Origin and Common names
Rafnia angulata Thunb. subsp. humilis (Eckl. & Zeyh.) G.J.Campbell & B.-E.van Wyk is a plant species native to southern Africa, particularly South Africa, Lesotho, and Swaziland. It is commonly known as the "Kleinbokbossie" or "Bergbiesie" in Afrikaans and "Small buck bush" in English.
General Appearance
The plant is a small, evergreen shrub that typically grows up to 20 cm high and 60 cm wide. Its stems are woody and reddish-brown, while its branches are erect or ascending. The leaves are opposite, small, and ovate. They are olive-green with a leathery texture and have tiny glandular dots on them. The flowers are small and white, with a diameter of about 4 mm. They are borne in clusters in the leaf axils and appear from summer to autumn (December to May).
Uses
The plant has several medicinal and cultural uses. The leaves and stems are used to make a herbal infusion, which is believed to relieve stomach ailments, including indigestion and cramps. The infusion is also used to alleviate coughs and colds. The plant is also believed to have antimicrobial properties. In some African cultures, the plant is used in traditional ceremonies and is believed to have protective powers against evil spirits. Small buck bush is also used in landscaping in rockery gardens and as an edging plant due to its small size and attractive appearance.
Light Requirements
Rafnia angulata Thunb. subsp. humilis (Eckl. & Zeyh.) G.J.Campbell & B.-E.van Wyk requires full sunlight to thrive. The plant needs approximately six hours of sunlight each day. However, it is essential to protect the plant from intense afternoon sun by providing shade during that time. The shading can be provided by trees, buildings, or other plants.
Temperature Requirements
The plant requires warm temperatures to grow well. The optimal temperature range for Rafnia angulata Thunb. subsp. humilis (Eckl. & Zeyh.) G.J.Campbell & B.-E.van Wyk is between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius. The plant is not tolerant of frost and cannot survive at temperatures below 0 degrees Celsius. It is essential to protect the plant from sudden temperature changes and drought as it can lead to plant stress and damage.
Soil Requirements
The plant does well in well-draining soils. The optimum soil pH ranges from 5.0 to 7.5. The soil texture should be sandy-loam or loamy-sand. The plant is not tolerant of heavy or compacted soils, poor drainage, or prolonged waterlogging. Adding organic matter to the soil can improve its structure, water-holding capacity, and nutrient content. Regular soil testing is essential to determine the soil's nutrient levels and pH, and to adjust fertilizer application accordingly.
Cultivation Methods
Rafnia angulata Thunb. subsp. humilis (Eckl. & Zeyh.) G.J.Campbell & B.-E.van Wyk is a hardy plant that can thrive in different soil types, including sandy and loamy soils. It prefers an area that receives full sunlight and can tolerate partial shade.
Propagation of Rafnia angulata Thunb. subsp. humilis can be done through seeds or cuttings. Seeds can be sown directly into the soil or in trays. To improve germination success, treat the seeds with a fungicide. Cuttings are obtained from stem tips and should be treated with a rooting hormone to encourage root growth.
Watering Needs
Rafnia angulata Thunb. subsp. humilis requires moderate watering. Water the plant when the soil is dry, but do not overwater to avoid root rot. During the hot summer months, water more frequently to keep the soil moist. However, take care not to flood the soil as this may damage the plant.
Fertilization
Use a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10, during the growing season to promote growth and flowering. Apply according to the manufacturer's instructions, and avoid over-fertilization as this may damage the plant. Fertilize every two weeks or as needed.
Pruning
To maintain the size and shape of Rafnia angulata Thunb. subsp. humilis, prune back the plant after flowering. Cut back the stems by one-third of their length. This encourages the growth of new stems and promotes better flowering the next season. Cutting back the plant also helps to remove dead or damaged parts, increasing overall health.
Propagation of Rafnia angulata Thunb. subsp. humilis
Rafnia angulata Thunb. subsp. humilis (Eckl. & Zeyh.) G.J.Campbell & B.-E.van Wyk is a popular plant that is propagated through different methods, depending on the grower's preferences. Here are some of the common propagation methods used for Rafnia angulata Thunb. subsp. humilis:
Propagating from seeds
Propagation of Rafnia angulata Thunb. subsp. humilis from seeds is relatively easy. The ideal time to collect seeds is during autumn when the capsules have matured and burst open. Sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix, cover them lightly with soil, and water them gently. Keep the potting mix moist but not overly wet. The seeds typically take about two weeks to germinate, and once the seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them into individual containers.
Propagating from stem cuttings
Propagation of Rafnia angulata Thunb. subsp. humilis from stem cuttings is a quick and easy method. Take a 10-15 cm long stem cutting from a healthy plant, making sure to include a few leaves. Dip the cutting in hormone rooting powder and plant it in a potting mix, keeping the soil moist. Place the pot in a shaded area, and the cutting should develop roots within a few weeks.
Propagating from division
Rafnia angulata Thunb. subsp. humilis can also be propagated through division. This method is suitable for mature plants that have several stems. Dig up the plant carefully and separate the stems using a sharp and sterilized knife. Each stem should have a decent amount of roots attached to it. Replant the individual stems in their separate containers and water the newly planted potting mix.
Disease Management
The most common diseases that affect Rafnia angulata Thunb. subsp. humilis are fungal infections, such as leaf spot and root rot. To prevent these diseases, it is important to maintain good soil drainage and avoid over-watering. Additionally, it is helpful to regularly remove any dead or diseased plant matter.
If fungal infections do occur, fungicides can be used to treat the plant. However, it is important to carefully follow the instructions on the product label and to use protective gear to prevent contact with the chemicals.
Pest Management
The most common pests that can affect Rafnia angulata Thunb. subsp. humilis are spider mites and scale insects. Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause yellowing and eventual wilting of the leaves, while scale insects, which look like small bumps on the stems and leaves, can cause stunted growth and yellowing.
To manage spider mites, it is helpful to increase humidity around the plant and to regularly spray it with a hose. For particularly severe infestations, insecticides may be necessary. Scale insects can be managed through the use of natural predators, such as ladybugs, or through the application of horticultural oil sprays.
It is important to regularly inspect plants for signs of disease or pest infestations and to take prompt action to prevent the spread of these issues to other plants in the area.
