General Appearance
Ochnella chevalieri Tiegh. is a small, perennial herb that typically grows to be around 10-20 cm tall. The plant has a rosette of basal leaves that are thick and fleshy with a shiny surface. The stem is thin and unbranched, with a single flower that appears at the tip. The flower of Ochnella chevalieri Tiegh. is star-shaped and usually measures around 1 cm in diameter. It consists of four white petals that are elliptical in shape and are arranged in a cross shape.
Origin and Common Names
Ochnella chevalieri Tiegh. is native to Madagascar and is commonly known as "Madagascar Star" or "Madagascar Jewel." The plant is also sometimes referred to as "Ochnella" or "Ochnella revoluta".
Uses
Ochnella chevalieri Tiegh. is primarily grown as an ornamental plant and is popular for its unique appearance. It is often used in rock gardens, succulent gardens, and as a potted houseplant due to its small size and ability to thrive in a variety of conditions. The plant is known for being relatively easy to care for and can tolerate drought and neglect.
Light Requirements
Ochnella chevalieri Tiegh. typically grows in bright, indirect light. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves. However, ensure that the plant receives enough light to thrive. Artificial lighting can also be used to supplement natural light sources.
Temperature Requirements
Ochnella chevalieri Tiegh. thrives in warm temperatures ranging between 18-26°C (65-80°F). Ensure that the plant is placed in a consistently warm area, away from cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations. The plant is sensitive to cold temperatures and may suffer damage or experience stunted growth.
Soil Requirements
Ochnella chevalieri Tiegh. requires well-draining soil. A high-quality potting mix with excellent drainage abilities is recommended. The pH should be between 6.0-7.0. It is advisable to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, as the roots may rot in overly wet conditions. Adding perlite or sand to the soil can improve drainage.
Cultivation
Ochnella chevalieri Tiegh. commonly referred to as the African oil palm, is a tropical plant that requires warm temperatures between 68 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit. It thrives in well-draining, nutrient-rich soil with a pH range between 5.5 to 7.5. The plant can grow up to 20 feet tall in the wild, but it can be maintained at a shorter height via pruning.
Prior to planting, it is recommended to prepare the planting site by removing all debris and weeds from the area and incorporating organic matter into the soil. Propagation can be done through seeds or by dividing root clumps. Seeds should be soaked in water for up to 24 hours before planting to improve germination rates.
Watering Needs
Ochnella chevalieri requires regular watering to thrive. It is recommended to water the plant frequently during the growing season, ensuring that the soil is consistently moist. The frequency of watering may be reduced during the winter months when the plant is not actively growing. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important to ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging of the soil.
Fertilization
Proper fertilization is key to the growth and development of the African oil palm. It is recommended to fertilize the plant every three months using a balanced fertilizer with a recommended NPK ratio of 10-10-10. The fertilizer should be applied around the base of the plant to allow for proper uptake by the roots. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper application rates.
Pruning
Regular pruning is necessary to maintain the desired shape and height of Ochnella chevalieri. Pruning should be done in the early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or damaged leaves or fronds by cutting them off near the base of the plant with a sharp, sterilized pruning tool. The plant can be shaped as desired by removing any unwanted growth or by selectively pruning the fronds.
Propagation of Ochnella chevalieri Tiegh.
Ochnella chevalieri Tiegh. is a rare plant species that can be propagated through various methods including seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation through seeds:
Propagation through seeds is the most common method of propagating Ochnella chevalieri Tiegh. This method involves sowing seeds in well-drained soil in a warm and bright area. The seeds should be planted at a depth of 1-2cm and watered regularly until germination. Germination can take several weeks to a few months.
Propagation through cuttings:
Propagation through cuttings is another effective method of propagating Ochnella chevalieri Tiegh. This method involves taking stem cuttings from a healthy plant and rooting them in a well-drained, sandy soil. The cuttings should be about 5-7cm in length and planted in a pot. The pot should be kept in a warm, bright area and watered regularly until the cuttings develop roots and new growth.
Propagation through division:
Propagation through division is a less common method of propagating Ochnella chevalieri Tiegh. This method involves dividing the plant into smaller sections and replanting them in separate containers. To do this, carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently separate the root ball into smaller sections. Each section should have an equal amount of roots and foliage. The sections should then be planted in a well-drained, sandy soil and watered regularly until they have established themselves.
Disease and Pest Management for Ochnella Chevalieri Tiegh.
Ochnella chevalieri Tiegh. is a plant genus belonging to the family Melastomataceae. Although this plant is generally robust and resilient, it can still be susceptible to various pests and diseases.
Common Pests
One of the most common pests that can harm Ochnella chevalieri Tiegh. is spider mites. These pests extract the sap of the plant, causing the leaves to curl and wither. To prevent spider mites, it is best to avoid overwatering and to prune damaged leaves promptly. Another pest that may pose a problem for this plant is the scale insect. These insects are known to colonize the stems, causing the plant to lose vigour. To combat scale insects, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them from the plant.
Common Diseases
Ochnella chevalieri Tiegh. is also susceptible to various diseases, such as leaf spot diseases and powdery mildew. Leaf spot diseases typically manifest as brown spots with yellowish borders on the leaves. To manage leaf spot diseases, promptly remove and dispose of the infected leaves. Powdery mildew, on the other hand, manifests as a powdery white substance on the leaves. To combat powdery mildew, apply a fungicide spray labelled for use on Ochnella chevalieri Tiegh. following the instructions on the product label.
Preventive Measures
To prevent pests and diseases from damaging Ochnella chevalieri Tiegh., regular plant inspection is important. Remove any decaying plant material and keep the area surrounding the plant free of debris. Watering the plant from below and avoiding wetting the foliage can also prevent diseases from spreading. Ensure that the plant's growing conditions are optimal, such as providing adequate light, moisture, and nutrients, to keep it strong and healthy and better able to fight off any pest or disease infestations.
