Origin
Lycium pendulinum Miers, commonly known as the hanging matrimony vine, is a plant that belongs to the Solanaceae family. The plant is native to South America, specifically in Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, and Peru, where it grows in arid regions, from sea level up to 2200 m altitude.
Common Names
The plant is known by different common names depending on the region it is found in. For example, in Argentina, the plant is called "Uvilla" or "Katarni," while in Chile, it is known as "Espino de Risco" or "Arbolito de la Pampa."
Uses
The hanging matrimony vine has been used by traditional medicine practitioners in South America for centuries due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic properties. The plant is also used to treat hypertension, fever, and digestive disorders. In modern medicine, the plant is being researched for its potential use in treating cancer due to its high antioxidant content.
On the other hand, the plant's fruits are edible and are used in traditional cuisine. They can be consumed raw or used to make jams, juices, and wine.
General Appearance
The Lycium pendulinum Miers is a deciduous shrub that grows up to 3 meters high and can spread up to 4 meters in width. The plant has a woody stem and numerous branches, which are covered with small spines. The leaves are small, oval-shaped, and have a gray-green color.
The plant blooms in late spring to early summer, producing small, purple to lilac-colored flowers, which are followed by orange to reddish, berry-sized fruits. The fruits are fleshy, juicy, and contain numerous small seeds.
The hanging matrimony vine is adapted to arid regions and can survive in dry and harsh environments. The plant is often used to prevent soil erosion and as a decorative plant due to its attractive flowers and fruits.
Light Requirements
Lycium pendulinum Miers typically grows in full sun to partial shade. It requires at least 6 hours of sunlight daily in order to thrive. If grown in partial shade, the plant may not flower as abundantly and may have fewer fruits.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is native to the Andean Mountains and can tolerate temperatures as low as 23° F (-5° C) and as high as 90° F (32° C). However, it grows best in areas where temperatures range between 59° and 77° F (15° to 25°C).
Soil Requirements
Lycium pendulinum Miers prefers well-drained soils with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter, with a sandy or loamy texture. The plant is quite tolerant of drought conditions but does not grow well in waterlogged soils.
Cultivation
Lycium pendulinum Miers, also known as hanging boxthorn, is a drought-resistant shrub that can be cultivated from seed, stem cuttings, or sucker growth. In areas with a Mediterranean climate, it can be planted year-round. It prefers well-drained soils that are high in organic matter and is best grown in full sun.
Watering Needs
Although Lycium pendulinum Miers is drought-resistant, it requires regular watering during the establishment period. After the plant is established, it only needs to be watered during periods of extended drought. When watering, it is important to avoid getting water on the leaves as this can promote fungal growth.
Fertilization
Fertilization is not necessary for Lycium pendulinum Miers if it is grown in nutrient-rich soil. However, if the soil is poor, fertilizing with a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season can benefit the plant's growth and productivity.
Pruning
Lycium pendulinum Miers can be pruned in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged growth and to shape the plant. However, pruning should be done sparingly to avoid stimulating excessive growth, as this can reduce fruit production.
Propagation of Lycium pendulinum Miers
Lycium pendulinum Miers, commonly known as the Hangman's Fruit or the Devil's Thorn, is a flowering plant belonging to the family Solanaceae. This plant is primarily found in South America, especially in Peru, Chile, and Argentina.
Propagation Methods
Lycium pendulinum Miers can be propagated through both sexual and asexual reproduction methods. The propagation methods include:
Seed propagation
Seeds are collected from mature fruits that have turned reddish-brown. The seeds must be cleaned of fruit debris and sown immediately in nursery beds or trays containing well-draining soil. The seedlings germinate within two to three weeks, and after a few months, they can be transplanted to a permanent location.
Cuttings propagation
Lycium pendulinum Miers can be propagated through stem cuttings. Cuttings of 10 to 15 cm are taken from healthy plants during the active growth phase. The leaves on the lower part of the cutting are removed, and the cuttings are dipped in rooting hormone before planting them in potting soil or sand. The cuttings should be kept in a greenhouse or in a shaded area and regularly watered until roots develop.
Division propagation
The plant can also be propagated through root division. This method is best employed in early spring when the plant starts to grow vigorously. The roots are dug up and divided into sections with at least two buds per section. The sections are then replanted in a well-draining soil mixture in pots or a permanent location.
Disease Management for Lycium pendulinum Miers
Lycium pendulinum Miers is susceptible to various diseases that can impact its growth and reduce yields. Here are some of the prevalent diseases that affect this plant and ways to manage them:
Leaf Spot Diseases
Leaf spot diseases are common in Lycium pendulinum Miers and are caused by fungal pathogens. Symptoms include small, circular spots on leaves that may have a yellow or brown halo. To manage these diseases, plant resistant cultivars and avoid overhead watering. If infection occurs, remove affected leaves, and apply fungicides regularly to prevent further spread of the disease.
Bacterial Blight
Bacterial blight affects Lycium pendulinum Miers, causing wilting, yellowing, and eventual death of the plant. It is spread through contaminated seed, water, and pruning equipment. To manage bacterial blight, remove infected plants, sanitize all equipment before use, and practice crop rotation. Additionally, use copper-based fungicides to manage the disease.
Pest Management for Lycium pendulinum Miers
Lycium pendulinum Miers is also susceptible to pest attacks that can severely damage the crop. Here are some common pests that affect this plant and ways to manage them:
Aphids
Aphids are common pests that can cause yellowing, curling, and stunted growth in Lycium pendulinum Miers. They also secrete honeydew, which attracts other pests, such as ants. To manage aphids, introduce beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and lacewings, which are natural predators of aphids. Additionally, spray insecticides, including neem oil or pyrethrin, as needed.
Mites
Spider mites are common pests that infest Lycium pendulinum Miers, causing stippling, light green/yellow leaves, as well as webbing on the leaves. To manage spider mites, avoid using broad-spectrum insecticides which can kill beneficial predatory mites. Instead, introduce predator insects and apply miticides such as bifenthrin, dicofol, or permethrin.
Root-knot Nematodes
Root-knot nematodes are soil-borne pests that cause galls on the roots of Lycium pendulinum Miers leading to stunted growth, wilting, and eventual death of the plant. To manage root-knot nematodes, use resistant cultivars, apply nematicides, and rotate crops regularly. Additionally, integrate biological control methods such as nematode-trapping fungi and beneficial nematodes to manage the pests.
