Lotus subdigitatus Boutique: Description, Origin, Uses, and Appearance
Lotus subdigitatus Boutique, commonly referred to as the fingered lotus, is a species of aquatic perennial plant that belongs to the pea family (Fabaceae). The plant is native to the African continent, specifically in Egypt, Sudan, and Ethiopia. It prefers to grow in riparian zones and shallow swamps in tropical and subtropical regions, and may also grow in still water bodies like ponds, lakes and riverbanks.
Common names
Besides its scientific name, the fingered lotus has a few other common names such as subdigitate bird's foot trefoil, subdigitate lotus, and fingered trefoil.
Uses
The plant is used for various purposes in different regions. In Ethiopia, it is used as a food crop, where the seed pods are boiled and consumed as a vegetable. The fingered lotus is also used in traditional medicine to treat diarrhea, constipation, and stomach aches. The dried leaves and stems of the plant are used as fodder for livestock, while the roots and stems are used for fuel. Moreover, as an aquatic plant, it also serves as a unique and stunning ornamental plant in ponds and aquatic gardens due to its attractive and vibrant flowers.
Appearance
Lotus subdigitatus Boutique is a perennial plant that grows up to 1 meter high and has a spread of 1 meter. Its leaves are alternate, with 3-7 leaflets that are arranged in a palmate pattern, giving it a distinctive finger-like shape. The flowers are pink, red, or yellow and are approximately 3 cm in diameter. The plant produces numerous flowers in clusters during the summer season. The fruit is an elongated pod, up to 10 cm long, containing seeds that resemble small beans. The roots are anchored in the mud and are unbranched and cylindrical with nodules that contain nitrogen-fixing bacteria.
In conclusion, Lotus subdigitatus Boutique is a versatile and useful aquatic plant that is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa. It has various names, provides several uses, including traditional medicine, food, fodder for livestock and fuel, besides its ornamental value. Its distinctive finger-like shape and attractive flowers make it a beautiful addition to any aquatic garden.Growth Conditions for Lotus subdigitatus Boutique
Light: Lotus subdigitatus Boutique requires full sunlight to partial shade. In its natural habitat, it grows in shallow water bodies with partial exposure to sunlight. Therefore, it is best to place it in an area in your garden where it can receive at least 6 hours of sunlight each day.
Temperature: This plant is sensitive to temperature changes and requires warm water to grow. Ideally, water temperatures between 20°C to 30°C would be perfect for its growth. In cooler climates, it can be grown in a greenhouse or indoor container, and a heater may be necessary to maintain a stable temperature.
Soil: Lotus subdigitatus Boutique prefers nutrient-rich clay or loamy soils that are slightly acidic to neutral with a pH range of 6.5-7.5. The plant is shallow rooted and requires a depth of around 10-15 cm of soil or substrate. It is best to grow the plant in shallow pond or container gardens with well-draining soil.
Water: This plant requires a steady supply of water to grow, and it can thrive in water bodies that are up to 30cm in depth. The water in which it is grown should be clear, free from pollutants, and stagnant waters such as rice paddies should be avoided. Regular water changes are necessary to ensure that the water is oxygenated.
Fertilizer: To enhance the growth of Lotus subdigitatus Boutique, a regular supply of nutrients is essential. A balanced fertilizer with N-P-K ratios of 10:10:10 or 5:10:5 can be applied to the soil or water as per instructions. Excessive fertilization should be avoided; otherwise, the plant may suffer from algae growth or other issues.
Maintenance: Regular maintenance is necessary to ensure the healthy growth of Lotus subdigitatus Boutique. Dead leaves and flowers should be trimmed; otherwise, they can become a breeding ground for pests and diseases. The plant should be protected from strong winds and frost, which can cause damage to the foliage.
By taking good care of Lotus subdigitatus Boutique and providing it with the necessary growth conditions, you can enjoy a beautiful plant with vibrant blooms that will add color and texture to any water garden.
