Plant Description:
Lantana viburnoides (Forssk.) Vahl subsp. kisi (A.Rich.) Verdc. is an evergreen shrub belonging to the family Verbenaceae. The plant is native to tropical and subtropical Africa, specifically in the Congo Basin and eastern Africa, where it grows in wooded regions and forest edges at altitudes of up to 2300 meters above sea level. Common names for the plant include Lantana Kisi, Kisi Berry, and African Sage.
Plant Appearance:
Lantana viburnoides has a dense, bushy habit and can grow up to two meters tall. Its leaves are glossy, oval in shape, and dark green in color with toothed margins. When crushed, its leaves emit an aromatic scent. The plant also produces small, tubular, and fragrant flowers that are white or purple in color and are clustered in terminal heads.
Plant Uses:
The plant is commonly used in traditional African medicine to treat various ailments such as headaches, fever, and stomach issues. The leaves are boiled and the decoction is taken orally or used as a bath to reduce fever, and the crushed leaves are applied topically to treat skin diseases and wounds. The fruit of the plant can also be eaten fresh or used for making jams and jellies. In horticulture, the plant is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes due to its attractive foliage and flowers.
Growth Conditions for Lantana viburnoides (Forssk.) Vahl subsp. kisi (A.Rich.) Verdc.
Light Requirements: Lantana viburnoides subsp. kisi grows best in full sun or partial shade. It can tolerate moderate shade, but it may not flower as profusely under these conditions.
Temperature Requirements: This plant species prefers warm temperatures ranging from 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. It can also tolerate slightly cooler temperatures, down to around 50 degrees Fahrenheit, but it may experience damage if temperatures fall below freezing.
Soil Requirements: Lantana viburnoides subsp. kisi thrives in well-drained, sandy or loamy soils that have a slightly acidic to neutral pH level ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. It can tolerate slightly alkaline soils up to pH 8.0, but it may show symptoms of nutrient deficiencies if the soil is too alkaline.
Water Requirements: This plant has moderate water needs and should be watered regularly during the growing season (spring to fall). However, it can tolerate short periods of drought once established. Overwatering should be avoided to prevent root rot.
Fertilizer Requirements: Lantana viburnoides subsp. kisi does not typically require fertilization, but it may benefit from a light application of slow-release fertilizer in the early spring. Too much fertilizer can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowering.
Propagation Requirements: This plant can be propagated through stem cuttings taken during the summer. Cuttings should be treated with rooting hormone and placed in a well-draining rooting medium. It may also be propagated through seed, but this is not common.
Cultivation
In planning to cultivate Lantana viburnoides subsp. kisi, it is advisable to choose an appropriate location that receives full sunlight. This plant thrives in warm temperatures and well-drained soil, which should be organic-rich and slightly acidic to neutral. It is most suitable for USDA hardiness zones 8b to 11.
The ideal propagation method for Lantana viburnoides subsp. kisi is through stem cuttings, which can be taken in spring or summer. These cuttings should be about 6 inches long and should be planted in a mixture of sand and peat or perlite. The cuttings should be watered regularly and kept in a shaded area until new growth appears. Once the plant is established, it should be transplanted to its permanent location, and care should be taken not to disturb the root system.
Watering Needs
Although Lantana viburnoides subsp. kisi can tolerate drought conditions once established, it still requires adequate water to thrive. Watering should be done regularly, especially during prolonged dry spells. The soil must be moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is essential to allow for proper drainage.
Fertilization
To promote healthy growth, it is recommended to fertilize Lantana viburnoides subsp. kisi every two to three months during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium should be used. Slow-release fertilizers are also suitable for this plant. Over-fertilization can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for maintaining the shape and health of Lantana viburnoides subsp. kisi. Dead and discolored foliage and branches should be removed. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. It is recommended to keep the plant to a compact size by cutting back up to one-third of the top growth. Pruning encourages bushier growth and promotes flowering.
Propagation of Lantana viburnoides (Forssk.) Vahl subsp. kisi (A.Rich.) Verdc.
Lantana viburnoides (Forssk.) Vahl subsp. kisi (A.Rich.) Verdc. can be propagated by various methods such as seeds, stem cuttings, and layering.
Propagation by Seeds
The seeds of Lantana viburnoides can be collected from the plant once they are mature. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mixture and kept in a warm and humid environment until germination. Once the seedlings have developed true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots and grown until they are big enough to be planted in the ground.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are another effective way to propagate Lantana viburnoides. Cuttings with a length of 5-10 centimeters can be obtained from the mother plant and then dipped into rooting hormone powder. The cuttings should be planted in a well-draining soil mixture, with a sufficient amount of moisture and light, and kept in a warm and humid environment until they grow roots. Once the roots have developed, the cuttings can be transplanted into individual pots or directly planted in the ground.
Propagation by Layering
Layering is a natural way to propagate Lantana viburnoides. A low branch with soft wood is selected and partially buried with soil. The branch should be bent and kept in place with a u-shaped wire. Once the branch develops roots, it can be separated from the mother plant and transplanted into a new location. This method is useful for plants that cannot be propagated by cuttings or are difficult to obtain seeds from.
Disease Management
Lantana viburnoides is susceptible to a few diseases, including:
- Leaf Spot: This disease is caused by the fungus Passalora lantanae, which results in circular spots on leaves. The spots eventually turn yellow and drop off, leading to defoliation. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves and ensure good air circulation around the plant.
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and poor drainage, which leads to the roots becoming waterlogged and oxygen-starved. Plants affected by root rot will have yellowing leaves and wilting despite regular watering. To manage this disease, ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering.
- Powdery Mildew: This disease is caused by the fungus Erysiphe lantanae, which results in a white, powdery coating on leaves and stems. Powdery mildew can be managed by improving air circulation and avoiding overhead watering, which can promote the development of the fungus. Fungicidal sprays can also be used if necessary.
Pest Management
There are a few pests that may affect Lantana viburnoides:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects cluster on new growth and the undersides of leaves, sucking the sap out of the plant. To manage an infestation, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge the aphids. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be used if necessary.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests feed on the undersides of leaves, causing small, yellow stippling and webs. To manage an infestation, increase humidity around the plant and spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Caterpillars: The larvae of some butterflies and moths may feed on the leaves of Lantana viburnoides. To manage an infestation, handpick the caterpillars and destroy them or use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) spray.
