Overview
Rollandia angustifolia (Hbd.) Rock is a plant species that belongs to the family Asteraceae. Native to the Philippines, it is found in the mountainous regions on the islands of Luzon, Mindoro, and Mindanao. It is commonly known as the “kikai” or “ikikai,” and is highly valued by the indigenous people for its medicinal properties.General Appearance
Rollandia angustifolia is a small, evergreen shrub that typically grows to a height of 2-4 meters. It has thin, elongated, and pointed leaves that are arranged alternately on the stem. The flowers are small and white, and are organized into clusters at the ends of the branches. The fruit is an achene (a dry, one-seeded fruit) with a pappus (a modified calyx) at the top that helps with dispersal.Common Uses
Rollandia angustifolia is a plant that has been used for centuries in Philippine traditional medicine. The leaves and roots are the most commonly used parts, and they are employed in a variety of ways. The roots are boiled to make a decoction that is used to treat diarrhea, dysentery, and stomach ache. A decoction of the leaves is used for severe headache and fever. The plant has also been used topically to treat skin conditions such as fungal infections, rashes, and hives.Conclusion
Rollandia angustifolia is a valuable plant that has a long history of medicinal use in the Philippines. It is also used for ornamental purposes, due to its attractive white flowers and slender leaves. While there is a lack of scientific research on its efficacy, the indigenous people's use and knowledge of the plant is a testament to its potential benefits.Light Requirements
Rollandia angustifolia requires bright, filtered light for optimal growth. Direct sunlight can damage the leaves and cause them to wilt or turn yellow. Place the plant near a window that receives indirect sunlight or use a sheer curtain to filter the light. Maintaining consistent light conditions will ensure healthy and vigorous growth.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Rollandia angustifolia is between 15°C to 28°C (59°F to 82°F). Temperatures below 10°C (50°F) should be avoided as they can damage the plant and slow down growth. Avoid placing the plant near drafty areas or air conditioning units that can cause sudden drops in temperature.
Soil Requirements
Rollandia angustifolia requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite works well for this plant. The soil pH should be slightly acidic, with a range between 5.5 to 6.5. It is important to allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering to prevent root rot and other soil-borne diseases. Regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer will provide the necessary nutrients for healthy growth.
Cultivation Methods
Rollandia angustifolia (Hbd.) Rock belongs to the family Melastomataceae and is commonly known as the narrow-leafed Rollandia. It is a shrub that grows up to 6 feet tall with narrow leaves and large pink flowers. The plant requires well-draining soil with adequate organic matter that can hold moisture without causing waterlogging. It grows best in partial shade and moderate temperatures, and should not be exposed to direct sunlight.
The plant can be propagated easily from softwood cuttings in the spring. It is recommended to remove all leaves except the top two, and ensure the cuttings are planted in pots with a well-drained soil mix. Water the cuttings sufficiently and keep them in a mist environment until they start to form roots. Afterward, the mature plant can be transplanted to the garden bed.
Watering Needs
The Rollandia angustifolia plant requires moderate watering and should not be overwatered. It should be watered regularly but allowed to dry out between watering intervals. It is recommended to use well-rotted compost or leaf litter for mulching to help retain moisture in the soil. The moisture level of the soil can be monitored with a moisture meter to avoid over or under-watering the plant.
Fertilization
The plant requires regular fertilization with a balanced N-P-K fertilizer (10-10-10) that is rich in micronutrients. The fertilizer should be applied during the growing season, which is typically from late spring to early fall. The application should be done once a month. It’s best practice to follow the manufacturer's instructions and avoid over-fertilization as it can damage the plant.
Pruning
The Rollandia angustifolia plant does not require heavy pruning. However, it is advisable to trim the plant occasionally to shape it. Dead and diseased branches should be pruned as soon as they are noticed to avoid the spread of disease. Pruning should be carried out during the spring season before the onset of new growth.
It is important to sterilize pruning tools with rubbing alcohol before use to prevent the spread of disease. Pruning should be done carefully to avoid damaging the healthy parts of the plant, and the cut surfaces treated with fungicide powder to prevent rotting.
Propagation of Rollandia angustifolia (Hbd.) Rock
Rollandia angustifolia (Hbd.) Rock is a beautiful and popular ornamental plant among gardeners. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is widely known for its showy flowers and strong fragrance. The plant is a native of Central America and is propagated through vegetative means.
Propagation methods
The following are some of the methods commonly used for propagating Rollandia angustifolia:
1. Stem cuttings
This is the most common method of propagating Rollandia angustifolia. Stem cuttings can be obtained from a healthy and mature plant and should be about 10 cm long. Remove all the leaves except the top two and plant the stem cutting in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and ensure that the cutting receives enough indirect sunlight. The roots should begin to grow within six to eight weeks.
2. Division
Rollandia angustifolia can be propagated through division. When the plant has grown too large, carefully remove it from the soil and divide the root ball into sections. Replant the sections in well-draining soil, water thoroughly, and keep the soil moist until new growth appears.
3. Seeds
Rollandia angustifolia can also be propagated through seeds. Collect the seeds from a mature plant, plant them in trays filled with well-draining soil, and keep the soil moist. The seeds should germinate within two to three weeks. After germination, transplant the seedlings to individual pots and maintain them until they are mature enough to be planted in the ground.
Propagation of Rollandia angustifolia can be done successfully using any of the above methods. With proper care and maintenance, the propagated plant will grow strong and healthy, producing beautiful, fragrant flowers.
Disease Management
Rollandia angustifolia is generally a healthy plant but can succumb to certain diseases. Some of the common diseases affecting this plant include:
- Leaf spot: This is characterized by the appearance of small, dark brown spots on the leaves. The spots may be accompanied by yellowing of the leaves. To manage this disease, remove all infected leaves and destroy them. You can also apply a fungicide to control the spread of the disease.
- Canker: This disease causes the appearance of sunken brown patches on the branches and stems of the plant. The affected areas may also be covered with a white or grayish mold. To manage this disease, remove all the infected areas and apply a fungicide to prevent its recurrence.
- Root rot: This is caused by the soil-borne fungus which causes the roots of the plant to rot, leading to wilting and eventual death of the plant. To prevent this disease, ensure that the plant is grown in well-drained soil and avoid overwatering.
Pest Management
Rollandia angustifolia is also prone to attack by certain pests. Some common pests that may affect this plant include:
- Aphids: These are small insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They can cause yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill the insects. You can also introduce natural predators such as ladybugs to control the infestation.
- Spider mites: These pests feed on the underside of the leaves, causing the leaves to turn yellow and eventually fall off. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a mixture of insecticidal soap and water, or introduce natural predators such as lacewings or predatory mites.
- Scale insects: These insects attach themselves to the stems and leaves of the plant, sucking its sap and causing it to wilt. To manage scale insects, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill the insects. You can also scrape off the scales from the plant using a soft brush or a cloth.
