Overview
Periploca visciformis (Vatke) K.Schum. var. visciformis is a type of plant species that belongs to the family Apocynaceae. It is commonly known as the "Gumvine" or "Gumboot climber".
Origin
It is native to tropical and southern Africa, including Angola, Botswana, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. It is also found in Madagascar and some parts of Asia.
General Appearance
Periploca visciformis is a woody climber that can reach up to 7 meters in length. It has twining and spreading stems with small twigs that are reddish-brown in color. The leaves of this plant are lanceolate, shiny, and dark green in color, measuring up to 7 cm long and 2.5 cm wide. The flowers are small and yellowish-green, measuring 5 mm across and are found in clusters of 3-10. The fruit is a pod filled with tufted hairs that resemble silk, and when opened, reveals flat seeds with a curved, papery wing.
Uses
The Gumvine is used for various medicinal purposes such as treating stomach complaints, diarrhea, and other bowel problems. It has also been used as a diuretic, and in some communities, it is used to treat respiratory problems. The twigs of this plant are sometimes used for basket-making, while the long, sticky stems are utilized as a gum substitute. Additionally, it is used for binding the soles of shoes and repairing broken pottery.
Periploca visciformis is an important plant species that provide various benefits to humans. However, it is important to note that the plant contains toxic substances which can be harmful to the health of both humans and livestock. Therefore, it is advised to consume it in moderation and follow proper preparation methods before consuming.
Light Requirements
Periploca visciformis (Vatke) K.Schum. var. visciformis is a sun-loving plant that requires full sunlight to grow and develop to its full potential. It thrives in open areas with full exposure to the sun and does not tolerate shady conditions well.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to regions with a semi-arid climate, and it has adapted to high-temperature conditions. The ideal temperature range for Periploca visciformis (Vatke) K.Schum. var. visciformis is between 25°C and 35°C. It will not thrive in areas with extreme cold or freezing temperatures below -5°C.
Soil Requirements
Periploca visciformis (Vatke) K.Schum. var. visciformis can grow in a wide range of soil types. However, it prefers well-drained sandy or loamy soils with a neutral pH of 6 to 7.5. This plant is drought tolerant and can survive in areas with low rainfall, but it will not thrive in waterlogged or poorly-draining soil.
Cultivation of Periploca visciformis (Vatke) K.Schum. var. visciformis
Periploca visciformis (Vatke) K.Schum. var. visciformis is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of growing conditions. It can be grown both outdoors and in containers.
The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. It can thrive in different soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
Periploca visciformis (Vatke) K.Schum. var. visciformis is propagated using seeds or stem cuttings. To propagate using stem cuttings, take cuttings from the parent plant during the active growing season and root them in a well-draining rooting medium. Keep the rooting medium moist, and the cuttings should root within four to six weeks.
Watering Needs of Periploca visciformis (Vatke) K.Schum. var. visciformis
Periploca visciformis (Vatke) K.Schum. var. visciformis requires moderate watering. During the growing season, keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Allow the top of the soil to dry out before watering again.
In the winter season, reduce watering, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can kill the plant.
Fertilization of Periploca visciformis (Vatke) K.Schum. var. visciformis
Periploca visciformis (Vatke) K.Schum. var. visciformis benefits from fertilization during the growing season. Fertilize the plant using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two to four weeks. Avoid fertilizing during the winter season.
Alternatively, you can use a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates.
Pruning Periploca visciformis (Vatke) K.Schum. var. visciformis
Periploca visciformis (Vatke) K.Schum. var. visciformis does not require frequent pruning. However, you can prune it to control its size and shape, remove diseased or damaged parts, or promote bushier growth.
Prune the plant during the dormant season, cutting the stems just above a leaf node or bud. You can also pinch back the tips of young shoots to promote bushier growth.
Wear gloves when pruning the plant because the sap can cause skin irritation.
Propagation of Periploca visciformis (Vatke) K.Schum. var. visciformis
Periploca visciformis (Vatke) K.Schum. var. visciformis is a plant that can be propagated via several methods:
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Periploca visciformis (Vatke) K.Schum. var. visciformis can be collected from ripe fruits and sown in the field or in pots.
The seeds should be germinated in a well-drained soil mix, with adequate moisture and light conditions, at a temperature between 20°C and 25°C.
After germination, the seedlings can be transplanted to individual pots or directly to the field, depending on the intended use.
Cutting Propagation
Cuttings of Periploca visciformis (Vatke) K.Schum. var. visciformis can be taken in spring or summer from mature and healthy plants.
The cuttings should be around 10 to 15 cm long, with 2 to 3 nodes, and treated with a rooting hormone before planting in a well-drained soil mix.
The cuttings should be kept in a warm, humid environment, with regular watering and misting, until roots have formed, which usually takes around one to two months.
Layering Propagation
Periploca visciformis (Vatke) K.Schum. var. visciformis can be propagated through layering, especially if the plant has long, flexible stems.
A low branch or stem of the plant can be bent downwards and partially buried in soil, leaving the tip exposed.
The buried section should be wounded and treated with a rooting hormone to encourage root formation.
The buried section of the stem should be regularly watered until roots have formed, which usually takes around six months, before the new plant can be separated from the parent plant.
Disease and Pest Management for Periploca visciformis (Vatke) K.Schum. var. visciformis
Periploca visciformis (Vatke) K.Schum. var. visciformis is a relatively hardy plant, but disease and pest problems can still occur. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect this plant, along with suggestions for management.
Diseases
Root Rot: Root rot can be caused by various fungal pathogens. Symptoms include wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and a foul odor coming from the soil. To manage root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering. Consider using a fungicide if the problem persists.
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is caused by a fungus and can result in brown or black spots on the leaves. To manage leaf spot, remove affected leaves and dispose of them. Avoid overhead watering, and use a fungicide if necessary.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew appears as a white, powdery substance on the leaves and stems. It is a fungal disease that can be caused by high humidity. Try to water the soil, not the leaves, and ensure adequate spacing between plants to increase air circulation. Finally, use a fungicide if the problem persists.
Pests
Spider Mites: Spider mites are small, spider-like pests that can cause leaf discoloration and damage. They thrive in dry conditions. Try spraying the leaves with water to increase humidity and remove dust and debris from the leaves. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage spider mites.
Aphids: Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that suck the sap from plants. They can cause stunted growth and yellowing leaves. To manage aphids, try using an insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also introduce ladybugs or lacewings, which are natural predators of aphids.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars can be identified by their chewing damage and the presence of small, green larvae. To manage caterpillars, handpick them off your plants or use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), a natural bacterial insecticide. You can also encourage natural predators like birds and wasps.
