Overview
Lessertia brachystachya DC., also known as Sutherlandia frutescens, is a medicinal plant species native to Southern Africa. It belongs to the family Fabaceae and is commonly used for its various benefits.
Common Names
The plant has numerous common names, including Cancer Bush, Kankerbos, Wildegansie, Phetola, and Unwele.
Appearance
The Lessertia brachystachya plant grows as a shrub with a height of one to two meters. The leaves are greyish-green and pinnate, with a length of about 20 mm. The flowers are pea-shaped, bright red, and bloom in summer.
Uses
The plant has been traditionally used for medicinal purposes, and its use can be traced back to ancient times. It is believed to have numerous medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and anti-cancer properties. The plant is also used to treat various conditions, such as fevers, diabetes, tuberculosis, and anxiety. It is also used as a tonic to boost the immune system and improve general well-being.
Modern research has shown that Lessertia brachystachya contains various compounds that have potential therapeutic benefits. For instance, the plant contains canavanine, which possesses anticancer properties. Canavanine works by inhibiting the growth of cancer cells and inducing apoptosis (cell death).
Lessertia brachystachya can be consumed as a tea made from the leaves or taken as a supplement or tincture. It is important to note that before using the plant for medicinal purposes, one should consult a healthcare provider to avoid potential side effects and drug interactions.
Growth Conditions for Lessertia brachystachya DC.
Lessertia brachystachya DC. is a perennial herb belonging to the Fabaceae family. It is native to South Africa and grows in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, savannas, and shrublands. The plant can reach up to 1 meter in height and produces yellow flowers from August to December. To ensure optimal growth and development, the following growth conditions must be provided:
Light Requirements
Lessertia brachystachya DC. thrives in full sunlight. As a result, it is best to plant the herb in an area where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Insufficient lighting can result in stunted growth and fewer flowers.
Temperature Requirements
Lessertia brachystachya DC. is well adapted to warm-temperate climates. The plant can tolerate temperatures from 5°C to 40°C, but it grows best in temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. Temperatures below 5°C can cause frost damage, while temperatures above 40°C can cause heat stress and wilt. As a result, it is essential to plant the herb in areas with moderate temperatures.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soils. The ideal soil pH range for Lessertia brachystachya DC. is between 5.5 and 7.0. The herb can also grow in sandy or loamy soils. However, it does not tolerate clay or waterlogged soils. In such cases, it is best to improve the soil drainage or plant the herb in raised beds to ensure optimal growth.
Overall, by providing the appropriate light, temperature, and soil conditions, you can ensure healthy growth and development for Lessertia brachystachya DC.
Cultivation Methods
Lessertia brachystachya DC., commonly known as Boesman tee or short-awned lessertia, is a hardy, perennial shrub that grows in dry regions. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soils and can adapt to different soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clayey soils.
The most suitable time to plant Boesman tee is in the spring or fall. Before planting, make sure to remove any weeds and debris from the planting area. Dig a hole two to three times the size of the plant's root ball and amend the soil with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure.
After planting, water the shrub thoroughly and frequently, especially during dry periods, until it establishes roots.
Watering Needs
Boesman tee requires regular watering to thrive. During the growing season, water the plant deeply once a week. In periods of drought or extreme heat, increase the frequency of watering. However, avoid overwatering the plant, as it can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Once the plant is established, it can tolerate some degree of drought and can survive on natural rainfall without additional watering.
Fertilization
Feeding Boesman tee with a balanced fertilizer can enhance its growth and flowering. Apply a slow-release granular fertilizer once in the spring and again in the summer. Alternatively, you can use a water-soluble fertilizer every two to four weeks during the growing season.
Avoid over-fertilizing the plant, as it can cause excessive growth and reduce its drought tolerance.
Pruning
Pruning the plant helps to maintain its shape, promote bushy growth, and remove dead or diseased parts. Boesman tee requires minimal pruning, and you only need to trim it once a year in late winter or early spring before the new growth emerges.
Use sharp and clean pruning shears to make clean cuts on the stems, and avoid cutting below the leaf node, as it can lead to woodiness.
Propagation of Lessertia brachystachya DC.
Lessertia brachystachya DC. belongs to the Fabaceae family and is commonly known as "korhaanbossie" in Afrikaans. The plant is native to South Africa and is known for its medicinal properties. The propagation of Lessertia brachystachya DC. can be done through various methods.
Propagation by seeds
Seeds of Lessertia brachystachya DC. are small, black, and hard. They can be collected from mature seed pods that have turned brown and dry. The collected seeds should be stored in a cool and dry place until required for propagation.
For propagation through seeds, the seeds can be sown directly into well-drained soil during early spring or fall. It is essential to prepare the soil bed by loosening the soil and adding compost or organic matter. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 2-3 cm and covered with a thin layer of soil. Water the soil and keep it moist until the seedlings emerge.
Propagation by stem cuttings
Propagation through stem cuttings is a quick and easy method to propagate Lessertia brachystachya DC. This method is useful for maintaining the genetic characteristics of the parent plant. Stem cuttings should be taken during early spring or fall from mature plants. The cuttings should be 10-15 cm long and should have 2-3 sets of leaves.
Prepare the rooting medium by mixing equal parts of sand and peat moss. Dip the stem cutting into a rooting hormone powder and plant it in the rooting medium. Water the soil and keep it moist. The cuttings will root within 4-6 weeks.
Propagation by division
Propagation through division is a method that involves dividing the parent plant into smaller sections. This method is suitable for mature plants that have multiple stems. The division should be done during early spring or fall.
To divide the plant, dig it up carefully and separate the roots into smaller sections. Each section should have a healthy stem and root system. Plant the sections in well-drained soil and water the soil. Keep the soil moist until the plants establish themselves.
Propagation is an essential practice for plant conservation and maintaining the genetic characteristics of plants. By using the right propagation method, Lessertia brachystachya DC. can be propagated successfully.
Disease and Pest Management for Lessertia brachystachya DC.
Lessertia brachystachya DC., commonly known as Mountain Cancer Bush, is a plant species that is native to southern Africa. Like all plants, it is susceptible to certain diseases and pests that can affect its growth and development. By following the proper disease and pest management practices, one can ensure a healthy and productive plant.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affects Lessertia brachystachya DC. is root rot. Root rot is a fungal disease that is caused by overwatering or poor drainage. To prevent root rot, avoid overwatering and make sure the soil is well-draining. Another common disease is powdery mildew. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves. To prevent powdery mildew, avoid overcrowding of plants and provide good air circulation.
Pest Management
Lessertia brachystachya DC. is also susceptible to various pests, including aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can cause damage to leaves and stems. To control aphids, use insecticidal soap or oil. Spider mites are tiny arachnids that can cause discoloration and damage to leaves. To control spider mites, use a miticide. Whiteflies are small white insects that can cause yellowing of leaves and stunted growth. To control whiteflies, use sticky traps or an insecticidal soap.
It is important to regularly inspect your Lessertia brachystachya DC. plant for signs of disease or pest infestation. Early detection and prompt intervention can prevent the spread of disease or infestation and preserve the health of your plant.
