Overview
Oldenlandia goreensis (DC.) Summerh. var. goreensis is a medicinal plant belonging to the Rubiaceae family. It is also known by the common names of Small-flowered madder and Redspot madder. It can be found in different parts of the world, including Africa, Australia, and Asia.
Description
The Oldenlandia goreensis (DC.) Summerh. var. goreensis plant is an erect perennial herb that grows up to 30 cm tall. The leaves are simple, opposite, and narrow, measuring around 1-2 cm long and 0.2-0.5 cm broad. The flowers are small, with a diameter of around 2-3 mm and are typically pink or white. The fruit is a small capsule that measures approximately 1 cm long.
Uses
Oldenlandia goreensis (DC.) Summerh. var. goreensis is used in traditional medicine for various purposes. For example, in Nigeria, the plant is used to treat fever, rheumatism, and dysentery. The plant is also believed to have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-tumor properties. In West Africa, the leaves of the plant are used to treat skin infections and applied as a poultice to help ease inflammation.
Furthermore, the plant is also used as a natural dye. The roots of the plant have been used to produce dye in Sudan to color clothes, ropes, and fishing nets. The dye is obtained by boiling the roots to extract the reddish-brown color.
Light Requirements
Oldenlandia goreensis (DC.) Summerh. var. goreensis thrives in full sunlight or partial shade. As a result, positioning the plant where it can receive approximately 6 hours of direct sunlight daily is ideal. However, in regions where the sun is scorching, providing some light shade can be beneficial.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can adapt to temperatures ranging from 10°C to 35°C. However, temperatures within the range of 25°C to 30°C are optimal for its growth. The plant is not frost-tolerant and will not survive if exposed to freezing temperatures. In areas where the temperatures can drop below 5°C, it is advisable to plant the Oldenlandia goreensis (DC.) Summerh. var. goreensis in a greenhouse or indoors.
Soil Requirements
The plant thrives in well-drained soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. However, it can adapt to other soil types. It is advisable to plant the Oldenlandia goreensis (DC.) Summerh. var. goreensis in fertile soils enriched with organic matter, such as compost or manure. The plant can withstand drought, but regular watering is essential for its growth and flowering.
Cultivation Methods
Oldenlandia goreensis (DC.) Summerh. var. goreensis is a tropical plant that can be cultivated outdoors or indoors in a warm climate. It is typically grown from seed or cuttings. The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and acidic in nature. It requires full sunlight exposure or partially shaded areas to grow. Provide support to the plant using stakes or trellises.
Watering Needs
The watering needs of Oldenlandia goreensis (DC.) Summerh. var. goreensis depend on various factors, including the climate, soil type, and growth stage. Water the plant deeply and regularly, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. During the rainy season, reduce the watering frequency by watering less often. However, during dry weather, increase the watering frequency to maintain optimal soil moisture levels.
Fertilization
Oldenlandia goreensis (DC.) Summerh. var. goreensis responds well to nutrients from fertilizers. Apply a balanced fertilizer every two months to help the plant grow and flower. Alternatively, use organic fertilizers such as compost, manure, or bone meal to nourish the soil and promote healthy growth. Follow the dosage and application instructions provided by the manufacturer to prevent fertilizer burn.
Pruning
Pruning Oldenlandia goreensis (DC.) Summerh. var. goreensis is essential to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. Prune the plant during the dormant season, removing any dead or weak branches. Regular pruning encourages the plant to produce more flowers and foliage. You can also pinch back the tips of the stems to promote bushier growth. Remove the spent flowers to prevent the plant from wasting energy on producing seeds.
Propagation of Oldenlandia goreensis var. goreensis
Oldenlandia goreensis (DC.) Summerh. var. goreensis can be propagated through both sexual and asexual methods. These methods include:
Sexual Propagation
Oldenlandia goreensis (DC.) Summerh. var. goreensis produces small, tubular white flowers that are self-fertile. The flowers give way to seed capsules that contain tiny seeds. Seeds can be collected, dried, and stored for future propagation. To propagate using seeds, follow these steps:
- Sow seeds in seed-starting trays filled with a mixture of sand, peat, and perlite.
- Lightly cover the seeds with soil, and mist the soil to keep it moist.
- Place the trays in a warm, brightly lit area, such as a greenhouse or near a sunny window.
- Seedlings should emerge within 2-3 weeks.
- Transplant the seedlings into individual pots once they have developed several sets of true leaves and are large enough to handle.
Asexual Propagation
Oldenlandia goreensis (DC.) Summerh. var. goreensis can also be propagated asexually through stem cuttings. Follow these steps:
- Take stem cuttings in the spring or summer when the plant is actively growing.
- Cut a stem that is approximately 4-6 inches long and has several nodes.
- Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the stem.
- Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone, and shake off any excess.
- Plant the cutting in a pot filled with a mixture of sand and peat.
- Place the pot in a warm, brightly lit area, and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Roots should form within 4-6 weeks, at which point the new plant can be transplanted into a larger pot or outside into the garden.
Disease management
Oldenlandia goreensis (DC.) Summerh. var. goreensis is susceptible to various diseases. These include fungal diseases such as leaf spot, powdery mildew, and rust. To manage these diseases, it is essential to practice proper sanitation. Remove and destroy infected leaves and plant debris in and around the plant to prevent the spread of disease. Additionally, ensure that the plant is not overcrowded, and there is adequate airflow to prevent the development of fungal spores. Use fungicides as a last resort and only when necessary.
Pest management
There are several pests that may affect Oldenlandia goreensis (DC.) Summerh. var. goreensis. These include mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites. These pests can quickly multiply and cause damage to the plant. To manage them, use natural methods such as introducing natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings. Additionally, regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation and manually remove the pests by wiping them off with a damp cloth. For severe infestations, use insecticidal soap or neem oil as a last resort, and only when necessary.
