Origin
Microcharis welwitschii (Baker) Schrire, also known as Microcharis lacerata welwitschii, belongs to the Asteraceae family and is native to Angola.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as "Welwitsch’s microcharis" or "Mushitu" in Angola.
Uses
The plant is mainly used in traditional medicine to treat different conditions such as malaria, diarrhea, and fever. The roots and leaves are boiled and the decoction is taken orally or used for bathing. Additionally, the plant contains insecticidal properties that can be used to control pests.
General Appearance
Microcharis welwitschii is a perennial herb that can grow up to 30 cm tall. The leaves are deeply toothed and can be up to 15 cm long. The plant produces yellow flowers that are small in size and arranged in small clusters. The plant prefers well-drained soils and can grow in a variety of habitats such as savannas, riverbanks, and forests.
Light Requirements
Microcharis welwitschii, commonly called the African violet, requires plenty of bright, indirect light to thrive. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves of the plant. It is ideal to place the plant about 3-5 feet away from a south-facing window with a sheer curtain to filter the light. Alternatively, fluorescent light fixtures, with bulbs kept 8-10 inches away from the plant, can also be used to provide the necessary light for growth.
Temperature Requirements
Microcharis welwitschii prefers warm, consistent temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C). Avoid exposing the plant to temperatures below 60°F (15°C) or above 80°F (27°C) as it can affect the plant's growth. It is also important to keep the plant away from drafty areas, such as near vents and doors, as these can cause rapid temperature fluctuations.
Soil Requirements
The African violet grows best in well-draining, slightly acidic soil. A mix of equal parts of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite is a good option. The soil should be loose enough to allow for good air circulation and proper root growth but also able to retain moisture without becoming waterlogged. The pH of the soil should be between 6.0-6.5 for optimal growth. Fertilizer can be added to the soil, but it should be done sparingly, as the plant is sensitive to high concentrations of minerals.
Cultivation Methods
Microcharis welwitschii can be grown either indoors or outdoors, depending on the climate of your area. It thrives in well-drained soil and prefers slightly acidic to mildly alkaline pH levels. The plant can be propagated through seeds or stem cuttings.
If using seeds, sow them in a well-draining potting mix and keep them moist. The seeds should germinate in one to two weeks. Once the seedlings are large enough, transplant them to gardening containers or the garden bed.
If using cuttings, take a 3-4 inch section of stem and remove the leaves from the bottom half. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in the well-drained potting mix. Keep the soil moist and warm until the roots grow, which usually takes a few weeks. Transplant the cutting to its permanent location once the roots are established.
Watering Needs
Microcharis welwitschii needs regular watering, especially during the growing season. Water the plant deeply and keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering it again.
Reduce the frequency of watering during the dormant season, although the soil should never become completely dry.
Fertilization
Feed your Microcharis welwitschii with a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Dilute the fertilizer to half the recommended strength to prevent over-fertilizing and burning the plant.
A slow-release granular fertilizer can also be applied during the beginning of the growing season to provide longer-term nutrients. Follow the instructions on the package for application and dosage rates.
Pruning
Microcharis welwitschii requires regular pruning to maintain a neat and compact appearance. Trim off dead or yellowing leaves to encourage new growth.
If your plant becomes too large, cut it back by one-third to one-half its height in the late winter or early spring. This will rejuvenate the plant and promote fuller growth.
Do not prune your Microcharis welwitschii during the fall or early winter months, as this can promote new growth that will be vulnerable to cold temperatures.
Propagation of Microcharis welwitschii
Microcharis welwitschii, commonly known as the African potato, is a perennial vine that belongs to the family Convolvulaceae. Propagation of this plant can be done through different methods, which include:
Seed propagation
Propagation of African potato can be done through seeds, which can be obtained from mature fruits that have turned brown. The seeds should be washed and disinfected with fungicide to prevent fungal infections. They can then be sown in seed trays containing a well-draining planting medium such as sand or peat. The trays should be placed in a shaded area, and the soil kept moist. Germination can take up to four weeks, after which the seedlings can be transplanted into bigger pots.
Cuttings propagation
Another way to propagate African potato is through stem cuttings. This method is suitable for plants that have grown bigger and have developed long stems. Cuttings of about 10 to 15 cm long can be taken and dipped in rooting hormone powder. They should then be planted in a well-draining medium and kept in a shaded area. The soil should be kept moist, and the cutting should develop roots in about four to six weeks. They can then be transplanted into bigger pots.
Tuber propagation
African potato can also be propagated through tubers. The tubers should be dug up when the plant is dormant. The tubers should be washed, and any damaged ones discarded. They should then be planted in pots containing a well-draining medium, and covered with a layer of soil. The pots should be placed in a shaded area, and watered sparingly until the plant starts sprouting. They can then be transplanted into bigger pots.
Disease and Pest Management for Microcharis welwitschii (Baker) Schrire
Microcharis welwitschii (Baker) Schrire is a small herbaceous plant native to southern Africa that belongs to the Fabaceae family. Its leaves are evergreen and grow in clumps that can reach up to 25 cm tall.
Like any other plant, Microcharis welwitschii is susceptible to various diseases and pests. Proper management techniques can help prevent and control these problems before they become too severe.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Microcharis welwitschii is root rot. This disease is caused by fungi that live in the soil and attack the plant's roots, eventually killing it. Overwatering and poor soil drainage are two factors that increase the likelihood of root rot. To prevent this disease, ensure adequate drainage and avoid overwatering.
Another disease that can affect the plant is powdery mildew. This fungal disease appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves and stems. It can be caused by high humidity and poor air circulation. To control this disease, prune infected parts, improve air circulation and reduce humidity levels.
Common Pests
Microcharis welwitschii is not heavily affected by pests, but there are a few that can cause problems. One of these is the mealybug, which sucks sap from the leaves and stem. Mealybugs look like cottony masses and can be controlled by removing them manually and treating the plant with a neem oil solution.
The other common pest is aphids. These small insects attack the plant's leaves and suck the sap, causing the leaves to curl and eventually die. Aphids can be controlled by spraying the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil solution.
Conclusion
By following these pest and disease management techniques, it is possible to keep Microcharis welwitschii healthy and prevent any damage caused by pests and diseases. Regular monitoring and quick action are essential to ensure that any problems are addressed before they become too severe.
