Overview of Sauromatum abyssinicum Schott
Sauromatum abyssinicum Schott, commonly known as Ethiopian lily or voodoo lily, is a perennial plant belonging to the family Araceae. It is native to Ethiopia but can be found in other parts of Africa and Asia, including India and Malaysia.
Appearance of Sauromatum abyssinicum Schott
The plant grows from a corm, which is a modified stem found underground. It produces a single, tall stem that reaches up to 2 meters in height. The stem is green with reddish-brown speckles. The leaves are large and trifoliate, measuring up to 60 cm long and 30 cm wide. They are green with a waxy texture and have a unique palmate shape with undulating edges.
The most distinctive feature of the plant is its inflorescence, which is a long spadix surrounded by a large, funnel-shaped spathe. The outer surface of the spathe is green with white stripes, while its inner side is deep purple or maroon. The spadix is also purple and covered in tiny, white flowers that emit an unpleasant odor that resembles rotting meat. This smell attracts carrion flies that help pollinate the plant.
Uses of Sauromatum abyssinicum Schott
Sauromatum abyssinicum Schott is primarily grown as an ornamental plant for its unique and striking appearance. It is well-suited for gardens, rockeries, and for adding drama to indoor spaces. The plant is not used for culinary purposes, as it has an unpleasant odor.
Additionally, in Ethiopia, the corms of S. abyssinicum Schott are boiled, sliced, and fried as a delicacy. The root and leaves are also used for medicinal purposes. The root is used as a remedy for stomachache, while the leaves are used to treat snakebites and scorpion stings.
Light Requirements
Sauromatum abyssinicum Schott thrives best under full to partial shade and cannot withstand direct sunlight as it will scorch its leaves.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows best in temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Temperatures below 15°C (59°F) may cause stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and even death of the plant. On the other hand, temperatures above 35°C (95°F) may also cause damages.
Soil Requirements
Sauromatum abyssinicum Schott prefers rich, moist, and well-draining soils. The soil pH should range from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 being the optimal range. Incorporating organic matter into the soil before planting can help to improve drainage, soil structure, and provide essential nutrients for growth.
Cultivation Methods
Sauromatum abyssinicum Schott is best grown in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers partial shade to dappled sunlight and thrives in a warm and humid environment. It is important to select a planting location that offers protection from the wind and hot afternoon sun rays.
The plant grows from a corm, which should be planted in the soil with the top protruding slightly above the soil surface. When planting multiple corms, ensure they are spaced at least 12 inches apart to allow enough room for them to grow freely.
Watering Needs
Sauromatum abyssinicum Schott requires regular watering to maintain even soil moisture. Water the plant deeply once a week, ensuring the soil is moist to a depth of at least 6 inches. During periods of drought or hot weather, increase the frequency of watering to prevent the soil from drying out completely. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to rotting of the corm and other fungal diseases.
Fertilization
The plant benefits from regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and flowering. Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 and apply once a month during the growing season. Follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding the recommended dosage and application methods.
Pruning
Sauromatum abyssinicum Schott does not require regular pruning. Remove any dead leaves or stems as soon as you notice them to prevent the plant from becoming susceptible to pests and diseases. In some cases, the plant may produce offsets that can be separated from the parent plant and grown separately.
Propagation of Sauromatum abyssinicum Schott
Sauromatum abyssinicum Schott is commonly propagated through seeds, offsets or corm division. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, but usually corm division is the easiest and most successful method.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation by seeds is not common because the plants usually do not produce seeds easily, and even if they do, they have low germination rates. If you do decide to propagate by seeds, wait for the fruits to turn red before harvesting them. The fruit should be left to mature and dry for several weeks.
After the fruit has dried, collect the seeds and soak them in water for 48 hours. Plant them in a well-draining potting mix, and keep them moist but not soggy. Maintain a warm and humid environment, and the seeds should germinate in about 2-3 weeks.
Propagation by Offsets
Propagation by offsets is a common method for Sauromatum abyssinicum Schott. The "offsets" are also known as bulbils, and they grow on short stems at the base of the parent plant. Wait until the bulbils are at least 2 inches tall before separating them from the parent plant.
Using a sharp and clean knife, gently cut the bulbils off the parent plant, taking care not to damage the roots. Plant the bulbils in well-draining soil, with the top of the bulbil just above the soil surface. Keep them moist and warm, and they should start to grow roots in a few weeks.
Propagation by Corm Division
Propagation by corm division is the easiest and most reliable method. It's best to do this during the dormant period, which is usually in the fall or early winter. Dig up the corm and remove any dead or damaged leaves. Gently separate the corms, making sure that each division has at least one growing point or bud.
Plant the corms in well-draining soil, with the growing point facing upwards, and cover them with about 1-2 inches of soil. Keep them moist and warm, and new shoots should appear in a few weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Sauromatum Abyssinicum Schott Plant
Sauromatum abyssinicum Schott is a tropical plant that is commonly cultivated for its unique appearance. However, just like any other plant species, it is vulnerable to a range of diseases and pests that can lead to stunted growth, wilting, and even death if left unmanaged. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that can affect Sauromatum abyssinicum Schott, and how to manage them.
Common Diseases
1. Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the plant's roots, causing them to become brown, mushy, and eventually die. It is usually caused by overwatering or poor drainage. To manage this disease, ensure that the plant is not overwatered or sitting in waterlogged soil. Improve drainage by adding perlite or sand to the soil, and ensure that the plant is growing in a well-draining pot.
2. Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease caused by the Cercospora fungus. It presents as circular, brown spots on the leaves of the plant, which can eventually merge to form larger patches. To manage this disease, remove and destroy any infected leaves, ensure adequate air circulation around the plant, and avoid overhead watering. Fungicidal sprays can also be used to control the spread of the disease.
Common Pests
1. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause damage to the plant by sucking out the sap from the leaves, causing them to become discolored and dry. They thrive in hot, dry conditions. To manage spider mites, increase the humidity around the plant by misting the leaves regularly. You can also use a homemade solution of water and soap to spray the leaves, which can help reduce the pest population.
2. Mealybugs: Mealybugs are soft-bodied insects that feed on the plant sap, causing the leaves to turn yellow and eventually fall off. They also produce a sticky substance that attracts ants. To manage mealybugs, you can use an insecticidal soap spray or wipe the leaves with alcohol-soaked cotton swabs. You can also introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings to control their population.
By monitoring the plant regularly and adopting the appropriate disease and pest management practices, you can help protect your Sauromatum abyssinicum Schott plant from potential damage and ensure that it grows healthy and strong.
