Description of Marsdenia gazensis S.Moore
Marsdenia gazensis S.Moore is a rare, endemic plant species found only in the savannah woodlands of Kenya and Tanzania. The plant is a member of the Apocynaceae family, which includes a diverse range of plant species found worldwide.
Common names
Marsdenia gazensis S.Moore is commonly known as the "Gazena Marsdenia" or the "Kenyan milkwood" since the latex sap from the plant resembles milk.
Uses
The latex sap from the Gazena Marsdenia is used by local communities for medicinal purposes. It is believed to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties and used to treat arthritis, rheumatism, and other related ailments. Additionally, the plant is used as a source of vegetable fiber, which is used for making ropes, baskets, and other handicrafts.
General appearance
Marsdenia gazensis S.Moore is a woody climber that grows up to 4 meters tall. The leaves are oblong and have a glossy dark green color. The flowers are small, with five-pointed petals that are yellow-green in color. The fruits of the plant are egg-shaped, and they contain seeds that are dispersed by the wind or animals.
Light Requirements
Marsdenia gazensis S.Moore requires full sun exposure to partial shade. It is important that it receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth. Too much shade can result in stunted growth and weaker stems.
Temperature Requirements
Marsdenia gazensis S.Moore thrives in warm temperatures and should be grown in USDA hardiness zones 9-11. The optimum temperature range is between 64-86°F (18-30°C). It is important to protect the plant from frost as it can damage or kill it.
Soil Requirements
Marsdenia gazensis S.Moore prefers well-draining soil that is loose and slightly acidic. The pH level of the soil should be between 5.5 and 6.5 for optimal growth. Adding organic matter such as compost or peat moss can improve the soil structure and fertility. It is important to avoid over-watering the plant as it can result in root rot.
Cultivation
Marsdenia gazensis S.Moore thrives in well-drained and fertile soils of both acidic and slightly alkaline nature. It prefers sunny and open spaces but can also manage partial shades. For proper cultivation, one should plant the seedlings or rooted stem cuttings in late spring to early summer in a greenhouse or outdoors when the temperature is above 20°C/68°F.
The recommended spacing distance is 60 cm/24 inches apart in a row and 90 cm/36 inches between rows. The plant should be watered with caution to prevent waterlogging that may cause root rot.
Watering
Marsdenia gazensis S. Moore requires regular watering to keep the soil moist during its active growth season. It is advisable to mulch the soil around the plant to help preserve soil moisture. However, too much water may suffocate the roots and lead to decay. During the dormant season, water sparingly to avoid over-watering that may cause root rot.
Fertilization
For proper growth and development, the plant requires fertilizer that is rich in phosphorus and potassium but low on nitrogen content. Fertilization is done during the growing season, preferably every two weeks. One can use organic fertilizers like manure at a rate of 4-5 kg per square meter or inorganic fertilizers like 10-10-10 at a rate of 20 g per square meter.
Pruning
Pruning helps to control the spread of Marsdenia gazensis S.Moore and promotes growth, leading to a more compact and sturdy plant with plenty of flowers. The best time for pruning is in late winter or early spring just before the onset of the growing season. Cut back the stems to the desired height, leaving at least two nodes for new growth. This plant is known to have milky sap, so it is advisable to handle it with gloves.
Propagation of Marsdenia gazensis S.Moore
Marsdenia gazensis S.Moore, commonly known as Gouty-stemmed Marsdenia, is a climbing tropical plant native to Tanzania and Kenya. It is a beautiful plant with thick, succulent, and waxy stems that can grow up to two meters long. It produces fragrant, white or cream-colored flowers that attract butterflies and honeybees. Propagation of the plant is crucial for its cultivation and survival, and the following are the main propagation methods for Marsdenia gazensis S.Moore:
Propagation through Cuttings
Propagation through cuttings is the easiest and most reliable method for Marsdenia gazensis S.Moore. Cuttings are typically taken from the stem tips in spring or early summer. Cuttings should be around 6-10 cm long and should have at least a few leaves. The lower leaves are removed from the cutting, and the cutting is left in a well-draining soil mix of sand and peat moss. It should take about three to four weeks for the cuttings to root. Once the new plants have established roots, they can be transplanted into a larger container or garden bed.
Propagation through Seeds
Propagation through seeds is another option for Marsdenia gazensis S.Moore, but it is slower and less reliable than the cutting method. It is best to sow the seeds in spring or summer in a well-draining soil mix of sand and peat moss. The seeds are lightly covered with soil, and the container is kept moist but not waterlogged. It can take several weeks, or even months, for the seed to germinate, and another few months before the young plant is vigorous enough for transplantation.
Propagation through Layering
Propagation through layering is a method that involves burying a lower section of a stem into the soil while still attached to the mother plant. The buried section will root and produce a new plant. This method is used when the stems of the Marsdenia gazensis S.Moore are too brittle and breaking too easily to be propagated through the cutting method. After a few months, the rooted section can be separated from the mother plant, and a new plant is produced.
Propagation of Marsdenia gazensis S.Moore can be carried out through any of these methods successfully. It is essential to maintain ample moisture and good drainage of the soil for healthy development. With the right care and nurturing, the plant will thrive, covering trellises and garden walls with its beautiful flowers and lush foliage.
Disease and Pest Management for Marsdenia gazensis S.Moore
Marsdenia gazensis S.Moore is a beautiful plant, but it can be susceptible to several diseases and pests. Maintaining good cultural practices and staying vigilant for any signs of pests or disease are essential to keep this plant healthy and flourishing.
Common Diseases
Some common diseases that can affect Marsdenia gazensis S.Moore include root rot, fungal leaf spots, and powdery mildew. Root rot is caused by overwatering and poor drainage, leading to the roots' decay. Fungal leaf spots present as small, circular spots on the leaves, often caused by high humidity and poor air circulation. Powdery mildew is another fungal disease caused by high humidity levels and can be identified by the powdery white coating on leaves and stems.
Disease Management
The best practice to manage Marsdenia gazensis S.Moore diseases is to prevent them. Avoid overwatering the plant and ensure proper drainage. Water the plant at the soil level, avoiding overhead watering, which can spread diseases. Implement good practices like cleaning and sterilizing tools and pruning equipment to prevent the spread of diseases. Remove infected leaves and avoid overcrowding plants. Fungicides may be necessary to combat fungal diseases but only use them as a last resort.
Common Pests
Marsdenia gazensis S.Moore can be attacked by a wide range of pests, but the most common include spider mites, mealybugs, and scales. Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the plant's sap and can cause yellow leaves and stunted growth. Mealybugs are small white insects that suck sap from the plant, leaving behind a cotton-like film. Scales are small insects that leave behind yellow spots, causing damage to the plant's leaves and stems.
Pest Management
Early detection and prevention of pests are key to managing them effectively. Inspect your plants regularly for signs of infestation and use sticky traps to capture flying pests. Prune away infested areas and discard them properly. For small infestations, you can use organic pesticides or natural predators like ladybugs. For large-scale infestations, use commercial insecticides as directed but avoid using them as a regular practice.
In conclusion
Marsdenia gazensis S.Moore is a beautiful addition to any garden, but it does require vigilance and proper care to prevent diseases and pests. Keep your plants healthy by providing good cultural practices like proper watering and pruning, and stay alert for any indications of disease or pests. Early detection and prevention are the keys to keeping your plants healthy and thriving.
