Overview
Pavonia haematophtalmos Chiov. is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the family Malvaceae. It is native to Tanzania and has a small distribution range in East Africa. The plant is commonly known as Bloodshot pavonia or Kangomba.
Appearance
The plant grows up to 1.5 meters tall and has a woody base with a shrub-like habit. The leaves are dark green, hairy, petiolate, and ovate to elliptic in shape. The flowers are showy and have a bright crimson to maroon color with a five-lobed corolla up to 30mm in diameter.
Uses
The plant has several medicinal uses. The leaves and roots are used in traditional medicine to treat ailments such as wounds, stomach ulcers, and respiratory infections. Poultices made from the plant have been used to treat skin diseases and rheumatism. In addition to its medicinal properties, the plant is also used for ornamental purposes in gardens and landscaping for its striking flowers.
Cultivation
Pavonia haematophtalmos Chiov. is a hardy and easy to grow plant that prefers well-drained soils and full sunlight. It can tolerate moderate drought conditions and is generally pest-resistant. The plant can be propagated through seed or stem cuttings, and it is recommended to prune it after flowering to maintain its shape and vigor.
Growth Conditions for Pavonia haematophtalmos Chiov.
Pavonia haematophtalmos Chiov. is native to Tanzania and grows well under specific conditions. The plant exhibits good performance and an attractive appearance when provided with adequate light, temperature, and soil requirements.
Light Requirements
The plant prefers partial shade to full sun exposure for optimal growth and performance. Therefore, providing light for Pavonia haematophtalmos Chiov. is a crucial factor to consider in their growth conditions. A shadier area for this plant helps in reducing water loss and enhances its durability against the scorching sun.
Temperature Requirements
Pavonia haematophtalmos Chiov. thrives well in warm temperatures of about 20-30°C. Such temperatures are conducive for its growth and development. When the plant is in its dormant state, it can withstand temperatures of around 10°C. Extreme temperatures may cause the plant to lose its leaves and eventually die.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. The ideal soil ph level should be slightly acidic to slightly alkaline (5.5–7.5). Water-logging can lead to root rot, which eventually affects the overall growth and performance of the plant. Therefore, it is essential to avoid overwatering and ensure proper drainage of the soil to avoid these problems.
Cultivation Methods for Pavonia haematophtalmos Chiov.
Pavonia haematophtalmos Chiov. thrives in warm temperature and bright light conditions, making it an excellent indoor plant. It prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5 and can be propagated through cuttings or seeds.
To propagate through cuttings, take a stem cutting from a healthy plant and allow it to callus over before planting it into well-draining soil. To propagate through seeds, sow them in well-draining soil and maintain a warm and humid environment until they germinate.
Watering Needs for Pavonia haematophtalmos Chiov.
Pavonia haematophtalmos Chiov. requires consistently moist soil but does not tolerate standing water. To ensure adequate watering, water the plant whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, ensuring that excess water can drain out of the pot's bottom.
During the winter months, reduce watering frequency to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Fertilization for Pavonia haematophtalmos Chiov.
It is essential to fertilize Pavonia haematophtalmos Chiov. every two weeks during the growing season to encourage healthy growth and flowering. Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10.
During the winter months, reduce fertilization frequency to once a month to avoid overfeeding the plant, which can lead to leaf burn and other damage.
Pruning for Pavonia haematophtalmos Chiov.
To encourage bushier and more compact growth, prune Pavonia haematophtalmos Chiov. regularly. Prune the plant after flowering or during its dormant season by cutting back any overly long stems, damaged leaves, or dead flowers.
Regular pruning will help maintain the plant's shape and improve its overall health and appearance.
Propagation of Pavonia haematophtalmos Chiov.
Pavonia haematophtalmos Chiov. can be propagated through different methods, including seed propagation, stem cuttings, and division.
Seed propagation
The plant's seeds should be harvested when the seed pods begin to turn brown. The collected seeds should be air-dried and stored in a cool, dry place until planting. When planting, the seeds should be sown in well-drained soil and lightly covered. The ideal temperature for germination is between 65-75°F. The seeds will generally take 2-4 weeks to germinate.
Stem cuttings
Stem cuttings can be taken during the plant's active growth. The stem should be cut just below a node and the cutting should be at least 4-6 inches long. The bottom leaves should be removed from the cutting and the stem should be dipped in rooting hormone before being planted in well-drained soil. The cutting should be kept in a warm, humid environment until roots have developed, which can take 4-6 weeks.
Division
Division is best done in the spring when the plant is just beginning to emerge from dormancy. The clump should be carefully lifted and the roots should be gently separated into smaller sections. Each section should have healthy roots and at least one growing point. The divided sections can be planted in well-drained soil and should be kept well-watered until new growth emerges.
Disease and Pest Management for Pavonia haematophtalmos Chiov.
Pavonia haematophtalmos Chiov. is a relatively hardy plant but may be susceptible to a few diseases and pests that affect the overall health and appearance of the plant. Monitoring the plant regularly and providing appropriate care can prevent or control most problems.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Pavonia haematophtalmos Chiov. is leaf spot. This disease is caused by fungi, and symptoms include brown or black spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, prune the affected leaves using sterilized pruning shears and then apply a copper-based fungicide to the plant.
Another common disease that can affect Pavonia haematophtalmos Chiov. is powdery mildew. This fungal disease appears as a white or gray powdery coating on the leaves and stems. The best way to manage this disease is to remove the affected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide containing triforine or sulfur.
Common Pests
Pavonia haematophtalmos Chiov. is not highly susceptible to pests, but some pests can still affect the plant's health and appearance. The most common pests are aphids and spider mites. Aphids are small insects that suck sap from the leaves and stems, causing yellowing, shriveling, and distortion. Spider mites, on the other hand, infest the plant's leaves, causing small yellow or white spots that turn brown or gray over time.
To control aphids and spider mites, regular monitoring and early detection are crucial. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can control aphids, and a miticide can be used to get rid of spider mites.
Prevention and Control
Prevention is the best method to manage diseases and pests that can affect Pavonia haematophtalmos Chiov. Maintaining good hygiene, proper watering, and fertilization can help keep the plant healthy, preventing stress that can lead to disease and pest infestations. The use of sterilized garden tools and proper pruning techniques can also prevent the spread of diseases.
When pests or diseases are detected, it is essential to treat them promptly to prevent them from spreading to other parts of the plant or other plants nearby. Always follow the instructions on the label when using pesticides and fungicides, and use the appropriate protective gear.
