Overview: Oldenlandia machingensis Verdc.
Oldenlandia machingensis Verdc. is a small, perennial plant belonging to the Rubiaceae family, which is native to eastern and southern Africa. It is commonly known as Cape jasmine or shrubby oldenlandia.
Description: Appearance and Habitat
The plant has slender stems that grow up to 1 meter in height and are covered with tiny hairs. It has small, oval-shaped, dark green leaves that grow up to 4 centimeters in length. The leaves grow in opposing pairs and offer a glossy, smooth texture. The Oldenlandia machingensis also presents small white to pale pink flowers, which bloom from November to May. The plant thrives in grasslands and savannas, on rocky ground, and in forests, from sea level up to an elevation of 2,000 meters.
Uses: Medicinal Plant
The Oldenlandia machingensis is a well-known medicinal plant among various African tribes. It has several reported benefits for health, including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties. It has been used to treat fevers, headaches, gastrointestinal issues, and other conditions. This plant contains significant amounts of alkaloids and other bioactive compounds that help cure various health issues. It is also an excellent natural remedy for liver damage
The traditional healers usually prepare a concoction, where they boil Oldenlandia machingensis leaves, flowers, or the whole plant in water and administer the remedy either orally or topically. In modern times, researchers have taken an interest in the health benefits of this plant and are exploring its potential in pharmacology.
Light Requirements
Oldenlandia machingensis Verdc. is an understory plant that thrives in filtered sunlight. As such, it requires partial shade for optimal growth.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm and humid environments, with temperatures ranging from 16 to 30°C (60-86°F). However, it can tolerate moderately low temperatures for a short period.
Soil Requirements
The plant thrives in well-draining soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 6.0-7.0. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy loam, clay loam and red soils. However, it requires good organic content in the soil to support healthy growth.
Watering Requirements
Regular watering is crucial for the growth of Oldenlandia machingensis Verdc. The plant requires consistently moist soil, but not waterlogged. Ensure that the plant does not dry out, as this can lead to wilting, leaf drop or even death.
Fertilizer Requirements
The plant requires regular fertilization to support healthy growth. Use low to moderately concentrated organic fertilizers, preferably with equal nutrients ratios of nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium to promote healthy foliage and flower development.
Cultivation Methods
The Oldenlandia machingensis Verdc. plant prefers growing in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant does well when sown in seedbeds with fertile, loamy soils that have a pH between 6.0 to 7.5. It can also be propagated through stem cuttings, and the planting period should be during the rainy season. For proper growth, the plant requires exposure to sunlight. If the light is insufficient, the growth will be stunted, and the plant will apply etiolation. Plant the seedlings at a spacing of 15cm to 30cm for proper establishment.
Watering Needs
The Oldenlandia machingensis Verdc. plant needs frequent watering to keep the soil moist. During dry periods or when the plant is cultivated in arid areas, it is advisable to water the plant more frequently, or else it will wilt. The best time to water the plant is early in the morning or late in the evening when the soil is cooler; this reduces water loss through evaporation. The plant should not be exposed to waterlogged conditions, as this may result in root rot.
Fertilization
The Oldenlandia machingensis Verdc. plant responds well to fertilization. Fertilization can be done by broadcasting or through the use of basal dressings. Apply an organic manure at the rate of 20-30Kg per square meter of the crop. For basal dressing, apply compound fertilizer at the rate of 40g per plant. Fertilization should be done during the rainy season to maximize its uptake by the crop. The use of excess inorganic fertilizer may be detrimental to the plant growth.
Pruning
Pruning Oldenlandia machingensis Verdc. is one of the essential cultivation operations. Pruning helps to maintain the plant structure and reduce the risk of over-crowding. It also encourages new growth by removing unwanted branches and leaves. The best time to prune the plant is after the harvesting period. Cut back approximately ? of the old growth taking care not to remove too much of the plant. Pruning should be done on a cloudy day to alleviate wilting effects caused by exposure to direct sunlight. Regular pruning keeps the plant healthy and compact, producing more flowers and increasing yield.
Propagation of Oldenlandia machingensis Verdc.
Oldenlandia machingensis Verdc. can be propagated by both sexual and asexual methods.
Sexual Propagation
The plant produces seeds that can be sown in a seedbed during the rainy season. The seeds should be sown in a soil mix containing sand, soil, and compost. The seedbed should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist. The best time to sow the seeds is from March to June.
Asexual Propagation
Oldenlandia machingensis Verdc. can be propagated asexually through stem cuttings. The best time to take stem cuttings is during the rainy season. The stem cuttings should be taken from healthy and disease-free plants.
The stem cuttings should be around 10-15 cm in length and should have at least 3-4 nodes. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormones before planting in a rooting medium. A rooting medium containing equal parts of sand and soil is ideal for stem cuttings. The cuttings should be watered regularly and kept in a moist environment until they root.
Another asexual propagation method is through division. This method involves dividing the plant into smaller sections and planting them separately. To divide the plant, dig up the entire plant and gently separate the root system into smaller sections. Each section should have a healthy root system and some shoot growth. Plant the sections separately in soil containing sand and compost.
With proper care and attention, Oldenlandia machingensis Verdc. can be easily propagated through either sexual or asexual methods.
Disease Management
Oldenlandia machingensis Verdc. is susceptible to several diseases, including:
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes circular or irregular-shaped spots on the leaves. The spots can be brown or black in color and may appear water-soaked. To manage leaf spot, remove infected leaves and destroy them. Avoid overhead irrigation, which can promote the growth and spread of the fungus. Fungicides can also be used, but it is crucial to read the label and follow the instructions carefully.
Root Rot
Root rot is caused by soil-borne pathogens and can lead to wilting and eventual death of the plant. To manage root rot, maintain well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. Fungicides can also be used, but prevention is essential as control may be difficult.
Pest Management
Oldenlandia machingensis Verdc. can be affected by several pests, including:
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on plant sap. They can cause yellowing, wilting, and distorted growth. To manage aphids, remove them manually and apply insecticidal soap or oil. Avoid using broad-spectrum insecticides, as they can harm beneficial insects.
Mites
Mites are tiny arthropods that can cause discoloration and stunted growth. They are often found under the leaves and can be managed by washing the plant with a strong spray of water. Insecticidal soap or oil can also be used, but it must be applied thoroughly, as mites can hide in small crevices.
It is essential to monitor the plant regularly for signs of diseases and pests and take appropriate measures promptly. Prevention is always the best strategy for managing diseases and pests in Oldenlandia machingensis Verdc.
