Origin and Common Names
Marsdenia stelostigma K.Schum. is a flowering plant species that belongs to the family Apocynaceae. It is native to the tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, specifically in Angola, Cameroon, and Gabon. The plant is commonly known as "chingoya" in Angola and "ejumula" in Cameroon.
Appearance
Marsdenia stelostigma K.Schum. is a woody vine that can grow up to 20 meters in length. Its stem is slender, glabrous, and has a diameter of about 5-10 mm. The leaves are simple, alternate, and have a lanceolate shape with a length of 3-12 cm and a width of 1-2.5 cm. The stem and leaves exude a milky sap when broken or cut.
The plant produces clusters of flowers that are 1-2 cm in diameter. The flowers have five petals that are greenish-yellow in color, and a corolla tube that is 5-6 mm long. The fruit is a follicle that is 10-15 cm long, cylindrical in shape, and contains numerous seeds that are flat and brown in color.
Uses
Marsdenia stelostigma K.Schum. has several traditional medicinal uses. In Angola, the bark and leaves are used to treat malaria, fever, and stomach pains. The plant is also used to treat snake bites and to relieve pain and swelling. In Cameroon, the boiled roots of the plant are used to treat skin infections and to soothe sore throats.
The plant is also used as a source of fiber for making ropes and fishing nets. The sap from the stem and leaves is used as a glue for joining materials. In addition, the plant is used as a decorative plant in gardens and landscapes.
Light Requirements
Marsdenia stelostigma K.Schum. requires plenty of bright and indirect sunlight to grow properly. It is best to place the plant near a west or south-facing window to ensure adequate light levels. While the plant can tolerate mild shading, it requires a minimum of six hours of sunlight per day. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so it is best to avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Marsdenia stelostigma K.Schum. prefers warm and humid conditions, with a temperature range between 18°C to 25°C being ideal. The plant can tolerate temperatures as low as 15°C but should not be exposed to temperatures below 10°C. Rapid temperature fluctuations can cause stress for the plant and lead to stunted growth or leaf drop. It is best to maintain a consistent temperature around the plant to ensure healthy growth.
Soil Requirements
Marsdenia stelostigma K.Schum. requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and sand is ideal for this plant. The soil pH should be around 6.0 to 7.0, which is slightly acidic to neutral. The container used to grow the plant should have drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Water the plant regularly but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Cultivation
Marsdenia stelostigma K.Schum. is native to the tropical regions of West and Central Africa. It grows well in warm temperatures and under bright indirect light. The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. Ensure that the pot has adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Needs
Water Marsdenia stelostigma K.Schum. when the soil is dry to the touch about 1 inch deep. Allow the excess water to drain and don't let the plant sit in standing water. During the growing season, which is typically from spring to fall, water the plant frequently and ensure the soil remains evenly moist. Reduce watering in the dormant period to prevent the plant from rotting and drowning.
Fertilization
Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth. Use a high phosphorous fertilizer when the plant is actively flowering. However, don't fertilize the plant when it's dormant or stressed as it may damage the roots.
Pruning
Marsdenia stelostigma K.Schum. can be pruned to control the size and shape of the plant. Cut back the stems after flowering to promote bushier growth and more blooms. Remove the dead, diseased, or damaged leaves and stems to prevent pests and diseases from thriving. Use clean and sharp pruning tools to avoid injuring the plant.
Propagation of Marsdenia stelostigma K.Schum.
Marsdenia stelostigma K.Schum. can be propagated using various methods. The most common methods are through seeds, stem cuttings, and grafting.
Propagation by seeds
Seeds can be collected from the mature fruits of the plant. They need to be cleaned and dried before sowing. The seeds can be sown in well-draining soil in a pot or seed tray. They should be covered lightly with soil and kept in a warm and humid place. Germination can take up to 4-6 weeks. Once the seedlings are strong enough, they can be transplanted to bigger pots.
Propagation by stem cuttings
Stem cuttings can be taken from the plant during the growing season. The cutting should have a minimum of 3 nodes. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder. Plant the cutting in well-draining soil and water it. Cover the pot with a plastic bag or a glass jar to create a humid environment. Keep the pot in a shaded area and water it regularly. Within a month, new leaves should appear, indicating successful propagation.
Propagation by grafting
Grafting is another method of propagation for Marsdenia stelostigma K.Schum. It involves attaching a piece of the stem of the desired plant onto a rootstock. The rootstock can be a closely related species or a genetically identical plant. Make a slanting cut on the rootstock and the scion stem, and then attach them together securely using tape or a grafting clip. Keep the plant in a warm and humid environment until the grafting takes hold. It will take a few weeks for the graft to take hold, after which the tape or clip can be removed.
Disease and Pest Management for Marsdenia stelostigma K.Schum. Plant
Marsdenia stelostigma K.Schum. is a beautiful plant that requires proper care and maintenance to thrive well. One of the essential aspects of plant care is the management of disease and pest issues. Below are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes brown or black spots on the leaves of the plant. The spots may have a yellow halo, and the leaves may eventually fall off. To manage leaf spot, remove infected leaves and ensure proper watering and fertilization to prevent over-fertilization and excessive moisture.
Root Rot: Root rot is a disease caused by over-watering and poor drainage. The plant's roots start to rot, and the plant eventually dies off. To manage root rot, minimize watering, improve drainage, and ensure adequate airflow in the growing area.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes a white, powdery substance to form on the plant's leaves. The leaves may start to curl and turn yellow. To manage powdery mildew, use neem oil or a fungicide spray to treat the infected plant and ensure proper air circulation and sunlight exposure.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small insects that feed on the sap of the plant's stems and leaves. They cause discoloration, wilting, and stunted growth. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil and ensure regular trimming of affected plant parts.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that cause yellowing and stippling of the plant's leaves. They spin webs on the underside of the leaves and cause severe damage to the plant. To manage spider mites, use a miticide spray and ensure proper humidity and watering to avoid drought stress.
Thrips: Thrips are small, slender insects that cause damage to the plant's leaves by sucking out its juice. This leads to discoloration, mottling and curling of the leaves and stunted growth. To manage thrips, use insecticides, prune affected parts, and ensure good sanitation in the growing area.
Proper management of diseases and pests in Marsdenia stelostigma K.Schum plant helps to ensure the plant's healthy growth and productivity.
