Origin
Rumex hararensis Dammer is a plant species that belongs to the Polygonaceae family. It is native to Eastern and Southern Africa, and it is most commonly found in Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe.
Common Names
The plant is commonly referred to as Harare dock, Harare sorrel, or African dock. In several regions in Ethiopia, it is popularly known as Gadde-maala, while in Kenya, it is called Mbarubaini.
Uses
Rumex hararensis Dammer is an edible plant that is commonly used in traditional medicine. The leaves of the plant are usually boiled and taken orally to treat diarrhea, abdominal pains, and menstrual cramps. In addition, the plant has been found to have potent antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, making it ideal for treating infections and inflammations.
The plant also has several non-medicinal uses. The leaves are often used to make a sour-tasting tea that is particularly popular in Ethiopia. Furthermore, the plant is used as a source of fodder for livestock, particularly in Zimbabwe.
General Appearance
Rumex hararensis Dammer is a perennial plant with a fleshy rhizome and thin taproot. It can grow up to 1.5 m tall, and its stems are usually green or reddish-brown in colour. The plant has a rosette of leaves at its base, and the leaves are usually lance-shaped with a heart-shaped base. The leaves are approximately 6-30 cm long and 3-10 cm wide.
The flowers of the plant are usually small and greenish-red in colour. They are arranged in clusters on tall, branched stems that emerge from the rosette of leaves. The plant usually flowers between August and November.
Light Requirements
Rumex hararensis Dammer, commonly known as Harare dock, thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. It requires at least six hours of sunlight exposure every day to perform photosynthesis and grow optimally. Therefore, it is suitable for outdoor planting in areas that receive sufficient sunlight, such as gardens and fields.
Temperature Requirements
The growth of Rumex hararensis Dammer is optimal in warm climates with temperatures ranging between 20°C to 30°C. However, this plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from below freezing to high temperatures of up to 50°C. It goes dormant during winter and begins to grow once the temperatures increase in spring. Therefore, it is a suitable plant for year-round planting in regions with warm climates.
Soil Requirements
Rumex hararensis Dammer can grow in a variety of soils, but it thrives best in well-drained soils rich in organic matter. The soil should have a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 for optimal growth. Harare dock can withstand mildly acidic soils but does not tolerate highly alkaline soil. Soil with good water holding capacity is desirable for this plant. Additionally, Rumex hararensis Dammer can tolerate saline soils, making it a suitable plant for planting in regions with saline soils.
Cultivation of Rumex hararensis Dammer
Rumex hararensis Dammer, commonly known as the Harare dock, is a perennial herbaceous plant that grows best in sandy loam soils. It can be propagated by seeds or stem cuttings. Ensure that the soil pH is between 5.6 and 6.5 for optimum growth. Plant the seeds in a nursery bed and transplant seedlings when they are about four weeks old.
Watering Needs of Rumex hararensis Dammer
The plant requires moderate watering, especially during the hot and dry seasons. Provide water once or twice a week, and ensure that the soil is well-drained. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Fertilization of Rumex hararensis Dammer
The plant requires regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and development. Use organic fertilizers such as compost or well-rotted manure. Apply the fertilizers once a month during the growing season. Avoid applying too much fertilizer as it can cause damage to the plant.
Pruning of Rumex hararensis Dammer
Pruning the plant is essential to promote compact growth and prevent it from becoming leggy. Prune the plant once every year during the dormant season by removing the dead or damaged leaves and stems. Pinch off the tips of the stems to encourage branching, which will lead to a fuller and healthier plant.
Propagation of Rumex hararensis Dammer
Rumex hararensis Dammer is a perennial plant species that belongs to the Polygonaceae family. It is commonly known as Harare dock, and it is native to Africa, specifically Zimbabwe.
Propagation methods
Rumex hararensis Dammer can be propagated using two main methods:
1. Seeds
The most common propagation method for Rumex hararensis Dammer is through seeds. The plant produces small, black seeds that are easily collected when mature. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil, covered with a thin layer of soil, and kept moist until germination occurs. It usually takes two to four weeks for the seeds to germinate.
2. Root division
Rumex hararensis Dammer can also be propagated through root division. This method involves digging up an established plant and dividing its roots into smaller sections. Each section should have at least one healthy shoot and a well-developed root system. The divided sections should be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist until new growth appears.
Propagation of Rumex hararensis Dammer can be done throughout the year, but the best time to propagate is in the spring or early fall when the temperatures are mild, and the soil is moist. With proper care and maintenance, Rumex hararensis Dammer can be a beautiful addition to any garden or landscape.
Disease Management
Rumex hararensis Dammer is quite susceptible to different diseases, which may affect its growth and yield. The following are some of the common diseases that can affect the plant:
- Leaf Rust: This fungal disease forms rusty brown spots on the leaves, which eventually turn yellow and die. To control its spread, infected plants should be removed, and fungicides applied.
- Anthracnose: This disease causes dark, sunken lesions on the leaves, stem, and flowers. Infected plants should be removed, and fungicides applied to prevent its spread.
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by fungi that attack the roots, causing them to rot. Overwatering and poor drainage are the main causes of root rot. To manage this disease, maintaining a well-drained soil and avoiding waterlogged conditions is important.
Pest Management
Rumex hararensis Dammer is often attacked by several pests, which may cause significant damage to the plant. The following are some of the common pests that attack the plant:
- Aphids: These pests suck sap from the leaves, causing them to curl and turn yellow. To manage their spread, regular checking, and removing infected plants, and using insecticidal soap are effective methods.
- Leafhoppers: These pests cause stippling or mottling on the leaves, diminishing the plant's overall growth. To prevent their spread, using insecticides and removing infected plants is important.
- Spider mites: These pests cause webbing on the leaves, yellowing, and stunted growth of the plant. To manage their spread, applying a miticide and removing infested plants is essential.
In conclusion, managing diseases and pests in the cultivation of Rumex hararensis Dammer is crucial to ensure a healthy yield. Natural methods, like maintaining proper soil conditions, regular checking, and the use of organic pesticides and fungicides, are effective in controlling their spread and reducing damage.
