Origin
Lycium grandicalyx, also known as the large calyx desert-thorn, belongs to the family Solanaceae and is endemic to South Africa. It is mostly found in the Western Cape and the Northern Cape provinces.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the large calyx desert-thorn due to its strikingly large calyx (the sepals of the flower). It is also referred to as the "grootkalmia" in Afrikaans.
Uses
Lycium grandicalyx is used for medicinal purposes by indigenous people in South Africa to treat a variety of ailments including fever, hypertension, and respiratory infections. The plant is believed to have antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
The plant is also used as a natural barrier in gardens due to its spiky thorns and as an ornamental plant for its beautiful orange-red berries and pale purple flowers.
General Appearance
Lycium grandicalyx is a small, shrubby perennial plant that can grow up to 2 meters in height. Its leaves are small and narrow, measuring up to 1 cm long and 0.5 cm wide. The plant produces pale purple flowers and bright orange-red berries that are 1 cm in diameter. The most prominent feature of this plant is its large calyx, which is up to 2 cm long and 1.2 cm wide, with a white to pinkish hue.
The stems of the Lycium grandicalyx are thin and flexible, and the plant requires full sun and well-drained soil to thrive. The plant has long, sharp thorns that can grow up to 2 cm long and can cause injury if not handled with care.
Light Requirements
Lycium grandicalyx Joubert & Venter is a plant that thrives in areas with full sunlight exposure. It requires a minimum of 6 hours of sunlight every day to grow properly. Most importantly, the plant should not receive any shade during its active growth period.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is a warm-season crop that grows well in areas with warm temperatures. It is well adapted to subtropical and Mediterranean regions. The ideal temperature for Lycium grandicalyx Joubert & Venter growth is between 20°C and 28°C during the day and 15°C to 20°C at night. Temperatures above 30°C can affect the growth process.
Soil Requirements
The soil must be well-drained, deep, and rich in organic matter to support the growth of Lycium grandicalyx Joubert & Venter. The plant can also tolerate slightly alkaline soil conditions. The pH range of the soil should be in the region of 7.5 – 8.5. Soil fertility also plays a crucial role in the plant’s growth. The recommended soil fertility is approximately 100 kilograms of nitrogen, 100 kilograms of phosphate, and 300 kilograms of potassium per hectare.
Cultivation Methods
Lycium Grandicalyx Joubert & Venter grows well in full sun to partial shade and prefers sandy soils. This plant is drought-tolerant and can withstand low temperatures up to -5 °C.
Watering Needs
During the initial stage, the plant requires frequent watering but should avoid waterlogging as it can cause root rot. Once established, this plant needs little watering, especially during the dry season.
Fertilization
It is recommended to use a slow-release, balanced fertilizer two to three times annually during the growing season. Over-fertilizing can lead to excessive leaf growth and reduce flower production.
Pruning
Pruning should be done during the dormant season (winter) to remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches. This plant tends to become leggy, so pruning back to a third of the total length can promote denser growth. Light pruning can be done throughout the growing season to shape the plant.
Propagation of Lycium grandicalyx Joubert & Venter
Lycium grandicalyx Joubert & Venter, commonly known as the Cape boxthorn, is a perennial plant species that is native to the Western Cape and Eastern Cape provinces of South Africa. The plant is well-known for its medicinal properties, and it has been traditionally used for treating a range of ailments, including stomach problems, skin conditions, and respiratory infections. Propagating Lycium grandicalyx can be done through various methods, including seeds, cuttings, and layering.
Propagation by Seeds
The most common method of propagating Lycium grandicalyx is by seeds. Seeds can be collected from ripe fruits and sown in the spring or summer in well-draining soil. The seeds should be planted in shallow furrows, covered with a layer of soil, and kept moist until germination. It usually takes around 14 to 21 days for the seeds to germinate. Once the seedlings have grown to a suitable size, they can be transplanted into their final positions.
Propagation by Cuttings
Lycium grandicalyx can also be propagated by cuttings. Cuttings should be taken in the spring or early summer from the current season’s growth. The cuttings should be around 10-15 cm long and should be removed from the branch with a clean cut. The leaves on the lower half of the cutting should be removed, and the cutting should be dipped in a rooting hormone powder before being planted in a well-draining potting mix. The cuttings should be kept moist and out of direct sunlight until they have developed roots. Once the roots have formed, the cuttings can be transplanted into their final positions.
Propagation by Layering
Propagation by layering is another method that can be used to propagate Lycium grandicalyx. This method involves bending a branch of the plant down to the ground and covering it with soil, leaving the tip of the branch exposed. Roots will develop where the branch touches the soil, and once the roots have formed, the branch can be cut away from the parent plant and transplanted into its final position.
Overall, propagating Lycium grandicalyx can be done through different methods, and each method has its advantages and disadvantages. Choosing the best propagation method depends on various factors, such as the resources available, the desired number of plants, and the time of the year.
Disease and Pest Management for Lycium grandicalyx Joubert & Venter
Lycium grandicalyx Joubert & Venter, also known as the thornberry, is a drought-tolerant evergreen shrub that's native to South Africa. This plant is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but there are a few things that can affect its growth and health. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Lycium grandicalyx Joubert & Venter and the ways to manage them:
Diseases
The most common disease that affects Lycium grandicalyx Joubert & Venter is leaf spot. This disease causes small, circular spots on the leaves that can eventually turn yellow and fall off. Leaf spot is caused by a fungus that thrives in moist conditions. To manage leaf spot, remove any diseased leaves and avoid overhead watering. You can also apply a fungicide to the plant as a preventative measure.
Another disease that can affect this plant is root rot. This is caused by a fungus that attacks the roots, causing them to rot and eventually die. Signs of root rot include wilting and yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and a general lack of vigor. To manage root rot, avoid overwatering and make sure the soil is well-draining. You can also apply a fungicide to the soil as a preventative measure.
Pests
Although not common, Lycium grandicalyx Joubert & Venter can be infested by spider mites. These pests are tiny and can be difficult to see, but they can cause significant damage to the plant by sucking the sap from the leaves. Signs of a spider mite infestation include yellow or brown stippling on the leaves, webbing, and leaf drop. To manage spider mites, use a strong stream of water to knock them off the plant, or use an insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to kill them.
Another pest that can affect this plant is the whitefly. These pests are small, white, and fly-like, and they can cause damage to the plant by sucking the sap from the leaves. Signs of a whitefly infestation include yellowing leaves, leaf drop, and sticky honeydew on the leaves. To manage whiteflies, use a strong stream of water to knock them off the plant, or use an insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to kill them.
By being vigilant and taking steps to manage diseases and pests, you can help ensure that your Lycium grandicalyx Joubert & Venter remains healthy and vibrant.
