Origin and Common Names
Melanthera scandens (Schumach. & Thonn.) Roberty subsp. subsimplicifolia Wild is a plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is a native plant to Africa, commonly found in Nigeria, Cameroon, Ghana, and other parts of West Africa. It is also known by various other names such as climbing black-eyed Susan, climbing wild sunflower, and bush sunflower.General Appearance
The Melanthera scandens (Schumach. & Thonn.) Roberty subsp. subsimplicifolia Wild is a perennial plant that can grow up to 6 meters in height. The plant has a woody stem, which is slender, cylindrical, and hairy. The leaves of the plant are ovate, with serrated margins, and are dark green in color. The plant has bright yellow flowers that bloom in clusters at the end of the stem and have a diameter of 2 to 3 centimeters. The flowers produce seeds that are small, oblong, and brown in color.Uses
The Melanthera scandens (Schumach. & Thonn.) Roberty subsp. subsimplicifolia Wild has various medicinal uses. The plant is used by traditional healers in countries such as Nigeria for treating diarrhea, fever, and various other ailments. The leaves and stems of the plant have also been used for treating wounds and skin diseases. In addition to its medicinal uses, the plant is also used in landscaping as an ornamental plant due to its bright and attractive flowers. The plant is also used as a cover crop to prevent soil erosion. The seeds of the plant are used as bird feed.Growth Conditions for Melanthera scandens (Schumach. & Thonn.) Roberty subsp. subsimplicifolia Wild
Melanthera scandens, also known as the climbing Melanthera, is a perennial plant that is native to tropical Africa, specifically found in countries such as Cameroon, Nigeria, and Ghana. It is a climbing shrub that can grow up to 3 meters in height and spread up to 1.5 meters wide.
Light Requirements
Melanthera scandens thrives in bright, indirect light. It requires a minimum of 4-6 hours of sunlight per day. However, direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day can cause leaf scorching and damage to the plant. It is recommended to place the plant in an area with partial sun or filtered light.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the growth of Melanthera scandens is between 18°C to 24°C. The plant requires warm temperatures and cannot tolerate frost. It is necessary to maintain a consistent temperature and protect the plant from sudden temperature changes.
Soil Requirements
Melanthera scandens grows well in well-draining, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be slightly acidic, between 5.5 and 6.5. The plant prefers a moist soil environment, but it should not be watered excessively as this can lead to root rot. It is recommended to water the plant once a week or when the soil is dry to the touch.
Overall, Melanthera scandens is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of settings as long as its basic growth conditions are met. With proper care and maintenance, this climbing Melanthera can be a beautiful addition to any indoor or outdoor space.
Cultivation Methods
Melanthera scandens (Schumach. & Thonn.) Roberty subsp. subsimplicifolia Wild is a plant that thrives in tropical and subtropical climates. It can be grown both in the ground and in pots or containers. It is recommended to plant it in well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It prefers full sunlight or partial shade and requires protection from strong winds.
Watering Needs
Melanthera scandens (Schumach. & Thonn.) Roberty subsp. subsimplicifolia Wild requires regular watering to keep the soil moist, especially during the growing season. However, it is essential to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. The frequency of watering may vary depending on the climate and the soil type. It is recommended to water the plant deeply once a week and increase the frequency during hot and dry weather.
Fertilization
The plant requires regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and blooming. It is recommended to use a balanced fertilizer, preferably with a higher amount of phosphorous, as this promotes blooming. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant period as this may lead to excessive growth, weakening the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential aspect of the care of Melanthera scandens (Schumach. & Thonn.) Roberty subsp. subsimplicifolia Wild. Regular pruning promotes bushier growth and prevents the plant from becoming leggy. Prune the plant in early spring before the growing season begins. Remove the dead and damaged stems and any growth that appears out of place or detracts from the plant's overall shape. The plant's growth habit is spreading, so it is recommended to train it to grow according to your desired shape by cutting back the stems to the desired length.
Propagation Methods for Melanthera scandens (Schumach. & Thonn.) Roberty subsp. subsimplicifolia Wild
The Melanthera scandens (Schumach. & Thonn.) Roberty subsp. subsimplicifolia Wild is propagated through various methods. These methods are:
Seed Propagation
Seeds are usually collected in the fall, and they can be sowed immediately. It should be noted that the seeds lose their viability quite fast after harvest, so quick planting is highly important.
The seeds should be sowed in a mixture of soil, sand, and manure, all in equal amounts. The planting medium should be moist, and the seeds should be sowed at a depth of about 1 cm. The seedlings should appear within two weeks of planting. The seedlings can be transplanted into their permanent positions in about two months after germination.
Division Propagation
One of the simplest methods of propagation of the Melanthera scandens (Schumach. & Thonn.) Roberty subsp. subsimplicifolia Wild is by division. It is best done in the spring when new growth begins.
The plant should be carefully dug up and divided into sections, ensuring each section has a healthy stem and root structure. Each section should be planted in a pot or directly in the soil. Watering should be done regularly to ensure the plants thrive in their new position.
Cutting Propagation
The Melanthera scandens (Schumach. & Thonn.) Roberty subsp. subsimplicifolia Wild can also be propagated through cuttings. The cuttings can be taken in early spring when the plant is actively growing.
The cuttings should be taken from healthy stems about 5 to 10 cm long, without flowers, and with a couple of leaves. The leaves in the lower half of the cutting should be removed, and the cutting should be dipped in a rooting hormone before planting. The cuttings should be planted in soil mixed with sand and kept moist until new growth appears. The new plants can be transplanted to their permanent positions after a few months.
Disease Management
Melanthera scandens is susceptible to a range of fungal diseases that can severely impact growth and yield. The most common diseases that affect Melanthera scandens include:
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease appears as dark, sunken spots on leaves and stems. To manage anthracnose, infected parts of the plant should be removed and destroyed to prevent further spread.
- Powdery Mildew: This disease presents as a white powdery coating on the surface of leaves and stems. To prevent powdery mildew, avoid overhead watering, and keep the plant well-ventilated. Fungicidal sprays may be necessary to control severe infestations.
- Leaf Spot: This fungal disease is characterized by the appearance of circular brown spots on leaves. Fungal spores overwinter on plant debris, so proper sanitation measures should be taken to prevent the spread of leaf spot.
Pest Management
Melanthera scandens can be attacked by a variety of pests that can severely impact growth and yield. The most common pests that attack Melanthera scandens include:
- Aphids: These small insects suck sap from leaves causing leaves to curl and turn yellow. To control aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil sprays.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause significant damage by piercing plant tissue and sucking sap. To control spider mites, increase the humidity around the plant and spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Thrips: These insects feed on leaves and flowers causing them to discolor and distort. To control thrips, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil sprays and remove any plant debris from the surrounding area.
