Origin and Common Names
Launaea cabrae (De Wild.) N.Kilian subsp. nanella (R.E.Fr.) N.Kilian is a species of plant in the Asteraceae family, native to the tropical regions of Africa, particularly in Madagascar, Rwanda, and Uganda. It is commonly known as the African lettuce or East African wild lettuce.Uses
The African lettuce is a widely used medicinal plant in traditional African medicine. The roots of the plant are used for medicinal purposes to treat headaches, stomach aches and fever. The leaves of the plant are edible, having a slightly bitter taste. Some African communities use the leaves in salads or cook them as vegetables, whereas others use the leaves for medicinal purposes to treat constipation, liver disorders and stomach ulcers.General Appearance
Launaea cabrae (De Wild.) N.Kilian subsp. nanella (R.E.Fr.) N.Kilian is a perennial herb that grows up to 55 cm high. The plant produces multiple stems with erect branches which are covered in small hairs and a basal rosette that has leaves with variously lobed shapes. The leaves are green in color, cross-like in shape, and have a length of 2-9 cm. The plant produces small yellow flowers that are 9-16 mm in diameter and are arranged in clusters. The fruits produced by this plant are achenes which are 3-4 mm long and have a brown color.Light Requirements
Launaea cabrae subsp. nanella prefers full sun exposure for optimum growth and development. It requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily to thrive. However, it can tolerate partial shade, but it may cause the plant to grow in a stretched and spindly manner.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows well in warm to hot temperatures with a minimum temperature of about 18°C. It is adapted to dry and arid regions and can withstand high temperatures. Therefore, it is essential to protect the plant from frost during winter.
Soil Requirements
The ideal soil for Launaea cabrae subsp. nanella is a well-draining sandy or rocky soil, with a pH ranging from 7.5 to 8.5. It can grow in poor soils, but it requires a constant supply of water and nutrients. The soil must be free from weeds and other plants that may compete for nutrients. A light application of organic matter can be beneficial for the plant's growth.
Cultivation Methods
Launaea cabrae subsp. nanella is a hardy, easy-to-care-for succulent that can tolerate a range of growing conditions. It prefers partial to full sunlight and well-draining soil. You can grow it in containers or in the ground.
When planting in containers, fill the pot with a well-draining soil mix of approximately 50% soil and 50% perlite or sand. If you are planting in the ground, ensure that the soil is well-draining and amend it with sand or gravel if necessary.
Propagation is easy with Launaea cabrae subsp. nanella. You can propagate it by cuttings or seeds. If propagating by cuttings, let them dry for a day before planting. If planting by seeds, ensure that the soil is moist but not wet.
Watering Needs
Launaea cabrae subsp. nanella is drought-tolerant and may not require watering often. It is essential to ensure that the soil is dry before watering again to prevent root rot.
When watering, ensure that the water penetrates the soil and reaches the roots. Do not let the water collect on the leaves or stem of the plant. You can water the plant once every two to three weeks during the growing season and once a month during the dormant season.
Fertilization
Launaea cabrae subsp. nanella does not require frequent fertilization. You can fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Ensure that you follow the instructions on the package, as over-fertilizing can damage the plant.
Pruning
Launaea cabrae subsp. nanella does not require frequent pruning. However, pruning can help to maintain the shape and size of the plant. You can prune the plant in the spring to remove any dead or damaged leaves or stems.
When pruning, use clean and sharp pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant. It is also essential to wear gloves, as the sap from the plant can be toxic to some people.
Propagation methods for Launaea cabrae (De Wild.) N.Kilian subsp. nanella (R.E.Fr.) N.Kilian
Launaea cabrae (De Wild.) N.Kilian subsp. nanella (R.E.Fr.) N.Kilian, commonly known as African lettuce or wild lettuce, is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is native to Africa, particularly in the southern and eastern parts of the continent. The plant is commonly propagated by seed and vegetatively through cuttings.
Propagation by seed
The seeds of Launaea cabrae are relatively small and light and can be easily dispersed by wind. For propagation purposes, the seeds can be collected from mature plants and sown directly into the soil or in seedling trays. The ideal planting time is at the beginning of the growing season, which is typically in the spring.
For direct sowing, the soil needs to be prepared by clearing any debris and loosening the top layer to a depth of about 5 cm. The seeds are then scattered evenly across the soil surface and lightly covered with a thin layer of soil. The soil needs to be kept moist throughout the germination period, which typically takes about 1-2 weeks.
In seedling trays, the seeds can be sown in a well-draining growing medium, such as a mixture of peat moss and perlite. The trays need to be kept in a warm and well-lit area, ideally under grow lights, and the soil needs to be kept moist until the seedlings emerge.
Propagation by cuttings
Launaea cabrae can also be propagated vegetatively by taking stem cuttings from mature plants. The ideal time to take cuttings is during the active growing season, which is typically in the summer. The cuttings should be taken from healthy and vigorous plants and should be about 5-10 cm in length.
The cuttings need to be planted in a well-draining growing medium, such as a mixture of peat moss and perlite, and kept in a warm and humid environment. The cuttings should be watered regularly but not over-watered, which can cause rotting. The roots should start to develop within a few weeks, and the newly rooted plants can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden.
Disease Management
Leaf Spot: One of the most common diseases that affect Launaea cabrae subsp. nanella is leaf spot. It is caused by fungi that grow on the plant and causes small, circular spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, remove affected leaves, prune diseased branches and provide adequate airflow and sunshine to the plant.
Root Rot: Root rot is another common disease that affects many plants, including Launaea cabrae subsp. nanella. It is caused by bacteria, fungi or waterlogging around the roots. To manage root rot, it is important to avoid overwatering, improve soil drainage and provide adequate ventilation around the roots.
Pest Management
Aphids: Aphids are soft-bodied insects that can damage Launaea cabrae subsp. nanella plants by feeding on the sap. Aphids are usually found on the undersides of leaves and can cause stunted growth, curling leaves and weak plants. To manage aphids, wash the leaves with soapy water, release natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings or use insecticidal soap.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars are voracious eaters and can cause extensive damage to Launaea cabrae subsp. nanella plants by chewing on the leaves. To manage caterpillars, remove them by hand, dust the plants with Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) or use insecticidal sprays.
