Plant Description:
Mitracarpus brevifolrus Gray is a perennial shrub that belongs to the botanical family Rubiaceae. It typically grows up to 1 meter tall and has a spread of up to 2 meters. The plant features several stem branches that are green-grey in color with a velvety appearance. The leaves are oval-shaped, opposite, and measure approximately 2 cm long and 1.5 cm wide. They feature a wavy margin and have a glossy dark green color on the upper surface and a paler color on the lower surface.
Origin and Common Names:
Mitracarpus brevifolrus is native to tropical Africa, and it's widely distributed in Nigeria, Cameroon, Ghana, and Ethiopia. It's commonly known as swamp milkweed or Rubiaceae, which is a common name for all plants in the botanical family Rubiaceae. Mitracarpus brevifolrus is also known by other common names like buttonweed, short-flower milkweed, and tickweed.
Uses:
The plant has several medicinal properties, and it's used for various purposes by natives in Africa. The leaves are used to treat various illnesses like gastrointestinal problems, malaria, and fever. Crushed leaves are applied to wounds to help in the healing process, whereas the root is used to relieve toothaches. The plant also has potential ethnobotanical uses, such as being used as food, fumigant, insecticide, and soap making.
In agriculture, the plant has been found to have insecticidal properties and can be used to control some pests in the field. Furthermore, it has been found to have antimicrobial properties and can be used in the formulations of some antibiotics.
Additionally, the plant is used in traditional settings to make herbal tea. Mitracarpus brevifolrus tea is said to help relieve stomach upset and other digestive issues. Overall, Mitracarpus brevifolrus plays an essential role in traditional medicine and agriculture in many African communities.
Light Requirements
Mitracarpus breviflorus Gray plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can grow in shaded environments, but the growth rate will be slower, and the plant may become leggy.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows best in warm temperatures between 60-85°F (16-29°C). It can tolerate higher temperatures but may suffer in extended periods of heat above 90°F (32°C). Additionally, it cannot tolerate frost or freezing temperatures.
Soil Requirements
This plant grows well in most soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clayey soils. However, the soil must be well-drained to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. A pH range of 6-7.5 is best for Mitracarpus breviflorus gray growth. It can tolerate alkaline soils, but acidic soil should be avoided. The plant also prefers soils that are rich in organic matter and nutrients.
Cultivation
Mitracarpus breviflorus Gray can be cultivated in a variety of soil types, including loam, sand, and clay. It thrives in well-draining soil but can also tolerate areas prone to occasional waterlogging. The plant prefers partial to full sun exposure and can be propagated via stem cuttings or seeds. To ensure optimal growth, it is essential to choose a spot where the plant receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily.
Watering needs
When it comes to watering needs, Mitracarpus breviflorus Gray requires moist soil conditions regularly. It would be best to water the plant immediately after planting and then keep the soil moist but not waterlogged through regular deep watering. During periods of drought or high temperatures, the plant may require more frequent watering.
Fertilization
While Mitracarpus breviflorus Gray does not require frequent fertilization, it benefits from a balanced fertilizer application once or twice a year, primarily during the growing season. Applying a balanced fertilizer with a 10-10-10 or 5-10-5 ratio, at a rate of 1/4 to 1/2 cup per plant every six weeks, can help boost growth and improve the quality of the plant.
Pruning
Mitracarpus breviflorus Gray requires minimal pruning to maintain a compact and bushy shape. It is best to prune the plant in late winter or early spring before it begins actively growing. Use clean and sharp pruning shears to remove any dead or damaged branches, as well as to shape the plant as desired. You can also pinch back the tips of new growth to encourage branching, which leads to a denser growth habit.
Propagation of Mitracarpus breviflorus Gray
Mitracarpus breviflorus Gray, commonly known as short flowered mitracarpus, is a flowering plant that belongs to the botanical family Rubiaceae. It is a perennial shrub that is native to several African countries, including Nigeria, Senegal, and Sudan. The plant grows up to 2 meters high and produces small, white or pinkish flowers that attract bees and butterflies.
Propagation Methods
The propagation of Mitracarpus breviflorus Gray can be achieved through several methods, including:
Seed Propagation
Seeds are the most common propagation method for Mitracarpus breviflorus Gray. Collect the seeds from the mature fruit of the plant. The fruit of the plant turns red when it is mature, and it splits open to reveal the seeds when it is ripe. Dry the seeds under shade for a few days before planting. Sow the seeds in well-draining soil, covering them with a thin layer of soil, and water them regularly. The seeds will germinate in two to three weeks.
Stem Cutting Propagation
Stem cutting is another propagation method for Mitracarpus breviflorus Gray. Take a healthy stem cutting from the plant that is at least 10 centimeters long with 3-4 nodes. Dip the end of the cutting in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining soil mix. Water the cutting regularly and place it in indirect light until new growth appears (usually in 2-3 weeks). After the roots have developed, transplant the cutting to a permanent location.
Division Propagation
Division propagation is another technique for propagating Mitracarpus breviflorus Gray. This method is suitable for mature plants that have several stems. Dig up the plant and separate the stems carefully, making sure that each stem has enough roots to survive. Plant each divided stem in a well-draining soil mix, water it regularly, and place it in indirect light.
Propagation of Mitracarpus breviflorus Gray is relatively easy and can be accomplished through several methods. With the right conditions, the plant can grow well and provide a beautiful addition to any garden or landscape.
Disease and Pest Management for Mitracarpus breviflorus Gray
Mitracarpus breviflorus Gray is a perennial plant native to Africa and commonly used for its medicinal properties. The plant is generally resistant to pests and diseases but is still vulnerable to certain infections.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases affecting Mitracarpus breviflorus Gray is root rot, which is caused by overwatering the plant or planting it in poorly drained soil. Root rot can be identified by yellowing leaves, wilting, and a foul smell coming from the roots. To prevent root rot, ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil and watered only when the topsoil is dry.
Another common disease that affects the plant is leaf spot, which is caused by a fungus and characterized by small brown spots with yellow halos on the leaves. To prevent leaf spot, avoid watering the plant from above and ensure that there is adequate air circulation around the plant.
Common Pests
The most common pests that affect Mitracarpus breviflorus Gray are spider mites and aphids. Spider mites are tiny, sap-sucking pests that can cause yellowing of the leaves and the presence of webbing on the plant. To control spider mites, regularly spray the plant with water to dislodge the pests. Alternatively, you can use a miticide to get rid of the spider mites.
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that also suck the sap from the plant, leading to yellowing of the leaves. To control aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation and treat as soon as possible.
