Overview
Plectroniella capillaris Bremek. is a plant species that belongs to the family Apiaceae. It is native to the African country of Angola and can be found growing in rocky areas, on slopes, and in open woodlands.
Common Names
Plectroniella capillaris Bremek. is commonly known as "Angolan parsley" or "Angolan carrot." It is also referred to as "Salsa" in Angola, where it is used as a culinary herb.
Appearance
The plant is a small, annual herb that grows to a height of 10-30 cm. Its roots are slender, and its stems are thin and wiry. The leaves of Plectroniella capillaris Bremek. are pinnate, with finely divided leaflets that give them a delicate appearance. The flowers are small and white, clustered together in umbels at the end of the stems. The plant produces small, brownish-grey fruits that are flattened and oval-shaped.
Uses
Plectroniella capillaris Bremek. is primarily used as a culinary herb in Angola, where it is added to stews, soups, and sauces. It has a flavor similar to parsley or coriander, with a slightly bitter note. The plant is also used medicinally to treat a variety of ailments, including stomach disorders, fevers, and headaches.
Light Requirements:
Plectroniella capillaris Bremek. requires full sun to partial shade to grow optimally. It can tolerate a moderate amount of shade, but it may affect its flowering and growth.
Temperature Requirements:
The plant can grow in a wide range of temperatures. However, the optimal temperature for its growth is between 20-25 °C. It can tolerate high and low temperatures up to 35 °C and 5 °C, respectively, but it may slow down its growth rate.
Soil Requirements:
Plectroniella capillaris Bremek. prefers well-drained, fertile soils with a pH range of 5.5-7.5. It can grow in a variety of soil types such as sandy, loamy, and clayey soils, provided that they allow proper drainage. The addition of organic matter to the soil enhances the nutrient content and overall health of the plant.
Cultivation methods
Plectroniella capillaris Bremek. prefers a slightly acidic soil with good drainage. This plant thrives well in full sun or partial shade. It can be propagated easily from stem cuttings, and the seeds can also be sown in a well-drained soil mix.
Watering needs
Plectroniella capillaris Bremek. requires moderate watering. It is important not to overwater this plant as it may lead to root rot. The soil should be checked periodically, and watering should be done when the topsoil feels dry to the touch. During the winter months, the watering should be reduced to prevent waterlogging.
Fertilization
The plant can be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. It is recommended to reduce feeding during the winter months. Fertilization helps to enhance the growth, flowering, and overall health of the Plectroniella capillaris Bremek.
Pruning
Pruning can be done periodically to maintain the shape and size of the plant. Any dead, dying, or damaged branches should be removed to promote new growth. Plectroniella capillaris Bremek. benefits from regular pruning, which also helps to prevent the plant from becoming too woody.
Propagation of Plectroniella capillaris Bremek.
Plectroniella capillaris Bremek. can be propagated through seeds and cuttings.
Propagation through Seeds
Seeds of Plectroniella capillaris Bremek. can be sown in pots filled with well-drained soil. The pots should be kept in a warm and moist place for germination. The optimum temperature for germination is 20-25°C. The seeds usually take around 2-3 weeks to germinate.
Propagation through Cuttings
The stem cuttings of Plectroniella capillaris Bremek. can be taken from healthy and mature plants during the growing season. The cuttings should be about 6-8 cm long and should have 2-3 nodes. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be treated with rooting hormone.
The cuttings can be planted in rooting medium, such as a mixture of peat moss and perlite or vermiculite. The cuttings should be kept in a warm and humid place, with a temperature of around 20-25°C. The rooting usually takes around 4-6 weeks.
After the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted into individual pots filled with well-drained soil. The pots should be kept in a shaded place for a few weeks, until the new plants are established.
Disease and Pest Management for Plectroniella capillaris Bremek.
Plectroniella capillaris Bremek. is a species of plant that is commonly affected by different kinds of diseases and pests. Being aware of the common diseases and pests and their management techniques is essential in maintaining the health and growth of this plant.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect P. capillaris is root rot. This disease is caused by fungi found in the soil that attack the plant and cause the rotting of the roots. Symptoms include stunted growth, leaf yellowing, and rotting of the stem at the soil line. To prevent root rot, it is recommended to plant the P. capillaris in well-drained soil and refrain from overwatering. In case of infection, removing the infected parts of the plant and treating the remaining with fungicides is recommended.
Another disease that can affect P. capillaris is leaf spot. This disease is characterized by the appearance of brown spots on the leaves. It is usually caused by fungal infections and can result in the death of the leaves. Pruning the infected leaves and treating the plant with fungicides can help manage the disease.
Common Pests
P. capillaris is also prone to pest attacks, with the most common being the spider mites. These tiny pests feed on the plant's sap, which can lead to yellowing of the leaves and the appearance of white webs on the plant. To control spider mites, a simple solution of soap and water is usually enough. Alternatively, regular pruning of the infected parts of the plant can help prevent the spread of infestation.
The mealybugs are another common pest that can affect P. capillaris. These tiny insects feed on the plant sap, resulting in stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. Pruning the infected parts of the plant and using insecticidal soap or neem oil is recommended for effective control of mealybugs.
Overall, proper management techniques such as regular pruning, appropriate watering, and proper soil drainage can help prevent and control the spread of diseases and pests effectively. Early detection and treatment of any signs of infection or infestation is also essential in maintaining the health and growth of P. capillaris.
