Overview
Ochna humilis Engl. is a flowering plant that belongs to the Ochnaceae family. It is commonly known as the small-leaved plane, tomato wood, or bokmakierie. It is native to South Africa and can be found in various parts of the country.
Appearance
The small-leaved plane is a woody shrub that can grow up to 2 meters tall. It has small, rounded, and glossy leaves that are dark green in color. The size of the leaves ranges between 1-3 cm in length and 0.7-2.0 cm in width. Its flowers are yellow in colour and are produced in clusters of up to 15 flowers each. The fruit of this plant is shiny, black, and contains one or two seeds.
Uses
The small-leaved plane has various traditional and medicinal uses. The seeds of the small-leaved plane are used to produce a yellow dye, which is used to dye clothing and baskets. In traditional medicine, a decoction made from the leaves of Ochna humilis is used to treat inflammation, toothaches, and stomach ailments. The fruits of this plant are also edible and are enjoyed by birds and other wildlife.
Furthermore, Ochna humilis is a popular ornamental plant due to its shiny, attractive leaves and bright yellow flowers that bloom in early spring. It is also used as a hedge or screening plant due to its dense growth habit. This plant is relatively easy to grow and is drought-tolerant, making it an ideal option for landscaping in arid regions.
Growth Conditions for Ochna humilis Engl.
Ochna humilis Engl., commonly known as the Cape plane, is a shrub that is native to southern Africa. Here are some growth conditions that are ideal for this plant.
Light
Ochna humilis can grow in full sun or partial shade. However, it is important to note that too much shade can lead to a reduction in flowering and fruiting. Therefore, it is recommended to grow this plant in an area that receives at least 4 hours of sunlight a day.
Temperature
Ochna humilis can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but grows best in areas with a Mediterranean climate. This means that it can withstand both hot and cold temperatures, with the ideal range being between 10°C to 30°C. It is important to note that this plant can be damaged by frost, so it is important to protect it during the winter months in colder climates.
Soil
The Cape plane grows best in well-draining soil that is fertile and rich in organic matter. It can grow in a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. However, the pH level of the soil should be neutral to slightly acidic (pH 5.5 to 7), and the soil should be kept consistently moist but never waterlogged.
Overall, providing the right conditions will ensure that Ochna humilis grows healthy and produces beautiful flowers and fruits.
Cultivation methods for Ochna humilis Engl.
Ochna humilis Engl., commonly known as the small-leaved plane creeper or Ochna, is a tropical plant native to Africa. The plant thrives in subtropical and tropical regions and requires warm and humid conditions.
The plant can be propagated easily through stem cuttings and seeds. It is recommended to plant it in well-draining soil with a pH range of 5-7 and a good mix of compost. Ensure that the planting area receives ample sunlight, preferably morning sun, to thrive well.
Watering needs for Ochna humilis Engl.
The plant requires frequent watering, especially during the growing season, which is between spring and summer. It is recommended to provide the plant with enough water to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot. In the colder months, reduce the number of watering to allow the soil to dry out between watering sessions.
Fertilization of Ochna humilis Engl.
The plant requires regular feeding to promote healthy growth and development. It is recommended to use a slow-release fertilizer, rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply the fertilizer every three to four weeks during the growing season, and reduce or stop entirely during the cold months.
Pruning Ochna humilis Engl.
Pruning not only helps shape the plant but also encourages healthy and robust growth. It is recommended to prune the plant during the winter months when the plant is dormant. Remove any weak, dead or diseased branches, and reshape the plant to your desired shape. Also, remove any crossed branches to prevent rubbing and encourage better air circulation.
Propagation of Ochna humilis Engl.
Ochna humilis Engl. is a deciduous shrub that produces a spectacular display of bright yellow flowers in spring. The plant is native to southern Africa and prefers a warm and sunny position, with well-drained soil. The following are some of the propagation methods utilized to grow this plant:
Seed Propagation
One of the easiest methods to propagate Ochna humilis Engl. is through seeds. The seeds can be collected from mature fruits, which usually appear after the flowering season. The collected seeds should be cleaned and sown immediately in a well-draining potting mix. The pot should be covered with a plastic wrap to create a humid environment until germination occurs. Once the seedlings have emerged, the plastic wrap should be removed, and the pot should be placed in a warm and bright location. After a few months, the seedlings can be transplanted to their permanent positions.
Cuttings Propagation
Ochna humilis Engl. can also be propagated through stem cuttings. This method is usually done during the active growth period of the plant and is best done with young, tender shoots. The cutting should be about 10-15 cm long and have a few leaves. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end of the stem in a rooting hormone. The cutting should then be inserted into a well-draining potting mix, and the pot should be covered with a plastic wrap to maintain humidity. The pot should be kept in bright, indirect light until new growth appears, at which time the plastic wrap can be removed, and the plant can be potted into its permanent position.
Division Propagation
Finally, Ochna humilis Engl. can be propagated through division. This method is best done during the dormant period of the plant and is ideal for mature plants that have become too large for their current position. The plant should be carefully dug up, and the root mass should be divided into smaller sections, each with a few stems and roots. Each section should then be potted into a well-draining potting mix, and the pot should be kept in a bright and warm location until new growth appears.
Disease and Pest Management for Ochna humilis Engl.
Ochna humilis Engl., commonly called the bird's eye bush, is a hardy plant that is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, like all plants, it is still prone to certain disorders, and it is important to manage them to ensure healthy growth and maximum yield.
Common Diseases
Ochna humilis is susceptible to various fungal and bacterial diseases, including:
- Leaf spot disease: This fungal disease manifests in the form of small, dark spots on the leaves, which eventually develop into holes. To manage leaf spot, infected leaves should be removed and destroyed, and the plant should be treated with a fungicide.
- Canker disease: This fungal disease causes lesions on the bark, which can eventually kill the affected branches. Infected branches should be pruned and destroyed, and the plant should be treated with a fungicide.
- Bacterial blight: This disease causes black spots on the leaves, which eventually turn yellow and drop off. Infected leaves should be removed and destroyed, and the plant should be treated with a copper-based fungicide.
Common Pests
While Ochna humilis is relatively pest-resistant, some pests that may affect the plant include:
- Spider mites: These pests suck the sap out of the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and eventually drop off. To manage spider mites, the plant should be sprayed with a miticide.
- Scale insects: These pests attach themselves to the leaves and stems, sucking the sap out of the plant and causing it to wilt. To manage scale insects, the plant should be sprayed with an insecticide.
- Caterpillars: These pests consume the leaves, causing extensive damage to the plant. To manage caterpillars, the plant should be sprayed with an insecticide.
It is important to note that the use of chemicals should be a last resort, and non-toxic alternatives such as neem oil or insecticidal soap should be used whenever possible.