Cultivation
Lotus subdigitatus Boutique or Water Lotus is typically cultivated in shallow water gardens or ponds where the water depth does not exceed 2 feet. The plant requires plenty of sunlight to grow, and a water temperature range of 75 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal for its growth. The soil for its cultivation must be loamy and rich in organic matter.
Watering Needs
The water level of the pond should be maintained at a constant level, covering the plant's roots but not entirely submerged. The water should be changed every 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the plant's growth. If the roots appear to dry out, watering can be increased to twice a week, but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Fertilization
The plant should be fertilized every 2 to 3 weeks with a balanced fertilizer to enhance its growth. The fertilizer must be sprayed over the plant's leaves or applied directly to the soil around its roots. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and avoid over-fertilizing, which may cause water pollution and harm aquatic life in the pond.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to control the plant's growth and prevent it from becoming invasive. Dead or yellow leaves should be removed, and overgrown stems and roots cut back to prevent them from taking over the pond. Pruning should be done every year during the plant's dormant period, which is usually in the winter season.
Propagation of Lotus subdigitatus Boutique
Lotus subdigitatus Boutique is a tropical aquatic plant that is widely grown for its attractive foliage. Propagation of this plant can be done through different methods, which include:
Propagation by Seed
Propagation by seed is the most common method used for Lotus subdigitatus Boutique. The seeds of the plant should be collected from ripe pods and soaked in water for 24 hours to facilitate germination. Once germinated, the seeds should be sown in a container containing well-draining soil and placed in a warm, sunny location. The plants will then grow in about 10-14 days.
Propagation by Division
Propagation of Lotus subdigitatus Boutique can also be done by division. This method is suitable for mature plants. The plant should be carefully removed from its container, and the root system should be divided into smaller sections. Each section should have at least one healthy shoot and a good root system. The divided sections should be planted in separate containers with well-draining soil and kept in a warm, shady location until roots start to develop.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is another method that can be used to propagate Lotus subdigitatus Boutique. The cuttings should be taken from a mature plant at the beginning of the growing season. They should be about 4-6 inches long and have several leaves attached. The cuttings should be placed in a container with well-draining soil and kept in a warm, humid location. The plants should be regularly watered, and new roots will develop in about 2-3 weeks.
In conclusion, Lotus subdigitatus Boutique can be propagated by seeds, division, and cuttings. Propagation by seed is the most common method, while the other two are suitable for mature plants. All three methods are straightforward and can be done by a beginner gardener.
Common diseases affecting Lotus subdigitatus Boutique
Lotus subdigitatus Boutique is vulnerable to various fungal and bacterial diseases, which can seriously affect its growth and yield. Some of the most common diseases affecting the plant include root rot, leaf spot, stem blight, and powdery mildew.
Disease management
To manage these diseases, it is advisable to start by ensuring proper sanitation practices, such as removing diseased or infected plants and debris from the area. Also, avoid overwatering the plants as this can contribute to the development of fungal infections.
Regularly inspect the plants for signs of disease and promptly treat any infections that are detected. Fungicides and bactericides that are specifically designed to control the identified pathogens can be helpful in preventing or managing the disease.
Common pests affecting Lotus subdigitatus Boutique
Lotus subdigitatus Boutique can be susceptible to various pests that can damage its leaves, stem, and roots. Some of the most common pests that can affect the plant include aphids, mites, thrips, and cutworms.
Pest management
To manage these pests, it is essential to observe proper cultural practices, such as avoiding over-fertilization and maintaining optimal conditions for plant growth. Additionally, you can introduce natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings to control aphid populations.
If the pest infestation is severe, consider using insecticidal soap or a targeted pesticide to manage the pest. Always follow the instructions on the pesticide label to avoid harming the beneficial insects and the environment.
Overall, monitoring the plants regularly, maintaining good growing practices, and taking prompt action once pests or diseases appear can prevent, manage, and contain the potential damage that both pests and diseases can cause to the Lotus subdigitatus Boutique plant.
