Origin
Sceletium emarcidum (Thunb.) L.Bolus ex H.Jacobsen, also known as "Kougoed," is a succulent plant species that belongs to the Aizoaceae family. This particular plant is native to the eastern and southern regions of South Africa, particularly in the Northern Cape and Western Cape provinces.
Common Names
The plant is known by several common names, including Kougoed, Kanna, Channa, and Canna. The most commonly used name is Kougoed, which is derived from the Afrikaans language and means "dry material."
Uses
Traditionally, the indigenous people of South Africa have used Sceletium emarcidum for its mood-altering and stress-relieving properties. The plant is known for its ability to induce a sense of calm, relaxation, and euphoria. It has been used to alleviate hunger, thirst, and fatigue during long hunting trips or periods of drought. It is also believed to have been used as a cultural and spiritual sacrament.
In modern times, Sceletium emarcidum is used as an herbal supplement to help treat symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress. The plant contains several alkaloids that act as serotonin reuptake inhibitors, increasing levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin in the brain and imitating the effects of prescription antidepressants. Furthermore, it has been found to increase mental clarity and cognitive function without the side effects commonly associated with pharmaceutical stimulants. Despite these benefits, it is important to note that the plant should be used with caution and under the guidance of a qualified healthcare practitioner, as it may interact with certain medications and have potential safety concerns.
General Appearance
Sceletium emarcidum is a low-growing succulent that typically reaches a height of 10-15cm. Its leaves are small, elongated, and slightly curved, and are covered with tiny white dots. The plant produces small, white, star-shaped flowers that bloom intermittently throughout the year. The plant's roots are fleshy and knobby, angled downwards to protect against water loss, and act as storage organs during periods of drought.
Growth Conditions of Sceletium emarcidum
Light: Sceletium emarcidum prefers full sunlight to partial shade. It is recommended that the plant receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for proper growth and development. However, in areas with high temperatures, it is advisable to provide partial shade during the hottest part of the day.
Temperature: Sceletium emarcidum thrives in warm to hot temperatures ranging from 20°C to 40°C. Young seedlings should be protected from frost and cold temperatures. The plant can withstand short periods of drought, but prolonged dry spells can be detrimental to growth and survival.
Soil: Sceletium emarcidum grows well in well-drained, sandy soils with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. The plant does not tolerate waterlogged or poorly drained soils. Incorporating organic matter such as compost or manure into the soil can help improve soil fertility and structure.
Fertilizer: Sceletium emarcidum is not a heavy feeder, and excessive fertilizer application can do more harm than good. A balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 can be applied during the growing season, but it should be applied sparingly.
Water: Sceletium emarcidum requires moderate watering during the growing season. Watering should be reduced during winter when growth slows down. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other water-related diseases. It's better to water deeply and less frequently to encourage deep root growth.
Cultivation Methods
Sceletium emarcidum can be cultivated in gardens or pots. It prefers well-drained sandy soil, with a pH of between 6.5 and 7.5. The plant requires full sun to grow but can tolerate partial shade. It is a drought-resistant plant that can handle high temperatures, but frost can damage its leaves.
Watering Needs
It is important not to overwater Sceletium emarcidum. The plant prefers dry conditions and too much water can cause the roots to rot. Water the plant once a week during the growing season and every two weeks during its dormant period. Ensure that the soil is dry before watering.
Fertilization
Sceletium emarcidum requires little to no fertilization. In fact, too much fertilization can cause the plant to lose its potency. If fertilization is necessary, use a well-balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 5-10-5 and apply it sparingly.
Pruning
Sceletium emarcidum does not require pruning as it is a low-maintenance plant. However, pruning can be done to shape the plant and remove any dead or yellowing leaves. Prune the plant in early spring when new growth appears. Use clean and sharp pruning tools to avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation of Sceletium emarcidum
Sceletium emarcidum, commonly known as kanna, is a succulent plant that belongs to the family Aizoaceae. The plant is traditionally used as a medicine to relieve stress, anxiety, and depression. Propagation of kanna can be done through various methods, including:
Seed propagation
Sceletium emarcidum can be propagated by seed. The seeds of kanna germinate easily and can be sown in a well-draining soil mix. The seeds should be evenly distributed on the soil surface and covered lightly with the soil mix. Keep the soil moist and in a warm, bright location. The seeds should germinate within two weeks.
Cuttings propagation
Kanna can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Cut a section of the stem that is at least 10 cm long and remove the leaves from the bottom half of the stem. Dip the bottom of the cutting in rooting hormone and insert it into a well-draining soil mix. Place the cutting in a warm, bright location and keep the soil moist. The cutting should root within four to six weeks.
Division propagation
Sceletium emarcidum can also be propagated through division. Divide the plant during the growing season by carefully separating the roots to create separate plants. Each divided plant should have several stems and a healthy root system. Plant each divided section in a well-draining soil mix and keep the soil moist.
Disease and Pest Management for Sceletium emarcidum
Sceletium emarcidum is a plant that is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, like any living organism, it can still be affected by different factors that can impede its growth and development. Here are some common diseases and pests that may affect Sceletium emarcidum and ways to manage them:
Pests
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, white, cottony insects that can suck the sap of the plant and weaken it. To manage mealybugs, you can remove them manually by washing the plant with a strong stream of water or by using a cotton swab drenched in isopropyl alcohol to kill them.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny creepy-crawlers that feed on plant sap too. They can cause yellowing, wilting, and death of the leaves in severe infestations. You can manage spider mites by spraying the affected plant parts with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Repeat the treatment every 5-7 days until all the mites are gone.
Aphids
Aphids are another common pest that can damage Sceletium emarcidum. They are small, pear-shaped insects that feed on the plant's sap. They secrete a sticky substance that attracts ants and promotes the growth of black sooty mold. To manage aphids, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil, or you can encourage the presence of predator insects that feed on aphids, such as ladybugs and lacewings.
Diseases
Fungal Diseases
Sceletium emarcidum can be susceptible to fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. These diseases can cause discoloration, mildew growth, and defoliation. To manage fungal diseases, you can spray the affected plant parts with a fungicide or a solution of baking soda and water. Remove any infected plant parts or debris around the plant to prevent further spread of the disease.
Bacterial Wilt
Bacterial wilt is a bacterial disease that can cause wilting, yellowing, and death of Sceletium emarcidum. It spreads through contaminated soil, water, or infected plant material. To manage bacterial wilt, you have to remove and destroy all the infected plant parts and soil. Disinfect any gardening tools and containers before reusing them. Avoid watering the plant leaves and reduce its stress by providing the ideal growing conditions.
By following these practices, you can help keep your Sceletium emarcidum plant healthy and pest-free. Prevention is always the best medicine, so make sure to keep your plant environment clean and well-maintained.
