Overview of Monelasmum contractum Tiegh.
Monelasmum contractum Tiegh. is a small plant species native to Madagascar. This plant is commonly known as "Calamint" or "Monelasmum contractum."
General Appearance of Monelasmum contractum Tiegh.
Monelasmum contractum Tiegh. is a small undershrub that grows up to 50 cm tall. The plant has an erect growth habit, with slender stems that are often branched towards the top. The foliage of Monelasmum contractum Tiegh. is flat, golden-green, and grows in a dense cluster. The leaves are shaped like an oval and have a toothed margin. The flowers of Monelasmum contractum Tiegh. are small, pale pink, and grow in dense clusters that are shaped like a ball. The blooms are fragrant and attract bees and other pollinators.
Uses of Monelasmum contractum Tiegh.
The leaves of Monelasmum contractum Tiegh. are used in traditional medicine in Madagascar to treat respiratory diseases, such as bronchitis and asthma. The plant has also been used to cure digestive disorders like diarrhea and stomach cramps. Apart from its medicinal properties, Monelasmum contractum Tiegh. is also used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes. The plant's attractive foliage and fragrant pink blooms make it a popular addition to rock gardens, borders, and container gardens.
Light Requirements
Monelasmum contractum Tiegh. requires partial to full shade for optimal growth. Direct sunlight exposure may result in leaf scorching and growth stunting, while complete shade may negatively impact the plant's reproductive capacity. Therefore, it is best to provide filtered sunlight or scattered shade through trees or shrubs to create optimal growing conditions for the plant.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Monelasmum contractum Tiegh. is between 18 to 25°C (64 to 77°F). The plant is tolerant of cooler temperatures but may show signs of stress if exposed to temperatures below 15°C (59°F) for an extended period. On the other hand, high temperatures above 30°C (86°F) may cause heat damage to its leaves and flowers, thereby negatively impacting its growth and blooming.
Soil Requirements
The plant thrives in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. Alkaline soil may hamper nutrient uptake by the roots and result in stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. Therefore, amending the soil with organic matter, such as compost or manure, before planting can improve soil fertility and drainage. Monelasmum contractum Tiegh. also benefits from regular irrigation, especially during dry seasons, to maintain soil moisture and prevent wilting of the leaves.
Cultivation Methods
Monelasmum contractum Tiegh. is an epiphytic plant that requires a suitable environment to grow. It thrives well in areas with high humidity, bright light, and good air circulation. You can cultivate it by attaching the plant to a piece of bark, tree fern, or cork.
For optimal growth, ensure that you suspend the plant with its rhizome exposed to the air, and the roots securely attached to the substrate. You can use fishing lines, sphagnum moss, or silicone glue to attach the plant to the substrate.
Watering Needs
When it comes to watering Monelasmum contractum Tiegh., you should aim at creating a damp environment that mimics its habitat. The plant requires regular misting and watering and can quickly dehydrate in dry environments.
You can water the plant once a week by dipping the entire root system in demineralized water for a few minutes. Alternatively, you can spray the plant with water using a misting spray bottle several times a day to maintain the humidity levels. Avoid overwatering the plant as it may lead to the root system's rotting.
Fertilization
The Monelasmum contractum Tiegh. plant is not a heavy feeder, and therefore, light fertilization is adequate for optimal growth. You can use a balanced orchid fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 20-20-20 or 30-10-10 during the growing season.
You should apply the fertilizer at half the recommended strength every two weeks to avoid fertilizer burns or overfeeding. During the dormant season, reduce the frequency of fertilization to once a month to promote the plant's healthy growth.
Pruning
Pruning Monelasmum contractum Tiegh. is not necessary as the plant has a natural growth habit. However, if you notice dead or damaged leaves, you can remove them to enhance the plant's aesthetic appearance. You can also prune the plant to control its size and shape and to promote new growth.
Use clean and sharp scissors or shears to cut the leaves or stems to avoid transmitting diseases to the plant. Additionally, avoid pruning the plant during the dormant season as it may reduce its vitality and growth the following season.
Propagation of Monelasmum contractum Tiegh.
Monelasmum contractum Tiegh. commonly known as "Tagutong" is a Philippine endemic plant belonging to the family Melastomataceae. It is a small shrub that grows up to 1m in height and has pink flowers that bloom during the summer months.
Propagation of Monelasmum contractum Tiegh. can be done through seeds or stem cuttings.
Propagation through Seeds:
The seeds of Monelasmum contractum Tiegh. can be collected during the flowering season. Collect the mature fruits and extract the seeds. The seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours to soften the seed coat before sowing. Prepare a seedbed with a mixture of sand and loam soil in a 1:1 ratio. Sow the seeds on top of the soil mixture. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil. Keep the soil moist and place the seedbed in a shaded area. Germination of the seeds usually occurs within 3-4 weeks.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings:
Propagation through stem cuttings is also possible for Monelasmum contractum Tiegh. Take stem cuttings from the plant during the growing season. Cut 8-10 cm long and include 2-3 leaves. Dip the base of the cuttings in rooting hormone powder and plant them in a mixture of sand and loam soil in a 1:1 ratio. Place the pot in a shaded area and mist the stems regularly. Roots should start to develop in 6-8 weeks.
Propagation of Monelasmum contractum Tiegh. through seeds and stem cuttings is relatively easy. It is important to note that the plant prefers a shaded and moist environment. Provide adequate watering and nutrients for successful propagation and growth.
Disease Management
The Monelasmum contractum Tiegh. plant is prone to several diseases. One of the common diseases is the root rot disease caused by Fusarium oxysporum. The disease causes the roots to rot, leading to yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Another disease that affects the plant is the Phyllosticta leaf spot, causing small black spots on the leaves. Additionally, the plant is vulnerable to Alternaria leaf spot, which leads to necrosis lesions with concentric rings on the leaves of the plant.
To manage these diseases, the first step is to remove any infected plant immediately to avoid the spread of the disease to other plants. Secondly, it is crucial to ensure good sanitation practices by cleaning all gardening tools and equipment. Fungicides can be used to control the spread of the disease. For instance, Copper-based fungicides can be used to control the Phyllosticta leaf spot. Proper watering techniques, such as avoiding excessive watering, can help prevent root rot disease.
Pest Management
The Monelasmum contractum Tiegh. plant is also vulnerable to insect pests. One common insect pest that affects the plant is the spider mite. The pest causes yellowing of the plant's leaves and weakens the plant, making it more susceptible to disease. Another insect pest that affects the plant is the thrips, which feed on the plant's leaves, causing a silver-white appearance.
To manage the spider mite, it is crucial to ensure proper watering of the plant, as the pest loves hot, dry conditions. Infected leaves can be removed manually or through the use of an insecticidal soap. Additionally, predatory mites like Phytoseiulus persimilis can be used to control the spider mites. To manage thrips, it is crucial to practice good garden hygiene, including removing all plant debris. Also, regular insecticidal soap application can help control thrips infestation.
