General Description:
Oxyanthus mollis Hutch. is a plant species belonging to the Rubiaceae family. It is a small evergreen shrub that grows up to 2 meters tall. The plant has a soft, velvety, and hairy texture, which covers the entire plant giving it a greyish-green color. The leaves are opposite and simple, measuring about 4 to 12 centimeters long by 1.5 to 5 centimeters wide.
Origin and Distribution:
Oxyanthus mollis Hutch. is native to the highland forests of East Africa, specifically in Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Tanzania, and Zambia. It grows in areas with an altitude of 800 to 2,000 meters above sea level. The plant prefers well-drained, fertile soils and thrives in semi-shade or filtered sunlight environments.
Common Names and Uses:
Oxyanthus mollis Hutch. has several common names, including Hairy Oxeye, Soft-haired Oxyanthus, and Woolly Oxyanthus, among others. In East Africa, the plant bark and roots have been traditionally used in medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, malaria, and stomach pains. The plant's leaves also have a fragrant smell and can be used as an insect repellent.
The Woolly Oxyanthus has been introduced to European and American gardens as an ornamental plant due to its attractive appearance and small size, making it suitable for container planting or as a border shrub. The plant is also an excellent choice for filling gaps in the shade garden and adding texture to landscapes.
Light Requirements:
Oxyanthus mollis Hutch. requires bright, indirect light for healthy growth. It should be placed near a west or south-facing window, but should not receive direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves. Too much shade can cause leggy growth and poor flowering.
Temperature Requirements:
Oxyanthus mollis Hutch. prefers a warm and humid environment. Ideal temperatures for growth are between 21-27°C (70-80°F) during the day and 15-20°C (60-68°F) at night. The plant may suffer in temperatures below 10°C (50°F) or high temperatures above 32°C (90°F).
Soil Requirements:
The soil used for Oxyanthus mollis Hutch. should be well-draining, fertile, and slightly acidic. A pH level of 6.0-6.5 is ideal. A rich potting mix that is high in organic matter and perlite or sand for drainage is suitable. The plant should be watered regularly, but not overwatered as this can lead to root rot.
Cultivation
Oxyanthus mollis Hutch. is a shrub-type plant that grows well in warm temperatures and high humidity. It is best grown in subtropical and tropical areas and requires well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients and organic matter. It prefers partial shade to full sun, and it does not tolerate heavy winds.
The best time to plant this species is during the spring or summer. Select a site with partially shaded or full sun exposure and prepare the soil by adding organic matter like compost or peat moss. Dig a hole that is twice as large as the plant's root ball, water it thoroughly and place the plant carefully in the hole. Fill the hole with soil and water again to settle it.
Watering Needs
Oxyanthus mollis Hutch. requires regular watering, especially during the hot summer months. Keep the soil moist but not overly wet, as the plant's roots will rot in water-logged soil. Water the plant deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions and soil type.
Fertilization
Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer to the soil around the plant each spring. Alternatively, you can use a liquid fertilizer and apply it every four weeks during the growing season. Make sure you follow the product label instructions, as it varies depending on the fertilizer type and brand. Too much fertilizer can damage the plant's roots and foliage.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to maintain the plant's shape, size, and health. You can prune the plant during the active growing season or when the plant is dormant. Remove dead and diseased wood as soon as possible to prevent it from spreading to the rest of the plant.
Prune Oxyanthus mollis Hutch. to shape it as desired, by cutting the tips of the branches, encourage branching, and remove any crossing branches. Avoid cutting too much of the plant, as it can limit its ability to produce flowers and fruit.
Propagation of Oxyanthus mollis Hutch.
Oxyanthus mollis Hutch. can be propagated by using various methods, including:
Seed Propagation
Propagation through seeds is the most common method for Oxyanthus mollis Hutch. Seeds are small, brown, and oblong in shape, and they need to be collected from mature plants in the autumn. They should be sown immediately in the soil, without any pre-treatment. The soil should be moist and well-drained with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. The seeds will germinate in around two weeks, and the time required for them to root and establish themselves depends on soil conditions and environmental factors.
Cuttings Propagation
Propagation through cuttings is another method that can be used for the propagation of Oxyanthus mollis Hutch. This method is generally used for sterile varieties of the plant. Softwood cuttings should be collected during the growing season, and they should be around seven centimeters long. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in the soil mix. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, and the cuttings should be placed in a warm and humid place. The cuttings will root in approximately six to eight weeks.
Division Propagation
Oxyanthus mollis Hutch. can also be propagated through division. In this method, the mature plants are lifted from the soil and divided into smaller sections, with each section containing a part of the root system and a piece of the stem. The divided sections should be planted immediately in the soil, and they should be watered adequately for the first few weeks. The divided sections will root and establish themselves in about two to three weeks, depending on the soil and environmental conditions.
Disease Management
Plants of Oxyanthus mollis are generally healthy and resistant to most diseases. However, there are a few diseases that can occur under unfavorable conditions. Some common diseases that can affect Oxyanthus mollis are:
- Leaf Spot: This fungal disease can cause circular, tan to dark brown spots on the leaves. The infected leaves may turn yellow and fall prematurely. To manage leaf spot, remove the infected leaves and debris from around the plant. Apply a fungicide spray on the remaining leaves to prevent further infection.
- Root Rot: This soil-borne disease is caused by various fungi that can colonize the roots, causing them to rot and eventually die. Infected plants show stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and wilting. To manage root rot, avoid overwatering and ensure good drainage. Remove severely infected plants and treat the surrounding soil with a fungicide.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease is characterized by a white, powdery growth on the leaves and stems. Infected leaves may curl and turn brown. To manage powdery mildew, remove the infected leaves and debris from around the plant. Apply a fungicide spray on the remaining leaves to prevent further infection.
Pest Management
Like most plants, Oxyanthus mollis is also susceptible to insect infestations. Here are some common pests that can attack this plant and ways to manage them:
- Aphids: These tiny, pear-shaped insects can cluster on the undersides of leaves and suck sap from the plant, causing leaves to yellow and curl. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong jet of water. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill the remaining aphids.
- Scale: These insects attach themselves to the stems and leaves of the plant, sucking sap and secreting a sticky substance that attracts ants and promotes the growth of sooty mold. To manage scale, remove the insects manually with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol or petroleum jelly. Use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to kill the remaining insects.
- Spider Mites: These tiny arachnids can cause stippling on the leaves, which can lead to yellowing and premature dropping. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a strong jet of water. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill the remaining mites.
