Nasturtium Cryptanthum Hochst. Ex A.rich.

Overview

Nasturtium cryptanthum Hochst. ex A.Rich., also known as Hidden Nasturtium, is a herbaceous plant species that belongs to the Tropaeolaceae family. It is native to East and Southern Africa and can be found growing in various habitats.

Description

The plant has a trailing or climbing habit with slender stems that can reach up to 2 meters long. The leaves are round to kidney-shaped, and the flowers are trumpet-shaped and yellow with orange-red markings. The plant produces small, round seed pods that contain several seeds each.

Common Names

The Common names for Nasturtium cryptanthum are Hidden Nasturtium, Dwarf Nasturtium, and Running Nasturtium.

Uses

Nasturtium cryptanthum is not commonly used for medicinal or culinary purposes. However, it is highly valued as an ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage and beautiful flowers. It is also easy to grow and can be used to cover bare walls or trellises. Additionally, some people believe that the plant has insect repellent properties.

Light Requirements

Nasturtium cryptanthum Hochst. ex A.Rich. thrives well under direct sunlight or partial shade. It is highly adapted to conditions with low illumination intensity levels and is capable of tolerating extreme exposure to sunlight.

Temperature Requirements

The plant grows well in a wide range of temperatures that range between 10-25 degrees Celsius. However, it can still germinate under higher temperatures of up to 30 degrees Celsius. Additionally, low temperatures of up to 5 degrees Celsius do not significantly affect the growth rate of the plant.

Soil Requirements

Nasturtium cryptanthum Hochst. ex A.Rich. prefers soils that are loamy, rich in organic matter, and have good drainage. However, it can also grow in soils with sandy or clayey texture. Before planting, the soil pH should be adjusted to a range of 6.5-7.5 for optimal growth.

Cultivation Methods

Nasturtium cryptanthum Hochst. ex A.Rich. can be grown both indoors and outdoors. It thrives in cool to warm temperatures and requires well-draining soil. The plant should receive partial shade to full sun, and the seeds should be planted at a depth of 1 cm. The time from planting to germination is usually ten to fourteen days.

Watering Needs

The plant needs regular watering, and the soil should never be allowed to dry out completely. It is essential to ensure that the soil is adequately moist, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot. The frequency of watering will depend on the weather conditions and the size of the pot or container, but a rule of thumb is to water when the top inch of soil is dry.

Fertilization

Nasturtium cryptanthum Hochst. ex A.Rich. requires fertilizer to thrive and produce an abundant crop. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 is suitable for this plant. The fertilizer should be applied every two weeks during the growing season, but avoid fertilizing during the winter months. Overfertilizing can lead to stunted growth and root burn.

Pruning

Nasturtium cryptanthum Hochst. ex A.Rich. does not require much pruning. However, you can pinch back the stems and leaves when they become too long or overgrown. This process will encourage fuller growth and promote the production of more flowers and foliage. Deadheading is also essential to remove spent flowers and encourage the plant to produce more blooms.

Propagation of Nasturtium cryptanthum Hochst. ex A.Rich.

Nasturtium cryptanthum Hochst. ex A.Rich. is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Tropaeolaceae family. The plant is native to Ethiopia and grows in dry and rocky areas. It has attractive yellow flowers and edible leaves and flowers that are used in salads, soups, and sauces.

Propagation by Seeds

The most common method of propagating Nasturtium cryptanthum is through seeds. The plant produces small seeds that can be collected from the ripe seedpods. The following steps can be followed:

1. Collect the ripe seedpods from the plant and dry them.
2. Remove the seeds from the pods and store them in a cool and dry place.
3. Prepare the soil by mixing compost or organic matter into the top layer of soil.
4. Sow the seeds about half an inch deep in the soil, spacing them at least 6 inches apart.
5. Water the soil gently, making sure not to wash away the seeds.
6. Place the pot in a warm and bright location, but not in direct sunlight.
7. The seeds should germinate within 2-4 weeks.
8. Once the seedlings have grown large enough, they can be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the garden.

Propagation by Cuttings

Another method of propagating Nasturtium cryptanthum is through cuttings. This method is usually done during the summer when the plant is actively growing. The following steps can be followed:

1. Using a sharp and clean knife, cut a healthy stem from the plant, about 4-6 inches long.
2. Remove the leaves from the lower part of the stem, leaving only a few at the top.
3. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone to help facilitate root development.
4. Plant the stem in a pot with well-draining soil.
5. Water the soil and mist the stem with water to keep it moist.
6. Place the pot in a warm and bright location, but not in direct sunlight.
7. The cutting should root within 2-3 weeks.
8. Once the cutting has developed roots, it can be transplanted into a larger pot or directly into the garden.

Disease and Pest Management for Nasturtium cryptanthum Hochst. ex A.Rich.

Nasturtium cryptanthum Hochst. ex A.Rich., commonly known as hidden nasturtium, is an attractive flowering plant that belongs to the family Tropaeolaceae. The plant is known to be tolerant to pests and diseases, but certain infestations can occur, and it is important to know how to manage them.

Common Pests

Aphids: Aphids are important pests that affect the growth and yield of Nasturtium cryptanthum. These small, pear-shaped insects suck the sap from the plant, leading to stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and deformation of flowers. To manage aphids, a strong blast of water can be used to dislodge them from the plant. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be used to control aphids.

Whiteflies: Whiteflies are tiny insects that feed on the leaves of the Nasturtium cryptanthum. They secrete a sticky substance called honeydew that attracts ants and promotes the growth of sooty mold. Whiteflies can be controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Common Diseases

Downy Mildew: Downy mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of Nasturtium cryptanthum, causing yellowing and distortion. The disease usually occurs in humid conditions and can be prevented by ensuring proper air circulation around the plant. Fungicides containing copper can also be used to manage downy mildew.

Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes small brown spots on the leaves of Nasturtium cryptanthum. The infected leaves eventually yellow and fall off, leading to stunted growth and decreased yield. To manage leaf spot, remove infected leaves and use fungicides containing copper.

Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of Nasturtium cryptanthum, leading to yellowing and wilting of leaves. The disease is caused by overwatering and poor drainage. Ensure that the plant is not overwatered, and improve drainage by adding organic matter to the soil.

By monitoring and managing pests and diseases on Nasturtium cryptanthum, growers can ensure a healthy and productive plant.