Introduction:
Melanthera cuanzensis Hiern var. altior Hiern is a herbaceous plant with medicinal benefits that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is a shrubby plant that can easily grow up to 3 meters in height. The plant is native to the Congo Basin in Central Africa and is known by various names in different African countries.Common Names:
Melanthera cuanzensis Hiern var. altior Hiern is commonly known as "Toto" in Cameroon, "Kidahira" in Zaire, "Aku-amu" in Nigeria, and "Ngwala" in Gabon.Description:
The Melanthera cuanzensis Hiern var. altior Hiern plant has an erect stem that is woody at the base and green/white towards the top. The leaves are simple, large, and elliptic with a length of up to 10 cm and a width of 3-8 cm. The flowers of the plant have a yellow hue and are about 2 cm in diameter. Melanthera cuanzensis Hiern var. altior Hiern fruits are composed of achenes with elongated pappus hairs that are about 1 cm long. The roots of the plant are taproots that penetrate deep into the ground.Uses:
Melanthera cuanzensis Hiern var. altior Hiern has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. The plant is used to treat a wide range of ailments, including diarrhoea, constipation, fever, and coughs. The leaves, roots, and stem bark are used to make medicine. The leaves are chewed raw, boiled in water to prepare a herbal tea, or pounded to extract the juice. The stem bark and root are decocted in water to extract the active components. The plant extract has various pharmacological activities such as antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antidiarrheal. Recent research has shown that the plant extract also has anti-tumour and anti-diabetic properties.Conclusion:
In conclusion, Melanthera cuanzensis Hiern var. altior Hiern is a shrubby plant native to Central Africa, with various medicinal properties. The plant has been used for centuries to treat various ailments by traditional healers. Recent research has shown that the plant extract has various pharmacological activities and has the potential to be a valuable source of drugs.Growth Conditions for Melanthera Cuanzensis Hiern var. Altior Hiern
Melanthera cuanzensis Hiern var. altior Hiern, commonly known as the forest bushman's poison or the forest whitehead, is a small tree or shrub that is native to the tropical and subtropical regions of Africa. The growth conditions for this plant species are specific and require careful attention to thrive.
Light Requirements
The Melanthera cuanzensis Hiern var. altior Hiern plant requires partial shade to full sun for optimal growth. However, it is important to note that this plant is not tolerant of extreme heat or direct sunlight. It is recommended to place the plant in a spot that receives indirect sunlight or semi-shade, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
Temperature Requirements
The Melanthera cuanzensis Hiern var. altior Hiern plant thrives in warm temperatures between 20 and 30°C (68 to 86°F). The plant does not survive below 5°C (41°F) or above 40°C (104°F). It is important to provide the plant with a warm environment, either by keeping it indoors or in a heated greenhouse for cold climates.
Soil Requirements
The Melanthera cuanzensis Hiern var. altior Hiern plant requires well-draining soil with a pH level between 5.0 and 6.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter, with good water retention capacity. The ideal soil mixture should include loam, sand, and peat moss in equal proportions.
It is important to note that the plant is sensitive to salt accumulation in the soil, which may stunt its growth or even lead to its death. As such, it is recommended to regularly flush the plant with water to prevent salt build-up.
Overall, the Melanthera cuanzensis Hiern var. altior Hiern plant requires optimal light, temperature, and soil conditions to thrive. With careful attention to these growth conditions, this plant can add an exotic and unique touch to any garden or indoor setting.
Cultivation Methods
Melanthera cuanzensis Hiern var. altior Hiern, also known as the African Witch Daisy, is a plant species that requires a warm tropical or subtropical climate to thrive. Its cultivation methods require plenty of sunlight and fertile, well-drained soils. To cultivate the plant, it should be propagated through stem cuttings or seedlings.
Watering Needs
The African Witch Daisy requires a moderate amount of water. It is recommended to water the plant once a week or when the soil is dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important to ensure that the soil is well-drained. During hot or dry weather conditions, the plant may require more frequent watering to prevent dehydration.
Fertilization
Melanthera cuanzensis Hiern var. altior Hiern requires regular fertilization for optimal growth. A good quality, balanced fertilizer should be applied fortnightly. Care should be taken not to over-fertilize, as it can lead to leaf burn or damage.
Pruning
Pruning the African Witch Daisy is essential to promote shape and encourage bushy, compact growth. Pruning should be carried out during the growing season, and it should be done after the flowering period is over. Deadheading spent flowers and removing any dead or yellowing leaves are essential for maintaining the plant’s health and appearance.
Propagation of Melanthera cuanzensis Hiern var. altior Hiern
Melanthera cuanzensis Hiern var. altior Hiern can be propagated by two methods: seeds and stem cuttings.
Propagation by seeds
Seeds can be sown directly in the soil or in trays filled with a well-draining potting mix. The seeds should be sown at a depth of around 1 cm and covered lightly with soil. The trays or pots should be kept in a warm, well-lit area and kept moderately moist. Germination may take between 2 to 4 weeks.
Once the seedlings have grown to a height of around 10-15 cm, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden bed.
Propagation by stem cuttings
Stem cuttings from healthy, mature plants can also be used to propagate Melanthera cuanzensis Hiern var. altior Hiern. Using a sharp, sterile pair of scissors or pruners, take a cutting of around 10-15 cm in length from the tip or middle of a stem.
Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end of the stem into a rooting hormone powder. Insert the cutting into a well-draining potting mix or directly into the garden bed. Water the cutting well and cover it with a plastic bag or a clear plastic container to create a humid environment.
Place the cutting in an area with bright, indirect light and keep the soil moderately moist. The cutting should start to develop roots within a few weeks. After the roots have developed, the plastic covering can be removed and the new plant can be transplanted into its own pot or directly into the garden bed.
Disease Management
Plant diseases can cause significant damage to Melanthera cuanzensis Hiern var. altior Hiern and decrease its productivity. The following are some of the most common diseases that can affect this plant:
- Leaf Spot: This fungal disease can cause small or large brown spots on leaves, leading to defoliation and reduced photosynthesis. To manage it, remove and destroy the infected leaves and apply a fungicide accordingly.
- Powdery Mildew: A fungal disease that manifests with white powdery spots on the leaves and stem. To prevent or manage it, maintain good airflow, avoid overhead watering, and use a fungicide.
- Rust: Orange or yellow pustules on the leaves are common signs of rust. It can spread rapidly to other parts of the plant, causing defoliation and weakening. To control rust, remove and dispose of infected plant parts, use a fungicide and maintain good plant hygiene.
Pest Management
Like other plants, Melanthera cuanzensis Hiern var. altior Hiern can also be attacked by pests, including:
- Aphids: They suck sap from the leaves, leading to yellowing, stunted growth, and deformation. To manage them, remove infected plant parts, use insecticidal soap, and encourage natural predators.
- Caterpillars: They feed on the leaves and can cause considerable damage. Handpicking, using Bacillus thuringiensis, and maintaining good hygiene can help manage caterpillars.
- Spider Mites: These pests can cause yellowing, curling, and wilting of leaves. Improving air circulation, using insecticidal soap, and maintaining proper humidity can help control spider mites.
Regular monitoring, proper sanitation, and use of organic or chemical pesticides are key to managing pests and diseases in Melanthera cuanzensis Hiern var. altior Hiern effectively.
