Origin and Common Names
Phragmanthera lapathifolia (Engl. & K.Krause) Balle, commonly known as the Dodder Combretum, is a plant species originating in tropical and southern Africa. It is found primarily in Angola, Botswana, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.General Appearance
The Dodder Combretum is a parasitic plant that relies on its host plant for survival. It has no leaves and instead has thin, twining stems that wrap around the branches of its host plant. The stems can grow up to 2 meters in length and are yellowish-brown in color. The Dodder Combretum produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that bloom in clusters at the base of the stems. The flowers bloom from around September to November and are followed by fleshy, orange-red fruits that are eaten by birds.Uses
The Dodder Combretum has several traditional medicinal uses in Africa. In Zimbabwe, for example, the plant is used to treat fever, coughs, and chest complaints. In South Africa, it is used to treat diarrhea and stomach ailments. Phragmanthera lapathifolia is also used in traditional African medicine as an aphrodisiac, to treat infertility, and as a general tonic. In addition to its medicinal uses, the Dodder Combretum is sometimes cultivated as an ornamental plant. Its twisting stems and small flowers make it an attractive addition to gardens and parks.Light Requirements
Phragmanthera lapathifolia typically grows well in partial to full shade environments. The plant prefers dappled light or at least four hours of direct sunlight per day. If grown in too much light, the leaves will become scorched and the plant may wilt.
Temperature Requirements
Phragmanthera lapathifolia grows well under a range of temperatures. The plant can tolerate temperatures as low as 50°F (10°C) and as high as 80°F (27°C). However, the plant prefers temperatures ranging from 60°F to 70°F (15°C to 21°C).
Soil Requirements
Phragmanthera lapathifolia prefers well-draining soil with a pH level ranging from neutral to slightly acidic. The soil should be rich in organic matter to promote healthy growth. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and sand can be used to create a suitable soil mix. The plant can also grow well in soils that are mildly nutrient-poor.
Cultivation
The Phragmanthera lapathifolia is a parasitic plant that grows on different host plants. When considering cultivating this plant, one will need to select the right host plant. Suitable host plants to consider include Terminalia catappa, Terminalia avicennioides, and Terminalia superba.
This plant thrives well in areas with high humidity, and the temperature range of 20 °C to 35 °C. Additionally, it needs a lot of sunlight, so finding a spot with direct sunlight is essential.
To cultivate this plant, one can either use seeds or cuttings. Once the host plant is selected, the next step is to plant the seed or cutting on the host plant's branch. Water the plant immediately.
Watering Needs
Since this plant is a parasite, it gets its water and nutrients from the host plant. Therefore, it's vital to ensure that the host plant is adequately watered. This will allow the Phragmanthera lapathifolia to get enough water and nutrients from the host plant.
Fertilization
There is no need to use fertilizers when cultivating Phragmanthera lapathifolia. The plant will get its nutrients from the host plant.
Pruning
Since this plant is a parasite, pruning is not needed. However, it's essential to ensure that the host plant is healthy and well-maintained to avoid stunted growth in Phragmanthera lapathifolia.
Propagation of Phragmanthera lapathifolia
Phragmanthera lapathifolia can be propagated by various methods including seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed propagation
The seeds of Phragmanthera lapathifolia are small and must be collected as soon as they mature. The best time to collect the seeds is during the dry season. The collected seeds should be cleaned and sown in a well-draining and fertile soil. It is also important to note that the seeds of Phragmanthera lapathifolia require light for germination, therefore, they should be sown on the surface of the soil and not covered with soil. The seedlings will emerge within 4 weeks and can be transplanted to their permanent location after they have grown to a certain size.
Vegetative propagation
Phragmanthera lapathifolia can also be propagated vegetatively by using stem cuttings or layering.
Stem cuttings: For stem cuttings, select a healthy stem and cut it into sections of about 15 cm long. Remove the lower leaves and plant the stem cuttings in a well-draining and fertile soil. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and the cuttings should root in 2-3 weeks. They can be transplanted to their permanent location after they have grown to a certain size.
Layering: For layering, select a low-growing branch and remove the leaves from a section of the stem where the plant will touch the soil. Make a small wound on the stem and cover it with soil. After a few weeks, roots will develop and the layered section can be separated from the parent plant and transplanted to its permanent location.
Disease and Pest Management for Phragmanthera lapathifolia
Phragmanthera lapathifolia is a parasitic plant that grows on the branches and stems of other plants. While it does not have many disease and pest problems of its own, it can spread diseases and pests to its host plant.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that Phragmanthera lapathifolia can spread is powdery mildew. This fungal disease is characterized by a white, powdery growth on the leaves and stems of infected plants. To manage powdery mildew, remove infected plant material and improve air circulation around the affected plants. Diligent monitoring and early management can prevent the spread of powdery mildew.
Another common disease that Phragmanthera lapathifolia can spread is rust. Rust is a fungal disease that appears as yellow, orange, or brown spots on the leaves and stems of infected plants. Remove infected plant material and improve air circulation around the affected plants to manage rust. Be sure to water Phragmanthera lapathifolia appropriately to prevent the spread of rust.
Common Pests
Phragmanthera lapathifolia can attract aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. These pests can weaken and damage the affected plants by feeding on their sap. To control aphids and whiteflies, introduce natural predators such as ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control spider mites.
Caterpillars are another pest that can affect Phragmanthera lapathifolia. These insects feed on the leaves of the affected plants and can cause significant damage. To control caterpillar infestations, remove the larvae by hand and introduce natural predators such as birds and parasitic wasps.
Regular monitoring and prompt management of diseases and pests can help to keep Phragmanthera lapathifolia and its host plants healthy and thriving. Make sure to maintain good plant hygiene, avoid over-watering, and maintain appropriate growing conditions for the affected plants.
