Overview
Phylica emirnensis (Tul.) Pillans var. nyassae Pillans ex Verdc., also known as Nyasa Phylica, is a species of plant in the family Rhamnaceae. It is native to Africa, specifically in Malawi, Tanzania, and Zambia. This plant is a shrub that can grow up to 2 meters tall and has numerous branches.
Appearance
The leaves of Phylica emirnensis var. nyassae are oblong, measuring up to 8mm in width and 20mm in length. They are usually hairy and have a dull gray-green color. The flowers of this plant are usually white or greenish-yellow in color and appear in clusters. The fruit is a small, dry, and woody capsule that contains one or two seeds.
Common Names
Phylica emirnensis var. nyassae is commonly known as Nyasa Phylica, African Snowball, or simply Phylica.
Uses
Phylica emirnensis var. nyassae is considered an ornamental plant and is often planted in gardens and parks because of its beautiful, white flowers. It is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as digestion problems, malaria, and respiratory infections. Additionally, the wood of this plant is used for fuel and to make small household items like spoons and forks.
Light Requirements
Phylica emirnensis var. nyassae requires full sunlight, as it is a species that is adapted to habitats with high light intensities. In areas with partial shade, the growth rate and flowering may be reduced. Therefore, it is recommended to grow this plant in a location with direct sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and is adapted to the tropical and subtropical regions of Africa. It can thrive in temperatures ranging from 10°C to 35°C. However, the optimal temperature range is 18°C to 25°C. The plant can survive in temperatures below 10°C, but it may become dormant during these periods.
Soil Requirements
Phylica emirnensis var. nyassae grows well in well-draining and sandy soils. The plant is adapted to a variety of soils, including sandy soils with low fertility and acidic soils. The pH range of the soil should be between 4.5 and 7.0. It is recommended to mix the soil with organic matter to improve soil fertility and promote better plant growth.
Cultivation
Phylica emirnensis (Tul.) Pillans var. nyassae Pillans ex Verdc. is an evergreen shrub that is easy to grow. It thrives in well-drained soils and prefers full sun or partial shade. The plant needs a warm climate to grow well. It is recommended to grow this plant in pots or gardens.
Watering Needs
When it comes to watering this shrub, ensure that you do not overwater it. Overwatering can lead to root rot and eventual death of the plant. It is advisable to water the plant once a week, and twice a week during the dry season. Watering should be reduced during the rainy season or if the soil is already moist.
Fertilization
The plant requires moderate feeding with an all-purpose fertilizer. It is recommended to fertilize the plant once every two months during the growing season. You can also supplement the soil with organic matter like compost to promote healthy growth.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential factor in the cultivation of Phylica emirnensis (Tul.) Pillans var. nyassae Pillans ex Verdc. The plant should be pruned annually to prevent it from becoming too leggy or straggly. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before the new growth begins. You can remove deadwood, damaged, or diseased branches and shape the plant to the desired height and width. It is suitable for small gardens or container planting since it remains relatively compact with pruning.
Propagation of Phylica emirnensis (Tul.) Pillans var. nyassae Pillans ex Verdc.
Phylica emirnensis (Tul.) Pillans var. nyassae Pillans ex Verdc. can be propagated by seeds and cuttings.
Propagation by seeds
The seeds of Phylica emirnensis (Tul.) Pillans var. nyassae Pillans ex Verdc. should be sown fresh as they have a short viability period. The seeds should be placed on a well-draining medium and covered with a thin layer of soil. They should be kept in a warm, shaded area and kept moist but not wet. Germination can take up to 2-3 months.
Propagation by cuttings
Phylica emirnensis (Tul.) Pillans var. nyassae Pillans ex Verdc. can also be propagated by cuttings taken in spring or summer. The cuttings should be about 10cm long and taken from semi-hardwood. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be dipped in hormone powder and placed in well-draining soil. They should be kept moist and in a shaded area until roots have formed after 4-6 weeks.
Propagation of Phylica emirnensis (Tul.) Pillans var. nyassae Pillans ex Verdc. may be challenging due to its slow growth rate and low seed germination rates. Nevertheless, with proper care and attention, it can be successfully propagated.
Disease Management
Phylica emirnensis var. nyassae is generally low maintenance and hardy but may fall victim to some diseases that usually attack other species of plants. The diseases that are likely to affect this plant include:
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease is characterized by a white powdery substance that appears on the leaves and stems of the plant. It can cause the plant to weaken and eventually die if not controlled. To manage powdery mildew, use fungicides and ensure that there is proper air circulation around the plant. Also, avoid watering the plant from overhead to prevent water from settling on the leaves.
- Leaf Spot: This is another fungal disease that appears as brown spots on the leaves of the plant. It is caused by excessive moisture and poor air circulation. To manage leaf spot, remove infected leaves and use a fungicide to prevent the disease from spreading.
- Rust: This fungal disease appears as orange or yellow rust spots on the leaves of the plant. It is more prevalent in humid conditions. To manage rust, remove infected leaves and use a fungicide to prevent further spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Phylica emirnensis var. nyassae may also fall victim to some pests that can cause damage to the plant. The common pests that might affect this plant include:
- Aphids: Aphids are small insects that suck sap from the leaves and stems of the plant. They can cause the leaves of the plant to curl and wilt. To manage aphids, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or use a strong jet of water to wash them off the plant.
- Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause severe damage to the leaves of the plant. They leave a fine web on the underside of the leaves and cause the leaves to turn yellow. To manage spider mites, use insecticidal soap or a miticide to kill the pests.
- Thrips: Thrips are small, winged insects that feed on the flowers of the plant. They cause scarring on the flowers and can cause them to wither and die. To manage thrips, use insecticidal soap or a pesticide that is labeled for use on thrips.
