Overview
Pilea bambuseti Engl. subsp. aethiopica Friis, also known as Ethiopian Artillery plant, is a beautiful and unique plant species that belongs to the family Urticaceae. This plant is a subspecies of the Pilea bambuseti Engl. group and is native to Africa, specifically in Ethiopia.
General Appearance
The Ethiopian Artillery plant is a small to medium-sized perennial herb that grows up to 25-40 cm tall. It has a fascinating appearance that can easily capture one's attention. It has elongated stems that are cylindrical in shape, and the leaves grow alternately along the stems. The leaves are ovate to oblong in shape, and they measure approximately 5-15 cm in length and 3-10 cm in width. The leaves are shiny and have a rich green color, and their margins are toothed.
Common Names
Pilea bambuseti Engl. subsp. aethiopica Friis is commonly known by different names around the world. In Ethiopia, the plant is famously known as "Seba-hawi" or "Gunda-seba". People in other parts of the world refer to the plant as Ethiopian Artillery plant or the Bamboo Pilea.
Uses
The Ethiopian Artillery plant is an ornamental plant that is primarily grown for its unique appearance. It is an excellent plant to add to your collection if you are looking for something extraordinary. The plant is also grown as a houseplant, and it does exceptionally well in containers. In Ethiopia, the plant has a medicinal use, and it is used to treat various health conditions such as coughs, colds, and flu.
In conclusion, the Pilea bambuseti Engl. subsp. aethiopica Friis, with its elegant and unique appearance, is an exciting addition to any plant enthusiast's collection. Its use in Ethiopia as a medicinal plant shows that it has significant benefits beyond just being an ornamental plant.
Light Requirements
The plant Pilea bambuseti Engl. subsp. aethiopica Friis requires bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and cause damage. It prefers a shaded area with filtered light or a location near a window with sheer curtains. The plant can adjust to low light conditions, but may become leggy and produce fewer leaves.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Pilea bambuseti Engl. subsp. aethiopica Friis is between 15°C to 26°C. It can tolerate cooler temperatures but is susceptible to frost damage. Keep the plant away from drafts, air conditioning, and heating vents, as dry air can cause leaf drop and stunted growth.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires a well-draining, loose, and fertile soil mix. A good potting mix for the plant should preferably contain organic matter, such as peat moss, coco coir, and perlite. The soil should have a neutral pH level between 6.0 and 7.0. The plant does well when slightly moist, not too wet or too dry. Make sure to allow the topsoil to dry before watering, and avoid standing water to prevent root rot.
Cultivation Methods
The Pilea bambuseti Engl. subsp. aethiopica Friis is a tropical plant that is best grown indoors or in a greenhouse setting. It is a relatively easy plant to cultivate, as long as it is given the proper care.
To grow the plant indoors, choose a well-draining pot or container filled with a high-quality potting mix that has a high organic matter content. The plant prefers bright, indirect light, so place it near a window that receives plenty of filtered light.
Watering Needs
Pilea bambuseti Engl. subsp. aethiopica Friis needs frequent watering, and it is important to keep the soil evenly moist. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. When watering, make sure to saturate the soil and allow any excess water to drain out.
Pilea bambuseti Engl. subsp. aethiopica Friis is sensitive to dry air, so it is a good idea to mist the plant regularly with a spray bottle filled with lukewarm water to help increase humidity levels.
Fertilization
Feed Pilea bambuseti Engl. subsp. aethiopica Friis every two to three weeks during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. During the dormant season, reduce fertilization to once a month. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's recommended application rate, as over-fertilizing can cause damage to the plant.
Pruning
To encourage bushy growth, pinch back the tips of the Pilea bambuseti Engl. subsp. aethiopica Friis stems regularly. The plant also benefits from periodic pruning to keep its shape and maintain its size. Prune any yellowing leaves or leggy stems using sharp, sterile shears.
Be sure to clean the shears with rubbing alcohol before and after use to prevent the spread of disease. Pruning is best done during the growing season when the plant is actively producing new growth.
Propagation methods
Pilea bambuseti Engl. subsp. aethiopica Friis is primarily propagated by stem cuttings and division.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are an easy and effective way to propagate Pilea bambuseti Engl. subsp. aethiopica Friis. Select a healthy stem with multiple leaves and cut it just below a node. The cutting should be approximately 3-4 inches long. Remove the bottom leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mixture and keep it moist but not waterlogged. Place the cutting in a bright, indirect light and cover it with a plastic bag to create a humid environment. Depending on the conditions, roots should begin to grow in 3-4 weeks, and the cutting can be transplanted into a larger container.
Division
Division is another way to propagate Pilea bambuseti Engl. subsp. aethiopica Friis. When the plant has outgrown its container, carefully remove it from the pot and separate the root ball into two or more sections. Each section should have a healthy stem and root system. Plant each section in a well-draining soil mixture and water it thoroughly. Keep the newly separated plants in a bright, indirect light and protect them from direct sunlight until they become established.
Disease Management
The Pilea bambuseti Engl. subsp. aethiopica Friis is usually a hardy plant, but may still be susceptible to certain diseases. One common disease that affects this plant is powdery mildew, which manifests as a white powdery substance on the leaves and stems. This can be managed by ensuring that the plant has adequate air circulation, avoiding getting water on the leaves, and using fungicides if necessary. Another disease that may affect the Pilea bambuseti is root rot, which can be caused by over-watering or improper drainage. To manage this, it is important to make sure that the plant is not sitting in water and that the soil is well-drained. Fungicides can also be effective in treating root rot.
Pest Management
In addition to diseases, pests can also be a problem for the Pilea bambuseti. One common pest that affects this plant is spider mites, which are small and difficult to see but can cause damage to the leaves. To manage spider mites, the plant can be regularly sprayed with water to keep the leaves clean, or insecticides can be used sparingly. Mealybugs are another pest that can affect the Pilea bambuseti. They are small, white insects that may appear on the undersides of leaves or in the soil. To manage mealybugs, the plant can be sprayed with rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soap. It is also important to remove any affected leaves or plants to prevent the mealybugs from spreading.
