Overview
Selago glutinosa E.Mey. subsp. glutinosa is a species of flowering plant belonging to the family of Scrophulariaceae. This plant, also known as the sticky heath, is native to southern Africa and is highly valued for both its medicinal and ornamental uses.Appearance
Selago glutinosa E.Mey. subsp. glutinosa is a small, evergreen shrub that can grow up to 1 meter in height. It has a sticky and glandular texture due to its viscid leaves and sticky hairs through the plant. The leaves of this plant are simple, linear, and covered with glandular hairs that give them a yellow coloration. The leaves are approximately 6-12 mm in length and 1 mm wide. Sticky heath is known for its delicate, tubular flowers that are a pale pink color and grow in clusters that line the stem.Common Names
Sticky heath has many common names, including the following: Bush els, Kleistrots, Kliberstrot, Scabwort, an sticky-headed heath.Uses
Selago glutinosa E.Mey. subsp. glutinosa has a wide range of medicinal and ornamental uses. In traditional African medicine, the plant is used to treat respiratory-related ailments such as coughs and colds. It is also believed to have anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, the plant's sticky texture has made it popular for use in hair treatments to promote hair growth and scalp health. In terms of ornamental use, the plant is widely used in landscaping worldwide due to its aesthetic appeal with its delicate, tubular flowers and green foliage. Sticky heath provides a unique contrast to other shrubs and plants. In summary, Selago glutinosa E.Mey. subsp. glutinosa is a valuable plant with many uses in traditional medicine and landscaping. Its delicate appearance and bright, tubular flowers add a unique texture and aesthetic appeal.Light Requirements
Selago glutinosa E.Mey. subsp. glutinosa requires full sun exposure to grow optimally. This plant needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to maintain good health and robust growth. It can handle partial shade if adequate light is still present.
Temperature Conditions
The ideal temperature range for the growth of Selago glutinosa E.Mey. subsp. glutinosa is 20-30°C (68-86°F). It can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures, but frost should be avoided.
Soil Requirements
Soil plays an essential role in the growth and development of Selago glutinosa E.Mey. subsp. glutinosa. This plant requires well-drained, slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 5.5-6.5. The soil must be moist but not waterlogged, and it should have good aeration to allow the roots to breathe. It thrives in sandy or loamy soils.
Cultivation Methods
The Selago glutinosa E.Mey. subsp. glutinosa plant prefers a sunny location or partially shaded area with well-draining soil. It can be grown both in pots and in gardens. If planting in pots, make sure to choose a container with a sufficient drainage system.
Propagation can be done by seeds or by cuttings. If using seeds, they should be sown in spring or fall. To propagate through cuttings, take semi-hardwood cuttings in summer or early fall and plant it in a well-draining soil mix.
Watering Needs
Being a native plant of South Africa, the Selago glutinosa E.Mey. subsp. glutinosa adapts well to dry and hot conditions. Therefore, it only requires moderate watering. Water the plant only once a week or when the soil feels dry to the touch.
Overwatering may lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause the leaves to wilt and dry out.
Fertilization
The Selago glutinosa E.Mey. subsp. glutinosa plants don't require heavy fertilization. A slow-release fertilizer with lower nitrogen levels is recommended during the growing season. Avoid feeding during fall and winter as the plant goes dormant during this period.
If growing in pots, use a water-soluble fertilizer and apply it every two weeks during the growing season.
Pruning
Regular pruning can help the Selago glutinosa E.Mey. subsp. glutinosa plant maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. Prune the plant during the dormant season by cutting away any dead or damaged branches.
If the plants become too dense, thin out some branches to allow more light and airflow. Pinching the tips can encourage the plant to branch out and become bushier.
Leaves should be removed to avoid excess moisture retention, which can lead to fungal growth on the plant. Snipping off discolored leaves uniformly improves the plant's appearance.
Propagation of Selago glutinosa E.Mey. subsp. glutinosa
Selago glutinosa E.Mey. subsp. glutinosa can be propagated through seed or cuttings. However, the success rate of propagation through seed is generally low.
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Selago glutinosa E.Mey. subsp. glutinosa are small and black. They should be collected from the plant when they have turned black and are fully mature. The collected seeds should be cleaned and sowed in well-drained soil. However, seed propagation of this plant is challenging, and there is a low germination rate.
Cutting Propagation
Cuttings are a more reliable method of propagating this plant. Cuttings should be taken from healthy plants in late spring or early summer. The cuttings should be 10 to 15 cm long and should be taken from the upper part of the plant. The bottom leaves should be removed, and the stem should be dipped in rooting hormone powder.
The cuttings should be planted in a mixture of sand and peat moss and should be kept moist and warm. The cuttings should root in 4 to 5 weeks, and they can be transplanted to individual pots when they have developed roots.
In conclusion, Selago glutinosa E.Mey. subsp. glutinosa can be propagated through both seeds and cuttings, but cuttings are the more reliable method, particularly for home gardeners.
Disease Management
Selago glutinosa E.Mey. subsp. glutinosa is susceptible to a few diseases that can cause damage to the plant. Fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot are common in this plant. Powdery mildew appears as white patches on the leaves and can be effectively managed by fungicide sprays such as potassium bicarbonate. Rust causes yellow or reddish-brown spots on leaves and can be controlled by removing infected leaves and avoiding overhead watering. Leaf spot leaves circular spots on the leaves, which then turn brown; it can be managed by keeping the soil well-drained and avoiding overhead watering.
Pest Management
Mealybugs, spider mites, and whiteflies are major pests that can infect Selago glutinosa E.Mey. subsp. glutinosa. Mealybugs appear as white cotton-like clusters on stems and leaves, and can be controlled by using insecticidal soaps or oils. Spider mites suck the sap from leaves and cause yellowing; they can be managed by washing the plants regularly and applying insecticidal soap or neem oil. Whiteflies attack leaves and stunt the growth of the plant; they can be controlled by placing yellow sticky traps to catch them, or by using insecticidal soaps or oils.
