Introduction
Sceletium expansum (L.) L.Bolus, also known as Kanna, is a succulent plant native to the South African region. It is a member of the Aizoaceae family and has a long history of traditional use among indigenous cultures.
Appearance
Sceletium expansum is a small, creeping plant with fleshy, elongated leaves and distinctive sausage-shaped flowers that bloom from September to October. It can grow up to 10 cm in height and has a thick, woody stem that branches out and spreads widely.
Common Names
The plant is commonly referred to as kanna, channa, or kougoed. These names are derived from the indigenous Khoi people, who have used the plant for centuries as a natural remedy for various ailments.
Uses
The traditional uses of Sceletium expansum involve various medicinal and therapeutic benefits. The plant is known for its calming properties and is used to combat anxiety, stress, and depression. It is also used to improve mood, increase mental clarity, and enhance concentration.
The plant can be consumed either raw or in the form of a dried powder. It is often chewed or brewed as a tea. The active compounds of Sceletium expansum include mesembrine, mesembrenol, and mesembrenone, which are believed to be responsible for its medicinal effects.
In recent years, interest in Sceletium expansum has grown among Western cultures as a natural alternative to prescription antidepressants and anxiety medications. However, it is important to note that further research is needed to establish its safety and effectiveness as a medical treatment.
Light requirements
Sceletium expansum (L.) L.Bolus thrives in full sunlight. At least 6 hours of direct sunlight is required for proper growth and development. Growing Sceletium expansum (L.) L.Bolus indoors requires the use of artificial light that mimics the intensity and spectrum of natural sunlight.
Temperature requirements
Sceletium expansum (L.) L.Bolus is a tropical succulent that requires warm temperatures between 20°C and 30°C for optimal growth. Temperatures below 10°C can cause the plant to go dormant. Extreme heat can cause the plant to wilt and suffer from sunburn. Sceletium expansum (L.) L.Bolus should be protected from frost and snow in colder climates.
Soil requirements
Sceletium expansum (L.) L.Bolus requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A loamy soil mixture with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0 is ideal. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Over-watering can cause root rot and stunted growth.
Cultivation Methods:
Sceletium expansum is a succulent plant species and can be grown outdoors or in greenhouses. It is best suited for warm and dry climates and requires sandy and well-drained soil for the best growth. The plant can be propagated through seeds or cuttings, with seeds being the easiest method. The seeds should be sown in well-drained soil, preferably during the spring season. The plant requires a lot of sunlight, and young plants should be protected from too much sun during hot weather.
Watering Needs:
Sceletium expansum requires moderate watering, and the soil should be kept slightly moist. Overwatering the plant will cause root rot, which can be fatal. During the growing season, the plant should be watered once a week, and during colder months, watering can be reduced to once every two weeks.
Fertilization:
The plant requires moderate fertilization as too much fertilizer can cause damage to the plant. Fertilizers containing a higher percentage of potassium and phosphorus should be used to encourage flowering. The fertilizer should be applied during the growing season, and the dose should be adjusted based on the growth of the plant.
Pruning:
The plant requires minimal pruning, and dead or damaged leaves can be removed with pruning shears. Flowers can be cut once they have wilted. Sceletium expansum is a low-maintenance plant, and pruning should be done sparingly to prevent damage.
Propagation of Sceletium expansum
Sceletium expansum (L.) L.Bolus, commonly referred to as Kanna, is a succulent plant native to South Africa. Propagating this plant requires a bit of patience and care. There are mainly two methods of propagating Sceletium expansum - seeds and cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation by seeds is a common method of expanding the Sceletium expansum population. It is also less stressful on the mother plant. To propagate the plant using seeds, you will need to collect mature fruits from the plant once they are ready. The seeds will be in hard capsules and will need to be removed for planting.
The capsules must be allowed to dry, either by leaving them to air dry or using a dryer. After the capsules have dried, separate the seeds from the capsules by crushing them or using a pair of scissors.
Plant the seeds in a tray filled with sandy soil and cover gently. Keep the soil moist but not wet and leave to germinate under natural sunlight. The temperature should be between 21 and 27 degrees Celsius. Germination of the seeds may take between one and two weeks.
Propagation by Cuttings
Another viable method of propagating Sceletium expansum is through stem cuttings. This process is easier than seed propagation requires less time for the plant to mature.
To propagate using stem cuttings, select a healthy stem from the mother plant, preferably with more than two nodes. Cut the stem using a sharp and sterilized pair of scissors. Remove the leaves from the bottom of the stem and leave only a few on the top.
Dip the cut-end in rooting hormone powder and plant the stem cutting in a tray filled with sandy soil. Water gently and cover with a plastic cover to create a humid environment. Keep the soil moist but not wet and keep in a warm, well-lit area, but not under direct sunlight.
Rooting should start after two to four weeks, after which you can transplant the new plant into a bigger container or a garden bed.
Disease and Pest Management for Sceletium expansum (L.) L.Bolus
Sceletium expansum (L.) L.Bolus is a hardy and relatively disease and pest-resistant plant. However, certain factors may weaken the plant and make it susceptible to diseases or pests. Ensuring that the plant grows in the right conditions, practices good hygiene, and is regularly monitored can help prevent and manage any potential diseases and pests.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that may affect Sceletium expansum is fungal leaf spot. This disease is characterized by small, dark spots on the leaves that may gradually expand over time. It can be caused by various fungal pathogens, including Cercospora, Alternaria, and Colletotrichum species. To manage this disease, it is important to remove and destroy affected leaves as soon as they are noticed. Good hygiene practices, such as avoiding overhead watering and ensuring good airflow, can also prevent the spread of the disease. Fungicides may also be used as a last resort if the disease becomes severe.
Common Pests
One of the most common pests that may affect Sceletium expansum is the mealybug. These small, white, cotton-like insects often hide in the crevices of the plant and suck the sap, causing yellowing and stunted growth. To manage these pests, rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soap can be sprayed on the plant to kill the mealybugs. Regular monitoring is also important to catch any infestations early and prevent further spread.
Another common pest that may affect Sceletium expansum is the aphid. These small, pear-shaped insects also suck the sap of the plant and can cause yellowing and stunted growth. Ladybugs and lacewings are natural predators of aphids and can be introduced to the garden to control their population. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be used to manage these pests.
In conclusion, while Sceletium expansum is relatively disease and pest-resistant, certain factors may make it susceptible to various diseases and pests. Good hygiene practices, regular monitoring, and prompt action can prevent and manage any potential issues.
