Origin
Kohautia subverticillata (K.Schum.) D.Mantell subsp. subverticillata, commonly known as False Buttonweed, is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the family Rubiaceae. The plant is native to the Caribbean. It can be found in Cuba, Jamaica, Hispaniola, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands.
Common Names
Kohautia subverticillata is known by several common names. In English, it is known as False Buttonweed, while in Spanish, it is called Piriqueta Falsa. In Jamaica, it is referred to as Mummyhead and False Sherpet.
Uses
While Kohautia subverticillata does not have any medicinal uses, it has been found to have a very high ornamental value. The plant is popularly grown as an ornamental plant, particularly in gardens and landscapes. The plant is desirable because it is relatively easy to grow and care for and produces a bright yellow flower that blooms from summer to fall. The plant also serves as a nectar source for various pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
General Appearance
Kohautia subverticillata is a sprawling, herbaceous plant that can grow up to 3 feet in height. The plant has ovate, serrated leaves that are arranged in subverticillate whorls around the stem. The stems of the plant are weak, and often trail across the ground or climb over nearby plants for support. The plant produces small, bright yellow flowers that are about 0.5 inches in diameter. The flowers have five petals and are clustered together in terminal cymes. The plant has small, round fruits that split open when ripe, releasing numerous small seeds.
Growth conditions for Kohautia subverticillata subsp. subverticillata
Kohautia subverticillata subsp. subverticillata is a versatile plant that can grow under a variety of conditions. However, to optimize growth and flowering, certain conditions should be met:
Light requirements
Kohautia subverticillata subsp. subverticillata prefers to grow in bright, indirect light. It can tolerate partial shade but will not thrive in complete shade. The plant requires at least six hours of sunlight a day to produce vibrant flowers.
Temperature requirements
Kohautia subverticillata subsp. subverticillata is a tropical plant that thrives in warm temperatures. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 20-30°C. The plant will not tolerate temperatures below 15°C and will suffer from frost damage.
Soil requirements
Kohautia subverticillata subsp. subverticillata requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot. Sandy or loamy soil is ideal as it allows for proper drainage and aeration. The soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH range of 6.0 to 6.5. The plant also requires regular watering to maintain soil moisture levels.
Fertilizer requirements
To boost growth and flowering, Kohautia subverticillata subsp. subverticillata requires regular fertilization. A balanced fertilizer that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be applied every two weeks during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilization, as excessive amounts of nutrients can damage the plant.
Cultivation Methods
Kohautia subverticillata (K.Schum.) D.Mantell subsp. subverticillata belongs to the Rubiaceae family and can be propagated through stem cuttings. The plant prefers a warm and humid climate, making it suitable to grow in tropical and subtropical regions. The soil should be well-drained, rich in humus, and slightly acidic, with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5.
Watering Needs
Proper watering is crucial in the care of Kohautia subverticillata (K.Schum.) D.Mantell subsp. subverticillata. The plant requires regular watering during the growing season, especially in hot and dry conditions. However, it is important not to overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot. It is recommended to water the plant when the topsoil becomes slightly dry.
Fertilization
Fertilizing Kohautia subverticillata (K.Schum.) D.Mantell subsp. subverticillata is essential to maintain its growth and overall health. The plant should be fertilized during the growing season with a well-balanced fertilizer, high in nitrogen and potassium. Fertilizers with a low phosphorous content are recommended, as high levels of phosphorous can be detrimental to the plant's growth.
Pruning
Pruning of Kohautia subverticillata (K.Schum.) D.Mantell subsp. subverticillata is recommended to encourage new growth and promote a bushier growth habit. The plant should be pruned after flowering to prevent the plant from becoming too leggy. It is recommended to remove any dead or diseased parts of the plant, and to prune the remaining healthy branches back by one-third of their length.
Propagation of Kohautia Subverticillata
Kohautia subverticillata (K.Schum.) D.Mantell subsp. subverticillata, commonly known as Bhandariya or Barleria granata, is a fast-growing plant that belongs to the family Acanthaceae. Propagation of Kohautia subverticillata is a simple process and can be carried out through various methods.
Propagation through Seeds
The most common method of propagation of Kohautia subverticillata is through seed. The seeds of Kohautia subverticillata can be obtained from mature fruit capsules. The capsules should be allowed to dry completely before the seeds are collected. The collected seeds should be cleaned and soaked in water for 24 hours. After the 24 hours, the seeds can be sown in a prepared seedbed or pots filled with potting mix. The pots should be watered regularly and kept in a shaded area until the seedlings emerge. The seedlings should be transplanted to individual pots or to the desired location after they have reached a height of about 8-10 cm.
Propagation through Cuttings
Kohautia subverticillata can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from a mature plant during the growing season. The cuttings should have at least one node and should be about 10-15 cm in length. The lower leaves of the cutting should be removed, and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone. The cutting should be planted in a prepared pot or seedbed filled with potting mix. The pot or seedbed should be placed in a shaded area and watered regularly. The cutting should form roots in six to eight weeks and can be transplanted to the desired location after they have reached a height of about 8-10 cm.
Propagation through Division
Kohautia subverticillata can also be propagated through division. This method is suitable for mature plants that have grown denser with time. The plant should be carefully lifted from the ground and divided into smaller clumps, ensuring that each clump has a good root system. The divided clumps can be planted in the desired location and watered regularly.
Disease and Pest Management for Kohautia subverticillata (K.Schum.) D.Mantell subsp. subverticillata
Kohautia subverticillata is generally a hardy plant that is not prone to many diseases. However, there are a few diseases and pests that might affect the plant:
Diseases
Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease that affects many plants, including Kohautia subverticillata. It appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves and stems. To manage powdery mildew, you can use fungicides. However, you can also prevent it by avoiding overhead irrigation and ensuring good air circulation around the plants.
Crown rot: Crown rot is another fungal disease that affects Kohautia subverticillata. It is caused by the fungus Phytophthora cinnamomi and can cause the plant to wilt, yellow, and eventually die. To manage crown rot, you need to provide good drainage for the plant and avoid overwatering. You can also use fungicides to treat the disease.
Pests
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the plant sap and leave behind yellow spots on the leaves. They can be managed by spraying the plants with insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also prevent spider mites by regularly spraying the plants with water to increase humidity around the plants.
Cutworms: Cutworms are caterpillars that feed on the stems of the plant, causing the plant to wilt and die. To prevent cutworms, you can use row covers or insecticides. You can also handpick the caterpillars from the plant and dispose of them.
Overall, proper plant care, including regular watering, fertilization, and pruning, can help prevent many diseases and pests from affecting Kohautia subverticillata. It's important to regularly monitor the plant for any signs of disease or pests to catch them early and prevent them from spreading.
