Origin
Rotheca myricoides (Hochst.) Steane & Mabb. var. eleanorae (R.Fern.) R.Fern. belongs to the Verbenaceae family and is native to East Africa.
Common names
The plant is commonly known as the butterfly bush, blue glorybower, or Rotheca plant.
Uses
The Rotheca plant has medicinal uses in traditional African medicine. It is used to treat respiratory ailments such as coughs, bronchitis, and asthma. The plant also has anti-inflammatory properties and is used to relieve swelling and pain caused by arthritis. In addition, the plant is used in the treatment of skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
General appearance
The Rotheca plant is a woody shrub that can grow up to three meters tall. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and lanceolate, with slightly serrated edges. The plant produces fragrant, violet-blue flowers that bloom in clusters during the summer months. The flowers are an attraction for butterflies and other pollinators.
Light Requirement
The plant Rotheca myricoides (Hochst.) Steane & Mabb. var. eleanorae (R.Fern.) R.Fern. requires moderate to bright sunlight for optimal growth. It is known to tolerate partial shade but thrives in full sun. Direct sunlight exposure for prolonged periods may lead to leaf scorching, so a shaded environment during peak afternoon hours is recommended.
Temperature Requirement
The plant requires warm temperatures for optimal growth. The ideal temperature range is between 20°C to 30°C. Temperatures below 10°C can be fatal to the plant while temperatures above 35°C can lead to leaf burn and stunted growth. It is, therefore, important to maintain the appropriate temperature range for the plant to thrive.
Soil Requirement
The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. A soil pH between 5.5 and 6.5 is optimal for growth. The soil should be rich in organic matter, fertile and able to retain enough moisture to sustain the plant during dry spells. Heavy soils that do not drain well should be avoided as they can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.
Cultivation methods for Rotheca myricoides (Hochst.) Steane & Mabb. var. eleanorae (R.Fern.) R.Fern.
Firstly, Rotheca myricoides (Hochst.) Steane & Mabb. var. eleanorae (R.Fern.) R.Fern. prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It is essential to select a suitable location with full or partial sun exposure, and sheltered from strong winds that can damage the plant.
It is preferable to cultivate the plant using cuttings rather than from seeds due to their higher success rate. Taking cuttings is best done in early spring or autumn when the plant is not actively growing.
The cuttings should be around 10cm long, with the bottom leaves removed, and planted in a pot with well-draining soil. It is crucial not to overwater the cuttings as it may lead to fungal diseases. The pot should be kept in partial shade until the cuttings grow roots.
Watering needs for Rotheca myricoides (Hochst.) Steane & Mabb. var. eleanorae (R.Fern.) R.Fern.
The plant prefers to be kept evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Allow the soil to dry slightly between watering, and take care not to wet the leaves as it may cause diseases. During the growing season, the plant may need frequent watering due to rapid growth and warmer temperatures.
However, during the winter, it is best to reduce watering to avoid waterlogging and root rot.
Fertilization for Rotheca myricoides (Hochst.) Steane & Mabb. var. eleanorae (R.Fern.) R.Fern.
Rotheca myricoides (Hochst.) Steane & Mabb. var. eleanorae (R.Fern.) R.Fern. requires regular fertilization to achieve optimal growth and flowering. Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season or as per the manufacturer's instructions.
The frequency of fertilization needs to decrease during the winter months. Over-fertilization may lead to leaf burn and reduced flowering.
Pruning Rotheca myricoides (Hochst.) Steane & Mabb. var. eleanorae (R.Fern.) R.Fern.
Rotheca myricoides (Hochst.) Steane & Mabb. var. eleanorae (R.Fern.) R.Fern. requires regular pruning to maintain a healthy shape and promote optimal growth. Prune the plant after flowering or at the beginning of the growing season to remove dead and diseased wood and encourage new growth.
The plant may require more severe pruning to rejuvenate if it has become too woody and large. Severe pruning should be done in early spring before growth starts.
Propagation of Rotheca myricoides (Hochst.) Steane & Mabb. var. eleanorae (R.Fern.) R.Fern.
Rotheca myricoides (Hochst.) Steane & Mabb. var. eleanorae (R.Fern.) R.Fern. can be propagated through various methods such as:
1. Seed propagation
Seeds of Rotheca myricoides (Hochst.) Steane & Mabb. var. eleanorae (R.Fern.) R.Fern. can be collected from mature fruits. The seeds must be cleaned and sown in well-draining soil. The seedlings should be kept in high humidity and partial shade until they are established. After that, they can be transferred to a permanent location.
2. Cutting propagation
Rotheca myricoides (Hochst.) Steane & Mabb. var. eleanorae (R.Fern.) R.Fern. can be propagated through hardwood or softwood cuttings. The cuttings should be taken in the morning and treated with a rooting hormone. Then, the cuttings should be planted in a well-draining soil mixture and kept in high humidity and partial shade until roots are established.
3. Division propagation
Rotheca myricoides (Hochst.) Steane & Mabb. var. eleanorae (R.Fern.) R.Fern. can be propagated through division of mature plants. Divide the plant carefully and ensure each section has an adequate amount of roots. Transplant them into individual containers or directly into the ground, and keep the plant in partial shade and high humidity until it is established.
Disease Management
Rotheca myricoides var. eleanorae is relatively resistant to diseases, but still requires proper management to avoid contamination by various pathogens that can affect its growth. Some of the common diseases that affect this plant include:
- Leaf Spot: This disease is characterized by small, circular spots on leaves, which later enlarge and develop into brown, necrotic patches. To manage this disease, remove and dispose of infected leaves properly. Also, avoid watering the foliage, as moisture encourages the spread of the disease.
- Powdery Mildew: This disease affects the foliage, producing white powdery growth on the leaves. To manage this disease, remove and dispose of infected leaves properly. Also, ensure adequate ventilation around the plant, as poor air circulation increases the spread of the disease.
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by fungi that infect the roots, causing them to rot. To manage this disease, practice proper watering techniques, ensuring that the soil is well-drained. Avoid overwatering the plant, as this creates a conducive environment for the growth of fungi.
Pest Management
Several pests can attack Rotheca myricoides var. eleanorae, negatively affecting its growth and development. Some of the common pests that affect this plant include:
- Aphids: These pests feed on the sap of the plant, causing the leaves to curl and distort. To manage these pests, spray the plant with a mixture of water and a mild soap solution. Alternatively, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to eliminate the pests.
- Spider Mites: These pests are tiny and difficult to detect, but their presence can be seen as fine webs on the plants. They feed on the sap of the plant, causing the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. To manage these pests, spray the plant with water to dislodge them. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to eliminate these pests.
- Mealybugs: These pests are white, cottony insects that suck the sap of the plant. They cause the leaves to turn yellow and distort. To manage these pests, use a soft-bristled brush to remove them from the plant. Alternatively, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to eliminate the pests.
