Origin
Paulowilhelmia sclerochiton (S.Moore) Lindau, also known as the Orange Paulowilhelmia, is an African shrub found in the grasslands and woodlands of Angola and Zambia. It belongs to the family Lamiaceae and is related to other popular aromatic plants such as mint, basil, and lavender.
Common Names
The Orange Paulowilhelmia is commonly known by various names depending on the location. In Angola, it is called Kissondala, while in Zambia, it is referred to as Mulanga. Other common names include African Lemon Bush, Wild Verbena, and African Lemon Tea Bush because of its lemon-scented leaves.
Appearance
Paulowilhelmia sclerochiton is a robust shrub that can reach a height of up to three meters. It has woody stems, squared at the base, with many branches. The leaves are oval-shaped and pointed at the tips, measuring about 5 cm long and 3 cm wide. The leaves are bright green and emit a citrus scent when crushed. The flowers are small and clustered at the tips of the branches, with a white or light orange color.
Uses
The Orange Paulowilhelmia has a variety of therapeutic properties that have been used for centuries by indigenous people. The leaves and stems of the plant are used to make a fragrant tea that helps to treat coughs, colds, flu, and other respiratory ailments. The tea also has anti-inflammatory properties and can help alleviate headaches and fever. Additionally, the Orange Paulowilhelmia is used to make essential oils that are used in aromatherapy for stress relief and relaxation.
Light Requirements
Paulowilhelmia sclerochiton prefers a bright, indirect light to grow efficiently. Direct sunlight can burn the leaves and stunt growth, so it's best to place the plant in a shaded area. However, too little light can also affect growth, so it's vital to strike a balance.
Temperature Requirements
This plant tolerates a broad range of temperatures, but it thrives in warm, humid conditions. Ideally, the plant should be kept in an area with temperatures ranging between 18 °C to 25 °C. Cold temperatures can lead to leaf drop or wilting, while hot temperatures can cause parched leaves and stunted growth.
Soil Requirements
To propagate and grow healthily, Paulowilhelmia sclerochiton requires a well-draining soil mix rich in organic matter. A suitable soil mix should contain perlite, sand and loamy soil in a ratio of 1:1:2. The soil mixture should be slightly acidic, with a pH of about 6.0 to 7.5. Soil compaction can hamper the plant's growth since the roots get oxygen via the soil. Additionally, since waterlogging is harmful to the plant's roots, it is recommended to use pots with drainage holes.
Cultivation Methods of Paulowilhelmia sclerochiton
Paulowilhelmia sclerochiton is native to tropical Africa and is a rare plant species. The best way to cultivate this plant is by using stem cuttings, seedlings, or tissue culture. The stem cutting and seedlings require a well-draining, fertile soil mix with perlite or sand. The plant prefers a humid environment with high humidity, and the temperature range should be between 19° and 24° Celsius.
Watering Needs of Paulowilhelmia sclerochiton
The watering needs of Paulowilhelmia sclerochiton are moderate. The plant prefers well-draining soil but needs to be watered regularly. Water the plant once the topsoil is dry to touch, but do not allow it to sit in water. Avoid using hard water as it can cause damage to the leaves and root systems.
Fertilization of Paulowilhelmia sclerochiton
Paulowilhelmia sclerochiton requires regular fertilization to promote healthy growth. Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 20:20:20 or 14:14:14. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season, and reduce the frequency during the dormant season. Avoid over-fertilization as it can cause damage to the plant.
Pruning of Paulowilhelmia sclerochiton
Pruning Paulowilhelmia sclerochiton is not necessary, but it can be done to maintain the plant's shape and size. Prune the plant during the growing season, using clean and sharp pruning shears. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches from the plant, and cut back any overgrown branches to the desired size. Avoid pruning more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Propagation of Paulowilhelmia sclerochiton
Paulowilhelmia sclerochiton can be propagated using seeds or stem cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
The plant produces spherical capsules that contain multiple seeds. These capsules burst open when mature and release the seeds. To propagate through seeds:
- Collect the capsules from the mature plant.
- Extract the seeds from the capsules and dry them for a few days.
- Prepare seedling trays filled with a well-draining soil mix.
- Plant the seeds 1 cm deep into the soil and cover lightly with soil.
- Water the tray gently and keep in a warm and bright area.
- The seeds will start germinating in about 1 to 2 weeks.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Propagation by stem cuttings is a faster way to grow a new plant and is useful if you want an exact clone of the parent plant. To propagate through stem cuttings:
- Choose a healthy stem from the parent plant that has no flowers or buds.
- Cut a section of the stem about 10 cm long and remove the lower leaves.
- Dip the severed end into rooting hormone powder.
- Prepare a pot filled with a well-draining soil mix.
- Make a hole in the soil and plant the stem cutting into the hole.
- Water the soil- taking care not to wash away the rooting hormone powder.
- Keep the pot in a bright but not direct sunlight location.
- The stem cutting should start to produce roots within a month and new buds within 2-3 months.
Disease and Pest Management for Paulowilhelmia sclerochiton (S.Moore) Lindau
Paulowilhelmia sclerochiton (S.Moore) Lindau, also known as the African Holly, is a shrub or tree species that is commonly found in tropical and sub-tropical regions of Africa. Just like any other plant, the African Holly can be affected by pests and diseases, which can have a negative impact on its growth, productivity, and overall health. As such, managing pests and diseases is crucial for the survival and productivity of this plant
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect the African Holly is leaf blight. This is a fungal disease that causes the leaves to turn yellow, then brown, and eventually fall off. To manage this disease, it is recommended to prune the infected leaves and increase ventilation around the plant to reduce humidity. Additionally, applying a fungicide can help to control the spread of the disease.
Anthracnose is another fungal disease that can impact the African Holly. This disease causes brown or black spots to appear on the leaves and stems, which can expand and cause the plant to wither. To manage anthracnose, infected leaves and stems should be pruned and destroyed. Also, improving the air circulation and applying a fungicide can be effective means of controlling the spread of the disease.
Common Pests
The African Holly can be attacked by various pests such as mites, mealybugs, and aphids. These pests feed on the plant's sap, resulting in weakened growth, yellowing leaves, and even plant death. To manage these pests, it is important to identify them early and use insecticidal soap, neem oil sprays, or other insecticides that are recommended for the specific pest.
Scale insects are another pest that commonly infest this plant. These insects attach themselves to the leaves and stems and suck on the plant's sap, which leads to yellowing and distorted leaves. Managing scale insects often requires physical removal using a soft brush or cotton swab and applying insecticidal soap or oil sprays.
Conclusion
Managing diseases and pests is critical to the survival and productivity of the African Holly. To prevent the spread of diseases and infestations, it is important to monitor the plant regularly. Additionally, keeping the environment around the plant clean and improving air circulation can help reduce the risk of fungi infecting the plant. Steps should also be taken to control pests, including using insecticides, maintaining appropriate humidity and temperature levels, and regularly pruning leaves and stems.
