Overview: Pupalia lappacea (L.) A.Juss. var. velutina (Moq.) Hook.f.
Pupalia lappacea (L.) A.Juss. var. velutina (Moq.) Hook.f., also known as velvet-leaved pupalia, is a species of flowering plant in the family Amaranthaceae. It is a weedy plant with a wide distribution in tropical and subtropical regions.
Origin and Distribution:
Pupalia lappacea is native to Africa and Asia but has now spread to many parts of the world, including South America, North America, the Caribbean, and the Pacific islands. It is often found in disturbed habitats such as roadsides, fields, and fallow lands.
Common Names:
Pupalia lappacea has various common names in different regions. It is called velvet-leaved pupalia or smooth pupalia in English. In West Africa, it is known as "gbere" in Yoruba and "emaumbe" in Ibo. In India, it is called "chota chand" in Hindi and "cheruchana vazhukkali" in Malayalam.
Uses:
Pupalia lappacea has various medicinal uses in traditional medicine. In West Africa, the leaves are used to treat stomach disorders, dysentery, and gonorrhea. In Trinidad, the plant is used to treat headaches. In India, the leaves are used as a poultice on wounds, and the plant is also used as an antiseptic. In addition to its medicinal uses, the plant is also used as a vegetable in some regions. The young leaves and tender stem tips are added to soups and stews in West Africa.
General Appearance:
Pupalia lappacea is an annual herb that can grow up to 60 cm tall. It has a taproot and a well-branched stem. The leaves are simple, alternate, ovate to elliptic, and up to 8 cm long and 4 cm wide. The leaves are densely velvety, giving the plant its common name. The flowers are small, greenish, and arranged in spike-like inflorescences. The plant produces small, rounded fruits containing black seeds.
Light Requirements
Pupalia lappacea var. velutina typically requires full sunlight to partial shade for optimal growth. It can tolerate some shade, but it may affect its flowering and fruiting capabilities. If grown indoors, it is best to place it near a south-facing window or under grow lights that provide adequate light for photosynthesis.
Temperature Requirements
This plant thrives in warm and humid environments. The ideal temperature for Pupalia lappacea var. velutina growth is between 20 to 30°C. If the temperature drops below 10°C, it may cause leaf drop and plant damage. Temperatures above 35°C may also affect its growth and flowering.
Soil Requirements
Pupalia lappacea var. velutina prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. It can tolerate various soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, as long as they are rich in organic matter. It is essential to maintain proper soil moisture levels to prevent drought stress or waterlogging.
Cultivation methods
Pupalia lappacea (L.) A.Juss. var. velutina (Moq.) Hook.f. is an annual plant that is a great addition to your garden. The plant prefers a well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. It thrives in full sun, but it can also grow in partial shade.
Watering needs
The plant requires consistent soil moisture. Water the plant regularly, especially when the topsoil becomes dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so be sure to avoid keeping the soil too wet.
Fertilization
Fertilizing the plant is essential for optimum growth and development. Use an all-purpose liquid fertilizer that is high in nitrogen to promote lush foliage growth. You can apply the fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Pruning
Pupalia lappacea (L.) A.Juss. var. velutina (Moq.) Hook.f. is a fast-growing plant that can become leggy if left unpruned. Pruning helps to encourage bushier growth and fuller foliage. Remove any dead or diseased leaves regularly. Remove the top 2 to 3 inches of the plant to encourage branching and new growth.
Propagation of Pupalia lappacea (L.) A.Juss. var. velutina (Moq.) Hook.f.
Pupalia lappacea (L.) A.Juss. var. velutina (Moq.) Hook.f., also known as Velvetleaf Pupalia, is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Acanthaceae. It is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions of the world, including Asia, Africa, Australia, Latin America and the Caribbean. The plant has several medicinal properties and is also used for food and fodder purposes. The propagation of this plant can be done either through seeds or vegetative means.
Propagation by seeds
The propagation of Velvetleaf Pupalia by seeds is the most common method. The seeds are small, brownish-black, and can be easily collected from the matured plants. The seeds must be sown during the rainy season, and they will germinate within two weeks of sowing. The seedlings can be transplanted to their growing sites after four to six weeks of germination. Full-grown plants will produce viable seeds within 3-4 months.
Propagation by cuttings
The propagation of Pupalia lappacea (L.) A.Juss. var. velutina (Moq.) Hook.f. by cuttings is also possible, but it is not commonly practiced. The cuttings can be made from the softwood of the mature plants, and they must be 8-10 cm in length. The cuttings should be planted in a pot containing a mixture of soil and compost. The pot should be kept in a cool and shaded place until the cuttings have rooted. The rooted cuttings can then be transplanted to their growing sites.
Propagation by division
The propagation of Velvetleaf Pupalia by division is also possible. The mature plants can be carefully uprooted and divided into pieces, making sure that each piece has a healthy root system. The divided pieces can then be replanted in a well-prepared bed or pot.
Disease Management
Pupalia lappacea var. velutina is known for its disease-resistant properties. However, it is still vulnerable to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot. Powdery mildew can cause stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and white powdery coating on the leaves. Root rot can cause wilted leaves, yellowing, and leaf dropping.
To manage fungal diseases, it is important to keep the plant's growing environment clean and dry. Avoid overwatering and maintain proper drainage. Additionally, pruning affected leaves and using organic fungicides can help control the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Despite its disease-resistance, Pupalia lappacea var. velutina can still attract pests such as aphids, mealybugs, and thrips. These pests can cause yellowing, wilting, and distorted leaves. They can also produce a sticky substance that attracts ants.
To manage these pests, manually remove them by washing them off with a strong spray of water. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the pest population. Additionally, it is important to keep the plant clean and healthy through proper pruning and fertilization to prevent pest infestations.
