Overview
Psoralea axillaris Eckl. & Zeyh. is a medicinal plant belonging to the Fabaceae family. It is commonly referred to as "Oorbietjie" or "Dronkbessie" in South Africa, where it is native to.
General Appearance
The plant is a small, shrubby evergreen that grows up to 1m tall. It has a woody stem and branches with distinctive corky bumps on its bark. Psoralea axillaris has long, narrow leaves and small, purple flowers.
Uses
Traditional healers in South Africa use various parts of Psoralea axillaris for medicinal purposes. The roots, leaves, and seeds are boiled and taken as a tea to treat a range of ailments such as coughs, colds, and sore throats. It is also traditionally used to treat sexually transmitted infections, rheumatism, and other inflammatory conditions.
Psoralea axillaris is believed to have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Modern research studies have shown that extracts from this plant have potential as a natural treatment for hair loss, skin disorders, and diabetes.
Other uses for Psoralea axillaris include its use as a natural insecticide and as a source of timber.Light Requirements
Psoralea axillaris Eckl. & Zeyh. prefers full sunlight. It can survive in partial sunlight, but it will not grow as vigorously as it would in full sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. However, it grows best in temperatures between 16°C to 30°C. Temperatures below 10°C can cause the plant to go dormant, and long exposure to high temperatures can cause it to wilt.
Soil Requirements
Psoralea axillaris Eckl. & Zeyh. prefers well-draining soil that is loamy or sandy. It does not tolerate heavy clay soil or soil that is constantly waterlogged. The soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.0. The addition of organic matter to the soil can improve its fertility and water-holding capacity.
Cultivation
Psoralea axillaris Eckl. & Zeyh. is a drought-tolerant plant that grows best in well-draining, sandy soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. For optimal growth, planting should be done in the spring, and the seedlings should be spaced about 1 to 2 feet apart. The location should have full sunlight exposure, and the plants should be shielded from strong winds.
Watering needs
While Psoralea axillaris Eckl. & Zeyh. prefers dry environments, they require regular watering in their initial growth stages, especially until they are established. However, mature plants can thrive with minimal watering, and overwatering should be avoided as it can lead to root rot. During the growing season, watering should be infrequent but deep. In wet seasons, the frequency should decrease further and only be done when the soil has dried out.
Fertilization
Psoralea axillaris Eckl. & Zeyh. does not require much fertilization, especially if planted in nutrient-rich soil. Overfertilizing can lead to the production of lush foliage at the expense of flowers. However, supplementing with organic matter, like compost or well-rotted manure, can help improve the soil quality and enhance plant growth.
Pruning
Psoralea axillaris Eckl. & Zeyh. should be pruned in late winter or early spring before the new growth cycle. Pruning is essential to remove dead or diseased branches, provide better air circulation, and to shape the plant. It can also encourage fuller growth and more abundant flowering. To avoid damaging the plant, it is recommended to use sterilized pruning tools and to make clean cuts at a 45-degree angle, just above a leaf node.
Propagation of Psoralea Axillaris Eckl. & Zeyh.
Psoralea axillaris Eckl. & Zeyh., commonly known as the Wild Senna, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the family Fabaceae. The species is native to South Africa and can be propagated by various methods, including seed propagation, division, and stem cuttings.
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Psoralea axillaris Eckl. & Zeyh. can be done using seeds. Collect the seeds from the plant during the dry season. Soak the seeds in water overnight to increase their germination rate. The best time to plant the seeds is during the early spring or fall seasons. Sow the seeds in a well-drained soil mixture and water the soil regularly. The seeds will germinate within two to three weeks.
Division Propagation
Propagation of Psoralea axillaris Eckl. & Zeyh. can also be done through division. The ideal time to perform division is during early spring or fall. Dig up the plant carefully and separate the root clumps into smaller sections. Each section should have a healthy growth of roots and stems. Transplant the divided plants into their new location immediately and water them well.
Stem Cutting Propagation
Propagation of Psoralea axillaris Eckl. & Zeyh. can also be done using stem cuttings. Take cuttings during the spring season. Cut a healthy stem from the plant, about 4-6 inches in length and remove a few leaves from the bottom part of the stem. Dip the stem in rooting hormone powder and then plant it in a well-drained soil mixture. Water the soil until it is moist and cover the pot with a plastic bag to maintain the moisture. The cuttings will root within three to four weeks and can then be transplanted to their permanent location.
Disease and Pest Management for Psoralea Axillaris Eckl. & Zeyh. Plant
Psoralea axillaris Eckl. & Zeyh. is a shrub that belongs to the family Fabaceae, which is native to South Africa. It is commonly known as the "Witgousblom" in Afrikaans and "White-thorn" in English. As with any plant, Psoralea axillaris is susceptible to a range of diseases and pests that can affect its growth and survival. Here are some of the most common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggestions on how to manage them.
Diseases
1. Root Rot
Root rot is a fungal disease that usually affects plants growing in poorly-drained soils. It causes the roots of the plant to decay, which can result in stunted growth or even death. To manage root rot in Psoralea axillaris, ensure that the soil drains well and avoid overwatering. If the plant is already infected, remove the affected parts and treat the remaining ones with a fungicide.
2. Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes circular or irregular brown spots on the leaves of the plant. It is usually caused by humid conditions and poor air circulation. To manage leaf spot in Psoralea axillaris, remove and destroy infected leaves, and improve air circulation around the plant. You can also treat the plant with a fungicide.
3. Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects many plants, including Psoralea axillaris. It manifests as a white powdery coating on the leaves and other parts of the plant. To manage powdery mildew in Psoralea axillaris, prune affected parts of the plant and improve air circulation around it. You can also treat it with a fungicide.
Pests
1. Aphids
Aphids are small; soft-bodied insects that are common pests in many plants. They feed on the sap of the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. To manage aphids in Psoralea axillaris, spray the plant with a mixture of soapy water and neem oil. You can also introduce natural predators such as ladybugs that will feed on the aphids.
2. Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that also feed on the sap of the plant. They are usually found on the undersides of leaves and can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. To manage spider mites in Psoralea axillaris, spray the plant with water regularly to create a moist environment that is unfavorable for their survival. You can also introduce natural predators such as predatory mites to manage them.
3. Thrips
Thrips are small insects that feed on the leaves and flowers of the plant, causing them to turn brown and dry. They can also spread viral diseases to the plant. To manage thrips in Psoralea axillaris, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also introduce natural predators such as lacewings to feed on the thrips.
Overall, regular monitoring of the plant and prompt action to manage any disease or pest infestation is essential to keep Psoralea axillaris healthy and thriving.
