Prunella vulgaris L. var. lanceolata (W. Bart.) Fern.
Prunella vulgaris L. var. lanceolata, commonly known as selfheal, is a perennial plant that belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae. The plant is found across Europe, Asia, North America, and Australia. It has several common names such as All Heal, Hook Heal, Heart-of-the-earth, and Carpenter's herb.
The plant is used in traditional medicine for its abundant medicinal properties. It is known for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and diuretic effects. The plant is usually applied topically as a poultice or salve for treating various skin ailments such as cuts, burns, and sores. It is also taken orally for gastrointestinal disorders such as diarrhea, indigestion, and bloating. Additionally, the plant has been used to treat respiratory problems and high blood pressure.
Prunella vulgaris L. var. lanceolata is a low-growing perennial plant that reaches a height of 10 to 50 cm. The stems are square-shaped and covered with fine hairs. The leaves are lance-shaped, toothed, and arranged in opposite pairs along the stem. The plant's flowers bloom from June to September and are commonly purple, pink, or violet-blue. They are arranged in dense spikes at the top of the stem. The fruits produced by the plant are tiny nutlets that contain several seeds.
Light Requirements
Prunella vulgaris L. var. lanceolata requires full sun to partial shade for proper growth and development. If grown in full sun, it may require some shading during the hottest part of the day to prevent leaf scorching.
Temperature Requirements
Prunella vulgaris L. var. lanceolata grows well in temperate climates and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It can withstand winter temperatures down to -40°C and summer temperatures up to 30°C.
Soil Requirements
Prunella vulgaris L. var. lanceolata prefers well-drained, loamy soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. It can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soils. It is also found growing in gravelly or sandy soils as well as in nutrient-poor soils.
Cultivation Methods
Prunella vulgaris L. var. lanceolata (W. Bart.) Fern. is a hardy plant that is known for its medicinal properties and ornamental value. It is relatively easy to grow and can thrive in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clayey soils. The plant prefers full to partial sunlight and can grow in both acidic and alkaline soils. For best results, it is recommended to sow the seeds in the spring or fall.
Watering Needs
The plant prefers moist soil, but it can also tolerate dry conditions. It is important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce the frequency during the winter months. Always check the top layer of soil before watering, and water only when the top layer feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization
Prunella vulgaris L. var. lanceolata (W. Bart.) Fern. does not require a lot of fertilizer. Too much nitrogen can lead to excessive leaf growth and reduced flower production. A balanced fertilizer with lower nitrogen content is ideal for this plant. It is recommended to fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
Pruning
Prunella vulgaris L. var. lanceolata (W. Bart.) Fern. does not require frequent pruning, but it is recommended to cut back the plant after flowering to promote bushier growth. The plant can be cut back to a height of 6-8 inches. Deadheading can also help promote more blooms.
Propagation of Prunella vulgaris L. var. lanceolata (W. Bart.) Fern.
Prunella vulgaris L. var. lanceolata (W. Bart.) Fern. can be propagated through various methods, including:
Seed propagation
The easiest way to propagate Prunella vulgaris L. var. lanceolata (W. Bart.) Fern. is through seed propagation. The seeds can be directly sown in the garden bed or in seedling trays, depending on the availability of space and the time of the year. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix and covered lightly with soil and kept moist. Germination should take place within 2-3 weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted when they have grown a few sets of leaves.
Division
Prunella vulgaris L. var. lanceolata (W. Bart.) Fern. can also be propagated by division. This method involves splitting the established plant into smaller sections and transplanting them in new locations. The ideal time for division is during early spring or fall. The plant should be carefully dug up, and the roots should be gently teased apart. The sections should be replanted immediately into the soil, ensuring adequate moisture and drainage.
Cuttings
Cuttings can also be taken from Prunella vulgaris L. var. lanceolata (W. Bart.) Fern. for propagation. This method involves taking stem cuttings of around 6 inches long from an established plant. The cuttings should be taken during the summer months when the plant is actively growing. The bottom half of the cutting should be stripped of its leaves, and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone before being planted in a well-draining soil mix. The cuttings should be kept moist and in a warm location until new growth appears, indicating successful rooting.
Disease Management
Prunella vulgaris L. var. lanceolata is susceptible to various diseases, including fungal, viral, and bacterial infections. Prevention is the best way to manage these diseases; therefore, maintaining proper hygiene practices is essential while growing the plant. Sanitizing all gardening tools and ensuring a clean working area before starting any work on plants can minimize the risk of infections.
Fungal infections can be reduced through proper irrigation practices, i.e., watering the plant at the base instead of from above, using a well-draining soil mix, and ensuring adequate air circulation around the plant. If the plant is already infected, fungicides like copper-based products can be applied. However, before applying any fungicide, it is recommended to identify the exact type of fungus.
Viral infections are challenging to manage and control. Therefore, preventive measures are the best management strategy. It is crucial to use disease-free seeds or cuttings while propagating the plant. Virus-infected plants should be isolated and removed as soon as possible to prevent transmission to nearby plants.
Bacterial infections can be controlled through sanitation and hygiene practices. However, if the plant is already infected, removing it is the best management strategy to prevent the spread of the bacteria.
Pest Management
Prunella vulgaris L. var. lanceolata is commonly attacked by aphids, spider mites, and thrips. To control these pests, using insecticides is an effective method. However, using natural methods is also recommended to minimize the impact on the environment.
One of the most effective ways to control and prevent pest infestations is through proper cultural practices, e.g., providing adequate nutrition, watering, and ventilation. Another effective method to control pests is through the introduction of beneficial insects like ladybugs and praying mantis.
For aphids, using a forceful blast of water on the plant can dislodge them. Additionally, spraying insecticidal soap or neem oil on the plant can kill adult aphids and also control their eggs. Spider mites and thrips can be controlled through the application of insecticidal soap or neem oil.
In conclusion, by adopting proper hygiene, cultural practices, and preventive measures, plant growers can minimize the risk of diseases and pests on their Prunella vulgaris L. var. lanceolata plants.
