Introduction
Remusatia vivipara (Roxb.) Schott is a tropical plant from the Araceae family. It is found in the south and southeast regions of Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam.Common Names
Remusatia vivipara is known by various common names in different parts of the world. In India, it is called 'Dalzili' or 'Dappalam.' The plant is known as 'Punpulu' in Sri Lanka, 'Halakupok' in Bangladesh, and 'Khechuri' in Bhutan. In other countries such as Myanmar, it is referred to as 'Swe Kyet Yet' or 'Pan Yet,' and in Thailand, it is called 'Poi Ban.'General Appearance
The Remusatia vivipara plant grows to a height of about 20–30 cm and has a width of about 30 cm. It has a bulb or corm that looks like a small potato. The leaves are heart-shaped and can grow up to about 20 cm in length and width. The plant produces small, white flowers that are enclosed within a green, tube-like structure known as a spathe.Uses
In some parts of India, the corms of Remusatia vivipara are used as a food source and are eaten after boiling or roasting. The plant has medicinal uses as well, as the paste made from the corms can be applied externally to treat skin diseases. Additionally, the plant is used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat inflammation, gastric problems, and infections. Its bulbils, which are tiny plantlets that grow on the leaves, are used as an ingredient in various traditional dishes in Northeast India. In conclusion, Remusatia vivipara is an important plant in Asia, with various traditional uses and significant cultural value. Its unique appearance and versatility make it an interesting plant worthy of further study and conservation.Light Requirements
Remusatia vivipara (Roxb.) Schott needs bright but indirect light for optimal growth. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and cause damage to the plant. Ideally, the plant should be placed in a spot where it receives bright light for a few hours each day, but is protected from the hot afternoon sun.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Remusatia vivipara (Roxb.) Schott is between 15°C to 27°C. Anything below 10°C can cause the plant to enter a state of dormancy, while high temperatures above 30°C can cause stress and damage. In colder climates, the plant can be grown indoors in a heated room or in a greenhouse.
Soil Requirements
Remusatia vivipara (Roxb.) Schott prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, as too much water can cause root rot. A soil mix made up of a combination of peat moss, perlite, and sand can provide the ideal growing conditions for this plant.
Cultivation
Remusatia vivipara, commonly known as Indian swamp lily or snake lily, is a hardy plant that can thrive in various conditions. It can grow in full sun or partial shade, in moist or dry soil, and can tolerate both acidic and alkaline soils. The plant can be propagated through seed or division of bulbs.
When planting, choose a location with good drainage and soil rich in organic matter. Plant the bulbs around 5 to 8 cm deep and ensure that the growing tip faces upwards. The plant should be watered immediately after planting.
Watering Needs
Remusatia vivipara requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. The plant needs more water during the growing season and should be watered at least twice a week or when the soil feels dry to the touch. During the dormant period, water should be reduced, but the soil should not be allowed to dry out completely.
Fertilization
Fertilizing the plant helps promote healthy growth and flowering. A balanced fertilizer, with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, should be applied every two to three months during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilization, as it can cause the plant to produce more leaves than flowers.
Pruning
Remusatia vivipara does not require extensive pruning, but you can deadhead old flowers to encourage new growth. The plant can also be cut back to ground level after the first frost or when foliage starts to yellow. This encourages the plant to go dormant and conserves energy for the next season.
Propagation of Remusatia vivipara (Roxb.) Schott
Remusatia vivipara, commonly known as the mukhi in India, can be propagated through various methods such as seed propagation, leaf cuttings and division of rhizomes.
Seed propagation
Remusatia vivipara can be propagated through seeds that are collected from the ripe fruits. The seeds need to be sown in well-draining soil, kept moist and warm until germination occurs. However, propagating through seeds is not a preferred method as it takes a longer time for the plant to establish itself.
Leaf cuttings
The easiest way to propagate Remusatia vivipara is through leaf cuttings. Cut a mature leaf with its petiole from the mother plant. Ensure that the petiole is long enough to be planted in the soil. Allow the leaf to dry slightly before planting it in the soil. Place the cutting horizontally, with the top part exposed. Keep the soil moist and warm, and new shoots should emerge from the base of the leaf within a few weeks.
Division of rhizomes
Remusatia vivipara can also be propagated through division of rhizomes. Separate the rhizomes carefully and plant them in well-draining soil. Ensure that each rhizome has at least one shoot and sufficient roots. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged until new growth appears.
Propagation of Remusatia vivipara is easy and can be done through various methods, making it a popular choice among gardeners and plant enthusiasts.
Disease Management
Remusatia vivipara is generally resistant to diseases, but certain conditions can make it susceptible to fungal and bacterial infections. Here are some common diseases that might affect the plant:
- Root Rot: This is a fungal disease that can be caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil. To manage it, reduce watering frequency, improve soil drainage, and remove the affected plant parts.
- Leaf Spot: This is a fungal disease that can cause lesions on the leaves. To manage it, remove the affected leaves, improve air circulation around the plant, and avoid overhead watering.
- Bacterial Blight: This is a bacterial disease that can cause leaf spots and blighting of the plant. To manage it, remove the affected plant parts, avoid overcrowding, and improve air circulation.
Pest Management
Remusatia vivipara can also be affected by pests. Here are some common pests that might affect the plant:
- Mealybugs: These are small, white insects that can be found on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage them, remove them manually or use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Mites: These are tiny pests that can cause a stippled appearance on the leaves. To manage them, use an insecticidal soap or apply a miticide.
- Slugs: These are common pests that can damage the leaves and stem of the plant. To manage them, use physical barriers like copper tape or diatomaceous earth around the plant, or apply slug bait.
