Origin
Microcharis longicalyx (J.B.Gillett) Schrire is a plant species classified as a member of the legume family, Fabaceae. It is native to southern Africa, specifically in Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa. The plant is also found in Angola, Zimbabwe, and Zambia.
Common Names
Microcharis longicalyx is commonly known as the long-calyxed microcharis. It is also referred to as 'motsentsentsi' in Setswana and 'mvubukha' in Zulu.
Appearance
Microcharis longicalyx is a perennial herb that generally grows up to 50 cm tall. The plant has slender stems and slightly hairy leaves with a length of 5-20 mm. The plant bears yellow flowers that are 13 mm long and have a cylindrical shape. The flowers are produced on a long spike and bloom from July to September. The plant's fruit is a pod, which is 12-20 mm long, 8-10 mm wide, flat, and slightly hairy. The seeds are oval and slightly flattened, with a length of 4-7 mm.
Uses
Microcharis longicalyx has medicinal uses. In Southern Africa, the plant's roots are used to treat coughs and colds. The roots are also used to treat livestock ailments such as nasal catarrh and diarrhea. The plant's seeds are edible and are roasted, ground, and used to make coffee-like beverages high in caffeine. The plant is also used for ornamental purposes in gardens and parks in Southern Africa.
Light Requirements
Microcharis longicalyx requires bright and indirect light for optimal growth. It should be placed in a well-lit area but not directly under the sun's rays as this may cause its leaves to scorch. If grown indoors, it should be placed near a window or under artificial lighting that mimics natural light conditions.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the growth of Microcharis longicalyx is between 22°C and 27°C. It prefers warm and humid conditions, much like its natural habitat. Temperatures below 18°C may cause the plant to wither, while temperatures above 32°C may lead to leaf damage and stunted growth.
Soil Requirements
The ideal soil for Microcharis longicalyx is well-draining and rich in organic matter. It should have a slightly acidic to neutral pH range between 5.5 and 7.5. A mixture of peat, sand, and perlite is suitable for potting. The plant must be grown in a container with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which may lead to root rot.
Cultivation of Microcharis Longicalyx
Microcharis longicalyx is a small herbaceous plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. The plant is native to Africa and is a perfect plant for rock gardens, pots, and ground covers. Cultivating Microcharis longicalyx requires proper care and attention to thrive in your garden or indoor settings.
Watering Needs
Microcharis longicalyx plant needs regular watering to keep the soil moist. During the growing season, you should ensure the soil remains consistently moist but not overwatered as it may lead to root rot. Whenever you water the plant, make sure the water drains well and doesn't leave waterlogged roots. During the dormant season, significantly reduce watering the plant to avoid water stress.
Fertilization
Microcharis longicalyx is not heavy feeders and requires minimal fertilization to support their growth. It is advisable to use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10:10:10, applied every six weeks during the growing season. Fertilizer application should be done after watering to avoid damaging the plant's roots.
Pruning
Microcharis longicalyx plant requires minimal pruning apart from deadheading the spent blooms. Pruning maintains the plant's shape and promotes more branching at the base. If the plant overgrows its container or outgrows the garden space, you can prune its leaves and stems to a desirable size or shape.
With adequate care and attention, Microcharis longicalyx can thrive in most garden settings or indoor environments. The plant's roots are shallow, allowing them to grow well in rocky or loose soil. Whether you decide to grow the plant in pots or garden beds, ensure its watering and fertilization needs are met, and carry out minimal pruning to maintain the desired shape.
Propagation of Microcharis longicalyx
Microcharis longicalyx (J.B.Gillett) Schrire is a rare and endangered plant species that is found in small populations in western Cameroon. This plant species can be propagated vegetatively or from seeds.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation is one of the methods used to propagate Microcharis longicalyx. This method involves taking stem cuttings from healthy plants and planting them in a suitable rooting medium. The cuttings should ideally be 5 to 10 cm long and have at least two nodes. The rooting medium should be well-draining and rich in organic matter.
The cuttings should be placed in a moist, warm location with indirect light. After a few weeks, roots will start to grow from the nodes, and new shoots will emerge from the stem. Once the plant has established roots and new growth, it can be transplanted into a larger pot or directly into the garden.
Propagation from Seeds
Propagation of Microcharis longicalyx from seeds can be done either by sowing the seeds directly in the garden or by starting them indoors. Seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix and lightly covered with soil. They need to be kept moist and warm until they germinate, which can take up to several weeks.
Once the seedlings have grown large enough, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden. It is important to note that plants grown from seeds may take longer to mature and flower compared to those propagated vegetatively.
In conclusion, Microcharis longicalyx (J.B.Gillett) Schrire can be propagated vegetatively or from seeds. Both methods can be successful if the proper techniques and conditions are followed.
Disease Management for Microcharis longicalyx
While Microcharis longicalyx plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases, various infections may still occur. Common diseases affecting these plants include:
- Leaf spot: This is caused by fungal infections and can result in small spots appearing on the leaves. To manage this, it is essential to remove any infected leaves and apply fungicides as recommended by a professional.
- Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that can cause dark spots and holes on plant leaves. It is essential to apply a recommended fungicide to manage this infection.
- Root rot: This occurs when the soil is too moist, leading to the roots dying. To manage this, it is essential to allow the soil to dry out between watering. If the plant is already infected, consider using a fungicide to help control the situation.
Pest Management for Microcharis longicalyx
The main pests that can affect Microcharis longicalyx plants include:
- Aphids: These are tiny insects that may feed on the plant's sap, causing the leaves to yellow and deform. To manage their infestation, rinse the plant with water, apply insecticidal soap, or treat with a neem oil solution.
- Spider mites: These pests may feed on the plant's tissue, leading to dingy, yellowish leaves. To control them, rinse the plant with water and apply insecticidal soap or a recommended miticide.
- Thrips: These tiny insects can cause distorted and discolored foliage. To control their infestation, remove and destroy any infected parts of the plant or apply insecticides.
- Mealybugs: These insects can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To control their growth, rinse the plant with water, prune the infected parts, and apply insecticidal soap or alcohol.
It is important to keep the plant and its surrounding area clean, promote healthy growth, and maintain proper lighting and watering to prevent pest and disease infestations. Inspect plants regularly to detect any pest or disease problems, so you can take prompt action to reduce the damage and preserve plant quality.
