Overview:
Lippia chevalieri Moldenke, also known as southern cutleaf vervain, is a flowering plant from the Verbenaceae family. It is a perennial shrub that is native to Africa, specifically found in various regions such as Guinea, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Ivory Coast.
Common names:
This plant is commonly known by different names depending on the region, including "akoukou", "felsenastrant", "leaf-flower", "Akan vernal", and "African lippia".
Uses:
Lippia chevalieri has various medicinal properties and is used in traditional African medicine. It is known for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, and is used for treating various conditions such as respiratory infections, wounds, and fever. The leaves of the plant are also used as a spice in local cuisines.
Appearance:
Lippia chevalieri grows up to 2 meters tall and has a spiny stem. The leaves are pinnate and finely dissected, with toothed margins. The flowers are small and white, and they are arranged in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruit is a small nutlet containing four seeds.
Light Requirements
Lippia chevalieri Moldenke requires full sun to partial shade for healthy growth and development. It grows well in areas with a minimum intensity of 2000 foot-candles, which is equivalent to about 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is adaptable to a range of temperatures but prefers warm to hot climates with an average temperature between 18°C – 30°C. It is frost-sensitive and thrives best in temperatures above 13°C. Temperatures below 10°C can lead to plant damage or death and, therefore, should be avoided.
Soil Requirements
Lippia chevalieri Moldenke grows in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and rocky soils. However, it thrives best in well-drained, fertile soils with a pH range of 5.5-7.5. The plant also requires adequate water to grow well and should be irrigated to ensure that the soil is always moist but not waterlogged.
Cultivation Methods for Lippia chevalieri Moldenke
Lippia chevalieri Moldenke is a perennial shrub that is native to West Africa. To cultivate this plant, choose a site that has well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. Lippia chevalieri Moldenke can tolerate partial shade, but it prefers full sun. Plant the shrubs in a location that is protected from strong winds that may damage the foliage or the branches.
Plant Lippia chevalieri Moldenke in early spring after the last frost has passed. Dig a hole that is twice as wide and deep as the root ball of the shrub. Place the root ball in the hole and backfill with soil. Water the shrub thoroughly to help settle the soil around the roots. Water regularly for the first few weeks to help establish the plant.
Watering Needs for Lippia chevalieri Moldenke
Lippia chevalieri Moldenke requires moderate watering to maintain proper growth. Water the plants deeply once or twice a week during the growing season. Reduce the watering frequency during the winter months when the shrubs are dormant. Avoid overwatering, as it may lead to root rot.
Check the soil moisture content by sticking your finger into the soil around the root zone. If the soil feels dry to the touch, it's time to water. If the soil is moist, wait a couple of days before watering again.
Fertilization of Lippia chevalieri Moldenke
Fertilize Lippia chevalieri Moldenke once a year in early spring before new growth begins. Use a well-balanced fertilizer that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer's packaging to determine the appropriate dosage for your shrubs. Too much fertilizer may lead to excess foliage growth and reduced flowering.
Additionally, you can add a layer of compost or mulch around the base of the shrub to help improve the soil quality and retain moisture.
Pruning of Lippia chevalieri Moldenke
Lippia chevalieri Moldenke requires minimal pruning to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. Prune the shrubs in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any damaged or diseased branches, as well as any crossing or rubbing branches. Prune back any leggy or overgrown branches to promote bushier growth. Avoid pruning more than one-third of the shrub's total growth in a single pruning session to prevent shock to the plant.
Deadheading spent blooms can also help stimulate new flower growth throughout the growing season.
Propagation of Lippia chevalieri Moldenke
Lippia chevalieri Moldenke is a shrub indigenous to Central Africa and is also known as Burkina faso verbena. It grows up to 5 feet in height and has small white flowers in the summer. If you want to propagate Lippia chevalieri, you have a few options depending on the resources you have available.
Seed Propagation
One way to propagate Lippia chevalieri is through seeds. The seeds are small and should be planted in a well-draining soil mix. After planting, the soil should be kept moist, and the seeds should germinate in about two weeks. Once the seedlings have grown a few inches tall, they can be transplanted into a larger pot or directly into the ground.
Cuttings
Another way to propagate Lippia chevalieri is through cuttings. Choose a healthy plant with woody stems. Cut several stems about four to six inches long, making the cut at a 45-degree angle. Remove the lower leaves of the cutting, leaving only a few leaves on the top. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone, then place them in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist, and the cuttings should root within a few weeks.
Division
After established, the Lippia chevalieri can also be propagated through division by separating the plant into smaller sections and repotting them in separate containers or planting them directly in the ground.
Disease Management
The plant Lippia chevalieri Moldenke is vulnerable to several diseases. Here are some of the most common ones and ways to manage them:
Leaf spot diseases
Leaf spot diseases are caused by different types of fungi. They typically manifest as small, circular brown or black lesions on the leaves, and if left untreated, can cause defoliation. To manage leaf spot diseases, ensure good air circulation around the plant, avoid overhead watering, and regularly remove infected leaves from the plant and the soil. Fungicidal sprays may also help manage severe infections.
Anthracnose
Anthracnose is another fungal disease that affects Lippia chevalieri Moldenke. Symptoms include black, sunken lesions on leaves, stems and fruits. To manage anthracnose, remove all infected plant debris and maintain good hygiene around the plant. Avoid overhead watering and apply fungicidal sprays early on to manage the disease.
Crown and root rots
Crown and root rots are caused by soil-borne fungal pathogens. Symptoms include yellowing of leaves, wilting, and plant death. To manage crown and root rots, avoid overwatering the plant and ensure good drainage. Fungal drenches and soil fumigants can help manage severe infections.
Pest Management
Lippia chevalieri Moldenke is also prone to several pest infestations. Here are some of the most common pests and ways to manage them:
Scale insects
Scale insects are small bumps on the leaves, stems, and branches of plants. They feed on plant sap and if left untreated, can cause leaf drop and plant death. To manage scale insects, prune heavily infested branches, and apply horticultural oil to affected areas. Natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings can also help manage scale insects.
Aphids
Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that feed on plant sap. They can quickly colonize a plant, transmitting viruses and causing deformities. To manage aphids, spray affected areas with a strong stream of water, apply insecticidal soap, and use beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings.
Spider mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that cause a speckled appearance on plant leaves. They suck plant sap and cause extensive damage to the foliage. To manage spider mites, remove heavily infested plant parts, increase humidity around the plant, and spray with insecticidal soap.
