Origin
Nasturtium cryptanthum A.Rich. var. mildbraedii O.E.Schulz, also known as Mildbraed's watercress, is a flowering plant that is native to East Africa. It can be found in countries such as Tanzania, Kenya, and Ethiopia.
Common Names
The plant is commonly referred to as Nasturtium cryptanthum var. mildbraedii, but it also has other common names such as Mildbraed's watercress and East African watercress.
Uses
Nasturtium cryptanthum var. mildbraedii has a long history of traditional medicinal use in Africa. It is thought to have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties, and is often used to treat ailments such as coughs, colds, and fevers. Additionally, the plant has a spicy taste and is sometimes used as a culinary herb, particularly in East African cuisine.
General Appearance
Nasturtium cryptanthum var. mildbraedii is a perennial plant that grows in water or in damp soil. It has small, bright green leaves that are oval-shaped with slightly toothed edges. The plant produces attractive white or pinkish flowers that bloom from early summer to fall. The flowers are small, about 1cm in diameter, and have four petals. The plant typically grows to be about 20-30cm tall, making it a relatively small plant.
Light Requirements
Nasturtium cryptanthum A.Rich. var. mildbraedii O.E.Schulz typically requires full sunlight exposure, though it can potentially grow in partial shade. However, the plant may not grow as tall and may produce fewer flowers if it is not exposed to adequate sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
This species of Nasturtium prefers warm temperatures and does not tolerate frost well. It typically grows best in temperatures ranging from 55 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it can tolerate higher temperatures of up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit but may require more frequent watering.
Soil Requirements
Nasturtium cryptanthum A.Rich. var. mildbraedii O.E.Schulz prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant favors soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH level ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. It can tolerate soils that are not rich in nutrients but prefers nutrient-rich soils.
Cultivation methods for Nasturtium cryptanthum A.Rich. var. mildbraedii O.E.Schulz
Nasturtium cryptanthum A.Rich. var. mildbraedii O.E.Schulz is native to Angola and is a hardy succulent plant ideal for dry, arid regions. It's easy to cultivate and can grow indoors or outdoors. The plant thrives well in poor soils and requires minimal watering, making it a low-maintenance plant option for gardeners.
Watering needs for Nasturtium cryptanthum A.Rich. var. mildbraedii O.E.Schulz
Although the Nasturtium cryptanthum A.Rich. var. mildbraedii O.E.Schulz is a succulent and can withstand drought conditions, it still requires watering to survive. This plant should be watered occasionally, only when the soil has become completely dry to the touch. Overwatering can cause the roots to rot and invite pests, so be mindful of not drowning the plant.
Fertilization for Nasturtium cryptanthum A.Rich. var. mildbraedii O.E.Schulz
This plant requires minimal fertilization and can grow efficiently without any additional fertilizers. If adding fertilizer is required, use a balanced, all-purpose slow-release fertilizer but do not overdo it as too much fertilizer can harm the plant.
Pruning for Nasturtium cryptanthum A.Rich. var. mildbraedii O.E.Schulz
Nasturtium cryptanthum A.Rich. var. mildbraedii O.E.Schulz has a natural bushy growth habit, and pruning only needs to be done for aesthetic reasons. This plant can be pruned back harshly without causing any harm, thus creating a compact and more aesthetically appealing plant. Prune regularly to keep the plant neat, tidy, and looking at its best.
Propagation of Nasturtium cryptanthum A.Rich. var. mildbraedii O.E.Schulz
Nasturtium cryptanthum A.Rich. var. mildbraedii O.E.Schulz, commonly known as hidden-flower watercress or mildbraed's watercress, is a wetland plant found in eastern Africa. The plant can be propagated through various methods, including:
Seed propagation
The easiest and most common way to propagate Nasturtium cryptanthum A.Rich. var. mildbraedii O.E.Schulz is through seed propagation. The seeds of the plant can be sown directly into the soil in the fall or spring when the temperature is consistently above 40°F. The seeds should be placed 1/4 inch deep in the soil and should be watered regularly until they germinate, which typically takes around 10-14 days.
Division propagation
Another way to propagate Nasturtium cryptanthum A.Rich. var. mildbraedii O.E.Schulz is through division propagation. This method involves dividing an established plant into several smaller ones. To do this, the plant must be carefully uprooted and divided into sections using a sharp knife or spade. Each section should have a healthy root system and several stems. The divided plants can then be planted in suitable soil conditions and watered regularly until they are established.
Cuttings propagation
Nasturtium cryptanthum A.Rich. var. mildbraedii O.E.Schulz can also be propagated through cuttings. This method involves taking a stem or leaf cutting from an established plant and rooting it into the soil. The cutting should be taken in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. The cuttings should be at least 4 inches long and should be taken from the plant's healthy stem. Once the cutting is taken, it should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a suitable soil mix. The soil should be kept moist until the cutting has rooted and established.
Overall, Nasturtium cryptanthum A.Rich. var. mildbraedii O.E.Schulz can be propagated through the above-mentioned methods. The propagation method chosen will depend on various factors, including the plant's growth habit, available resources, and specific growth requirements.
Disease Management
Nasturtium cryptanthum A.Rich. var. mildbraedii O.E.Schulz is generally a disease-resistant plant. However, it may develop certain diseases under unfavorable environmental conditions or due to pathogenic attacks.
Black Rot: This disease is caused by the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris. The infected plants show dark, water-soaked spots on the leaves and stems, which turn brown and crispy as the disease progresses. The best way to manage this disease is by planting disease-free seeds and avoiding overhead irrigation. Remove the infected plants and destroy them immediately.
Anthracnose: This disease is caused by the fungus Colletotrichum higginsianum. The infected plants show small, circular, sunken lesions with dark margins on the leaves and stems. The leaves may also turn yellow and drop prematurely. The best way to manage this disease is by planting disease-free seeds, avoiding overhead irrigation, and practicing crop rotation. Remove the infected plants and destroy them immediately. Fungicides can also be used for management.
Pest Management
Nasturtium cryptanthum A.Rich. var. mildbraedii O.E.Schulz may attract certain pests that can damage the plant and reduce its productivity.
Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects suck the sap from the leaves and stems of the plant, causing curling and yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth. Spray the affected plant parts with a strong stream of water to dislodge the aphids. Alternatively, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Slugs and snails: These pests feed on the seedlings and small plants, leaving irregular holes on the leaves. Place copper tapes or bands around the base of the plants to deter them. Alternatively, handpick the pests and destroy them.
Leaf miners: The larvae of these insects feed on the internal tissue of the leaves, creating serpentine tunnels that reduce the photosynthetic activity of the plant. Remove the infected leaves and destroy them immediately. Spray the remaining plant parts with neem oil or spinosad-based insecticides for management.
