Overview on Mitracarpus hirtus
Mitracarpus hirtus (L.) DC. is a species of flowering plant in the coffee family (Rubiaceae) native to the tropical regions of America. It has several common names, including Snakeweed, Rubi, Aguinaldo, Mikania, Chichicaste, and Mala Mujer.
Appearance of Mitracarpus hirtus
The plant has a shrubby growth habit and can grow up to 2 meters tall. It has hairy stems, leaves, and flowers. The leaves are opposite, simple, and elliptical in shape, measuring about 10 cm long and 3 cm wide. They have a dark green color on the upper surface and a lighter shade beneath. The flowers are small, pink-purple, tubular, and arranged in clusters at the tip of the branches. They bloom throughout the year. When the fruit is mature, it has a small capsule with many seeds.
Uses of Mitracarpus hirtus
Mitracarpus hirtus has several medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. It contains several chemical compounds such as flavonoids, saponins, tannins, and alkaloids that exhibit activity against microbes and parasites. The plant is used to treat gastrointestinal problems, fever, respiratory infections, skin diseases, and snakebites. Additionally, it has potential therapeutic properties for preventing cancer and diabetes. Besides, it is also used as an ornamental plant or grown as a hedge plant for landscaping purposes.
Growth Conditions for Mitracarpus hirtus (L.) DC.
Light: Mitracarpus hirtus plants prefer bright light but can also grow in partial shade. If grown indoors, placing the plants near south or west-facing windows can provide sufficient light. Outdoor plants should be located in areas that receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature: These plants grow best in warm temperatures ranging from 18 to 28°C (64 to 82°F). The minimum temperature required for their growth is 10°C (50°F), and they can tolerate temperatures up to 35°C (95°F).
Soil: They prefer well-drained soils with a pH between 5.5 and 8.0. Mitracarpus hirtus plants can grow in a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. The soil should be rich in organic matter, and adding compost or other organic materials can improve the soil structure and fertility.
Water: These plants require regular watering, especially during the growing season. However, overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is essential to allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Outdoor plants may require more watering during dry spells, while indoor plants may require less frequent watering due to lower humidity levels.
Fertilizer: Mitracarpus hirtus plants benefit from regular fertilization during the growing season, with a balanced fertilizer that contains equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Fertilizer applications should be reduced during the winter months, or if signs of nutrient toxicity appear.
Propagation: These plants can be propagated through stem cuttings or seeds. Stem cuttings should be taken from new growth and should be rooted in a well-draining propagation mix. Seeds can be sown directly into the soil after the last frost.
Cultivation methods
Mitracarpus hirtus (L.) DC. is a plant that thrives in warm and humid environments. It grows well in areas with temperatures between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius. The plant can be grown in well-draining soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. The best planting season for this plant is during the rainy season when there is adequate water supply for optimal growth. The plant needs adequate sunlight to grow, so it should be planted in an open space to receive adequate sunlight.
Watering needs
The plant needs regular watering, especially during the dry season. Mitracarpus hirtus (L.) DC. requires adequate water supply for optimum growth. It is advisable to water the plant frequently but avoid over-watering, which can lead to root rot. During the rainy season, it is advisable to reduce the watering frequency as the plant can easily get waterlogged.
Fertilization
Mitracarpus hirtus (L.) DC. is a plant that requires proper fertilization to produce healthy growth. You can add organic fertilizers to the soil to ensure that it has the required nutrients. The fertilizers can be applied during the planting season, and a follow-up application can be done towards the blooming period. It is important to avoid using excessive fertilizers as this can damage the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential part of Mitracarpus hirtus (L.) DC. cultivation. Pruning helps to control the plant's size, shape, and improve its overall health. Pruning should be done during the dry season when the plant is not actively growing. Start by removing any dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Remove any crossing branches and branches growing inward towards the center. Prune the plant to maintain a symmetrical shape and size.
Propagation of Mitracarpus hirtus (L.) DC.
Mitracarpus hirtus, commonly known as hirsute joint-fir, is a perennial herb that belongs to the family Rubiaceae. The plant is native to Africa but is also found in some parts of Asia, the Americas, and the Caribbean. Propagation of Mitracarpus hirtus can be achieved from seeds, cuttings or division.
Propagation from seeds
Propagation from seeds is one of the easiest methods to start Mitracarpus hirtus. The seeds of the plant can be sown directly into the soil during the rainy season. The seeds usually germinate within two to four weeks. Before sowing, the seeds should be soaked in warm water for 24 hours to enhance germination. Seedlings can be transplanted in pots or in the field after two to three months of growth.
Propagation from cuttings
Propagation from cuttings is another easy way to propagate Mitracarpus hirtus. Stem cuttings of about 15-20cm long and with two to three nodes are taken from healthy plants. The cuttings should be treated with rooting hormone powder before planting to increase the chances of successful rooting. The cuttings should be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist but not waterlogged. The cuttings usually root within three to four weeks. Rooted cuttings can be transplanted into pots or the field after two to three months of growth.
Propagation by division
Propagation by division involves separating mature Mitracarpus hirtus plants into smaller clumps and replanting them. The best time to divide the clumps is during the rainy season when the plants are actively growing. The clumps should be carefully dug out and divided into smaller pieces, ensuring that each division has roots and shoots. The divided clumps should be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist until they establish themselves. Division is a reliable method for propagating Mitracarpus hirtus because it ensures that each new plant has an established root system.
Disease Management
One common disease that might affect Mitracarpus hirtus is powdery mildew. This fungal disease presents as a white or grayish powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. It can cause stunted growth, leaf drop, and in severe cases, death of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, avoid overcrowding the plants and ensure proper air circulation. Remove and dispose of infected plant parts and provide adequate water and nutrients to help the plant recover.
Another disease that might affect Mitracarpus hirtus is leaf spot. This disease presents as circular spots on the leaves with a yellow or brown margin. It can cause defoliation and weaken the plant. To manage leaf spot, remove and dispose of infected plant parts and avoid overhead watering. Applying a fungicide may also help control leaf spot.
Pest Management
One common pest that might affect Mitracarpus hirtus is spider mites. These tiny pests feed on plant sap and cause yellowing, stunted growth, and eventually death of the plant. To manage spider mites, regularly inspect the plant and remove and dispose of any infected plant parts. Increase humidity around the plant to discourage spider mites and use a miticide to control the pest.
Another pest that might affect Mitracarpus hirtus is mealybugs. These pests are tiny and produce a white, cottony substance on the plant. They suck sap from the plant, causing stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and wilting. To manage mealybugs, remove and dispose of infected plant parts and use a systemic insecticide. Applying a natural oil such as neem oil may also help control mealybugs.
