Origin
Quisqualis exannulata (O.Hoffm.) Exell, also known as the Rangoon Creeper, originated from Southeast Asia, primarily in Myanmar and Thailand. It has been introduced to other tropical and subtropical regions and has become a popular ornamental plant.
Common Names
Aside from Rangoon Creeper, Quisqualis exannulata is also known by several other common names including Burma Creeper, Drunken Sailor, Chinese Honeysuckle, and Indian Coral Jasmine.
Uses
The plant's vibrant and fragrant flowers make it a popular choice for ornamental purposes, typically grown for its showy display of blossoms. The plant is a favorite of gardeners and landscapers for its ability to attract hummingbirds and butterflies. Additionally, some medicinal properties have been attributed to the plant, particularly in traditional medicine where it is used to treat skin issues and headaches.
General Appearance
Quisqualis exannulata is a woody, evergreen vine that can grow up to 6 meters in length. The leaves are glossy, green, and oval-shaped, approximately 10-15 cm in length. The plant produces clusters of tubular flowers that typically open white, then turn pink to red as they mature. The blooms have a pleasant fragrance and can grow up to 7.5 cm in diameter. The plant produces a fruit that is a small berry-like drupe that turns from green to black when ripe.
Light Requirements
Quisqualis exannulata requires full sunlight for optimal growth and development. It can also tolerate partial shade, but too much shade can result in poor growth and reduced flowering.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it prefers warm and humid environments. It can grow well in temperatures ranging from 20-35°C. Temperatures below 15°C can result in reduced growth and may even lead to the death of the plant.
Soil Requirements
Quisqualis exannulata grows well in a well-draining soil rich in organic matter. The plant prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 5.5-7.5. It can also tolerate slightly saline soils. However, it is susceptible to waterlogging and can be adversely affected by poorly drained soils.
Frequent watering is required during the growing season, and the soil should be kept moist. The plant can survive brief periods of drought, but prolonged drought can lead to stunted growth and even death.
Cultivation Methods
Quisqualis exannulata (O.Hoffm.) Exell is a relatively easy plant to cultivate. The first step is to plant it in a well-draining soil to maintain healthy roots. The plant prefers well-draining soil, and it is best to add organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to boost soil fertility. The Quisqualis exannulata (O.Hoffm.) Exell tolerates a wide range of soil pH levels, but neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0) is ideal.
Watering Needs
The Quisqualis exannulata (O.Hoffm.) Exell plant is tolerant of moderate to high levels of moisture, but it is essential not to let its roots sit in water. Ideally, water the plant every week or every other day during the growing season while cutting back during fall and winter.
Fertilization
To maintain the plant's health and promote healthy growth, fertilize two to three times a year. Use a slow-release fertilizer that includes essential micronutrients. Avoid fertilizing quaisqualis exannulata (O.Hoffm.) Exell during the winter dormant period.
Pruning
Prune Quisqualis exannulata (O.Hoffm.) Exell in early spring to keep it in shape. Cut back the plant to a third of its size to reduce the height and promote fuller branches. Trim out any deadwood or crossing branches to maintain ventilation and reduce the risk of pest infestation.
Propagation of Quisqualis exannulata
Quisqualis exannulata can be propagated through several methods including:
Seed propagation
Seeds of Quisqualis exannulata should be collected from ripe fruits. The collected seeds can be placed in well-draining soil and germinated under suitable conditions. It is advisable to sow several seeds in a pot and thin the seedlings later on.
Cuttings propagation
Quisqualis exannulata can also be propagated through cuttings. Softwood cuttings can be taken during the growing season, typically when the plant has new growth. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and placed in well-draining soil. It is advisable to keep the cuttings in a humid environment until they have rooted.
Air layering propagation
Air layering is another method of propagating Quisqualis exannulata. This involves girding a branch of the plant, applying rooting hormone, and covering the area with moist sphagnum moss. The moss should be wrapped with plastic to maintain moisture levels. Once the roots have formed, the branch can be cut and planted in well-draining soil.
DIVISION PROPAGATION
Division is another method of propagating Quisqualis exannulata. This is best done during the dormant season when the plant is not actively growing. The rootball should be carefully divided with a clean, sharp tool. Each division should have a portion of the stem and roots. The divisions can be potted in well-draining soil and watered thoroughly.
Overview of Quisqualis exannulata (O.Hoffm.) Exell
Quisqualis exannulata, commonly known as Rangoon creeper or Burma creeper, is a tropical, woody vine that belongs to the family Combretaceae. It is commonly grown for its beautiful and fragrant flowers that bloom in different shades of pink, red, and white.
Common Diseases of Quisqualis exannulata
Quisqualis exannulata can be affected by various diseases, including:
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes dark spots on the leaves, which eventually turn yellow and drop off. It can be managed by removing the infected leaves and improving air circulation around the plant.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by fungi that infect the roots, causing them to rot. Overwatering and poor drainage are the main causes of root rot. The best way to manage this disease is to improve drainage and reduce watering.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves, which can cause them to turn yellow and drop. It can be managed by improving air circulation around the plant and spraying with a fungicide.
Common Pests of Quisqualis exannulata
Some of the common pests that can affect Quisqualis exannulata are:
- Aphids: These small insects suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to curl and yellow. They can be managed by spraying with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests also suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and brown. They can be managed by spraying with neem oil or a miticide.
- Caterpillars: These pests are known to feed on the leaves of Quisqualis exannulata, causing significant damage. They can be managed by picking them off by hand or using a natural insecticide.
Regular inspection of plants, good cultural practices, and prompt action when diseases and pest infestations are detected are key to managing pests and diseases in Quisqualis exannulata.
