Overview: Polycephalium lobatum (Pierre) Pierre ex Engl.
Polycephalium lobatum (Pierre) Pierre ex Engl. is a species of plant that belongs to the family of Myrsinaceae. This plant is a shrub and can grow up to 3 meters tall. It is native to Madagascar, which is an island country located off the coast of East Africa.
Common Names:
Polycephalium lobatum (Pierre) Pierre ex Engl. is commonly known as "Vita mena", which means "red leaf" in Malagasy, the national language of Madagascar. It is also sometimes called "oily shrub" or "resin shrub" due to the sticky, thick sap that exudes from its stems and leaves.
Appearance:
The plant has glossy, ovate leaves that are around 2-6 cm in length and 1.5-4 cm in width. The leaves are deep green on top and reddish-purple underneath. The stem is also reddish-purple in color and has a thin, corky bark that peels off in strips. The flowers are small and white, and they bloom in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruit is a small, orange-red berry that contains one or two seeds.
Uses:
Polycephalium lobatum (Pierre) Pierre ex Engl. has been used traditionally in Madagascar for its medicinal properties. The plant's sap has been used to treat skin infections, wounds, and respiratory problems such as asthma and bronchitis. The bark and leaves of the plant have also been used to treat fever, diarrhea, and digestive problems. In addition to its medicinal uses, the resin from the plant has been used as a natural adhesive, and the wood has been used for fuel and as a building material.
Light Requirements
Polycephalium lobatum typically grows in areas with partial to full shade. Direct sunlight can damage the plant and lead to leaf scorching. It's important to place the plant in an area that receives bright, indirect sunlight to promote healthy growth.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the growth of Polycephalium lobatum is between 18°C to 27°C. The plant doesn't tolerate frost and cannot grow under extreme cold conditions. Ensure the plant is kept away from cold drafts from air-conditioning or windows during the winter months.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging, which can damage the roots. Soil with a pH between 5.5 to 6.5 is optimal for the growth of Polycephalium lobatum. The plant also requires fertile soil with the right amount of organic matter. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite works well for these plants.
Cultivation
Polycephalium lobatum is an easy-to-grow plant that can thrive in a wide range of environments. This plant prefers bright, diffused light and moderate temperatures, making it an excellent choice for indoor cultivation.
It is recommended to use a well-draining potting mix that contains perlite or vermiculite to ensure adequate drainage.
Watering needs
Polycephalium lobatum requires moderate watering. It is essential to ensure that the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can cause the roots to rot and eventually damage the plant.
It is recommended to water this plant once a week, but the frequency may also depend on the humidity levels and temperature of the environment.
Fertilization
Although this plant does not require frequent fertilization, it may benefit from occasional feeding during the active growing season.
It is recommended to use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer at half the recommended strength every two to three weeks during the growing season.
Pruning
Polycephalium lobatum does not require pruning unless necessary. However, removing any dead or yellow leaves can help improve the plant's overall appearance.
It is important to use a sharp, clean pair of scissors or pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant. Additionally, removing any damaged or dead stems can help encourage the growth of new and healthy branches.
Propagation Methods for Polycephalium lobatum
Polycephalium lobatum can be propagated through various methods such as stem cuttings, division, and seed sowing.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
Take stem cuttings of 10-15 cm length with at least two nodes. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder. Plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix and water thoroughly. Place the pot in a shaded area and mist the cutting every day to keep the humidity levels high. The plant should root within a few weeks, and new growth will emerge from the tip.
Propagation through Division
Divide the plant during the spring season when it becomes too large for the pot. Carefully remove the entire plant from the pot and gently separate the root ball into two or more sections using a sharp knife. Each section should have a healthy root system and a good amount of foliage. Repot each section in a well-draining potting mix, water thoroughly, and place in partial shade until the plant establishes.
Propagation through Seed Sowing
Collect ripe seeds from the plant when the fruit capsules turn brown and dry. Sow the seeds in a moist, well-draining potting mix and cover with a thin layer of soil. Water the soil and cover the pot with a clear plastic sheet to retain moisture. Place the pot in a shaded area and maintain soil moisture by misting the pot regularly. The seeds should germinate within 2-3 weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted to individual pots once they have developed a few leaves.
Disease Management:
Polycephalium lobatum is susceptible to various diseases that can lead to a decrease in its productivity and quality. Here are some of the common diseases that affect Polycephalium lobatum and their management strategies:
Leaf spots
Leaf spots are small, circular or irregular, dark-brown spots that form on the leaves and stems of the plants. They are caused by fungi or bacteria, and they can reduce the plant's ability to photosynthesize. To manage leaf spots, remove and destroy any affected leaves, improve air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and apply fungicides or bactericides as needed.
Root Rot
Root rot is a soil-borne disease that attacks the roots of plants, leading to their decay. It is caused by fungi such as Rhizoctonia, Pythium, and Phytophthora. To manage root rot, ensure proper drainage, avoid excessive watering, and apply fungicides that contain active ingredients that target the specific fungus causing the disease.
Pest Management:
Various pests can attack Polycephalium lobatum, leading to defoliation, stunted growth, and reduction in yield. Here are some of the common pests that affect Polycephalium lobatum and their management strategies:
Aphids
Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that suck sap from the leaves, stems, and flowers of Polycephalium lobatum. They can cause stunted growth, yellowing of the leaves, distorted foliage, and defoliation if left untreated. To manage aphids, remove and destroy any affected parts, increase beneficial insect populations, and apply insecticides containing active ingredients such as pyrethroids, neonicotinoids, or insecticidal soaps.
Caterpillars
Caterpillars are the larvae of butterflies and moths that feed on the leaves of Polycephalium lobatum. They can cause defoliation and damage to the plant. To manage caterpillars, handpick and destroy them, use biological control agents such as Bacillus thuringiensis, and apply insecticides containing active ingredients such as pyrethroids, spinosyns, or carbamates.
Spider Mite
Spider mites are tiny, sap-sucking insects that can cause yellowing, mottling and distortion of the leaves of Polycephalium lobatum. They thrive in hot, dry weather and can multiply quickly if left untreated. To manage spider mite, increase humidity, remove and destroy affected leaves, and apply miticides containing active ingredients such as abamectin, hexythiazox, or spiromesifen.
