Overview
Oldenlandia rosulata K.Schum. var. scabra Gilli is a flowering plant species that belongs to the Rubiaceae family. This plant is endemic to the eastern region of Africa and is commonly found in Madagascar, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and South Africa.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as rough-leaved Oldenlandia or in vernacular Sakamahary or Fanalampody in Madagascar, and Tlholego in South Africa.
Appearance
The plant is a slender perennial herb that grows up to 40cm in height. The plant produces white or pink flowers that are borne in clusters at the terminal ends of the stem. The leaves are linear or oblong, with an average length of 2.5cm to 10cm and a width of 0.5cm to 1.5cm. The surfaces of the leaves are rough or scabrid and exhibit prominent veins.
Uses
The plant Oldenlandia rosulata K.Schum. var. scabra Gilli has potential medicinal uses. The plant extracts have shown to possess anti-cancer properties, particularly in the lung and breast cancers, and are used in traditional herbal medicine for the treatment of various ailments, including malaria, fever, and headaches. Also, the plant is used as a source of fiber to make coarse ropes and other household items in Madagascar.
Light Requirements
Oldenlandia rosulata K.Schum. var. scabra Gilli is a plant that requires bright, indirect light for optimal growth. It should not be exposed to direct sunlight as this can cause the leaves to burn and eventually die off. It is best to place the plant near a window that receives moderate to bright light, but where the sun's rays do not directly hit the leaves.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers warm temperatures ranging between 18-25°C (64-77°F). It can tolerate temperatures as low as 15°C (59°F) but is not frost-tolerant and will die if exposed to freezing temperatures. It is best to keep this plant away from drafts and cold windows during the winter months.
Soil Requirements
Oldenlandia rosulata K.Schum. var. scabra Gilli prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. The soil should be rich in organic matter and have a pH between 5.5-6.5. This plant does not require frequent watering and should only be watered when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry to the touch.
Cultivation Methods
Oldenlandia rosulata K.Schum. var. scabra Gilli is an easy to grow species that can adapt to different climates and soils. This plant can be propagated using stem cuttings in a well-draining soil mixture. The cuttings should be placed in a warm and humid place to encourage the roots to grow. As for the location, it can be grown in full sun or partial shade.
Watering Needs
The plant requires moderate watering, and it should be watered when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important to avoid it. The watering frequency should be reduced during the winter, as the plant's growth rate slows down.
Fertilization
The plant should be fertilized with general-purpose fertilizer once a month during the growing season. The fertilizer should be diluted to half the recommended strength, and it should be applied to damp soil. Over-fertilization can lead to excessive growth, which can make the plant more susceptible to pests and diseases.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for this plant, but it can be done to maintain its shape and to remove dead or damaged branches. Pruning should be done in the spring before the plant starts to grow actively. It is important to use clean and sharp pruning tools to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Oldenlandia rosulata K.Schum. var. scabra Gilli
Oldenlandia rosulata K.Schum. var. scabra Gilli, also known as Hedyotis scabra, is a small perennial plant that is native to the southern and eastern parts of Africa. It is commonly used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. The plant can be propagated by several methods, including:
Seeds
The easiest and most common method of propagating Oldenlandia rosulata K.Schum. var. scabra Gilli is through seeds. The seeds are small and can be collected from mature plants. They should be sown in a well-draining soil mix and covered lightly with soil. The seeds should be kept moist but not waterlogged, and placed in a warm and bright location. Germination usually occurs within 2-4 weeks, after which they can be repotted as necessary.
Cuttings
Cuttings can also be used to propagate Oldenlandia rosulata K.Schum. var. scabra Gilli. Softwood cuttings, taken from new growth in spring or summer, root easily in a soil mix that is well-draining. The cuttings should be about 5-10cm in length, and stripped of their lower leaves. They should be dipped into rooting hormone to encourage root growth, and then placed in a soil mix, watered and covered with a plastic bag to maintain humidity. They should be kept in a bright and warm location but should be protected from direct sunlight. Rooting usually occurs within 2-3 weeks, after which they can be repotted as necessary.
Division
Oldenlandia rosulata K.Schum. var. scabra Gilli can also be propagated by division. This method is best carried out in spring, just before new growth appears. The plant should be carefully lifted from the soil and gently teased apart into several smaller plants, each with its own root system. They should be planted in a well-draining soil mix and watered.
Disease Management for Oldenlandia rosulata K.Schum. var. scabra Gilli
Oldenlandia rosulata K.Schum. var. scabra Gilli is generally a hardy plant that is not easily susceptible to diseases and pathogens. However, certain conditions might lead to the development of diseases and require appropriate management techniques.
One of the common diseases that might affect this plant is leaf spot. Leaf spot is a fungal disease that appears as brown or black spots on the leaves and can cause defoliation. This disease can be managed by removing infected leaves, avoiding overhead watering, and applying fungicides.
Another disease that might affect this plant is root rot. Root rot is caused by soil-borne pathogens that thrive in damp soil. It appears as wilting of the plant, yellowing of leaves, and stunted growth. To manage root rot, it is essential to improve soil drainage by adding organic matter to the soil and avoiding overwatering.
Pest Management for Oldenlandia rosulata K.Schum. var. scabra Gilli
Oldenlandia rosulata K.Schum. var. scabra Gilli is also not easily susceptible to insect pests. However, certain pests might infest the plant and require appropriate management techniques.
One of the pests that might affect this plant is the spider mite. Spider mites are tiny pests that suck sap from the leaves, causing yellowing and stunted growth. This pest can be managed by applying neem oil or insecticidal soap and ensuring adequate humidity levels.
Another pest that might affect this plant is the mealybug. Mealybugs are small, white, cotton-like pests that appear on the stems and leaves. They can be managed by removing infested parts of the plant, applying insecticidal soap, and introducing natural predators such as ladybugs.
Regular monitoring of the plant for any signs of disease or pests is crucial in maintaining the health of Oldenlandia rosulata K.Schum. var. scabra Gilli. Early intervention and appropriate management techniques are necessary for preventing the spread of diseases and pests.
