Overview
Ocimum fimbriatum Briq. var. bequaertii (De Wild.) A.J.Paton, also known as Bequaert’s basil, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the family Lamiaceae. This plant is native to eastern and central Africa, including Uganda, Ethiopia, Tanzania, and Kenya.
Common Names
The plant is commonly referred to as Bequaert’s basil due to its discovery and naming by the Belgian zoologist, Henri Bequaert. In Kenya, the plant is also called Sumanene, which translates to “the plant that loses its scent.”
Appearance
Bequaert’s basil grows up to a height of 50 cm and has an erect stem covered with fine hairs. The leaves are green, oval in shape, and grow up to 3 cm long and 2 cm wide. The leaves are also covered with fine hairs and have fringed margins. The flowers of the plant are pink-purple in color, grow in clusters, and are 2-3 cm long.
Uses
Bequaert’s basil has various medicinal uses, such as a treatment for coughs, colds, and diarrhea. The plant also has antiseptic properties and can be used to treat skin infections and wounds. In Kenya, the plant is used as a spice in food preparation, and the leaves are also crushed to extract essential oils used in perfumes.
Light Requirements
Ocimum fimbriatum Briq. var. bequaertii (De Wild.) A.J.Paton requires bright sunlight exposure for optimal growth. It grows best when placed in an area with direct sunlight exposure for approximately six hours each day. If it is grown indoors, it should be placed next to a south or west-facing window to ensure it receives sufficient light.
Temperature Requirements
The plant requires moderate temperature conditions to grow successfully. The ideal temperature range is between 20-30°C (68-86°F). It is essential to maintain consistent temperatures between day and night. Avoid exposing the plant to temperatures below 16°C (61°F) or above 38°C (100°F), as it can damage the plant and inhibit growth.
Soil Requirements
Well-draining soil is vital for the growth of Ocimum fimbriatum Briq. var. bequaertii (De Wild.) A.J.Paton. The soil should be loamy, rich in organic matter, and slightly acidic with a pH range of 6.0-7.0. The plant should be grown in a pot or container with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. The addition of perlite or sand will improve soil drainage.
Cultivation Methods
Ocimum fimbriatum Briq. var. bequaertii (De Wild.) A.J.Paton, commonly known as fimbriate basil, is native to Africa. It is a hardy plant that can be easily grown in both pots and garden beds. It requires an ample amount of sunlight and well-drained, slightly acidic soil. Plant the seeds in spring, and they will germinate within two to three weeks. Thin out the seedlings to maintain a distance of around 6 to 8 inches between them. This will help ensure that each plant has enough room to grow.
Watering Needs
The fimbriate basil plant should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of the soil has dried out. It is best to water the plant in the morning to give it enough time to dry before sunset. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is essential to water the plant sparingly but regularly.
Fertilization
The fimbriate basil plant responds well to organic fertilizers. It is recommended to use a balanced fertilizer, rich in potassium and phosphorus. Apply fertilizer every two to three weeks during the growing season. However, reduce the frequency during winter when the plant goes into a dormant period.
Pruning
Maintaining the basil plant's size and shape is essential to promote healthy growth. It is best to prune the plant frequently, especially during the growing season. Regular pinching will encourage bushy growth and prevent the plant from becoming leggy. To prune, pinch the tips of the stem just above the set of leaves that you want the plant to branch out from. This will encourage new growth and a fuller plant overall.
Propagation of Ocimum fimbriatum Briq. var. bequaertii (De Wild.) A.J.Paton
Ocimum fimbriatum Briq. var. bequaertii (De Wild.) A.J.Paton, commonly known as African basil or fringed basil, can be propagated through various methods, including:
Seed Propagation
Seeds collected from the plant can be used to propagate it. To begin, prepare a seedbed by mixing equal parts of soil and compost, and moisten it. Sow the seeds evenly on top of the soil and cover lightly with soil or sand. Water thoroughly but gently, and keep the soil evenly moist until the seedlings emerge.
Once the seedlings have grown their second set of leaves and are about 3-4 inches tall, they can be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the ground. Be careful not to damage the roots during transplantation.
Cutting Propagation
Cuttings can also be taken from mature plants and used to propagate new plants. To do this, select a healthy stem that is about 4-6 inches long and has several pairs of leaves. Remove the lower leaves from the stem and dip the cut end into rooting hormone. Place the cutting in a moist rooting medium, such as moist sand or vermiculite, and keep it in a warm, humid location with bright, indirect light.
After about 2-3 weeks, roots should start to form. At this point, the cutting can be transplanted into a pot or into the ground, making sure to keep the soil evenly moist until the plant has become established.
Division Propagation
Ocimum fimbriatum Briq. var. bequaertii (De Wild.) A.J.Paton plants can also be propagated through division. This involves digging up the entire plant and separating it into smaller sections, each with its own set of roots.
To do this, gently remove the plant from the soil and use a sharp gardening tool to carefully divide the plant into sections. Be sure to keep each section's roots intact. Repot the divisions or plant them directly into the ground in a suitable location.
Disease and Pest Management for Ocimum fimbriatum Briq. var. bequaertii (De Wild.) A.J.Paton
Ocimum fimbriatum Briq. var. bequaertii (De Wild.) A.J.Paton, commonly known as the African basil, is a plant species that requires proper disease and pest management. Below are some common diseases and pests that might affect this plant, as well as suggestions on how to manage them.
Diseases
Ocimum fimbriatum Briq. var. bequaertii is susceptible to different diseases, including:
1. Fusarium wilt
Fusarium wilt is a fungal disease that causes wilting, yellowing, and death of the plant. The fungus can persist in the soil for many years, making it challenging to manage. To prevent this disease, it's crucial to plant in well-drained soil and use pathogen-free seeds. Avoid overwatering the plant, rotate crops, and remove infected plants immediately.
2. Leaf spot disease
Leaf spot disease is caused by various fungal pathogens that result in brown or black spots on the leaves. In severe cases, the leaves may shrivel and fall off. To manage leaf spot disease, avoid over-crowding of plants, prune diseased leaves, and provide proper air circulation around the plants. Use fungicides when necessary.
3. Pythium root rot
Pythium root rot is a soil-borne disease that thrives in poorly drained soil. The disease causes stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and wilting of the plant. To minimize the risk of Pythium root rot, plant in well-drained soil and avoid overwatering the plant. Use disease-resistant varieties and fungicides when necessary.
Pests
Ocimum fimbriatum Briq. var. bequaertii is also susceptible to pests, including:
1. Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing distortion and curling of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage aphids. Regularly spraying the plant with water can also dislodge the insects.
2. Spider mites
Spider mites are tiny, plant-feeding pests that cause yellowing and dryness of the leaves. The pests thrive in hot, dry conditions. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with water, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, and prune damaged leaves. Increase humidity levels around the plant to discourage the pests from thriving.
3. Whiteflies
Whiteflies are tiny, white insects that feed on the sap of the plant. The insects leave behind a sticky residue, which can attract other pests and cause fungal infections. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage whiteflies. Regularly spraying the plant with water can also dislodge the insects.
Proper disease and pest management is crucial in ensuring healthy and productive Ocimum fimbriatum Briq. var. bequaertii plants. By following the above suggestions, farmers or gardeners can minimize losses and increase the yield of the crop.
