Overview
Oxymitra albida (Engl.) Sprague & Hutch. var. longipedicellata Baker f. is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Melastomataceae. This plant is commonly known by the names "white oxymitra" and "long-pedicelled oxymitra".
Origin
The plant is native to East Africa, particularly Ethiopia and Kenya. It can also be found in Tanzania and southern Sudan.
Appearance
The white oxymitra is a small, erect or scrambling shrub that reaches a height of about 1-3 meters. It has small, white, rounded flowers that grow in clusters at the ends of branches. The flowers have five petals and the plant blooms from November to March.
The leaves of the shrub are opposite, simple, and about 3-7 cm long. The leaves are elliptic or ovate and have a slightly hairy texture. The stems are thin, woody, and light brown in color.
Uses
The plant is used for medicinal purposes in traditional African medicine. Its leaves are used to treat different ailments such as respiratory infections, stomach ailments, and sores. The plant is also used for human and livestock feeds, and the branches are used as firewood.
Light requirements
Oxymitra albida var. longipedicellata plants require a significant amount of light to thrive. They prefer moderate to bright levels of indirect sunlight for optimum growth. Placing them near a south-facing window can expose them to the required amount of light. However, direct sunlight can damage the plant's leaves and even cause sunburn.
Temperature requirements
Oxymitra albida var. longipedicellata plants can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. Ideally, they grow best in temperatures between 20-25°C, but they can tolerate temperatures as high as 30°C. During the winter, maintain a temperature of 15-18°C for optimum growth. Extreme temperature fluctuations can cause the plant's leaves to drop and stunt its growth.
Soil requirements
These plants thrive in well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.6-7.5. A mixture of sand, perlite, and peat moss can be used to create the ideal soil mix that allows for good root aeration and drainage. Too much water in the soil can cause root rot, which can stunt the plant's growth.
Cultivation Methods
Oxymitra albida (Engl.) Sprague & Hutch. var. longipedicellata Baker f. is a succulent plant that thrives in well-draining soil and warm temperatures. When growing this plant, it is essential to ensure that it receives adequate sunlight, warmth, and moisture.
It is recommended to grow the Oxymitra albida (Engl.) Sprague & Hutch. var. longipedicellata Baker f. in a potting mix that contains sand or perlite for the best drainage. The plant is also tolerant of drought conditions, which makes it ideal for people who cannot frequently water plants.
Watering Needs
The Oxymitra albida (Engl.) Sprague & Hutch. var. longipedicellata Baker f. can thrive in arid conditions and requires minimal watering. It is necessary to wait until the soil has completely dried out before watering the plant. It is vital to avoid overwatering the plant, as it can cause root rot and other issues.
When watering, ensure that the water reaches deep into the roots. However, it is essential to avoid getting water on the plant's leaves, as it can lead to sunburn or fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Fertilization is not a crucial aspect of growing Oxymitra albida (Engl.) Sprague & Hutch. var. longipedicellata Baker f. However, if you want to encourage growth and promote blooming, fertilization can be beneficial. It is recommended to fertilize the plant every six months with a light application of a balanced, slow-releasing fertilizer.
It is essential to avoid overfertilization, as it can cause damage to the plant and is not necessary for the plant's health.
Pruning
Pruning Oxymitra albida (Engl.) Sprague & Hutch. var. longipedicellata Baker f. is not necessary, but it can be beneficial for the plant's aesthetics. It is recommended to prune the plant during the growing season to encourage branching.
It is essential to use clean and sharp pruning tools to prevent the spread of diseases or infections. When pruning the plant, cut the stem just above a set of leaves to encourage branching up the stem.
Propagation of Oxymitra Albida (Engl.) Sprague & Hutch. var. Longipedicellata Baker f.
Oxymitra Albida (Engl.) Sprague & Hutch. var. Longipedicellata Baker f., commonly known as the African Blue Lily or Forest Lily, is a beautiful plant with blue-violet flowers. Propagation is an essential aspect of plant cultivation, and there are several methods in which one can propagate the African Blue Lily.
Propagation by Division
Division is the most common and effective method of propagation for Oxymitra Albida var. Longipedicellata. It involves separating the offshoots or bulbs from the parent plant. This technique should be carried out during the plant's dormant season, which would be during the cooler months of the year. Using a clean, sharp knife, carefully separate the bulbs or offsets. Each division should have a few leaves and a portion of the root system. After divisions have been made, replant them immediately in well-draining soil in a new pot or location. Keep the soil moist and in a shaded area until new growth appears, which may take up to six weeks.
Propagation by Seed
Propagation by seed is possible, but it is much more challenging and time-consuming than division. The seeds take up to two years to mature, and the starting conditions are significant in promoting germination. Sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix, placing them about 1 cm deep in the soil. Cover the container with plastic wrap and place it in a warm, humid area, ensuring that the soil is kept consistently moist. After germination, transfer the seedlings into individual pots with well-draining soil. Allow the plants to mature for at least two years before transplanting them into their final position in the garden.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cutting is challenging with the Oxymitra Albida var. Longipedicellata, as it is a bulb-forming plant with no basal shoots. However, it is possible to propagate the Forest Lily from stem cuttings. Take cuttings from healthy, mature stems, preferably woody with dormant buds. Prepare the cuttings by removing the leaves from the lower half of the stem. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone, then plant it in moist potting soil in a small container. Cover the container with clear plastic, and place it in a warm location with bright, indirect sunlight. Keep the soil consistently moist, and roots should begin to appear within six to eight weeks. Once the roots have developed, transplant the African Blue Lily cuttings to their final position in the garden.
Propagation is a rewarding and fulfilling process that ensures the continuity of the African Blue Lily. Though division is the most practical method, the other methods may be used, depending on the grower's preference and availability of resources.
Disease Management for Oxymitra Albida
Just like any other plant, Oxymitra Albida is also susceptible to various diseases. Here are some common diseases that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Root Rot
Root rot is a fungal disease that happens when soil-borne fungi attack the root system. Symptoms include yellowing of leaves, wilting, and stunted growth. To prevent root rot, avoid overwatering and make sure the soil is well-draining. Remove any infected plant immediately, and avoid planting in the same soil afterwards.
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes spots on the leaves. These spots usually start small and grow larger over time. To manage leaf spot, remove any infected leaves and avoid overhead watering. Also, keep the area around the plant clean to avoid any debris that might hold the fungus. Fungal pesticides can be used to prevent the disease early on.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew forms a white powder-like substance on the plant's leaves and stem. It affects the plant's ability to produce chlorophyll, leading to stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. To prevent Powdery Mildew, avoid high humidity and keep a clean growing environment. Fungicides are effective against Powdery Mildew.
Pest Management for Oxymitra Albida
Various pests can attack the Oxymitra Albida plant. Here are some common insects that might affect the plant and how to manage them:
Aphids
Aphids are small insects that suck the sap from the plant, leading to stunted growth, curling of leaves, and yellowing. To manage aphids, spray it with a strong jet of water to knock them off the leaves. Insecticidal soap and Neem Oil are also effective against the pest.
Spider Mites
Spider Mites are tiny insects that are difficult to spot. They feed on the underside of the leaf, causing discoloration, a stippled appearance, and eventually, death of the plant. To manage spider mites, keep the plant clean and avoid overhead watering. Neem Oil is an effective organic pesticide against spider mites.
Whiteflies
Whiteflies are tiny insects that suck the sap out of Oxymitra Albida. They are usually found on the underside of leaves and can cause significant damage. To manage whiteflies, introduce natural predators like ladybugs and parasitic wasps. If the infestation is severe, insecticidal soap and Neem Oil can be used to manage the pest.
