Overview
Pavonia schimperiana Hochst. ex A.Rich. is a tropical plant species belonging to the family Malvaceae. It is a popular ornamental plant widely cultivated for its attractive foliage, colorful flowers, and medicinal properties. Native to Africa, the plant is commonly known as the broad-leaved pavonia and is valued among gardeners for its easy maintenance and ability to grow in various soil and climatic conditions.
Description
The plant Pavonia schimperiana Hochst. ex A.Rich. typically grows up to 2 meters tall with a spread of up to 1.5 meters. It has broad, wavy leaves that are dark green in color and grow up to 20 centimeters long and 12 centimeters wide. The plant blooms in summer and produces attractive, reddish-purple flowers that are about 5 centimeters in diameter. The flowers have a distinct funnel-shaped corolla and five petals that are fused at the base, forming a tubular shape.
Origin
Pavonia schimperiana Hochst. ex A.Rich. is native to Africa, specifically in Angola, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Congo, Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Nigeria, Rwanda, Somalia, Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. The plant thrives in tropical and subtropical regions and prefers well-drained soils, full sun exposure, and moderate watering.
Common Names
Pavonia schimperiana Hochst. ex A.Rich. is commonly known as the broad-leaved pavonia, Schimper’s pavonia and Broad-leaved Candlestick plant. Other popular names include African mallow, malvavisco, malva rosa, and bastão-de-são-josé.
Uses
The plant Pavonia schimperiana Hochst. ex A.Rich. has numerous uses. It is an excellent ornamental plant, widely grown in gardens and public parks for its stunning flowers and colorful foliage. The plant is also used for medicinal purposes, particularly for its anti-inflammatory properties, as well as an analgesic and anti-diabetic agent. The leaves, stems, and roots of pavonia have also been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as diarrhea, fevers, headaches, and stomach pains. Additionally, the plant is used in the production of cosmetics and perfumes.
Light Requirements
Pavonia schimperiana Hochst. ex A.Rich. requires moderate to high levels of indirect sunlight to support its growth. It should be placed in a location where it can receive at least 4-6 hours of sunlight each day. Direct exposure to harsh sunlight can damage the leaves and inhibit growth.
Temperature Requirements
This plant requires warm temperatures to thrive. It grows best in temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F (15.5°C to 26.5°C). Temperature fluctuations should be avoided as they can cause stress to the plant and affect its growth rate.
Soil Requirements
Pavonia schimperiana Hochst. ex A.Rich. requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It is important to maintain soil moisture levels, ensuring the soil is not too wet or too dry. The use of a peat-based soil mixture is recommended to support this species' growth.
Cultivation
Pavonia schimperiana Hochst. ex A.Rich. is a perennial plant that can be grown both indoors and outdoors. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and a sunny to partially shaded location.
If planting outdoors, make sure to choose a spot that receives morning sunlight but is shaded in the afternoon. This will help protect the plant from intense heat, which it may not tolerate well.
If growing indoors, choose a spot near a bright, sunny window that receives at least 4-6 hours of sunlight daily. Alternatively, you could use grow lights to supplement natural light.
Watering Needs
When it comes to watering, Pavonia schimperiana Hochst. ex A.Rich. prefers to be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out slightly before watering. To avoid overwatering, make sure the pot has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
During the growing season (spring and summer), water the plant more frequently, as it will be actively growing. In the winter months, reduce watering frequency as the plant will be in a state of dormancy.
Fertilization
You can fertilize Pavonia schimperiana Hochst. ex A.Rich. once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Make sure to dilute the fertilizer to half the strength recommended on the packaging to avoid over-fertilization.
Avoid fertilizing the plant during the winter months, as it will not be actively growing and will not require the additional nutrients.
Pruning
Pavonia schimperiana Hochst. ex A.Rich. can benefit from pruning to keep its shape and promote healthy growth. Pruning should be done during the spring or summer months.
You can pinch or trim off the tips of the stems to encourage branching and bushiness. Additionally, you can remove any yellowed or damaged leaves to improve the plant's appearance.
Make sure to use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant. Clean the blades between cuts with rubbing alcohol to prevent the spread of disease.
Propagation of Pavonia schimperiana Hochst. ex A.Rich.
Pavonia schimperiana Hochst. ex A.Rich. can be propagated through various methods such as seed propagation, stem cutting, and division.
Seed propagation
Pavonia schimperiana Hochst. ex A.Rich. can be propagated through seeds. Collect the seeds from the matured plant during the fall season. The seeds must be dried in the shade before sowing. Sow the seeds in a seed tray with well-draining soil mix. Water it and cover with a polythene sheet. The seeds take around 2-4 weeks to germinate. Once the seedlings grow to a suitable size, transplant them to small pots.
Stem cutting
Pavonia schimperiana Hochst. ex A.Rich. can be propagated through stem cuttings taken from matured plants. Cut the stem of around 10 cm length with at least two nodes. Remove the lower leaves leaving two sets of leaves intact at the top. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and cover the plant with a plastic sheet to maintain humidity. Remove the cover once the plant starts to grow and transplant to a larger pot.
Division
Pavonia schimperiana Hochst. ex A.Rich. can also be propagated through division. Dig out the matured plant during the dormant season. Gently separate the clumps into smaller sections. Make sure each section has at least two shoots with roots attached to it. Plant them in separate containers with well-draining soil mix and water thoroughly. Place the plant in bright, indirect light and keep the soil moist until the plant gets established.
Disease and Pest Management of Pavonia schimperiana Hochst. ex A.Rich.
Pavonia schimperiana Hochst. ex A.Rich. commonly known as Mauritius mallows is a popular ornamental plant grown for its beautiful pink and purple flowers. However, this plant is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can cause damage to the plant and reduce its aesthetic value. In this section, we will discuss some common diseases and pests that can affect Pavonia schimperiana and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Leaf Spot: One of the most common diseases found in Pavonia schimperiana is leaf spot. It is a fungal disease that causes small circular or irregular-shaped brown spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, infected leaves should be removed and destroyed. Fungicides can also be applied to prevent further spread of the disease.
Powdery Mildew: Another fungal disease that affects Pavonia schimperiana is powdery mildew. It produces white powdery growth on the leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage this disease, apply fungicides regularly on infected leaves and increase air flow around the plant. Additionally, avoid watering the plant from above to prevent the spread of spores.
Root Rot: This disease is caused by fungi that live in the soil and affect the roots of the plant. It causes the roots to rot and the plant to wilt. To manage this disease, water the plant carefully and avoid overwatering. Additionally, plant in well-draining soil and avoid overcrowding.
Common Pests
Whiteflies: Whiteflies are small insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They cause yellowing of the leaves and can reduce the overall health of the plant. To manage this pest, apply insecticidal soap or oil on the plant, as well as removing and destroying infected leaves.
Aphids: Aphids are small green insects that also feed on the sap of the plant. They cause curling and distortion of the leaves and can attract other pests. To manage this pest, use insecticidal soap or oil and introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars can cause significant damage to the foliage of Pavonia schimperiana. They consume the leaves and can cause defoliation. To manage this pest, handpick the caterpillars and destroy them or use Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) insecticide.
In conclusion, Pavonia schimperiana can be affected by various diseases and pests. However, with proper management, it can be protected from them and maintain its beauty in the garden or landscape.
