Overview
Oldenlandia angolensis K.Schum. var. hirsuta Verdc. is a herbaceous species that belongs to the family Rubiaceae. It is native to Angola, but also grows in other parts of Africa.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known as the Hairy Oldenlandia. In Angola, it is referred to as "mutete" in the local Umbundu language.
Appearance
The Hairy Oldenlandia is a small plant, typically growing up to 60cm tall. Its stems are thin and hairy, with leaves that are narrow and elliptical in shape. The leaves are also hairy on both sides and have a dark green color. The flowers are small, white, and arranged in clusters at the end of short branches. The fruits of the plant are small capsules that contain numerous seeds.
Uses
The Hairy Oldenlandia has been used traditionally in African medicine to treat various ailments. The leaves and roots of the plant are believed to have antimalarial and antipyretic properties, and are also used to treat stomach ailments. The plant is also sometimes used as a dye for textiles due to its dark green color.
However, there is limited scientific research on the medicinal properties of the Hairy Oldenlandia, and its use should be approached with caution.
hereGrowth Conditions for Oldenlandia angolensis K.Schum. var. hirsuta Verdc.
Light: Oldenlandia angolensis var. hirsuta Verdc. requires full sunlight to partial shade for optimal growth. This plant prefers bright natural light and demands at least 4-5 hours of direct sunlight every day.
Temperature: This plant thrives in warm temperatures and can tolerate temperature fluctuations to some extent. Oldenlandia angolensis var. hirsuta Verdc. grows best in temperatures ranging from 20-35°C. Temperatures above 35°C can be detrimental to the plant's growth and development.
Soil: Oldenlandia angolensis var. hirsuta Verdc. prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic or neutral, with a pH between 6.0 -7.5. This plant is not tolerant of waterlogged soils, and the soil must be enriched with compost or organic matter to improve soil fertility.
Water: The watering requirements for Oldenlandia angolensis var. hirsuta Verdc. vary depending on the environment and the season. In hot and dry conditions, the plant needs regular watering to prevent dehydration. Conversely, overwatering can lead to root rot and fungal diseases. Care should be taken to water the plant only when the topsoil is dry to the touch.
Fertilizer: The plant benefits from a regular supply of nutrients. Oldenlandia angolensis var. hirsuta Verdc. requires balanced fertilization for optimal growth. Use a fertilizer with a ratio of 20:20:20 nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in a well-diluted solution.
Humidity: Oldenlandia angolensis var. hirsuta Verdc. can grow in both high and low humidity environments. However, higher humidity levels can help promote better growth, especially for young plants.
By following the above growth conditions for Oldenlandia angolensis var. hirsuta Verdc., you can ensure that your plant thrives and grows to its full potential.
Cultivation Methods
The Oldenlandia angolensis K.Schum. var. hirsuta Verdc., commonly known as the hairy oldenlandia, is a relatively easy plant to cultivate. It is a low-maintenance plant and can grow in almost any soil type. However, it prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH range of 5.5 to 6.5.
This plant can be propagated easily through stem cuttings or by dividing the root ball. It thrives in full sun or partial shade and can adapt to different climates, making it an ideal plant for various garden locations.
Watering Needs
Oldenlandia angolensis K.Schum. var. hirsuta Verdc. requires an adequate amount of water to grow and thrive. It is crucial to monitor the soil moisture levels to avoid over or under-watering the plant.
During the growing season, water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. In contrast, during winter, reduce the watering frequency, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Fertilization
Applying fertilizer to Oldenlandia angolensis K.Schum. var. hirsuta Verdc. plants enhances the growth and overall health of the plant. Use a balanced slow-release fertilizer at planting time to provide the necessary nutrients to the plant.
During the growing season, apply a liquid fertilizer to the plant every two weeks to boost its growth. However, it is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions and avoid over-fertilization, which could damage the plant.
Pruning
Pruning Oldenlandia angolensis K.Schum. var. hirsuta Verdc. will promote new growth, improve airflow, and keep the plant neat and tidy. Prune the plant to remove dead, damaged, or yellowing leaves and stems as needed.
During winter, when the plant goes dormant, cut back the plant's foliage to approximately three to four inches above the soil level. This pruning will encourage the plant to grow and produce fresh foliage when spring arrives.
Propagation of Oldenlandia angolensis K.Schum. var. hirsuta Verdc.
Oldenlandia angolensis K.Schum. var. hirsuta Verdc. can be propagated through both vegetative and sexual means. Following are the propagation methods:
Seed propagation
Seeds are the most common method of propagation for Oldenlandia angolensis K.Schum. var. hirsuta Verdc. The seeds are usually sown in well-drained soil during the onset of the rainy season. The germination of seeds takes around 2-3 weeks. The seedlings are transplanted to the main field after they attain a height of about 4-6 inches.
Vegetative propagation
Oldenlandia angolensis K.Schum. var. hirsuta Verdc. can be propagated through vegetative means such as stem cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is during the onset of the rainy season. The cuttings should be taken from healthy, disease-free plants. The cuttings should be around 5-6 inches in length and should possess at least 2-3 nodes. These cuttings should be dipped in a rooting hormone and planted in well-drained soil. The cuttings should be watered regularly and should not be exposed to direct sunlight. The cuttings will root within 3-4 weeks.
Division
Oldenlandia angolensis K.Schum. var. hirsuta Verdc. can also be propagated through division. This method is suitable for plants that have developed into clumps or mounds. The clump should be carefully lifted from the soil and divided into smaller portions. Each portion should contain roots and shoots. The portions should then be replanted into well-drained soil. The replanted portions should be watered regularly and protected from direct sunlight until they establish themselves.
Overall, seed propagation is the most common method for Oldenlandia angolensis K.Schum. var. hirsuta Verdc. However, vegetative propagation and division can also be used as alternative methods.
Disease Management
Oldenlandia angolensis K. Schum var. hirsuta Verdc. is susceptible to various diseases. Some of the common diseases that affect this plant include:
- Leaf spot: This disease is caused by fungi and is characterized by brown circular spots on the leaves. To manage it, remove the infected leaves and spray the plant with fungicides.
- Root rot: The disease is caused by fungi that attack the plant's roots. Symptoms include yellowing, wilting, and eventual death of the plant. To prevent it, ensure good drainage and avoid over-watering the plant.
- Mildew: Mildew is a fungal disease that causes a white, powdery growth on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage mildew, prune affected parts, improve air circulation, and apply fungicides.
Pest Management
Oldenlandia angolensis K. Schum var. hirsuta Verdc can also be affected by pests. Some of the common pests that infest the plant include:
- Spider mites: These pests suck the sap from the leaves of the plant, leading to yellowing and eventual death. To control spider mites, regularly spray the plant with water, a solution of soap and water or a solution of alcohol and water.
- Thrips: Thrips are tiny insects that feed on the plant's leaves, flowers and stems, causing brown spots and deformations. To control thrips, remove affected parts and apply insecticides or neem oil.
- Aphids: Aphids are small insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing yellowing, wilting, and stunted growth. To manage aphids, prune affected parts, introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs, or apply insecticidal soap.
