Plant Description:
Pandiaka involucrata (Moq.) B.D.Jacks. var. megastachya Moq. is a tropical evergreen shrub that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is a multi-branched shrub that can grow up to 8 feet long and 6 feet wide. The plant has thin stems that are woody at the base, and it produces alternate leaves that are dark green, glossy, and lance-shaped.
Origin:
Pandiaka involucrata (Moq.) B.D.Jacks. var. megastachya Moq. is native to West Africa and can be found in countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone, and Cameroon.
Common Names:
The plant is commonly known as Giant Pandiaka, Involucrate Pandiaka, and Broadleaf Pandiaka.
Uses:
The plant has several medicinal uses in West Africa. Its roots are used to treat rheumatism, fever, and stomach ailments, while the leaves are used to treat wounds. It is also used as a purgative and as a remedy for snakebites. In addition, Pandiaka involucrata is used in traditional African cuisine. The leaves are used as a spice, and the plant is also used to make a drink that is consumed in Nigeria and Ghana.
General Appearance:
Pandiaka involucrata (Moq.) B.D.Jacks. var. megastachya Moq. has a dense and bushy appearance due to its multi-branched structure. It produces yellow flowers that are surrounded by greenish-yellow bracts, which make the flower clusters look larger and more striking. The plant also produces small, brownish-black fruits that resemble berries.
Light Requirements
The plant Pandiaka involucrata (Moq.) B.D.Jacks. var. megastachya Moq. requires bright and indirect sunlight for proper growth. The plant can tolerate some shade, but it should not be placed in a completely shaded area. Direct sunlight can burn the leaves and hinder the plant's growth. Placing the plant near a window or in a well-lit room is ideal.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm temperatures and cannot tolerate frost or extreme cold. The ideal temperature range for growth is between 60-80°F (15.6-26.7°C). When the temperature drops below 50°F (10°C), the plant becomes dormant and may die. If grown in colder climates, it is best to keep the plant in a temperature-controlled room or greenhouse.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-draining, fertile soil to grow properly. The soil should be rich in organic matter and have a pH range of 6-7.5. The plant can tolerate some drought but should be watered frequently to keep the soil moist, but not soaked. Overwatering can cause root rot and harm the plant. Adding a layer of mulch on top of the soil can help retain moisture and keep the soil cool.
Cultivation
The Pandiaka involucrata (Moq.) B.D.Jacks. var. megastachya Moq. plant requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal soil pH is between 6 and 7.5. It is recommended to plant them in areas that receive partial to full sun exposure. Proper air circulation is also crucial for the plant's growth and health.
The plant can be propagated through seeds or stem cuttings. Propagation through stem cuttings is recommended as it is easier and faster. The cuttings should be taken during the plant's active growth period and should be planted in a well-draining rooting medium.
Watering Needs
It is important to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. The frequency of watering will depend on the plant's environment. During the hot summer months, the plant may require more frequent watering. In contrast, during the winter, the plant may require less frequent watering. It is recommended to check the soil's moisture level before watering and adjust accordingly.
Fertilization
Pandiaka involucrata (Moq.) B.D.Jacks. var. megastachya Moq. is a heavy feeder and requires regular fertilization. It is recommended to fertilize the plant every 2-3 months using a balanced fertilizer. During the plant's active growing period, it may require more frequent fertilization. It is important not to over-fertilize as this can lead to nutrient burn.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to maintain the plant's shape and size. It is recommended to prune the plant in the early spring before the start of the active growth period. Pruning should be done to remove dead or diseased branches and to shape the plant. It is important not to prune more than one-third of the plant's foliage at a time. This can lead to stress and affect the plant's growth and health.
Propagation of Pandiaka involucrata (Moq.) B.D.Jacks. var. megastachya Moq.
Propagation of Pandiaka involucrata (Moq.) B.D.Jacks. var. megastachya Moq. can be done through several methods, including seed propagation, division, and cutting.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Pandiaka involucrata (Moq.) B.D.Jacks. var. megastachya Moq. can be collected in the fall after the plant has produced its flowers. The seeds should be stratified for a few months before planting in a well-draining growing medium. The seeds should be kept moist until they germinate in the spring.
It is important to note that seed propagation may not always produce plants that are true to the parent plant, as there may be genetic variations between different individuals.
Division
Pandiaka involucrata (Moq.) B.D.Jacks. var. megastachya Moq. can also be propagated through division. This method involves separating the plant into smaller sections and replanting them.
Division should be done in the spring or fall, and it is important to ensure that each section has enough roots to support the plant. The smaller sections can be replanted in a suitable growing medium and should be kept well-watered until they establish themselves.
Cutting
Cutting propagation can also be used for Pandiaka involucrata (Moq.) B.D.Jacks. var. megastachya Moq. This involves taking a cutting from the parent plant and rooting it to produce a new plant.
Cuttings should be taken from healthy, young growth and should be kept in a well-draining growing medium until they develop roots. It is important to keep the cuttings moist and to provide them with adequate light and warmth to encourage rooting.
Disease Management
Like any plant, Pandiaka involucrata var. megastachya Moq. can be affected by various diseases, some of which are:
Leaf Spot
This disease can be caused by several fungi or bacteria, which lead to the formation of spots on the leaves, usually with a defined outline and different colors. Leaf spot can weaken the plant and reduce its yield. A way to manage this disease is to prune and remove all infected parts of the plant and apply fungicide.
Rust
Rust is another common disease of Pandiaka involucrata, which usually affects the leaves and stems of the plant. Rust appears as orange, yellow, or brown powdery spots on the leaves, which can later turn into larger pustules. To manage rust, it is recommended to remove all infected leaves and stems, ensure good air circulation, and apply a fungicide.
Pest Management
Pests are another threat to Pandiaka involucrata var. megastachya Moq., and some of the most common pests that might affect it are:
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing yellowing of the leaves, stunted growth, and a decrease in flower and fruit production. To manage aphids, it is recommended to use insecticidal soap or neem oil, or spray a strong stream of water on the affected areas.
Mites
Mites are tiny, spider-like pests that also feed on the sap of the plant, causing yellowing of the leaves, webbing, and a decrease in vigor. To manage mites, it is recommended to use a miticide or spray a mixture of water and alcohol on the affected areas.
