Origin
Phaulopsis barteri T.Anderson var. pauciglandula Manktelow is a native of Nigeria, located in the western part of Africa. It is found in the humid, riverine rainforests of the region.
Common Names
Phaulopsis barteri T.Anderson var. pauciglandula Manktelow is commonly known as 'Nigerian phaulopsis' and 'Barter's phaulopsis'.
Uses
Phaulopsis barteri T.Anderson var. pauciglandula Manktelow is used in traditional African medicine for the treatment of various ailments, including fever, malaria, and diarrhea. The plant has also been used as a source of food, with the leaves being eaten cooked or raw and the fruit being consumed for its edible pulp.
General Appearance
Phaulopsis barteri T.Anderson var. pauciglandula Manktelow is a small, shrubby perennial plant that grows up to 70cm tall. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and elliptical in shape, with serrated margins. The flowers are tubular and mauve in color, with the upper lip being deeply lobed and the lower lip being smaller. The fruits are reddish-brown capsules containing small, brown seeds.
Growth Conditions for Phaulopsis barteri T.Anderson var. pauciglandula Manktelow
Phaulopsis barteri T.Anderson var. pauciglandula Manktelow is a tropical plant native to Africa. As such, it requires warm temperatures and high humidity to thrive.
Light Requirements
This plant prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so it is best to place it near a window that receives filtered light or on a shaded patio or balcony.
Temperature Requirements
Phaulopsis barteri T.Anderson var. pauciglandula Manktelow requires warm temperatures ranging from 68-86°F (20-30°C). This plant cannot tolerate temperatures below 50°F (10°C) and should be kept away from drafty areas or air conditioning vents.
Soil Requirements
Well-draining soil with organic matter is ideal for Phaulopsis barteri T.Anderson var. pauciglandula Manktelow. This plant does not do well in heavy or waterlogged soils as they can cause root rot. A mix of peat moss, sand, and perlite is a suitable option.
Water Requirements
Phaulopsis barteri T.Anderson var. pauciglandula Manktelow prefers consistently moist soil. It is best to water when the top inch (2.5 cm) of soil is dry. Do not allow the plant to sit in standing water as this can also lead to root rot.
Fertilizer Requirements
This plant benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every four weeks. Do not fertilize during the winter months when growth slows down.
Cultivation:
Phaulopsis barteri T.Anderson var. pauciglandula Manktelow, also known as Phaulopsis pauciglandula is a tropical plant and requires a warm and humid environment to thrive. It is best grown in a well-draining soil mixture with organic matter and perlite. The ideal soil pH for this plant is between 6.0 to 7.0. The plant prefers bright but indirect light and can be grown both indoors and outdoors in warm climates.
Watering:
This plant requires consistent moisture in the soil, but you must avoid overwatering. Water the plant thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry. Ensure that the pot has adequate drainage to avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Fertilization:
Phaulopsis barteri T.Anderson var. pauciglandula Manktelow requires regular feeding during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced liquid fertilizer with a ratio of 20-20-20 once every two weeks. During the dormant season (fall and winter), reduce the feeding frequency to once a month, or stop feeding altogether.
Pruning:
To maintain a well-shaped and bushy plant, prune the tips of the stems regularly. If the plant becomes too leggy, you can cut back the stems by half to encourage new growth. You can also remove any dead or damaged leaves and stems as they appear to promote the plant's health.
Propagation of Phaulopsis barteri T.Anderson var. pauciglandula Manktelow
Phaulopsis barteri T.Anderson var. pauciglandula Manktelow is a beautiful ornamental plant that can be propagated using multiple methods. These propagation methods include:
1. Stem Cuttings:
Stem cuttings are the most widely used propagation method for Phaulopsis barteri. This method involves cutting a stem from the parent plant. The stem should be approximately 4-6 inches in length and should have several nodes. The leaves on the lower half of the stem should be removed, and the stem should be dipped in rooting hormone. The cutting should then be planted in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and place the cutting in a bright, indirect light. Roots should begin to form in approximately 2-3 weeks.
2. Division:
Division is another method of propagating Phaulopsis barteri. This method involves dividing the parent plant into smaller sections, each with its own root system. Carefully dig up the plant, being careful not to damage the roots. Gently separate the plant into smaller sections. Replant each section in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and place the new plant in a bright, indirect light.
3. Layering:
Layering is a method of propagation that involves encouraging roots to grow on a stem while it is still attached to the parent plant. This method involves bending a lower stem down to the ground and covering it with soil. Make sure to wound the stem where it will be in contact with the soil. Roots will begin to grow from the wounded area. Once the new plant has rooted well, the stem can be cut from the parent plant and replanted in a well-draining soil mix.
Propagation of Phaulopsis barteri T.Anderson var. pauciglandula Manktelow is relatively easy and can be done using any of the above methods. With proper care and attention, new plants can be successfully propagated from the parent plant.
Disease Management
Phaulopsis barteri var. pauciglandula is generally a healthy plant species; however, it is still susceptible to some diseases that can affect its growth and performance. The common diseases that might affect this plant include:
- Powdery Mildew: This disease is characterized by the presence of white, powdery spots on the leaves, and stems of the plant. To manage this disease, you can apply fungicide sprays or use cultural practices like pruning to improve air circulation.
- Bacterial Blight: This disease causes wilting and premature death of leaves and stems. To manage this disease, you can use copper-based compounds or other bactericides, while also practicing good sanitation like removing infected plant debris.
- Root Rot: This disease is characterized by the decay of roots caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens. To manage this disease, you can use a well-draining soil mix while practicing good watering habits to avoid waterlogging the soil.
Pest Management
Phaulopsis barteri var. pauciglandula can also be attacked by various insects and pests that can cause damage to the plant. Some of these pests include:
- Spider Mites: These pests are tiny and difficult to spot but can cause yellowing and discoloration of leaves. To manage this pest, you can use insecticides or natural predators like ladybugs.
- Mealybugs: These pests appear as white, cotton-like masses on the leaves and stems. To manage this pest, you can use insecticidal soaps or alcohol-based solutions while also practicing good sanitation and maintaining a healthy growing environment.
- Scale Insects: These pests are characterized by small, hard bumps on the leaves and stems, and can cause yellowing and wilting of leaves. To manage this pest, you can use insecticidal oils or soaps, while also practicing good sanitation and removing infected plant debris.
