Overview:
Microglaena subcorallina Hasse is a small flowering plant in the family Melastomataceae. It is native to Papua New Guinea and is known by its common name, coralberry.
Description:
Coralberry is an annual herb that grows up to 40 cm tall. It has lanceolate leaves with toothed margins that grow up to 5 cm long and 1.5 cm wide. The stem is slender and branched, with leaves growing alternately along its length. The flowers are small and pink, with four petals and numerous stamens. The fruit is a small, bright red berry, giving rise to the common name coralberry.
Uses:
Coralberry is not commonly used for any specific purposes. However, it is occasionally grown as an ornamental plant due to its bright red berries and delicate pink flowers.
Typical Growth Conditions for Microglaena subcorallina Hasse
Light: Microglaena subcorallina Hasse prefers bright indirect sunlight. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight as it may scorch the leaves. This plant can also tolerate low light conditions but may produce fewer leaves and grow more slowly.
Temperature: This plant thrives in warm temperatures ranging from 18°C to 30°C. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°C but may experience growth setbacks. To avoid temperature stress, keep the plant away from cold drafts and freezing temperatures.
Humidity: High humidity is essential for the proper growth of Microglaena subcorallina Hasse. Aim for a humidity level above 60%. You can increase the humidity around the plant by placing a tray of water near the plant or using a humidifier.
Soil: Microglaena subcorallina Hasse requires a well-draining soil mix rich in organic matter. A mix of peat-based soil, sand, and perlite is ideal. Avoid using heavy garden soil or soil mixes that retain too much moisture as they can cause root rot.
Fertilizer: Feed this plant regularly with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer). Dilute the fertilizer to half the recommended strength to avoid over-fertilization. Do not fertilize during the dormant season (fall and winter).
Water: This plant prefers moist soil but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly and let the soil dry slightly between waterings. During the dormant season, reduce the watering frequency but do not let the soil completely dry out.
To recap, Microglaena subcorallina Hasse requires bright indirect sunlight, warm temperatures, high humidity, a well-draining soil mix, and regular fertilization during the growing season. With proper care, this plant can thrive and add a tropical touch to your indoor garden.
Cultivation
Microglaena subcorallina Hasse is an epiphytic plant that is well-suited to orchid culture, making it a popular choice for orchid enthusiasts. It is easy to grow and can be cultivated with little difficulty in a range of growing conditions. The plant requires bright, filtered light and should not be placed in direct sunlight. It needs to be grown in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
It is best to grow Microglaena subcorallina Hasse in a small, shallow pot or in a hanging basket, allowing the plant to grow naturally with its roots in the air. The plant prefers intermediate temperatures between 60° – 85°F (15.5° – 29.4°C), and high levels of humidity. To maintain proper humidity, mist the plant daily.
Watering Needs
Microglaena subcorallina Hasse requires a consistent level of moisture to thrive. It should be watered frequently but not excessively, as too much water can cause the roots to rot. The plant needs to be allowed to dry slightly between waterings. In general, the plant should be watered once a week during the growing season and less frequently during the dormant season. If the plant is grown in a pot, the water should be drawn into the pot until it runs out of the bottom, allowing excess water to drain out. In the case of a hanging basket, give the plant a good soaking and allow the excess water to drain off.
Fertilization
Microglaena subcorallina Hasse requires a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth. Fertilizer should be applied every four to six weeks during the growing season and once a month during the dormant season. It is recommended to use a 20-20-20 balanced fertilizer mixed with water before applying it to the plant.
Pruning
Pruning of Microglaena subcorallina Hasse is not necessary, as the plant generally grows as an epiphyte. However, if some stems grow out of bounds, they can be trimmed back slightly to maintain the desired shape of the plant. It is important to use sharp and sterile pruning tools to avoid injuring the plant or spreading disease.
Propagation of Microglaena subcorallina
Propagation of Microglaena subcorallina can be done through different methods. These methods include:
Division
The most common propagation method for Microglaena subcorallina is through division. This involves separating the clumps of the plant and replanting them. It is best done during the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. To do this, carefully dig up the clumps and separate them into smaller sections. Ensure that each section has several leaves and roots attached. Replant the divisions in a well-draining soil mixture, water them lightly and place them in a bright location, but avoid direct sunlight. Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged.
Cuttings
Microglaena subcorallina can also be propagated from cuttings. This involves taking stem cuttings from a mature plant and rooting them. Take cuttings of about 3-4 inches in length from the new growth. Strip off the bottom leaves and dip the cut end into rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a pot filled with a well-draining soil mixture and water it lightly. Place the pot in a bright location, but avoid direct sunlight. Keep the soil moist and in a few weeks, the cutting should start to produce roots.
Seeds
Propagation of Microglaena subcorallina can also be done through seeds. However, this method is not commonly used as the plant rarely produces seeds, and when it does, the germination rates are low. To propagate from seeds, start by collecting the seeds from a mature plant. Sow the seeds in a pot filled with a well-draining soil mixture and cover them lightly with soil. Water the pot lightly and place it in a bright location, but avoid direct sunlight. Keep the soil moist, and the seeds should start to germinate in about two weeks.
Disease Management
Microglaena subcorallina Hasse is a hardy plant that is known to resist most diseases. However, certain environmental factors such as humidity and poor air circulation can create conditions that promote fungal growth and lead to diseases such as powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot.
To prevent powdery mildew, avoid watering the foliage and maintain good air circulation around the plant. In case of an ongoing powdery mildew attack, spray fungicide that contains potassium bicarbonate solution will help control the disease. Leaf spot can be controlled by using copper fungicides. Root rot can be prevented by using good quality soil that drains well.
Pest Management
Microglaena subcorallina Hasse is generally pest-resistant, but certain pests such as spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs can sometimes affect the plant.
To prevent aphids and mealybugs, maintain good air circulation around the plant, and avoid overwatering. In case of an ongoing attack, spray with insecticidal soap solution, horticultural oil, or neem oil. Spider mites can be controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. It is essential to ensure that the plant is not in direct sunlight when applying the insecticide to reduce the risk of damaging the plant.
Regularly inspecting the plant and promptly addressing any signs of disease or pest infestation can help maintain the health of Microglaena subcorallina Hasse.
