Oldenlandia Corymbosa L. Var. Corymbosa

Overview of Oldenlandia Corymbosa L. var. Corymbosa

Oldenlandia corymbosa L. var. corymbosa, also known as Flat-top Mille Grain or Large-grained Milkweed, is a tropical plant species that belongs to the Rubiaceae family. It is found in various regions such as Asia, Australia, Oceania, and Africa.

Appearance

The Flat-top Mille Grain is a herbaceous sprawling or erect plant that grows 30-90 cm tall. It has simple leaves that are elliptic in shape, and arranged oppositely on the stem. The leaves measure 3-16 cm long and 1-8 cm wide, with a smooth surface texture that is shiny on the upper surface and dull green on the lower surface. The flowers are small and white, approximately 4 mm in diameter, and arranged in corymbose heads. The fruit of the plant is a capsule that splits open when it is ripe, revealing numerous small seeds.

Common Names

The Flat-top Mille Grain plant is known by various common names such as Abolok, Annual White Flowers, Akar fatimah, Cardrejoso, Kobra batu, Surut buntut tikus, and Susuk kuning. The name Flat-top Mille Grain comes from the flat-topped inflorescence and the small grains that emerge from the capsules.

Uses

Oldenlandia corymbosa L. var. corymbosa has various traditional medicinal uses. The leaves and roots are used to treat fever, headache, stomach pains, dysentery, and diarrhea. The plant contains bioactive compounds such as alkaloids and flavonoids that exhibit antioxidant, antibacterial, and anticancer activities. It is also used in some Southeast Asian cuisines as a vegetable or as a flavoring agent in soups and stews. Additionally, the plant is used in some cultures for its dyeing properties, as the roots produce a yellowish-orange dye.

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Light Requirements

Oldenlandia corymbosa L. var. corymbosa is a tropical plant species that typically requires moderate to high levels of light. In its natural habitat, it often grows in full sunlight or partial shade. When grown indoors, it should be placed in a south-facing window or under artificial lights with a minimum of six hours of light per day.

Temperature Requirements

This plant has a preference for warmer temperatures, and it makes a great addition to a tropical garden. It can tolerate temperatures between 15 to 32°C (59 to 90°F). However, for optimal growth, keep the temperatures between 21 to 26°C (70 to 80°F) during the day and between 15 to 21°C (59 to 70°F) at night. Avoid exposing it to draughts, which can cause damage to the delicate leaves.

Soil Requirements

Oldenlandia corymbosa L. var. corymbosa prefers a well-draining soil that is slightly acidic, with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.0. For optimal growth, the soil should be rich in organic matter and have good water retention properties. It is also essential to ensure that the soil does not become waterlogged, as this can cause root rot and other problems.

Cultivation Methods

Oldenlandia corymbosa L. var. corymbosa, commonly known as Philippine Hedyotis, is a small evergreen shrub that can grow up to 2 meters in height. It is a hardy plant that prefers full sun to partial shade and can grow in a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils.

If you want to grow this plant, it is best to propagate it from seeds or cuttings. Sow the seeds in early spring or early autumn and keep them moist. Cuttings can be taken in summer, and you should remove the bottom leaves before planting them in a pot with moist soil.

Watering Needs

Oldenlandia corymbosa L. var. corymbosa requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. Water the plant deeply once or twice a week, depending on the humidity and temperature of your area. Avoid overwatering, which can make the soil soggy and lead to root rot.

During the winter months, you can reduce watering frequency, but make sure that the soil does not become completely dry.

Fertilization

Oldenlandia corymbosa L. var. corymbosa benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season, especially if you want it to bloom profusely. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium, and apply it every two weeks. Alternatively, you can use a slow-release fertilizer once per month.

Make sure that you do not apply too much fertilizer, as it can burn the roots and damage the plant.

Pruning

Oldenlandia corymbosa L. var. corymbosa benefits from regular pruning to maintain its shape and promote bushier growth. Prune the plant in early spring before the new growth appears.

