Overview
Lasiostelma somalense Schltr., also known as Somali silkweed, is a herbaceous plant species that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. It is native to Africa, specifically in the northeastern region of Somalia.
Description
Somali silkweed typically grows up to a height of 1 meter and has leaves that measure 6-10 cm long and 1-2 cm wide. The flowers of the plant are small and tubular in shape, with a diameter of about 5 mm. They are generally white, but sometimes have a tinge of pink or yellow. The fruit that follows is a slender follicle, measuring up to 20 cm long.
Common Names
Somali silkweed is also commonly known as the Somali milkweed and locally referred to as "lug riyo" in Somali.
Uses
Traditionally, various parts of the Somali silkweed plant are used for medicinal and practical purposes. The roots and leaves are used to relieve stomach pain, while the stem and leaves are used to treat fever and coughs. Additionally, the plant's fiber is used to create ropes, strings, and other cordage. The latex produced by the plant is also useful for creating glue, while the leaves are used as fodder for livestock.
Light Requirements
Lasiostelma somalense Schltr. plants prefer to grow in a location that provides bright but indirect light. This species is native to shaded areas in the tropical regions of eastern Africa. Direct exposure to sunlight can harm the plant and reduce its growth rate, so it is advisable to avoid placing them in direct sunlight for an extended period.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature for Lasiostelma somalense Schltr. plants is between 18°C and 30°C. They can also tolerate cooler temperatures down to 5°C, but prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can cause leaf damage and growth retardation. In contrast, temperatures above 30°C can stress the plant and hinder its growth. Hence, maintaining a moderate temperature range is vital to ensure healthy growth of Lasiostelma somalense Schltr.
Soil Requirements
Lasiostelma somalense Schltr. thrives in well-draining soil that retains moisture. An ideal soil mix for this species should contain a considerable portion of organic matter, such as peat moss, compost, or manure. Adding perlite or vermiculite to the soil mix can help improve the drainage and aeration of the soil. Furthermore, maintaining a slightly acidic to neutral pH range (6.0-7.0) is recommended for this species.
Cultivation
Lasiostelma somalense Schltr. is a tropical plant that thrives in warm and humid environments. It is advised to cultivate this plant in a greenhouse or indoors in a container. The plant has a deep root system, and it is recommended that you use a large, deep pot to accommodate the roots.
Watering needs
The plant requires regular watering, but care should be taken not to overwater. Watering should be done when the soil is moderately dry, and you should avoid watering the leaves to prevent fungal diseases. During the winter, reduce watering to prevent root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilization is essential for healthy growth, and you should use a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Fertilize the plant every two weeks with a 10-10-10 fertilizer at half strength. During the winter, reduce fertilization to once a month or stop entirely.
Pruning
Pruning the plant is necessary to maintain its shape and to promote healthy growth. It is best to prune after blooming to encourage new growth. Cut back any dead or damaged stems, and remove any growth from the base of the plant. Cut back the remaining stems by one-third, and remove any congested or crossing branches to maintain an open framework of the plant.
Propagation of Lasiostelma somalense Schltr.
Propagation of Lasiostelma somalense Schltr. can be done by using seeds or by stem cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds of Lasiostelma somalense Schltr. can be obtained from mature fruits. The seeds must be carefully extracted from the fruits without damaging them.
After extraction, the seeds must be cleaned of any debris and then soaked in water for about 12 hours. This helps to soften the seed coat and improve germination. After soaking, the seeds can be planted in nursery trays filled with a well-draining potting mix.
The trays should be placed in a warm, bright location with temperatures around 25°C. The soil must be kept moist during the germination period, which can take up to 3 weeks. Once the seedlings have developed their first true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Another way to propagate Lasiostelma somalense Schltr. is through stem cuttings.
The stems should be around 10-15 cm in length and should not have any flowers or buds. The lower leaves should be removed, leaving only a few at the top. The cuttings should be allowed to callous over for a few days before planting.
The cuttings can be planted in pots filled with a well-draining potting mix and placed in a bright location. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Roots should begin to develop in a few weeks, and once enough roots have formed, the new plants can be transplanted into their permanent container.
Disease and Pest Management for Lasiostelma Somalense Schltr.
Lasiostelma somalense Schltr., also known as Somali milkweed or xeer-woqooyi in Somali, is a rare and endangered plant species native to the horn of Africa. Being a milkweed, the plant is naturally resistant to many common pests. However, it is still susceptible to a few diseases and pests. Here are some of the common ones and how to manage them:
Diseases
Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes circular-shaped brown spots on the leaves. The infected leaves may eventually turn yellow and fall off. To manage leaf spot, remove the infected leaves and destroy them. Avoid watering the plant from the top to prevent the fungal spores from splashing onto the leaves. Ensure good air circulation around the plant to prevent the disease from spreading.
Viral infections: Viral infections are rare in Lasiostelma somalense Schltr., but they can occur. Symptoms include curling and yellowing of leaves, stunted growth, and distorted stems. There is no cure for viral infections, so the best way to manage them is to prevent their spread. Remove infected plants and dispose of them immediately. Ensure good hygiene practices, such as sterilizing tools before and after use, to prevent the disease from spreading.
Pests
Milkweed bugs: Milkweed bugs are common pests that feed on milkweed plants, including Lasiostelma somalense Schltr. They are easy to spot, as they are large, bright orange-red insects with black spots on the wings. To manage milkweed bugs, handpick them off the plant and dispose of them. Alternatively, you can spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Mites: Mites are tiny arachnids that feed on the plant's sap, causing stippling and discoloration on the leaves. To manage mites, wash the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge them. You can also spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
By following these disease and pest management practices, you can keep your Lasiostelma somalense Schltr. healthy and thriving.
