Origin and Common Names
Microcharis tritoides (Baker) Schrire subsp. obbiadensis (Chiov.) Schrire, commonly known as Orobane degli ulivi, is a rare and endemic plant species of the Orobanaceae family that can only be found in southern Italy and Sicily.
General Appearance
The Microcharis tritoides subsp. obbiadensis is a small herbaceous plant that grows up to 20 cm tall. It has a stem covered with small hairs, which is reddish-brown and quite woody at the base. The plant produces many pink to purple flowers, which are located in short spikes and has an irregular flower shape, with the lower lobe forming a lip that is much larger than the other lobes.
Uses
The Microcharis tritoides subsp. obbiadensis is a parasitic plant that grows on roots of olive trees. It is used to alleviate symptoms of respiratory tract infections. Also, it is traditionally used as a folk remedy to treat lung disorders, such as asthma, bronchitis, and coughs. The species is slow-growing and valued as a rare plant species. Due to habitat loss, overharvesting, and the small number of extant populations, the Microcharis tritoides subsp. obbiadensis is considered endangered and is protected by law.
Growth conditions of Microcharis tritoides subsp. obbiadensis
Light requirements: The plant prefers bright indirect sunlight and partial shade. Direct and intense sunlight can damage the leaves and stunt growth.
Temperature requirements: Microcharis tritoides subsp. obbiadensis is a plant that thrives in warm temperatures, specifically in the range of 18°C to 26°C. Temperatures below 15°C can lead to stunted growth and even death.
Soil requirements: The plant grows best in soils with good drainage and a pH range between 6.0 to 7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter and have a good water-holding capacity. Avoid soils that are too compact and poorly drained as they can lead to root rot.
Water requirements: The plant requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. Allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering again to prevent over-watering. Over-watering can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Fertilizer requirements: Microcharis tritoides subsp. obbiadensis requires regular feeding during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer, and avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to excess growth and weakened stems.
Propagation: The plant can be propagated through division or from seeds. Division is best done in the spring, while seed sowing can be done in the fall or early spring.
Cultivation of Microcharis Tritoides Subsp. Obbiadensis
Microcharis tritoides (Baker) Schrire subsp. obbiadensis (Chiov.) Schrire is a small plant that requires little maintenance in terms of temperature and light. However, it does require well-drained soil with a neutral to alkaline pH. Plant it in a sunny spot with partial shade, preferably in the early morning and late afternoon sunlight.
Watering Needs
While Microcharis tritoides Subsp. Obbiadensis is relatively drought-tolerant, it still requires adequate water to thrive. Water the plant generously during the growing season, ensuring that the soil is moist but not saturated. Reduce watering during the dormant season to prevent root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilizers are not essential for Microcharis tritoides Subsp. Obbiadensis, but applying one can help it thrive. During the growing season, use a slow-release fertilizer to feed the plant according to the package instructions. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can damage the plant.
Pruning
Microcharis tritoides Subsp. Obbiadensis requires minimal pruning. After the flowering season, remove any dead or diseased leaves to keep the plant healthy. Avoid cutting the plant back too severely as it may affect its growth. If the plant outgrows its planting site, trim it back moderately.
Propagation of Microcharis Tritoides subspecies Obbiadensis
Microcharis tritoides subsp. obbiadensis is a rare plant that is found in rocky outcrops in Ethiopia. The plant is an attractive ground cover that is suitable for rock gardens and xeriscaping. Propagation of the plant can be achieved through several methods including seeds, cuttings, and division of clumps.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation by seeds is a viable option for Microcharis tritoides subsp. obbiadensis. However, obtaining seeds can be a bit difficult as the plant is rare and not commonly available. Seeds can be collected from the plant when they mature and are ready to be dispersed. The seeds can be sown in a well-draining soil mix in a shallow container and kept in a warm, bright location. Germination can take up to several weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted to individual containers when they are large enough to handle.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is a fast and easy way to propagate Microcharis tritoides subsp. obbiadensis. Softwood cuttings can be taken in the early summer after the plant has finished flowering. The cuttings should be about 10 cm long and should be taken from the tips of healthy stems. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mix. They should be kept in a warm, bright location and misted daily. Rooting should occur within a few weeks, and the new plants can be transplanted to individual containers.
Propagation by Division
Propagation by division is another option for propagating Microcharis tritoides subsp. obbiadensis. The plant forms clumps, and these clumps can be carefully divided into smaller sections. Each section should have several clumps of leaves, and care should be taken not to damage the roots. The divided sections can be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept in a warm, bright location. New growth should appear within a few weeks, and the new plants can be transplanted to individual containers.
Disease Management
Microcharis tritoides subsp. obbiadensis is generally a hardy plant, but may be susceptible to certain diseases. Some common diseases that may affect this plant include:
- Root rot: This is a fungal disease that can spread rapidly in plants grown in damp conditions. To avoid root rot, ensure the soil drains well and avoid over-watering the plant. If you notice signs of root rot, such as yellowing leaves or a foul smell, remove the affected parts of the plant and repot it in fresh soil.
- Leaf spot: This is a fungal disease that typically manifests itself as brown spots on the leaves. To manage leaf spot, remove affected leaves and spray the remaining foliage with a fungicide. Increase air circulation around the plant to prevent the disease from spreading.
Pest Management
Microcharis tritoides subsp. obbiadensis is generally not affected by pests, but some common ones that may cause problems include:
- Mealybugs: These are small, white insects that may be found on the leaves and stems of the plant. They feed on the sap and excrete a sticky substance that can attract other pests and lead to the development of fungi. To manage mealybugs, wipe them off the plant with a cloth soaked in alcohol or insecticidal soap.
- Mites: These are tiny insects that can be difficult to see with the naked eye. They typically feed on the undersides of the leaves and may cause yellowing or browning of the foliage. To manage mites, spray the plant with a miticide and increase air circulation around the plant to prevent a recurrence of the problem.
