Origin and Common Names
Ophiurinella micrantha Desv. is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae and is native to South America, specifically Brazil, Colombia, and Peru. It is commonly known as borrachero chino, hierva a baldon, and lamparilla.
Appearance
Ophiurinella micrantha Desv. is a perennial shrub that can grow up to 2 meters in height. It has woody stems, with leaves that are simple, elongated, and have wavy margins. The flowers of the plant are small and yellow, and they grow in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruit is an achene that is cylindrical and has small ribbed ridges.
Uses
The plant has several traditional uses in South American medicine. The leaves and bark of the plant have been used for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties and are used to treat fevers, stomach aches, and headaches. The plant is also commonly used as an anesthetic for surgery.
However, it should be noted that the plant is extremely toxic and can cause hallucinations, delirium, and convulsions. The toxic effects of the plant can be fatal if not used in the correct manner.
Light Requirements
Ophiurinella micrantha Desv. requires bright, filtered light to grow properly. Direct sunlight may burn the plant's foliage and stunt its growth. Therefore, placing the plant near a window that receives indirect sunlight or providing artificial grow lights is ideal for its growth.
Temperature Requirements
As a tropical plant, Ophiurinella micrantha Desv. requires warm temperatures to grow. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 18°C to 26°C (65°F to 80°F). Avoid exposing the plant to sudden temperature drops or drafts as they can cause damage to the foliage and negatively impact the plant's growth.
Soil Requirements
Ophiurinella micrantha Desv. grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH value of 5.5 to 6.5. It is recommended to mix perlite or sand with the soil to improve drainage. Furthermore, the plant prefers slightly moist soil, so it is essential to avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot and damage the plant.
Cultivation
Ophiurinella micrantha Desv. is a tropical plant that thrives in warm and humid conditions. It can be cultivated both indoors and outdoors, but it requires ample sunlight. You can propagate it through stem cuttings or seeds. While planting, ensure that the soil is well-draining, fertile, and slightly acidic.
Watering
Watering Ophiurinella micrantha Desv. requires you to strike a balance between keeping the soil moist without making it waterlogged. The frequency of watering depends on the temperature, humidity levels, and the type of soil it's grown in. Typically, you should water it once or twice a week, with enough water to ensure that the soil is moist and draining well.
Fertilization
Ophiurinella micrantha Desv. benefits from regular fertilization to maintain its lush green foliage. It would help if you used a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month. However, ensure that you dilute the fertilizer appropriately and apply just enough to avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to leaf burning.
Pruning
Pruning Ophiurinella micrantha Desv. is necessary to maintain its shape, especially for indoor plants, which tend to grow tall and lanky. You can prune it back in the growing season, allowing the plant to grow healthy new foliage. Additionally, you can prune diseased or damaged leaves and stems to keep the plant healthy and attractive.
Propagation of Ophiurinella micrantha Desv.
Ophiurinella micrantha Desv. can be propagated through various methods such as seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation from Seeds
Seeds of Ophiurinella micrantha Desv. can be collected from the mature plant during the flowering and fruiting season. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining potting mix. The pot should be kept in a semi-shaded area, with the soil being kept moist. Germination should take place within 2-3 weeks. Once the seedlings have grown to a suitable size, they can be transplanted into their permanent location.
Propagation from Cuttings
Ophiurinella micrantha Desv. can be propagated through stem cuttings taken from a mature plant. The cuttings should be taken from the current year's growth, and the leaves should be removed from the lower half of the stem. The cutting should be planted in a well-draining potting mix and kept in a semi-shaded area until roots have formed. Once the cutting has developed roots, it can be transplanted into its permanent location.
Propagation from Division
Ophiurinella micrantha Desv. can also be propagated through division. This method is best carried out in the spring when new growth has begun. The clump should be carefully dug up and divided into smaller sections, each with its own root system. Each section should then be replanted in its permanent location.
Disease Management
Ophiurinella micrantha Desv. is prone to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, leaf spots, and root rots. Powdery mildew appears as white, powdery spots on the leaves, while leaf spots can cause yellowing or browning of the leaves. Root rots can cause wilting and stunted growth of the plant.
To manage these diseases, it is important to practice good sanitation measures such as removing infected plant parts and avoiding overhead watering. Fungicides can be used to control powdery mildew and leaf spots, while proper drainage and soil aeration can prevent root rots.
Pest Management
The thrips and spider mites are common pests that can affect Ophiurinella micrantha Desv. Thrips cause damage to the leaves, resulting in a silvery appearance, while spider mites can cause yellowing and drying out of the leaves.
To manage these pests, it is important to regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation and remove any affected leaves or plant parts. Insecticidal soaps and oils can also be used to control thrips and spider mites. It is important to follow the label instructions carefully when applying any insecticides.
