fungicides as necessary.
- Root Rot: A fungal disease that causes the roots to rot, leading to stunted growth and wilting. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering, ensure proper drainage, and apply fungicides as necessary.
Pest Management
Kickxia elatine (L.) Dumort. is also vulnerable to pest attacks that can damage the plant and reduce its productivity. The common pests that might affect this plant include:
- Aphids: Small insects that suck sap from the leaves, causing them to wilt and turn yellow. To manage this pest, spray the affected parts with a strong jet of water, apply insecticidal soap, or use neem oil.
- Cutworms: Larvae that cut off the young stems at the soil level, causing the plant to wilt and die. To manage this pest, apply soil drenches of insecticides containing Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt).
- Spider Mites: Tiny insects that suck sap from the leaves, causing stippling and yellowing. To manage this pest, spray the affected parts with a strong jet of water, apply insecticidal soap or oil, or use predatory mites.
- Thrips: Small insects that feed on the leaves and flowers, causing discoloration and deformation. To manage this pest, apply insecticidal soap or oil and remove and destroy the affected parts.
