Origin
Oldenlandia nematocaulis Bremek. var. nematocaulis is a plant species that belongs to the Rubiaceae family. The plant is endemic to Africa and occurs mostly in the eastern parts of Ethiopia, Tanzania, and Kenya.
Common Names
The plant has several common names across different African regions. In Ethiopia, the plant is commonly known as "Tebbaa." In Kenya, the plant is known as "Mkole." The plant is also referred to as "Ndege Kikula" in the Swahili language, which roughly translates to "small bird's clammy weed."
Uses
The Oldenlandia nematocaulis Bremek. var. nematocaulis has a wide range of medicinal properties attributed to it. The plant is used in traditional medicine to treat several medical conditions. In Ethiopia, the plant is used to treat malaria, fever, and wounds. In Kenya, the plant is used to treat respiratory illnesses, cough, and stomach aches.
Additionally, the plant is used as a source of food for some African communities. The Luhya community in Kenya uses the plant's leaves as a vegetable and also makes tea from the leaves.
General Appearance
The Oldenlandia nematocaulis Bremek. var. nematocaulis plant is a small herb that grows up to 60 cm tall. The plant has green, opposite, and sessile leaves that are narrow and elongated. The plant's stem is slender and covered with small white hairs. The flowers are small and white, occurring in clusters at the end of the stem's branches.
The plant's fruits are small and round, with four to five seeds. The plant's entire structure is smooth, with all its parts covered in small white hairs.
Light Requirements
Oldenlandia nematocaulis Bremek. var. nematocaulis typically thrives in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and hinder growth, but shade can result in weak stems and stunted growth.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers warm temperatures, ideally between 18-25 degrees Celsius (65-77 degrees Fahrenheit). It is important to protect Oldenlandia nematocaulis Bremek. var. nematocaulis from any cold drafts or sudden temperature changes as they can be detrimental to the plant's growth and health.
Soil Requirements
Oldenlandia nematocaulis Bremek. var. nematocaulis prefers nutrient-rich soil that is well-draining. The pH of the soil should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 5.5 to 7.5, and it should be watered regularly but not excessively. To ensure optimal growth, it is recommended that you add organic matter to the soil before planting.
Cultivation
The Oldenlandia nematocaulis Bremek. var. nematocaulis plant is native to West and Central Africa. It thrives in tropical and subtropical regions and prefers well-draining soil with a pH value between 6.5 and 7.5. It can grow as an annual or perennial depending on the climatic conditions.
Propagation can be carried out using seeds or stem cuttings. The seeds should be sown in sandy soil at a depth of 1-2 cm and placed in a warm, humid environment. Germination can take up to 14 days. Stem cuttings should be taken from healthy, mature plants and planted in a mixture of sand and peat moss. The cuttings should be kept in a warm, humid environment and misted regularly until root formation occurs.
Once the plant reaches a height of around 8-12 inches, it can be transplanted to a larger pot or planted directly into the ground. It is important to ensure the plant receives adequate sunlight and protection from strong winds.
Watering Needs
The Oldenlandia nematocaulis Bremek. var. nematocaulis plant requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. The frequency of watering will depend on the climate, soil type, and size of the plant. It is important not to overwater the plant as this can lead to root rot. It is recommended to water the plant deeply and less frequently.
Fertilization
Fertilization is important to promote healthy growth and flowering. A balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 can be applied every 2-3 weeks during the growing season. It is important not to over-fertilize the plant as this can lead to salt buildup and damage to the roots.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to maintain a compact shape and promote branching. It is recommended to prune the plant in early spring before new growth appears. Dead or damaged branches should also be removed. The plant can be trimmed to the desired shape or size. Regular pruning can also encourage more prolific flowering.
Propagation of Oldenlandia nematocaulis Bremek. var. nematocaulis
The Oldenlandia nematocaulis Bremek. var. nematocaulis plant can be propagated using various methods such as:
1. Seeds
The easiest and most common method of propagating Oldenlandia nematocaulis Bremek. var. nematocaulis is through seeds. Collect mature and dry seeds from the plant and sow them in a well-draining potting mix or in the field. Cover the seeds lightly with soil, water them, and place them in a warm and bright location. The seeds will germinate in a few weeks allowing the plant to establish roots and grow.
2. Stem cuttings
Oldenlandia nematocaulis Bremek. var. nematocaulis can be propagated through stem cuttings too. Take cuttings of about 10-15cm length from healthy and mature stems, and plant them in a well-draining potting mix. The cuttings should be inserted about 2-3cm deep and kept in a warm and bright location. Keep the potting mix moist but not water-logged. The cuttings will develop roots in 2-3 weeks and start to grow rapidly.
3. Division
The division method can also be used to propagate Oldenlandia nematocaulis Bremek. var. nematocaulis. Divide the mature plants into smaller sections, each having a healthy and strong stem and roots. Plant the divisions in separate pots or in the field, and water them immediately. Keep the plants in a warm and bright location and water them regularly. The division method is best used at the start of the growing season when there is plenty of time for the plants to grow and establish.
4. Layering
Layering is another method to propagate Oldenlandia nematocaulis Bremek. var. nematocaulis. Choose a healthy and mature stem of the plant and make a small wound on it. Apply rooting hormone on the wound and bend the stem down to the soil surface. Cover the stem with soil, keeping the tip of the stem exposed. Water the soil thoroughly and keep the soil moist until the roots start to develop and grow. Once the plant has rooted, cut it from the parent plant and replant it in a separate pot or in the field.
Disease and Pest Management for Oldenlandia nematocaulis Bremek. var. nematocaulis
Oldenlandia nematocaulis Bremek. var. nematocaulis, commonly known as Kalanchoe pinnata, is a succulent that is resistant to a variety of pests and diseases. However, it can still be affected by a few common diseases and pests. Here are some ways to manage them:
Common Diseases
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is caused by a fungal pathogen and is characterized by circular or irregular spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, remove the infected leaves and ensure there is good air circulation around the plant. Avoid overhead watering and apply a fungicide if needed.
Root Rot
Root rot is caused by overwatering and poor drainage, which leads to the roots becoming waterlogged and eventually rotting. To manage this, ensure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering the plant. If detected, remove the affected parts of the plant and repot it in fresh soil.
Common Pests
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, white, and scale-like insects that suck the sap from the plant. To manage this pest, remove them with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or use an insecticidal soap. Keep the plant dry and avoid overwatering.
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant and can cause distortion and yellowing of the leaves. To manage this pest, use a strong stream of water to wash them off the plant or use a natural predator such as ladybugs. Neem oil or insecticidal soap can also be effective.
Regular observation of the plant can help prevent the spread of diseases and pests. In cases of severe infestations or diseases, it may be necessary to seek the advice of a professional.
