Overview:
Nesaea heptamera Hiern var. heptamera is a flowering plant belonging to the family of Lythraceae. It is native to West Africa and has gained considerable popularity as a freshwater aquarium plant due to its unique beauty and easy maintenance.
Common Names:
The plant is commonly known by several names including Seven-Stamen Nesaea, West African Nesaea, and Nesaea Red.
Appearance:
Nesaea heptamera Hiern var. heptamera is a striking plant with a tall and thin stem that can grow up to 20 inches long. The leaves are small and narrow with pointed tips and grow opposite each other on the stem. The plant has small red or pink flowers that grow in clusters on the stem and bloom in the summer. The plant can take on different hues of green and red, depending on the intensity of lighting and nutrients in the water.
Uses:
The Seven-Stamen Nesaea plant is highly valued for its use in freshwater aquariums. It can be used as an attractive background plant or as a mid-ground plant for smaller tanks. The plant adds color, texture, and depth to aquariums, providing a natural habitat for fish, snails, and other aquatic creatures. Additionally, the plant is believed to have medicinal properties used to treat various ailments in West Africa.
Light Requirements
Nesaea heptamera Hiern var. heptamera requires bright light for optimal growth. It is recommended to provide at least 6 hours of direct sunlight or an equivalent intensity of artificial lighting per day. Insufficient light could cause the plant to grow weak and leggy. However, too much sunlight can lead to algae growth and reduce the plant's overall health.
Temperature Requirements
The preferred temperature range for Nesaea heptamera Hiern var. heptamera is between 72°F and 82°F (22°C to 28°C). The lowest temperature that the plant can tolerate is 60°F (15°C), while the highest is 90°F (32°C). Keeping the plant within the recommended temperature range is essential for optimal growth.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers a substrate that is rich in nutrients but also well-draining. A mixture of loam and peat moss is recommended for Nesaea heptamera Hiern var. heptamera. The soil pH should be slightly acidic, between 6.0 and 6.8. It is important to avoid soils that are too compact as they might hinder the plant's root growth.
Cultivation Methods
The ideal growth conditions for Nesaea heptamera Hiern var. heptamera includes a well-draining substrate, adequate sunlight, and a stable water supply. These plants tolerate slightly acidic soils, with pH levels between 6.0 and 7.0, and are suitable for both submersed and emersed cultivation. In an aquarium, a nutrient-rich substrate like laterite, clay, or gravel mixed with organic matter is recommended for better growth.
Watering Needs
Watering needs of Nesaea heptamera Hiern var. heptamera largely depend on their environment. If it is grown submersed in an aquarium, the water level should be constant at around 6 inches. For emersed growth, these plants require consistent moisture to their roots. Ensure you water the plants regularly every time the top of the soil feels slightly dry.
Fertilization
Nesaea heptamera Hiern var. heptamera responds well to nutrient-rich water. The plant requires a regular supply of iron, potassium, nitrogen, and phosphorus for healthy growth, which can be achieved by adding liquid fertilizers regularly. Dose fertilizers according to the instructions provided on the manufacturer's label, especially if your aquarium contains other plants that may require different nutrients or dosages.
Pruning
Pruning Nesaea heptamera Hiern var. heptamera involves trimming away its stalks and stems to keep it at a desirable size, density, and shape. Pruning is also essential for the plant's health, preventing overcrowding, and ensuring efficient nutrient and oxygen uptake. Cuttings from the main stems can be replanted to grow new Nesaea heptamera Hiern var. heptamera plants with identical characteristics. Trim the plants as needed, but avoid cutting off more than a third of the stem at once as this can stunt their growth.
Propagation of Nesaea heptamera Hiern var. heptamera
Nesaea heptamera Hiern var. heptamera can be propagated through several methods, including:
Seed propagation
Seeds can be sown directly in a pot filled with a blend of peat and sand or any well-draining potting mix. Make sure to water the seeds moderately and cover the pots with plastic sheets to promote humidity and moisture. Seeds tend to germinate within two to three weeks and once they have developed two to three pairs of leaves, they can be transplanted to a bigger pot or planted in the ground after the last frost.
Cuttings
The stem cuttings of the plant are its most popular propagation method. To propagate Nesaea heptamera Hiern var. heptamera through cuttings, make sure to cut the stem about 7-10cm long. The cuttings must have at least two to three sets of leaves attached to the stem. After cutting it off from the main plant, remove the lower leaves from the cutting and put it in a glass of water. After the roots have grown, plant the cuttings in a pot or in the ground. Make sure to keep the soil moist.
Division
Division is another famous propagation method for Nesaea heptamera Hiern var. heptamera. It involves carefully dividing the plant into two or three sections while keeping the roots intact. After division, the sections should be replanted to a container or in the ground. Make sure to keep the soil moist and well-drained after replanting.
Disease and pest management for the plant Nesaea heptamera Hiern var. heptamera
Nesaea heptamera Hiern var. heptamera is generally a healthy plant, but like all plants, it is susceptible to diseases and pests. Some of the common diseases and pests that might affect this plant are:
Diseases
Root Rot: Root rot is caused due to the fungus that infects the roots, making them brown and mushy. The infected plant often wilts, turns yellow, and dies. To manage root rot in Nesaea heptamera Hiern var. heptamera, it is advisable to avoid over-watering, use well-draining soil, and avoid planting in areas with poor drainage.
Mildew: Mildew is a fungal disease that leads to white or gray powdery mold on the leaves, stem, and flowers. Overcrowding, high humidity, and poor air circulation are the risk factors for mildew. To manage mildew in Nesaea heptamera Hiern var. heptamera, it is advisable to prune the affected parts of the plant, use appropriate fungicides, and maintain good air circulation and optimal humidity levels.
Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that causes reddish-brown spots on the leaves. The infected leaves often fall off, leading to a stunted growth and weakened plant. To manage rust in Nesaea heptamera Hiern var. heptamera, it is advisable to remove infected leaves, use appropriate fungicides, and ensure good air circulation.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are tiny insects that suck the sap out of the leaves, causing them to curl and distort. They are attracted to soft, young plant tissues and can quickly multiply, leading to a weakened plant. To manage aphids in Nesaea heptamera Hiern var. heptamera, it is advisable to use insecticidal soap or neem oil, prune heavily infested parts, and introduce natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings.
Snails and Slugs: Snails and slugs are common pests that feed on the leaves, stems, and flowers. They prefer moist environments and can often be seen hiding under rocks and other debris. To manage snails and slugs in Nesaea heptamera Hiern var. heptamera, it is advisable to handpick them, create physical barriers like copper tape, and introduce predatory animals like ducks or chickens.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that feed on the plant sap, causing the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. They often create fine webbing on the leaves, which can indicate their presence. To manage spider mites in Nesaea heptamera Hiern var. heptamera, it is advisable to use insecticidal soap or neem oil, prune affected leaves, and introduce natural predators like ladybugs.
By following the above measures, the diseases and pests affecting Nesaea heptamera Hiern var. heptamera can be efficiently managed, and the plant can thrive in a healthy environment.
