Origin
Myriopus volubilis (L.) Small, commonly known as Clasping Venus's Looking Glass, is a member of the family Campanulaceae and is native to North America, particularly the eastern and central regions of the continent.
Common Names
Aside from Clasping Venus's Looking Glass, this plant is also called Runningfork Waterleaf, Venus's Looking Glass, Blue Stars, Heart-leaved Venus' looking-glass, and Vinescent Bellflower.
Uses
The plant has several uses - being a beautiful ornamental plant, rich in medicinal properties, useful in food preparation, and even a moderate source of nectar for various bees. The Native Americans have utilized the plant for medicinal purposes such as treating colds, coughs, and respiratory illnesses. The plant is also used as a flavoring agent in various foods, and its leaves are cooked and consumed as vegetables.
General Appearance
Myriopus volubilis has twisting and twining stems that climb and reach up to two meters high. Its leaves are generally heart-shaped and have long stalks. These leaves are about 2-7 cm long, showing ellipsoidal to oval shapes, toothed near the base, and slightly hairy. The plant produces its flowers, which have a beautiful, light blue hue, measure about a centimeter, and are bell or star-shaped. The fruit of the plant is a globular or elliptical capsule.
Light Requirements
Myriopus volubilis is a plant species that thrives well in areas with bright, indirect light. It requires moderate to high light levels to grow properly. The plant won’t do well in low light intensity situations or shade, as this can affect its growth significantly. Therefore, it would be best if you place the plant in an area that receives ample sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Regarding the temperature required for Myriopus volubilis growth, the plant can grow well in temperatures between 21-26°C (70-80°F). It can tolerate fluctuating temperatures but cannot withstand extreme temperatures. Avoid exposing the plant to environments with temperatures below 10°C (50°F) or above 35°C (95°F) as it may die off or become dormant.
Soil Requirements
Myriopus volubilis prefers well-draining soil with a crumbly texture, with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. The plant can grow in various soil types, such as fertile loamy or sandy soil. However, the soil type should have sufficient nutrients and organic components to support the plant's growth. The soil must also allow good aeration, allow the movement of water around the roots, and protect the roots from excessive water.
Cultivation methods for Myriopus volubilis (L.) Small
Myriopus volubilis can be propagated by seeds or cuttings. If starting from seeds, they should be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist until germination. Cuttings should be taken in the spring and planted in a mixture of peat and sand. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Watering needs for Myriopus volubilis (L.) Small
The plant prefers consistently moist soil, so it should be watered regularly but not overwatered. The amount of water needed will depend on environmental factors such as temperature and humidity. A good rule of thumb is to water deeply once a week and adjust as necessary based on the plant's response.
Fertilization of Myriopus volubilis (L.) Small
Myriopus volubilis benefits from a balanced fertilizer applied during the growing season. A slow-release fertilizer can be applied in the spring or every six to eight weeks during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive growth and reduced flower production.
Pruning of Myriopus volubilis (L.) Small
Pruning is essential for promoting healthy growth and maintaining the shape of the plant. Dead or damaged branches should be removed at any time. The plant can be lightly pruned in the early spring to encourage bushier growth and more flowers.
Propagating Myriopus Volubilis
Myriopus volubilis (L.) Small is commonly known as the Twining Spikerush due to its ability to vine and twist. It is a popular ornamental plant that can be propagated in several ways.
Seed Propagation
Myriopus volubilis can be propagated through seed. The seeds are small and should be sown in a well-draining soil mixture. Keep the soil moist and ensure that it receives bright, indirect sunlight. Germination can take up to 3 weeks.
Division
Propagation by division is another method of propagating the Twining Spikerush. It involves dividing the rootstocks of the mature plant into smaller segments and potting them in separate containers. Ensure that each segment has a viable shoot and enough roots to grow.
Vegetative Propagation
Using vegetative propagation, the Myriopus volubilis cuttings are taken from the parent plant. Follow the below steps in order to propagate it through this method:
- Select a healthy stem from the parent plant which has no pest or disease damage. Make sure the stem is firm and non-flimsy.
- Cut the stem using a sterilized shear. The cutting should be around 6 cm long.
- Remove all the leaves from the lower third of the cutting.
- Dip the end of the stem in rooting hormone which will enhance the root growth.
- Plant the cutting in a pot containing suitable potting mix. Moisten the soil and cover the pot with a plastic bag.
- Ensure the soil remains moist by misting or watering whenever required.
- The cutting will start developing roots in 2-3 weeks and can be transferred to a permanent pot once they are well established.
Propagation of Myriopus volubilis can be both an exciting and easy process for any gardener, with the above approaches yielding successful results when done correctly.
Disease Management
Myriopus volubilis is not typically affected by diseases, as it is a hardy plant that can adapt well to various conditions. However, it may fall prey to certain diseases under certain conditions.
One of the common diseases that can affect Myriopus volubilis is powdery mildew, which is a type of fungal disease. This disease usually manifests as a white powdery substance on the leaves of the plant, which can inhibit the plant's ability to carry out photosynthesis. To manage this disease, you can use a fungicide and ensure that the plant is not overcrowded and that the humidity levels are not too high.
Fusarium wilt is another fungal disease that can affect Myriopus volubilis. This disease is often characterized by the yellowing of the leaves, which then wilt and die. It is best to remove the infected plant and dispose of it properly. You should also avoid overwatering the plant and ensure that there is proper drainage and aeration around the roots of the plant.
Pest Management
Myriopus volubilis is typically not highly susceptible to pests, but can sometimes be affected by certain pests.
The two most common pests that affect Myriopus volubilis are aphids and spider mites. Aphids can cause stunted growth of the plant, yellowing of the leaves, and the appearance of sticky residue on the plant. To manage aphids, you can use a natural insecticide or treat the plant with a mixture of water, soap, and neem oil. Spider mites, on the other hand, can cause yellow or brown spotting on the leaves of the plant, as well as webbing. You can treat spider mites by spraying the plant with water and maintaining a high humidity level around the plant.
Another type of pest that may affect Myriopus volubilis is the mealybug, which appears as white, fluffy cotton-like patches on the plant. These insects suck the sap from the leaves, which can cause the plant to wilt and die. To manage mealybugs, you can use a natural insecticide or treat the plant with a mixture of alcohol and water.
