Overview of Oldenlandia acicularis Bremek.
Oldenlandia acicularis Bremek., also known as the slender oldenlandia, is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Rubiaceae. It is a hardy plant that grows in rocky areas and sandy soils, and it is native to Africa and Madagascar. The plant is known for its medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.
Appearance of Oldenlandia acicularis Bremek.
The slender oldenlandia is a small herbaceous plant that reaches a height of about 20cm. It has narrow leaves that are arranged in opposite pairs along the stem. The stem is thin and wiry, and it produces small white flowers that are clustered at the tips of the stems. The flowers are tubular in shape and have five petals.
Common names for Oldenlandia acicularis Bremek.
The slender oldenlandia is known by various common names, including African lady's-thumb, beady-oldenlandia, and Madagascar oldenlandia. The plant is also known as Matura tea in Sri Lanka, where it is used to make a traditional herbal tea.
Uses of Oldenlandia acicularis Bremek.
The slender oldenlandia has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, headaches, and stomach problems. Extracts from the plant have also been shown to have anticancer properties, and it is being studied for its potential use in cancer treatment. In Sri Lanka, the plant is used to make a traditional herbal tea that is believed to have various health benefits. The plant is also used in landscaping because of its attractive flowers and hardiness.
Growth Conditions of Oldenlandia acicularis Bremek.
Light Requirements: Oldenlandia acicularis Bremek. grows best in full sun to partial shade. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. Too little sunlight can lead to poor growth and decreased flowering.
Temperature Requirements: The ideal temperature range for Oldenlandia acicularis Bremek. is between 20°C to 30°C. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 15°C and as high as 35°C for short periods. Temperatures below 15°C can damage the plant, while temperatures above 35°C can cause scorching and leaf damage due to excessive heat.
Soil Requirements: Oldenlandia acicularis Bremek. prefers well-drained, sandy soils that are slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5 to 7.0). The plant can grow in a variety of soil types, but it does not tolerate waterlogged conditions. Soil should be rich in organic matter and should not be too compacted.
Water Requirements: Oldenlandia acicularis Bremek. requires moderate watering. The plant should be watered when the top inch of soil is dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause the plant to wilt and die.
Fertilizer Requirements: Oldenlandia acicularis Bremek. requires regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season. Fertilizers should be rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Other Requirements: Oldenlandia acicularis Bremek. is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal pruning. However, it is susceptible to pests and diseases, so regular monitoring and treatment may be necessary. The plant also benefits from occasional applications of mulch to retain moisture and prevent weed growth.
Cultivation
Oldenlandia acicularis Bremek. is a tropical plant that can be grown in both tropical and subtropical regions. It prefers a warm climate with a temperature range of 18 to 28°C (65 to 82°F). The plant can tolerate a certain amount of shade, but it grows best in full sun.
The plant can be propagated through seeds or stem cuttings. When propagating through stem cuttings, it is essential to use healthy stems that are at least 15 cm long.
The plant grows well in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It is recommended to add compost or manure to the soil before planting. The soil pH should be between 6 and 7.
Watering Needs
Oldenlandia acicularis Bremek. requires regular watering to grow and thrive. It is essential to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot. In tropical regions, the plant may require daily watering, especially during the dry season.
During the summer season, the plant may need more frequent watering. It is recommended to water the plant in the early morning or late evening to avoid water loss due to evaporation.
Fertilization
Oldenlandia acicularis Bremek. requires regular feeding to promote healthy growth and flowering. Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 20-20-20 or 15-15-15. Apply the fertilizer once in every two weeks during the growing season.
Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to excessive growth and reduced flowering. It is recommended to use organic fertilizers such as compost or manure that release nutrients slowly and promote healthy soil.
Pruning
Oldenlandia acicularis Bremek. requires regular pruning to maintain its shape and promote bushier growth. Prune the plant in the early spring before new growth starts. Cut back the old growth to about half the length to promote new growth.
Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches to prevent the spread of disease. Pinch off the tips of the plant to encourage branching and promote a fuller, bushier growth habit. Regular pruning also helps to promote more flowers.
Propagation of Oldenlandia acicularis Bremek.
Oldenlandia acicularis Bremek. can be propagated using different methods, including:
Seed propagation
The plant produces numerous small seeds and is considered to be fairly easy to grow from seed. Seeds can be sown directly into prepared seedbeds or containers filled with a well-draining potting mix. The seeds should be lightly covered with soil and kept moist until the seedlings emerge.
Cuttings propagation
Oldenlandia acicularis Bremek. can also be propagated from stem cuttings taken from mature plants. Cuttings should be taken from healthy plants with at least three nodes and no flowers or buds. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone, planted in well-draining soil, and kept moist until roots develop.
Division propagation
The plant can also be propagated through division. This method involves dividing the root system of an established plant into several pieces, each with its own set of leaves and roots. Each division should be planted in a separate container or in the garden and kept moist until the new plant becomes established.
Regardless of the propagation method used, the plant should be grown in a shaded or partially shaded location with well-draining soil that is kept consistently moist. With proper care, Oldenlandia acicularis Bremek. can be grown successfully from seed, cuttings, or division.
Disease and Pest Management for Oldenlandia Acicularis Bremek.
Oldenlandia acicularis Bremek. is a hardy plant that can withstand various environmental conditions. However, it is still prone to several diseases and pests that can affect its growth and overall health. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Leaf Spot - This fungal disease causes circular brown spots on the leaves. The spots may have yellow or red borders, and the affected leaves may eventually die. To manage leaf spot, remove and destroy infected plant material, and avoid overhead watering. Use a fungicide as a last resort.
Root Rot - This disease is caused by various fungi that attack the roots of the plant, leading to wilting and death. To manage root rot, avoid over-watering, ensure good drainage, and use a well-draining soil. Use of fungicides can be useful if the problem persists.
Powdery Mildew - This fungal disease causes a white powdery coating on the leaves and stems. To manage powdery mildew, ensure good air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and remove and destroy infected plant material. Use fungicides as a last resort.
Pests
Aphids - These small insects suck the sap out of the plant, causing yellowing and stunted growth. To manage aphids, remove them by hand or use insecticidal soap. Natural predators such as ladybugs can also be helpful.
Spider Mites - These tiny pests also suck the sap out of the plant, causing stippling and yellowing of the leaves. To manage spider mites, remove and destroy infected plant material, increase humidity, and use insecticidal soap.
Thrips - These insects cause silvery streaks on the leaves, distorted growth, and flower discoloration. To manage thrips, prune and destroy affected plant parts and use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
With proper care and timely intervention, it is possible to manage these diseases and pests and keep Oldenlandia acicularis Bremek. healthy and thriving.
