Origin
Oldenlandia subverticillata K.Schum. is a plant species that is native to tropical Africa and Madagascar.
Common Names
The plant has several common names, including Rough-leaved oldenlandia, Bristly oldenlandia, and Whorled oldenlandia.
General Appearance
Oldenlandia subverticillata K.Schum. is a perennial herb that grows up to 1.5 meters tall. The plant has green, erect stems that are rough to the touch due to tiny hairs on the surface. The leaves are arranged in whorls of 4-6 and are rough and hairy, with a margin that is slightly curled under. The flowers are small and white, and are borne on stalks that emerge from the leaf axils. The fruit is a small, oval-shaped capsule that splits open when mature to release tiny seeds.
Uses
Oldenlandia subverticillata K.Schum. has a variety of traditional medicinal uses. The plant is used to treat fever, coughs, and colds, as well as stomach ailments such as diarrhea and dysentery. It is also used to treat snake bites and to improve fertility. In some parts of Africa, the plant is used as a dye and for tanning hides. Extracts from the plant have also been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties.
Light requirements
Oldenlandia subverticillata K.Schum. can tolerate both full sun and partial shade. However, it thrives best in bright, indirect sunlight. Exposing it to direct sunlight for prolonged periods can damage the foliage.
Temperature requirements
The plant is native to tropical and subtropical regions, where temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C. It cannot withstand frost or extreme cold temperatures. Ideally, the plant should be grown in temperatures ranging from 18°C to 26°C.
Soil requirements
Oldenlandia subverticillata K.Schum. is known to grow in a wide range of soil conditions. A well-draining soil mixture is the best choice for optimum growth. The soil pH should be between 5.6 to 6.5. Adding organic matter like compost or manure can help improve soil fertility and drainage.
Cultivation Methods
Oldenlandia subverticillata K.Schum. can be grown either indoors or outdoors and is relatively easy to cultivate. The plant prefers partially shaded areas with adequate ventilation. It grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Watering Needs
The plant needs moderate watering, especially during its growing season. Oldenlandia subverticillata K.Schum. should be watered when the top layer of soil is dry to the touch. Avoid over-watering as it may lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant once a month during its growing season using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. The fertilizer should contain equal proportions of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. You can, however, reduce the frequency during the dormancy period.
Pruning
Oldenlandia subverticillata K.Schum. requires minimal pruning. Cut back the stems that have flowered using sharp pruning equipment, preferably after the blooming season. Regular pruning helps reduce the size of the plant. The cuttings obtained from pruning can be propagated to grow new plants.
Propagation of Oldenlandia subverticillata K.Schum.
Oldenlandia subverticillata K.Schum., commonly known as the creeping daisy or cluster flower, is a low-growing flowering plant that is often used as a groundcover. Propagation of this plant can be achieved through several methods, including:
Seed Propagation
Oldenlandia subverticillata K.Schum. can be propagated from seeds. To start, collect mature seeds from the plant after they have bloomed. Make sure to remove all the dried flowers and debris before storing the seeds. Sow the seeds in seed-starting trays or pots filled with a well-draining potting mix. Cover the seeds lightly with soil and water well. Keep the soil consistently moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes around 2 to 4 weeks. After germination, continue to keep the soil moist and provide the seedlings with adequate light.
Division Propagation
Oldenlandia subverticillata K.Schum. can also be propagated through division, which involves separating the plant into several sections and planting them in separate containers or directly in the ground. Start by digging up the plant you wish to divide, making sure to keep the roots as intact as possible. Gently separate the plant into smaller sections, making sure each section has roots and some stem and leaf growth. Replant the divided sections in moist soil and water well until established.
Cutting Propagation
Oldenlandia subverticillata K.Schum. can also be propagated through cuttings. To start, take cuttings from the plant's stems, making sure each cutting is at least 3 inches long and has a few leaves attached. Remove any leaves from the lower half of the stem and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant each cutting in moist potting soil and water well. Place the container in a warm, bright location, and keep the soil consistently moist. The cuttings should root in about 2 to 4 weeks.
Disease and Pest Management of Oldenlandia subverticillata K.Schum.
Oldenlandia subverticillata K.Schum. is a plant species that belongs to the coffee family Rubiaceae. As with any other plant, Oldenlandia subverticillata is susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some common diseases and pests that could affect Oldenlandia subverticillata and ways to manage them:
Diseases:
Leaf spot: Oldenlandia subverticillata is prone to fungal leaf spots. These spots can appear on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant as small brown or black spots. To manage leaf spot, remove all the infected plant material and dispose of it properly. Clean the surrounding areas and spray the plant with a fungicide.
Anthracnose: Anthracnose also affects Oldenlandia subverticillata. This fungal disease results in dark spots on the leaves and stems which can spread until the entire plant dies. To control anthracnose, use a fungicide and remove infected plant parts then dispose of them properly. Avoid overhead watering and remove weeds, which host the spores that cause anthracnose.
Pests:
Mealybugs: Mealybugs crawl on the surface of Oldenlandia subverticillata. These pests excrete a honeydew substance that encourages the growth of black sooty mold. They damage the plant by sucking the sap from its leaves. To manage mealybugs, introduce natural predators that feed on them or apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Scale insects: Another common pest of Oldenlandia subverticillata, scale insects, are difficult to identify and control. They appear as tiny brown spots and usually cluster on leaf undersides and juvenile stems. Scales feed on the sap of the plant and cause the leaves to yellow and eventually drop. For management, remove the scales with your fingers, or apply insecticidal soap or neem oil. You may need to prune the heavily infested parts of the plant if necessary.
Adopt a regular maintenance routine of pruning, fertilizing, and applying appropriate fungicides and pesticides to prevent pest and disease infestations on Oldenlandia subverticillata.
