Origin and Common Names
Polycephalium capitatum (Baill.) Keay belongs to the family Rubiaceae. It is commonly known as "Bead Plant" or "Bead Tree" due to its beaded appearance. The plant is native to Madagascar and grows subspontaneously throughout the tropics.
Uses
The Bead Plant is mostly used as an ornamental plant and is grown in gardens and greenhouses. It is well-suited as a hanging or trailing plant due to its characteristic beaded stem and delicate foliage. The small white flowers of the plant, followed by the formation of ornamental beaded berries, add to its ornamental value. Additionally, the plant has medicinal uses. The leaves are brewed as a tea and consumed as a remedy for various ailments, including digestive disorders, headaches, and fevers.
General Appearance
The Bead Plant typically grows up to one meter in height and has a shrubby appearance. The plant's unique stem is its most distinctive feature. It grows upwards for a short distance and then dangles down, creating a beaded appearance formed by swollen nodes along the stem. The leaves are small, green, and oval-shaped. The plant produces small, white, and fragrant flowers that are followed by the formation of the ornamental beaded berries.
Overall, Polycephalium capitatum (Baill.) Keay is highly sought after for its unique appearance, making it an excellent addition to gardens and indoor spaces.Light Requirements
Polycephalium capitatum is a shade-loving plant that thrives in low light conditions. It is adapted to grow under the canopy of larger trees where it receives partial sunlight. Direct sunlight can damage the leaves, and too much shade can hinder growth and leaf production. Therefore, it is best to keep the plant in a location that offers filtered or diffused light.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Polycephalium capitatum is between 18°C to 25°C. The plant is sensitive to extreme temperatures and cannot tolerate frost or prolonged exposure to high temperatures. It is recommended to keep the plant in a warm and humid environment. The temperature should not fluctuate more than 5°C in a day.
Soil Requirements
Polycephalium capitatum prefers well-draining and rich organic soil. A soil mix that consists of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite in equal ratios is recommended. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH range between 5.5 to 6.5. The plant should not be planted too deeply. The roots of the plant are shallow and need to be close to the surface to be able to absorb moisture and nutrients from the soil.
Cultivation methods
Polycephalium capitatum is a tropical plant that can be grown both indoors and outdoors. It thrives in warm and humid environments, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 ? and high humidity levels of 70% or more. The plant grows best in well-draining, nutrient-rich soil and requires bright, indirect sunlight.
Watering needs
Proper watering is essential for the growth and development of Polycephalium capitatum. The plant requires regular watering during the growing season, which typically spans from March to September. It is essential to avoid overwatering the plant, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot. The soil should be allowed to dry out partially before watering again. During the dormant season, which lasts from October to February, the plant can be watered less frequently.
Fertilization
Regular fertilization is necessary for the healthy growth and development of Polycephalium capitatum. The plant should be fertilized every two weeks during the active growing season, using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. It is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding the proper dosage and frequency of application. Overfertilization can lead to root burn and other issues.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to maintain the shape and size of Polycephalium capitatum. The plant can be pruned year-round as necessary. It is recommended to remove any dead or damaged foliage regularly. The plant can also be pinched back to promote branching and fuller growth. However, it is essential to avoid pruning the plant's main stem excessively, as it can lead to stunted growth and other issues.
Propagation Methods for Polycephalium capitatum
Polycephalium capitatum, commonly known as the Octopus Plant, is a hardy succulent plant that can be propagated through various methods.
Leaf Cutting Propagation
One method of propagating polycephalium capitatum is through leaf cuttings. Select healthy, mature leaves from the parent plant and cut them off at the base. Let them dry in a shaded area for 24-48 hours until the end calluses over.
Fill a pot with well-draining soil and make a small hole in the center. Insert the leaf end that has callused over and press it gently into the soil. Water sparingly and place it in a shaded area. After 2-3 weeks, roots will start to form, and a new plant baby will emerge.
Stem Cutting Propagation
Another method of propagation is through stem cutting. Select a healthy stem from the parent plant and cut it into 3-4 inch pieces. Let it dry for 24-48 hours to allow the cut to callus over.
Fill a pot with well-draining soil and make small holes in the center. Insert the stem cuttings in the soil and water sparingly. Keep the pot in a shaded area and wait for the roots to develop. After 2-3 weeks, new growth will emerge from the stem cuttings.
Division
Division is one of the easiest methods of propagating polycephalium capitatum. Wait for the parent plant to produce several offsets or pups. Carefully remove the pups from the parent plant and inspect the roots to ensure they are healthy.
Fill small pots with well-draining soil and make small holes in the center. Insert the pups in the soil and water sparingly. Place the pots in a shaded area and wait for the pups to develop roots. After 2-3 weeks, the new plant babies can be transplanted into larger pots or back to the garden bed.
Disease Management
The plant Polycephalium capitatum (Baill.) Keay is susceptible to a range of diseases, including:
- Leaf spot: This disease is characterized by the appearance of small, circular spots on the leaves. The spots may be brown, black, or yellow. Leaf spot can be managed by removing infected leaves and improving air circulation around the plant.
- Fungal infections: Fungal infections can cause the leaves to turn yellow or brown, and can also cause the leaves to drop prematurely. To manage fungal infections, it is important to keep the plant dry and to avoid overwatering. In severe cases, fungicides might be needed.
- Root rot: Root rot is caused by overwatering and poor drainage. The roots of the plant will become mushy and discolored. To manage root rot, it is important to improve drainage and reduce watering.
- Viral infections: Viral infections can cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. There is no cure for viral infections, so infected plants should be removed to prevent the spread of the virus.
Pest Management
Polycephalium capitatum (Baill.) Keay is also susceptible to pests that include:
- Mealybugs: Mealybugs are soft-bodied insects that feed on the plant sap. They are typically found on the leaves and stems, and are easily recognized by their white, cotton-like appearance. Mealybugs can be removed by hand, or by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny spider-like pests that live on the undersides of the leaves. They suck the sap from the plant, causing the leaves to turn yellow and to drop prematurely. Spider mites can be managed by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water, or by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Aphids: Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that feed on the plant sap. They are usually found on the undersides of the leaves, and can cause the leaves to curl and become distorted. Aphids can be managed by removing them using a strong jet of water, or by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Scale insects: Scale insects are small, oval-shaped insects that attach themselves to the stems and leaves of the plant. They suck the sap from the plant, causing it to weaken and become stunted. Scale insects can be removed by hand, or by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