Use sharp, clean pruning shears to remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Cut back the remaining branches by up to one-third of their length to promote new growth and flowering.

Propagation of Oldenlandia corymbosa L. var. corymbosa

Oldenlandia corymbosa L. var. corymbosa is a small, perennial, and herbaceous plant that is native to Southeast Asia. The plant is commonly known as snake weed, old man's whiskers, and Indian madder. The plant belongs to the family Rubiaceae and is known for its medicinal properties. Propagation of this plant can be done through various methods such as seeds, cuttings, and division.

Propagation by seed

Propagation of Oldenlandia corymbosa L. var. corymbosa can be done through seeds. The flowering period of the plant is from May to September. After the flowering period, the plant produces oval, green, and fleshy fruits that contain several seeds. The seeds can be harvested from the fruit, cleaned, and sown in a well-draining potting mix. The seeds should be planted just below the soil surface and kept moist until they germinate. Germination typically takes place within 4-6 weeks.

Propagation by cuttings

Propagation of Oldenlandia corymbosa L. var. corymbosa can also be done through cuttings. This method is preferred as it provides a quick and easy way to propagate the plant. Cuttings should be taken from the healthy and disease-free stems of the plant. The cuttings should be at least 3-4 inches long and should have at least 2-3 nodes. The bottom end of the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone and inserted into a well-draining potting mix. Keep the cuttings moist and provide indirect light until they establish roots.

Propagation by division

Propagation of Oldenlandia corymbosa L. var. corymbosa can also be done through division. This method is suitable for mature plants that have developed a healthy root system. To propagate through division, carefully dig up the plant and separate the root ball into smaller sections. Each section should have at least 2-3 shoots and a good root system. Replant the divided sections in a well-draining potting mix and keep them moist until they establish roots.

Disease and Pest Management for Oldenlandia corymbosa L. var. corymbosa

Oldenlandia corymbosa L. var. corymbosa, commonly known as star grass or snake weed, is a perennial herb commonly found in grasslands and open forests across Africa and Asia. Although it is relatively disease and pest resistant, it can still be affected by some diseases and pests, especially in unfavorable growing conditions. Here are some common diseases and pests that may affect this plant and how to manage them:

Diseases

Leaf Spot: Leaf spots are the most common disease that affects Oldenlandia corymbosa. The disease is characterized by the presence of irregular brown spots on the leaves that gradually enlarge and merge together. A severe case of leaf spot may cause the leaves to drop prematurely from the plant, reducing its vigor. Leaf spots are caused by fungal pathogens, which spread through splashing water and wind-blown rain. To manage leaf spot, remove all infected leaves from the plant and destroy them. Ensure good air circulation around the plant, avoid overhead irrigation, and use fungicides if necessary.

Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that is caused by various soil-borne pathogens. It is characterized by the rotting of roots, causing the plant to wilt and eventually die. Root rot can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage, avoiding over-watering, and planting the plant in well-drained soil. If root rot does occur, remove the affected plant and soil and treat the remaining plants with a fungicide.

Pests

Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny arachnids that feed on the sap of plants, causing leaves to become discolored, and eventually die. They are common in dry and warm conditions and can be managed by increasing humidity around the plant, spraying the plant with water, or using insecticides.

Thrips: Thrips are tiny insects that feed on plant sap, causing leaves to become deformed and discolored. The insects are difficult to control because they have a high reproductive rate and can develop resistance to insecticides. Thrips can be managed by using sticky traps, pruning affected plants, and using insecticides.

Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larvae of butterflies and moths that feed on plant leaves. They can cause severe defoliation and reduce the vigor of the plant. Caterpillars can be managed by hand-picking them off the plant, using insecticides, or introducing predatory insects like ladybugs.

By monitoring and managing these common diseases and pests, you can keep your Oldenlandia corymbosa L. var. corymbosa healthy and vibrant throughout its growing season.