Introduction
Ocimum gratissimum L. subsp. iringense Ayob. ex A.J.Paton is a herbaceous plant with medicinal properties that is native to Africa. It is a subspecies of the Ocimum gratissimum plant and is recognized for its distinct characteristics and medicinal benefits.
Origin and Common Names
Ocimum gratissimum L. subsp. iringense Ayob. ex A.J.Paton is commonly known as African basil or Clove basil, and is native to African countries such as Nigeria, Cameroon, and Congo. It belongs to the family Lamiaceae and is widely used in traditional African medicine for its medicinal benefits.
Appearance
The Ocimum gratissimum L. subsp. iringense Ayob. ex A.J.Paton plant is a tall perennial shrub that grows up to 2 meters in height. Its leaves are dark green in color and are distinguished by a distinctive clove-like aroma when crushed. It produces small lilac flowers that bloom in clusters, making it an attractive ornamental plant. Its stems are green and covered in fine hairs.
Uses
The Ocimum gratissimum L. subsp. iringense Ayob. ex A.J.Paton plant has been used in traditional African medicine for centuries to treat a variety of ailments. It is known for its anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal properties, and has been used to treat conditions such as coughs, colds, fever, and malaria. It is also used to relieve pain and inflammation caused by rheumatism and arthritis. The leaves of the plant can be used in cooking as a seasoning and a flavoring agent. The essential oil extracted from the plant is used in the perfume and cosmetics industry due to its distinct aroma.
Light Requirements
Ocimum gratissimum L. subsp. iringense Ayob. ex A.J.Paton requires full sunlight exposure for proper growth and development. It is highly recommended to place the plant in a location where it can receive sunlight for at least six hours a day. Without adequate sunlight exposure, the plant may produce fewer leaves and flowers. However, excessive light exposure may lead to leaf scorching or burning, so it is important to find the right balance.
Temperature Requirements
Ocimum gratissimum L. subsp. iringense Ayob. ex A.J.Paton thrives in warm temperatures with high humidity. This plant is native to tropical and subtropical regions and can grow in temperatures ranging from 18 to 35°C (64 to 95°F). Temperatures above or below this range may hamper the plant's growth and development. The plant may also experience frost damage if grown in areas with low temperatures. A temperature-controlled environment is important for this plant's success.
Soil Requirements
The soil requirements for Ocimum gratissimum L. subsp. iringense Ayob. ex A.J.Paton are not very demanding. The plant can grow in a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils, as long as the soil is well-drained. The pH of the soil should be between 6.0 and 7.5. Adding organic matter such as compost or manure can improve soil fertility and drainage. The plant requires periodic fertilization, so it is recommended to apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Cultivation Methods
Ocimum gratissimum L. subsp. iringense Ayob. ex A.J.Paton commonly known as African basil is a perennial herb that can grow up to 2 meters height. It requires a warm, humid climate, and full sunlight to grow. This plant can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings or root division. Planting should be done in well-drained soil, rich in organic matter, and with a pH range between 6.0 to 7.5.
Watering Needs
The watering schedule of African basil should be consistent, especially during the growing season. This plant requires adequate moisture to thrive, but it should not be overwatered as it can lead to root rot. It is advisable to water the plant when the topsoil feels dry to the touch. The use of a drip irrigation system is highly recommended as it helps to avoid waterlogging the soil.
Fertilization
African basil is a heavy feeder and requires regular fertilization to encourage healthy growth and higher yields. The use of organic fertilizers like compost, manure or bone meal can improve soil fertility. Fertilization should be done every two weeks during the growing season. The application of balanced fertilizers with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 is also recommended.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to promote bushier growth and prevent leggy, spindly stems. It also helps to ensure that the plant does not become too tall and flop over. Pruning should be done regularly, especially during the growing season. It involves removing the top one-third of the plant, which encourages branching and more vigorous growth. Pinching off the flowers or buds as soon as they appear can also help to increase foliage production.
Propagation of Ocimum gratissimum
Ocimum gratissimum L. subsp. iringense Ayob. ex A.J.Paton is a popular medicinal plant commonly known as clove basil. It is a fast-growing plant with fragrant flowers and leaves, which are traditionally used to treat various ailments.
Propagation methods
There are several methods of propagating Ocimum gratissimum, including:
Seeds
Seeds are the most common method of propagating the plant. The seeds should be sown in a well-drained soil mix and kept moist until they germinate. Once the plants are established, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Cuttings
Stem cuttings can also be used to propagate Ocimum gratissimum. The cuttings should be taken from young, healthy plants in the morning when the plant is most turgid. They should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-drained soil mix. The cuttings should be kept moist until they establish roots and can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Division
Ocimum gratissimum can also be propagated by division. This method involves separating the plant into smaller sections and replanting them in a well-drained soil mix. The best time to divide the plant is in the spring when new growth is emerging.
Air layering
Air layering is a more advanced method of propagating Ocimum gratissimum. It involves cutting a small groove in the stem of a mature plant, dusting the wound with rooting hormone, and wrapping it with damp sphagnum moss. Once roots have formed, the stem can be cut and planted in a well-drained soil mix.
Regardless of the propagation method used, Ocimum gratissimum prefers a warm and humid environment with plenty of sunlight. With proper care, the plant will establish quickly and can be harvested for its medicinal properties.
Disease Management
Several diseases affect the Ocimum gratissimum L. subsp. iringense Ayob. ex A.J.Paton. Below are some of the common diseases and ways to manage them:
Fusarium Wilt
This disease is caused by a soil-borne fungus, Fusarium oxysporum. Symptoms include wilting and yellowing of leaves. To manage Fusarium wilt, remove and destroy infected plants, and do not replant in the same soil. Use disease-free seedlings and practice crop rotation.
Powdery Mildew
This disease is caused by a fungus called Erysiphe cichoracearum. Symptoms include a white powdery coating on leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage Powdery Mildew, keep humidity low, avoid overcrowding plants, and destroy infected plants. Fungicides can also be used.
Anthracnose
This disease is caused by a fungus called Colletotrichum gloeosporioides. Symptoms include dark, sunken spots on leaves and stems. To manage Anthracnose, remove and destroy infected plant parts. Use pathogen-free seedlings and avoid overhead watering.
Pest Management
Several pests can affect the Ocimum gratissimum L. subsp. iringense Ayob. ex A.J.Paton. Below are some of the common pests and ways to manage them:
Aphids
Aphids are small insects that congregate at the tips of shoots and the undersides of leaves, where they suck plant sap. Symptoms include curling and yellowing of leaves. To manage Aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, or release natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on plant sap, causing yellowing and drying of leaves. They are usually found on the undersides of leaves. To manage Spider Mites, keep plants well-watered, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, or release natural predators like predatory mites or ladybugs.
Cutworms
Cutworms are larval stage moths that cut through plant stems at the soil surface. Symptoms include wilting and drooping of plants. To manage Cutworms, use physical barriers like collars around the base of seedlings, or apply insecticides containing Bacillus thuringiensis.
