Oldenlandia Schimperi (presl) T.anderson

Overview of Oldenlandia schimperi

Oldenlandia schimperi, also known as Presl and T.Anderson, is a flowering plant species in the Rubiaceae family. It is native to eastern and southern Africa, and it grows in various habitats such as open grasslands, dry woodlands, and riverbanks.

Appearance of Oldenlandia schimperi

Oldenlandia schimperi is a small perennial herb that can grow up to 35cm in height. Its stems are slender, erect, and branch out alternately. The leaves are narrow, oblong-shaped, and grow up to 3 cm in length. They may be smooth or slightly hairy on the upper surface and have hairs on the lower surface.

The flowers of Oldenlandia schimperi are white or pinkish-white and are small, growing in clusters at the tip of the stems. They have long tubes with five-lobed corollas, and the fruit is a small, globular capsule.

Common Uses of Oldenlandia schimperi

Oldenlandia schimperi has various medicinal uses in traditional African medicine. It is used to treat malaria, gastrointestinal disorders, respiratory ailments, and pain. The plant's leaves and roots are boiled to make infusions, decoctions, or tinctures, which are taken orally as treatments for these conditions.

The plant is also used as a herb in cooking to flavor soups and stews. Additionally, the plant is a source of dye, and the roots and stems produce a red pigment that is used to dye clothes and baskets.

Conclusion

Oldenlandia schimperi is a valuable plant that has various medicinal and cultural uses in Africa. Its ornamental flowers and compact size make it an attractive addition to gardens and landscapes.

Light Requirements

Oldenlandia schimperi (Presl) T.Anderson is a plant that requires bright light but prefers to grow in partial shade. It is sensitive to strong direct sunlight, which can cause its leaves to dry out. The plant thrives in areas with filtered light, such as under a tree or near a window with a sheer curtain.

Temperature Requirements

The ideal temperature range for the growth of Oldenlandia schimperi (Presl) T.Anderson is between 20°C to 28°C. The plant prefers a warm and moist environment, but it can tolerate cooler temperatures as well. However, if the temperature drops below 15°C, the growth may slow down. Exposure to frost can also damage the plant.

Soil Requirements

Oldenlandia schimperi (Presl) T.Anderson thrives in well-draining soil with a pH range of 6 to 7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter and should retain moisture without becoming waterlogged. The plant prefers a slightly acidic soil, so it is beneficial to add organic matter such as compost or peat moss to the soil. It is essential to water the plant regularly, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.

Cultivation of Oldenlandia Schimperi

Oldenlandia schimperi is a flowering plant that thrives well in tropical regions. It requires the right sunlight, water, and soil to grow correctly.

Suitable Soil for Oldenlandia Schimperi

The best soil for growing Oldenlandia schimperi is well-drained and rich in organic matter. The pH of the soil should be between 6.0 and 7.0. Good drainage is essential to prevent waterlogging and root rot. A sandy loam mix with peat moss is ideal.

Watering Needs of Oldenlandia Schimperi

Oldenlandia schimperi needs regular watering to thrive. The plant should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry. However, care should be taken not to overwater the plant as this may lead to root rot. It is essential to water directly onto the soil and not on the plant leaves.

Fertilization of Oldenlandia Schimperi

Oldenlandia schimperi requires regular feeding to maintain its health and grow well. The soil should be enriched with slow-release fertilizers, top-dressing of compost, and mulching with organic matter. The plant can be fed with a water-soluble fertilizer monthly during the growing season.

Pruning of Oldenlandia Schimperi

Oldenlandia schimperi requires occasional pruning to maintain its shape, prevent diseases, and encourage bushy growth. Dead stems, leaves, and flowers should be removed regularly. Pinch or cut off the growing tips of the plant to encourage lateral growth. Pruning can be done throughout the year.

Propagation of Oldenlandia Schimperi

Oldenlandia schimperi, also known as the Kalaw, is a medicinal plant native to Ethiopia that is commonly used to treat a variety of ailments such as malaria, nose bleeding, and gastritis. Propagation of this plant is typically done through seeds and stem cuttings.

Propagation via Seeds

Propagation via seeds is the most commonly used method for Oldenlandia schimperi. The seeds are small, black, and contained in capsules that develop and ripen about two to two and a half months after flowering. Here are the steps to successfully propagate Oldenlandia schimperi via seeds:

1. Collect mature capsules from the plant when they dry out and start to split open.
2. Remove the seeds from the capsules and separate from the chaff.
3. Clean the seeds and soak them in water for 24 hours.
4. Plant the seeds in a mixture of sand and soil at a depth of 1-2 cm and cover with a thin layer of soil.
5. Water the soil until moist and place the pot in a well-lit area with a temperature range of 15-25 °C.
6. Germination typically occurs within 2-3 weeks.

Propagation via Stem Cuttings

Propagation via stem cuttings is another method that can be used to propagate Oldenlandia schimperi. Here are the steps to successfully propagate Oldenlandia schimperi via stem cuttings:

1. Take stem cuttings that are 5-6 cm long.
2. Make a clean cut below a node.
3. Remove the leaves from the bottom of the cutting.
4. Dip the cutting in rooting hormone powder to enhance the rooting process.
5. Plant the cutting in a mixture of sand and soil.
6. Water the soil until moist and place the pot in a well-lit area with a temperature range of 15-25 °C.
7. Rooting typically occurs within 3-4 weeks.

Disease Management

Oldenlandia schimperi (Presl) T.Anderson may be affected by several diseases that can weaken the plant and eventually lead to its death. Common diseases that affect this plant include:

• Leaf spots: Leaf spots can be caused by a variety of pathogens, including fungi and bacteria. They typically appear as small, discolored areas on the leaves. To manage this disease, it is important to remove and destroy all infected plant material, increase ventilation around the plant, and avoid overhead irrigation.
• Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that can cause leaf blight, stem cankers, and fruit rot. To manage this disease, it is important to remove and destroy all infected plant material, avoid overhead irrigation, and promote good air circulation around the plant.
• Root rot: Root rot is caused by fungal pathogens that can attack the roots of the plant, causing them to rot. To manage this disease, it is important to avoid overwatering the plant, ensure good soil drainage, and remove and destroy all infected plant material.

Pest Management

Oldenlandia schimperi (Presl) T.Anderson may also be subject to attacks from several pests that can damage the plant and reduce its overall health. Common pests that affect this plant include:

• Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can suck the sap from the plant and cause it to wilt. To manage this pest, it is important to regularly inspect the plant and remove any visible aphids. Also, insecticidal soap can be sprayed on the plant to control the aphid population.
• Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the plant's sap, causing discolored leaves and a reduction in plant growth. To manage this pest, it is important to avoid overwatering the plant and to spray the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Scale insects: Scale insects are small, oval-shaped insects that attach themselves to the stems and leaves of the plant, where they suck the sap. To manage this pest, it is important to physically remove the scale insects from the plant using a soft brush or cotton swab dipped in alcohol. Also, insecticidal soap can be sprayed on the plants.