Origin
Metastelma costatum (E.Mey.) D.Dietr. belongs to the Apocynaceae family and is commonly found in Southern Africa, particularly in the countries of Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and South Africa.
Common Names
This plant is known by various common names including, Slanghout, Leopard's ear, Wildekers, and Wild pers.
Uses
Metastelma costatum has several uses in traditional medicine, where it is said to have antiseptic, diuretic, and laxative properties. It is also used to treat skin infections, colds, coughs, and fever. Additionally, the plant has been found to have insecticidal properties and is used as an organic insecticide.
General Appearance
The Metastelma costatum is a small shrub with stems that can grow up to 2 meters tall. It has opposite leaves that are simple and glossy, with a length of 2 to 5 cm. The plant has showy, red or pink flowers that bloom in the spring and summer months and are fragrant. The fruit of the plant is a follicle that splits in half releasing seeds with a white silky pappus.
Light Requirements
Metastelma costatum requires bright, indirect sunlight for optimal growth. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and cause damage. It can adapt to partial shade, but this could lead to a slower growth rate and smaller plant size.
Temperature Requirements
Moderate to warm temperatures are necessary for the growth of Metastelma costatum. The ideal temperature range is between 18°C to 26°C. Temperatures below 10°C can cause damage to the plant, and below 4°C can be fatal. The plant can tolerate high temperatures of up to 35°C, but it would need to be placed in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating.
Soil Requirements
Metastelma costatum prefers well-draining soil. It can thrive in soil that is slightly acidic to neutral (pH between 5.5 and 7.5). A mixture of peat, perlite, and sand could be used to achieve the right soil composition. It is recommended to pot the plant in a container with a drainage hole to prevent water-logging. In terms of fertilization, a balanced liquid fertilizer could be used once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
Cultivation Method:
Metastelma costatum, also known as Corkystem passionflower, is a plant species belonging to the Apocynaceae family. It is a climber plant, growing up to 6 meters tall, and it is native to South Africa. The plant grows well in a warm climate, with temperatures ranging from 15 °C to 30 °C, and it can be cultivated both indoors and outdoors.
For indoor cultivation, it is recommended to grow the plant in a pot containing well-draining soil. On the other hand, outdoor cultivation requires a fertile, well-drained soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5.
Watering Needs:
Corkystem passionflower requires moderate watering, allowing the soil to dry partially before watering it again. During the growing season, the plant requires more frequent watering, but it should be reduced during winter. Overwatering must be avoided because it can cause root rot, leading to plant death.
Fertilization:
The plant requires regular fertilization during the growing season, typically between spring and fall. Organic fertilizers, such as compost or manure, will work well, and a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10:10:10 can also be used. Fertilizers should be applied once a month, according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Pruning:
Pruning is an essential aspect of Corkystem passionflower's care. It will help to maintain the plant's desired shape and size, and it will also promote flowering. Pruning should be done in early spring, just before the growing season, by removing any dead or damaged stems. If the plant is getting too big, pruning can be done to limit its growth.
Moreover, if the plant's growth appears to be limited, a more drastic pruning may be necessary. However, it should be done cautiously because the plant may take longer to recover from the stress.
Propagation of Metastelma costatum
Metastelma costatum (E.Mey.) D.Dietr. can be propagated via several methods:
1. Seed Propagation
Seeds are the most common and reliable method of propagation for Metastelma costatum. The seeds can be sown in a well-draining soil mix and kept in a warm and humid environment. The seeds should be watered regularly, and germination can be expected within a few weeks.
2. Stem Cuttings Propagation
Another way to propagate Metastelma costatum is through stem cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from a healthy plant and planted into moist soil. The soil should be kept humid, and the cuttings should be watered regularly.
3. Division Propagation
Metastelma costatum can also be propagated through division. This method is the separation of the plant into several parts, each with its roots and stems. The divided plant parts should be replanted immediately in a moist soil mix and kept humid.
It is essential to note that propagating Metastelma costatum can only be successful with the proper care, attention, and quality of plant material used.
Disease Management
Metastelma costatum is susceptible to several diseases that can cause severe damage to the plant. Here are some common diseases and ways to manage them:
Fusarium Wilt
Fusarium wilt is a fungal disease that causes leaf yellowing, wilting, stunted growth, and eventual death of the plant. The fungus attacks the root system and prevents proper uptake of water and nutrients. To manage the disease, it is advisable to remove and destroy infected plants and avoid planting susceptible crops, rotate the crop growing zone, and maintain proper sanitation in and around growing areas.
Leaf Spot Disease
Leaf spot disease is a fungal disease that causes spots on the leaves, discoloration, and ultimate defoliation. The fungus spreads through air and water droplets. To manage this disease, it is important to remove infected leaves from the plant, improve ventilation, maintain proper hygiene, and provide water near the soil surface to prevent spores' splashing to the leaves.
Pest Management
Metastelma costatum is also vulnerable to pests that can cause significant damage to the plant. Here are some common pests and ways to manage them:
Whiteflies
Whiteflies are small, winged insects that suck sap from the plant's leaves, causing yellowing, wilting, and defoliation. They multiply rapidly in warm and humid conditions. To manage these pests, spray the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also introduce natural predators like ladybugs, lacewing larvae, and parasitic wasps to keep the population under control. Keep the plant and the surrounding areas clean to prevent infestations.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are soft, white insects that leave a waxy coating on the plant's leaves and stems. They suck sap from the plant, causing yellowing, wilting, and deformation. To manage these pests, remove the insects from the plant using a soft-bristled brush or cotton swab dipped in alcohol. You can also spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Introduce natural predators like ladybugs, lacewing larvae, and parasitic wasps to keep the population under control. Maintain proper hygiene and sanitation in and around growing areas to prevent infestations.
