Origin and Common Names
Ruellia adhaerens Forssk. is a flowering plant species belonging to the family Acanthaceae. It is native to Africa and the Middle East and commonly known as the "glue plant" or "sticky ruellia".
Appearance
The plant grows up to 50cm in height with hairy stems that feature opposite and lanceolate leaves. Its attractive violet flowers bloom between July and November in the Northern Hemisphere.
The plant is named after the French physician and botanist, Jean de La Ruelle, who contributed to the 16th-century herbal of Rembert Dodoens.
Uses
The plant has several medicinal properties such as reducing fever, treating snakebites, and controlling blood sugar levels. It is also used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes due to its colorful flowers.
The common name, "glue plant," derives from its highly viscous and sticky sap, which is used as a glue by bushmen to attach arrowheads to arrows. The sap has been used in traditional African medicine to treat skin ailments and is a component in African rainmaking rituals.
Despite its numerous uses, the plant is considered an invasive species and is classified as a noxious weed in some parts of the world such as Australia and Hawaii.
Light Requirements
Ruellia adhaerens Forssk. thrives in areas with full sun to partial shade. However, it cannot tolerate too much shade as it could lead to weak and spindly growth.
Temperature Requirements
Warm temperatures are ideal for Ruellia adhaerens Forssk. to grow and bloom. It prefers a temperature range of 65-80°F (18-27°C) during the day and 55-65°F (13-18°C) at night.
Soil Requirements
Ruellia adhaerens Forssk. grows well in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH range of 5.5-7.5. Additionally, the plant can tolerate poor soil conditions, but its growth may be stunted.
Cultivation methods
The plant Ruellia adhaerens Forssk. is a fast-growing, low-maintenance plant that is relatively easy to cultivate. It can be grown both indoors and outdoors in a range of soil types and conditions. To begin cultivation, start by selecting a location that receives partial to full sunlight and has well-draining soil.
Once you have selected a location, plant the seeds or seedlings 1-2 inches deep in the soil. Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist. Ruellia adhaerens Forssk. typically grows to a height of 1-3 feet.
Watering needs
To keep the soil moist for the plant, water Ruellia adhaerens Forssk. regularly. Pay attention to the soil's moisture level and water when it feels dry to avoid over or under watering. When watering, ensure that the soil top layer is adequately soaked and that water gets to the root system. Ruellia adhaerens Forssk. prefers moderate to high humidity levels, so it is essential to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization
Ruellia adhaerens Forssk. responds well to regular fertilization. You may apply balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to maintain healthy growth. Be careful not to over-fertilize, which may cause the plant's leaves to turn brown or yellow and drop off.
The use of organic-based fertilizers is recommended, as they help improve the soil structure. Alternatively, you can also use controlled-release fertilizers, which you apply less frequently and in small quantities.
Pruning
Ruellia adhaerens Forssk. does not require extensive pruning. However, occasional trimming to remove dead leaves, stems, or flowers can help the plant maintain its shape and stimulate growth. Pruning can also be done to control the plant's spread and increase air circulation around the plant's canopy.
When pruning, use sharp and clean pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant. Cut the stem slightly above the node and prune selectively to preserve the plant's growth habit.
Propagation of Ruellia adhaerens Forssk.
Ruellia adhaerens Forssk. is commonly propagated via seeds and vegetative cuttings.
Propagation via seeds:
The seeds of Ruellia adhaerens Forssk. are small and elongated. They can be collected from mature fruits that have turned brown and dry. The collected seeds should be dried and stored in a cool and dry place until the time of sowing.
Sowing of Ruellia adhaerens Forssk. can be done directly in the field or in containers. If container sowing is preferred, then the seeds should be sown in a mixture of well-draining soil and organic matter. The sowing should be done at a depth of 2-3 times the size of the seed. The seeds should be watered regularly to maintain a moist environment. Germination of the seeds usually takes about 1-2 weeks.
Propagation via vegetative cuttings:
Ruellia adhaerens Forssk. can also be propagated via stem cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from healthy parent plants, preferably in the morning when the plant tissues are turgid. The cuttings should be about 8-10 cm long and should have at least 2-3 nodes. The lower leaves should be removed and the lower end of the cutting should be dipped in a rooting hormone.
The cuttings should be planted in a mixture of well-draining soil and organic matter and should be watered regularly to maintain a moist environment. The cuttings should root in 3-4 weeks and can then be transplanted to their final growing location.
Disease and Pest Management for Ruellia adhaerens Forssk.
Ruellia adhaerens Forssk., also known as creeping ruellia, is a hardy plant that is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, there are some common pests and diseases that may affect this plant, and these should be monitored and managed to ensure that the plant remains healthy and productive.
Common Pests
The most common pests that can affect Ruellia adhaerens Forssk. are aphids and spider mites. These pests can be problematic because they can cause damage to the leaves and stems, which can impede the plant's growth and reduce its ability to produce flowers and seeds.
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of plants. They can be identified by their pear-shaped bodies and long, thin antennae. To manage aphids, you can use a strong stream of water to wash them off the plant, or use an insecticidal soap or neem oil. Ladybugs and lacewings are natural predators of aphids and can help to control their population.
Spider mites are tiny arachnids that can also feed on the sap of plants. They are difficult to see with the naked eye, but can be identified by the webs they spin on the leaves and stems. To manage spider mite infestations, you can use a strong stream of water to wash them off the plant or use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or horticultural oil. Predatory mites are natural predators of spider mites and can be used to control their population.
Common Diseases
The most common diseases that can affect Ruellia adhaerens Forssk. are fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and stem rot. These diseases can be triggered by factors such as high humidity, poor air circulation, and over-watering, so it is important to provide the plant with the right growing conditions and take steps to prevent the conditions that are conducive to fungal growth.
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems of plants. To manage powdery mildew, you can remove infected leaves and use a fungicide or a solution of baking soda and water. It is also important to provide proper air circulation and avoid overcrowding plants.
Stem rot is a fungal disease that causes the stems of the plant to turn brown and mushy. To manage stem rot, you can remove infected stems and use a fungicide. It is also important to avoid over-watering the plant and to provide proper drainage.
Overall, by monitoring for pests and diseases and taking proactive steps to manage them, you can help to ensure that your Ruellia adhaerens Forssk. plants remain healthy and productive.
