Overview
Rollandia lanceolata Gaud. ssp. calycina (Cham.) Lammers is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is a popular plant due to its medicinal properties and attractive appearance, making it a sought after ornamental plant.
Origin
The plant is native to South America and can be found in countries such as Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as 'Marcela' in Argentina, 'Paraguay Tea' in Paraguay, and 'Erva-De-Macaé' in Brazil. It is also popularly known as 'Elephant's Foot' due to the shape of the roots of the plant.
General Appearance
Rollandia lanceolata Gaud. ssp. calycina (Cham.) Lammers is a small evergreen shrub that grows to a height of 0.5 to 1.5 m. The leaves of the plant are lanceolate and arranged alternately on the stem. The flowers are yellow or white and are borne in small clusters.
Uses
The plant has a variety of medicinal properties and is commonly used as a traditional remedy for several ailments such as respiratory problems, digestive disorders, and headaches, among others. The tea made from the leaves of the plant is known to have a calming effect and is often used as a sedative. The plant is also known to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In addition to its medicinal properties, Rollandia lanceolata Gaud. ssp. calycina (Cham.) Lammers is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscaping due to its attractive appearance.
Light Requirements
Rollandia lanceolata Gaud. ssp. calycina (Cham.) Lammers prefers bright, filtered light but can also tolerate partial shade and adapt to both indoor and outdoor growing conditions. It is recommended to avoid direct sunlight exposure as it can cause leaf scorching.
Temperature Requirements
Rollandia lanceolata Gaud. ssp. calycina (Cham.) Lammers grows optimally in temperatures ranging from 60°F to 85°F (15.5°C to 29.5°C). It can tolerate colder temperatures but not frost. Extreme heat and dry conditions can also loosen soil adherence of the plant.
Soil Requirements
Rollandia lanceolata Gaud. ssp. calycina (Cham.) Lammers thrives in soil that is well-draining, rich in organic matter, and has a pH range of 5.0 to 6.5. It is recommended that the soil has good moisture retention capacity but avoids waterlogging that can lead to root rot. The addition of perlite or sand can help increase soil drainage. Regular fertilization with a balanced N-P-K ratio can also improve the plant's growth and health.
Cultivation
The Rollandia lanceolata Gaud. ssp. calycina (Cham.) Lammers plant is native to Brazil and requires tropical to subtropical conditions. It can be grown outdoors but is also suitable for indoor cultivation, preferably near a bright window.
The plant prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter, such as a mix of peat, perlite, and vermiculite.
When planting, ensure there is enough space between the plants to allow for growth without overcrowding. Provide support for the stem when necessary to keep the plant upright.
Watering needs
The plant requires regular watering, keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Avoid allowing the soil to dry out completely, as this can cause the plant to wilt and die.
Water the plant sparingly during the winter when its growth rate slows down.
Use room temperature water to water the plant to avoid shocking its roots.
Fertilization
Fertilize Rollandia lanceolata Gaud. ssp. calycina (Cham.) Lammers plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
Use a fertilizer with a low concentration of nitrogen, as this can cause leaf distortion and reduce the plant's overall growth rate.
Reduce or stop fertilizing the plant during the winter months when its growth rate slows down.
Pruning
Rollandia lanceolata Gaud. ssp. calycina (Cham.) Lammers plant does not require regular pruning, but it may benefit from periodic trimming to keep it in shape and promote a bushier appearance.
Trim back the plant's stem tips to promote branching and remove any dead or diseased foliage.
Prune the plant during the growing season (spring and summer) to allow for fresh growth.
Disinfect the pruning tool before and after use to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation methods of Rollandia lanceolata Gaud. ssp. calycina (Cham.) Lammers
Rollandia lanceolata Gaud. ssp. calycina (Cham.) Lammers, commonly known as "taioba-brava" or "caruru-de-vara", is a perennial herbaceous plant native to Brazil that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant can be propagated by various methods to produce new individuals.
Propagation by seeds
The propagation of Rollandia lanceolata Gaud. ssp. calycina by seeds is an economical and simple method. The seeds should be harvested when the flowers have formed dry fruits. The fruits should be stored in a dry environment to prevent rotting. Later, the seeds can be extracted from the fruits and sown on a suitable substrate. The substrate should be kept moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes approximately 15 to 20 days. When the seedlings have developed their second set of leaves, they can be transplanted into individual containers or directly to the field.
Propagation by division
Propagation by division consists of dividing the plant into several parts, each of which can develop into a new individual. This method is suitable for plants that have clumps or rhizomatous stems. To propagate Rollandia lanceolata Gaud. ssp. calycina by division, the plant clump should be carefully dug up and divided into several parts using a sharp and clean cutting tool. Each part should have a portion of the roots and shoots. The divided parts should be planted in new containers or the field, where they can develop into new individuals.
Vegetative propagation
Rollandia lanceolata Gaud. ssp. calycina can also be propagated vegetatively by stem cuttings. This method involves taking a portion of the stem, usually 10 to 15 cm in length, and planting it in suitable substrate. The substrate should be kept moist until the cutting develops roots and new shoots, which usually takes approximately 20 to 30 days. Once the cutting has developed roots and new shoots, it can be transplanted into individual containers or directly to the field.
Disease Management
Rollandia lanceolata Gaud. ssp. calycina (Cham.) Lammers is a relatively disease-resistant plant. However, improper growing conditions can make it vulnerable to certain diseases. Here are some common diseases that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Fungal Diseases
Fungal diseases can be prevented by ensuring proper air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering. If the plant is infected, remove the affected leaves or stems and dispose of them properly. Fungicides can also be used to control the spread of fungal diseases.
Bacterial Diseases
Bacterial diseases can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering and ensuring proper ventilation. If the plant is infected, remove the affected parts and dispose of them properly to prevent the spread of the disease. Copper-based fungicides can be used to control bacterial infections.
Viral Diseases
Viral diseases are difficult to manage once the plant is infected. Prevention is the best approach, and this can be done by controlling the insect vector that spreads the virus. Infected plants should be removed and destroyed to prevent the spread of the virus to other plants.
Pest Management
Rollandia lanceolata Gaud. ssp. calycina (Cham.) Lammers can be affected by pests. Here are some common pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause damage to the plant by sucking sap from the leaves, which can cause discoloration and deformities. Spider mites can be prevented by ensuring proper humidity levels and avoiding dusty conditions. Pesticides and insecticidal soaps can be used to control spider mites.
Whiteflies
Whiteflies are small pests that can cause damage to the plant by sucking sap from the leaves. They also excrete a sticky substance that can attract other insects and cause mold growth on the plant. Whiteflies can be prevented by ensuring proper ventilation and avoiding over-fertilization. Insecticidal soaps and horticultural oils can be used to control whiteflies.
Thrips
Thrips are small pests that can cause damage to the plant by sucking sap from the leaves and flowers. They can also transmit viruses. Thrips can be prevented by ensuring proper ventilation and avoiding overcrowding of plants. Insecticidal soaps and neem oil can be used to control thrips.
