Origin:
Ocimum fimbriatum Briq. var. angustilanceolatum (De Wild.) A.J.Paton is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the family Lamiaceae. It is native to the tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Angola, and Zambia.
Common names:
This plant is commonly known as the fringed basil or Congo basil in English. In Congo, it is known as "kitumbilala" or "kikwitikiti", which translates to "small leaves".
Uses:
Ocimum fimbriatum Briq. var. angustilanceolatum (De Wild.) A.J.Paton is used in traditional medicine as an herbal remedy for various ailments. The leaves have antiseptic and analgesic properties and are used to treat diarrhea, stomach problems, and bronchitis. It is also used in aromatherapy to relieve stress and anxiety. The plant is an excellent source of essential oils, and its oil is used in perfumery and cosmetic industries.
General appearance:
The plant has a bushy and compact growth habit and can grow up to 40cm tall. The leaves are small, lanceolate, and frilly-edged, measuring about 2-3cm long and 0.5cm wide. The plant produces tiny white flowers that bloom in the summer months. Its stems are green and can be tinged with purple, and the plant has a pleasant, aromatic scent.
Light Requirements
Ocimum fimbriatum Briq. var. angustilanceolatum (De Wild.) A.J.Paton requires a significant amount of light to grow properly. As a result, it is recommended to place this plant in an area where it can receive direct sunlight for at least 6 to 8 hours a day. However, care should be taken not to expose the plant too much to hot summer sunlight as it can damage the plant.
Temperature Requirements
The plant requires warm temperatures for optimal growth. During the growing season, the temperature range should be maintained between 20 to 30 degree Celsius. As the plant is native to tropical regions, it cannot withstand frost and should be protected during cold winter months. It is recommended to protect the plant from temperatures below 10 degree Celsius.
Soil Requirements
Ocimum fimbriatum Briq. var. angustilanceolatum (De Wild.) A.J.Paton prefers a well-drained, fertile soil that is high in organic matter. The ideal soil pH for this plant is between 6.0 to 7.5. The soil should be moist, but not water-logged to ensure proper growth. It is recommended to fertilize the soil with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season to provide the necessary nutrients to the plant.
Cultivation Methods for Ocimum fimbriatum Briq. var. angustilanceolatum (De Wild.) A.J.Paton
Ocimum fimbriatum Briq. var. angustilanceolatum (De Wild.) A.J.Paton is generally an easy plant to grow and propagate. The plant can grow in different soils, but well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.5 is ideal for best growth. The plant should receive enough sunlight to thrive, and it can tolerate partial shade. Gardeners can propagate the plant from seeds or cuttings. The plant grows well through the spring, summer, and fall months.
Watering Needs for Ocimum fimbriatum Briq. var. angustilanceolatum (De Wild.) A.J.Paton
The plant requires regular watering to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Over-watering can lead to root rot, which can kill the plant. The frequency of watering depends on several factors such as the size of the plant, the soil type, and the climate. Gardeners should always feel the soil to determine moisture levels before watering. As a rule of thumb, it is better to underwater than to overwater.
Fertilization for Ocimum fimbriatum Briq. var. angustilanceolatum (De Wild.) A.J.Paton
The plant does well with regular fertilization. Gardeners can use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to promote lush green foliage and new growth. Fertilize the plant at least once every two months during the growing season, from spring to fall.
Pruning for Ocimum fimbriatum Briq. var. angustilanceolatum (De Wild.) A.J.Paton
Pruning the plant is essential to promote bushy growth and prevent leggy growth. Gardeners can pinch off any tips that are growing too tall to encourage branching. Cut back the plant by a third in the early spring to promote new growth. Avoid pruning the plant in the late fall and winter months as this can cause stress to the plant and lead to reduced growth in the following season.
Propagation of Ocimum fimbriatum Briq. var. angustilanceolatum (De Wild.) A.J.Paton
Ocimum fimbriatum Briq. var. angustilanceolatum (De Wild.) A.J.Paton can be propagated through both sexual and asexual methods of reproduction. The plants can be grown from seeds or through vegetative propagation.
Propagation by Seed
Seeds of Ocimum fimbriatum Briq. var. angustilanceolatum (De Wild.) A.J.Paton can be sown directly into the soil or in seed trays filled with soil mixture. Sow the seeds at a depth of 5-10 mm and keep the soil moist. The seeds will germinate within 1-2 weeks. Once the seedlings have grown up to a height of 5-6 cm, they can be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the ground.
Propagation by Cuttings
Ocimum fimbriatum Briq. var. angustilanceolatum (De Wild.) A.J.Paton can also be propagated by stem cuttings. Take cuttings of 5-6 cm long from healthy and mature plants. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting, leaving only 2-3 leaves at the top. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone powder and plant it in a pot filled with soil mix. Keep the pot in a warm and moist place and make sure the soil remains moist. The cuttings will start rooting within 2-3 weeks, and once they have formed roots, they can be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the ground.
Propagation by Division
Ocimum fimbriatum Briq. var. angustilanceolatum (De Wild.) A.J.Paton can also be propagated through division. This method involves separating the clumps of the parent plant into smaller sections, each with their own roots and shoots. Dig up the parent plant and carefully separate the clumps. Re-plant the separated sections into pots or directly into the ground.
Overall, Ocimum fimbriatum Briq. var. angustilanceolatum (De Wild.) A.J.Paton can be propagated easily through seed germination, stem cuttings, and division.
Disease Management
The Ocimum fimbriatum Briq. var. angustilanceolatum (De Wild.) A.J.Paton plant is susceptible to several diseases. Some of the common diseases that might affect the plant include:
- Leaf Spot: This disease is caused by a fungus and is characterized by black spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, you can remove the infected leaves and spray the plant with a fungicide.
- Root Rot: Overwatering or poorly-draining soil can lead to root rot. This disease is characterized by wilted leaves and a rotten smell from the soil. To manage root rot, you can water the plant less frequently or repot it in well-draining soil.
Pest Management
Several pests can also affect the Ocimum fimbriatum Briq. var. angustilanceolatum (De Wild.) A.J.Paton plant. Some of the common pests include:
- Aphids: These small insects suck the sap out of the plant and cause the leaves to wilt. To manage aphids, you can spray the plant with a mixture of water and dish soap.
- Whiteflies: These pests are characterized by small white flies that fly around the plant. To manage whiteflies, you can spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Regularly checking the plant for signs of diseases and pests can help you manage the plant effectively. It's also important to maintain a clean environment around the plant and avoid overwatering to prevent the growth of diseases and pests.
