Overview
Microcharis spathulata (J.B.Gillett) Schrire, also known as the Spatula-leaved Clover, is a herbaceous plant species belonging to the Fabaceae family. It is a small, attractive plant that is native to East Africa.
Appearance
The Spatula-leaved Clover is a low-growing and compact annual or short-lived perennial plant, typically reaching a height of about 10 cm. Its stem and leaves are covered with fine hairs. The leaves are narrow and spatula-shaped, measuring about 1-2 cm in length and 1-2 mm in width. The flowers are small, pink-purple in color, and grow in clusters of 2-6 blooms at the end of each stem.
Origin
The Microcharis spathulata plant is endemic to East Africa, specifically found in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. It thrives in high-altitude grasslands, rocky slopes, and disturbed areas such as road margins and cultivated fields.
Common Names
Aside from Spatula-leaved Clover, Microcharis spathulata has other common names such as Spoon-leaved Clover, Tibarage, and Mbegu. Tibarage is a Swahili name used in Tanzania, while Mbegu means "seed" in Swahili.
Uses
The tender leaves of the Spatula-leaved Clover can be consumed fresh in salads or cooked as a vegetable. Its seeds are also edible, commonly used as a survival food in the regions where it grows. The plant also serves an ornamental purpose, a popular choice for container gardens and ground covers. In addition, the plant is known to improve soil fertility and control weeds, making it a beneficial addition to farm and garden landscapes.
Light Requirements
Microcharis spathulata is a plant that requires full sunlight exposure for at least six hours a day. It grows well in areas with bright natural light. However, it can also tolerate partial shade, but the growth may be slower in such conditions.
Temperature Requirements
The plant Microcharis spathulata is native to regions with high temperatures. For optimal growth, it requires a warm temperature of between 20 to 30°C. Temperatures below 15°C or above 35°C can negatively affect the growth and development of the plant.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-draining sandy soils rich in organic matter. The sandy soil should be slightly acidic with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5, although it can tolerate slightly more acidic or alkaline soils. The plant prefers to grow in soils with good aeration and cannot tolerate waterlogging.
Water Requirements
Microcharis spathulata requires moderate watering. It can tolerate some drought, but it requires consistent moisture during active growth periods. The soil should be allowed to dry slightly before the next watering. The plant is susceptible to root rot if it stays in water-logged conditions for a prolonged period.
Fertilizer Requirements
The plant Microcharis spathulata is a light feeder, and thus, it requires minimal fertilization. Once every two months, a general-purpose plant fertilizer can be added sparingly to the soil to improve the soil nutrients. A fish emulsion fertilizer is also recommended, and it should be applied following the manufacturer's instructions.
Cultivation methods
Microcharis spathulata is a relatively easy-to-grow plant in the right conditions. It requires bright, indirect light, so it's essential to place it near a well-lit window where sunlight can filter through. The plant prefers to grow in a well-drained, nutrient-rich soil mix with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. It thrives in temperatures between 60 to 75°F and is best suited to grow indoors in a pot, where the temperature and humidity can be controlled more easily.
Watering needs
When it comes to watering, Microcharis spathulata requires moderately moist soil, but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's best to allow the soil surface to dry slightly before you water it again. You may need to water more frequently during the spring and summer growing season and reduce watering to once every 7-10 days during the cooler months. Always avoid letting the pot stand in a saucer of water for too long.
Fertilization
To promote healthy growth, it's a good idea to fertilize Microcharis spathulata every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer and dilute it to half-strength before application. Over-fertilization can cause damage to the root system, so always follow the manufacturer's instructions and avoid fertilizing during the dormant season.
Pruning
Pruning is not a frequent requirement for Microcharis spathulata, but you may want to trim off yellowed or dead leaves to keep the plant looking tidy and healthy. It's also a good idea to prune any leggy or overgrown stems to encourage new growth. Use a sterile, sharp pair of pruning shears, and make a clean cut, close to the stem's base.
Propagation of Microcharis Spathulata
Microcharis spathulata, commonly known as the spoon-leaved Microcharis, is a plant species that belongs to the Fabaceae family. The plant is native to southern Africa and is highly valued for its beautiful and unique spoon-shaped leaves. Propagation of this plant can be done through different methods.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation by seeds is one of the most common methods used to propagate Microcharis spathulata. The seeds of this plant can be collected from the parent plant using a seed pod. The seed pods should be allowed to mature on the plant before being collected. Once the pods are collected, they should be dried and taken to a well-ventilated area.
The seeds should be cleaned and stored in a dry and cool place. When ready to propagate, the seeds should be planted in a well-drained, fertile soil mix. The seeds should be placed about 1 cm deep in the soil and covered with a thin layer of soil. The soil should be kept moist but not overly wet. The seeds should germinate in about 2-3 weeks.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is another method that can be used to propagate Microcharis spathulata. This method is ideal for those who want to ensure that the new plants are true to the parent plant. The best time to take cuttings is during the growing season when the plant is actively growing.
When taking cuttings, select a healthy stem that is about 5-10 cm in length. The stem should be cut just below a node, and all the leaves should be removed except for the top few. The cutting should be planted in a well-drained potting mix, and watered regularly. The cuttings should root in about 3-4 weeks.
Propagation by Division
Propagation by division is a method that can be used to propagate mature Microcharis spathulata plants. This method is best done during the plant's flowering period, which usually occurs in the summer.
The plant should be carefully dug up and the root system examined. The root system should be gently divided, ensuring that each division has a portion of the stem and enough roots. Each division should be planted in a well-draining potting mix and watered regularly. The new plants should be kept in a shaded area until they are established.
Disease and Pest Management for Microcharis spathulata
Microcharis spathulata is a unique and uncommon succulent plant, which is relatively easy to care for and maintain, provided that you take measures to prevent the spread of diseases and pests. Here's a list of common diseases and pests that might affect the plant, along with tips on how to manage them:
Common Diseases
1. Root Rot: Root rot is one of the most common diseases that affect Microcharis spathulata. It happens when the soil is too damp or if the drainage is poor. To prevent root rot, make sure you use well-draining soil and avoid over-watering the plant. If your plant has root rot, remove the affected parts, let the soil dry out, and re-pot the plant in fresh soil.
2. Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects many plants, including Microcharis spathulata. You can identify powdery mildew by the white, powdery substance that appears on the leaves. To manage powdery mildew, remove the affected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide. You can also prevent powdery mildew by providing good air circulation and avoiding watering the leaves.
Common Pests
1. Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small insects that suck the sap from plants. They appear as white, cotton-like masses on the leaves and stems of plants, including Microcharis spathulata. To manage mealybugs, use a gentle, organic insecticide, such as neem oil. You can also wipe the affected areas with rubbing alcohol or use a cotton swab dipped in soapy water to remove the insects manually.
2. Spider Mites: Spider mites are another common pest that affect Microcharis spathulata. They appear as tiny, red or brown dots on the leaves of the plant. To manage spider mites, you can introduce their natural predators, such as ladybugs or lacewings. You can also spray the plant with a mixture of water and neem oil to kill the mites.
By taking these measures to manage diseases and pests, you can keep your Microcharis spathulata healthy and thriving!
