Origin
Solanum surattense Burm. is a species of plant that belongs to the Solanaceae family, native to tropical Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, and the Himalayan region. It is commonly found growing in damp habitats like riverbanks, swamps, and ponds.
Common Names
This plant has a variety of common names depending on the region it's found in. In India, it is often referred to as the "Kari Patta" due to its leaves resembling curry leaves. In Sri Lanka, it is known as "Gonibilla" or "Gonikapulla" and in Nepal, it is called "kande bhyakur" or "gandhela."
Uses
The leaves, stems, and fruits of Solanum surattense Burm. are often used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. The fruits are known for their cooling properties and are used to treat fever and other inflammatory conditions. The leaves are used to treat skin diseases and gastrointestinal problems. The stem of the plant is believed to have analgesic properties and is used to relieve pain. Additionally, the plant is also known for its antifungal and antibacterial properties.
General Appearance
Solanum surattense Burm. is a perennial, erect, and branching herb that grows up to 1.5 meters in height. It has spiny stems and ovate leaves that are shiny, dark green, and measure around 6-10 centimeters long. The plant produces white or bluish-purple flowers that are star-shaped and around 1-2 centimeters in diameter. The fruit of the plant is a green berry that turns yellowish-orange when ripe and contains numerous tiny seeds.
Light Requirements
Solanum surattense Burm. typically grows in areas of moderate sunlight exposure. Too much direct sunlight may cause wilting and damage to the plant. However, insufficient light exposure may inhibit proper growth and development of the plant.
Temperature Requirements
The Solanum surattense Burm. plant grows well in warm to hot temperatures. Ideal temperature ranges for growth and development of the plant are between 20°C to 30°C. Temperatures below 10°C may cause the plant to die, while temperatures exceeding 40°C can cause damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
Solanum surattense Burm. thrives when grown in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 5.5 and 7.5. The plant prefers moist, but not waterlogged soils. Soil that is too wet may cause root rot, inhibiting proper growth and development. Preparing the soil with the right nutrients is important for the plant to produce healthy flowers and fruits.
Cultivation Methods
Solanum surattense Burm., commonly known as 'Surya Kanta,' is a perennial plant that can be grown in tropical and subtropical regions. The plant requires a warm and humid climate and can survive in various soil types, ranging from sandy to loamy soil. The preferred temperature range for cultivation is between 25°C to 35°C.
Watering Needs
The plant needs regular watering during the growing season, i.e., from spring to fall. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. The frequency of watering can be reduced during the winter season when the plant goes dormant.
Fertilization
Regular fertilization is essential for the plant's growth and development. A balanced slow-release fertilizer can be applied during the growing season at a rate of 1-2 tablespoons per plant. The fertilizer should contain a higher proportion of nitrogen during the vegetative growth stage and a higher proportion of phosphorus during the flowering and fruiting stage.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to maintain the plant's shape and size and to promote flowering and fruiting. The plant should be pruned during the dormant season, i.e., in late fall or early winter, after the fruiting season is over. The dead and diseased branches should be cut off, and the healthy branches should be trimmed to stimulate new growth. The plant can be trained to grow on a trellis or support system to improve air circulation and prevent diseases.
Propagation of Solanum surattense Burm.
Solanum surattense Burm., also known as the Surattense nightshade, can be propagated by seeds, stem cuttings, or layering.
Propagation by seeds
The easiest and most common way to propagate Solanum surattense is by using its seeds. Collect the seeds from mature fruits after they turn yellow and dry. Sow them directly into well-draining soil in pots or seed trays. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and water well. The seeds should germinate within 1-2 weeks with regular watering and adequate sunlight. Seed propagation is best done during the rainy season.
Propagation by stem cuttings
Propagation by stem cuttings can be done throughout the year. Take healthy stem cuttings from the mature plant that are approximately 10-15 cm long. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cutting in rooting hormone powder. Plant the cutting in a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix. Water the pot thoroughly and ensure that it gets adequate sunlight. The cutting will root within 4-5 weeks if kept in a moist and warm environment.
Propagation by layering
Propagation by layering is another easy method that can be done during the growing season. Choose a healthy branch and make a small incision on the underside of the branch, about 6 inches from the tip. Gently bend the branch and secure it to the soil with a U-shaped wire or a peg. Keep the soil moist and provide adequate sunlight. After 4-6 weeks, roots will start to develop at the cut area. Cut the branch from the parent plant and repot.
Disease and Pest Management for Solanum surattense Burm.
Solanum surattense Burm., commonly known as the Indian nightshade, is a medicinal plant that is often grown in home gardens and farms. Like all plants, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can significantly reduce its productivity. Therefore, it is essential to manage these problems carefully to ensure healthy and abundant harvests. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect Solanum surattense and how to manage them.
Diseases
Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of Solanum surattense. Symptoms include circular, dark brown spots with yellow halos that appear on the leaves. To manage this disease, remove and destroy affected leaves. Spraying fungicides can also help to control the spread of the disease.
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is another fungal disease that affects Solanum surattense. Symptoms include dark, sunken lesions on the stems, leaves, and fruits. To manage this disease, remove and destroy affected parts of the plant. Fungicides can also be applied to control the disease's spread.
Bacterial wilt: Bacterial wilt is a soil-borne disease that affects Solanum surattense. Symptoms include wilting of the leaves and stems, brown discoloration of the stem's inner tissues, and plant death. To manage this disease, practice crop rotation, remove and destroy affected plants, and apply copper-based fungicides.
Pests
Whiteflies: Whiteflies are small, white insects that suck the sap from the leaves of Solanum surattense. Symptoms include yellowing and wilting of the leaves, and stunted growth. To manage these pests, use sticky traps to catch adults and spray insecticides to kill the nymphs.
Aphids: Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that feed on the undersides of the Solanum surattense leaves. Symptoms include curling and stunting of the leaves, and the presence of a sticky substance called honeydew. To manage these pests, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to suffocate and repel them.
Cutworms: Cutworms are moth larvae that cut the stems of Solanum surattense near the soil surface. Symptoms include the appearance of notched seedlings and wilting of the plants. To manage these pests, handpick and destroy them, use biological controls like nematodes, or apply insecticides to the soil around the plant's base.
By carefully following good cultural practices, such as proper watering and fertilization, and timely pest and disease management, you can ensure healthy and productive Solanum surattense plants.
