Overview
Sphalmanthus grossus (Aiton) N.E.Br., also known as the giant African arum or snake lily, is a unique and exotic plant that belongs to the Araceae family. It is native to tropical regions in Africa, including Tanzania, Kenya, and Zimbabwe, and can grow up to 3 meters tall.
Appearance
The plant features large, dark green leaves that are heart-shaped and deeply lobed. It also has a stout elongated stem with maroon-colored spots and produces a large inflorescence that can reach up to 70 cm in length. The inflorescence has a fleshy, cone-shaped spadix that is surrounded by a yellow-green floral spathe.
Common Names
Sphalmanthus grossus is known by different names across Africa. In Tanzania, it is called mnaruku, while in Kenya, it is known as mukau. In Zimbabwe, it goes by the name musasa.
Uses
The plant is highly valued for its medicinal properties and is used to treat various ailments. In Tanzania, for example, the sap from the stem and leaves is used to alleviate coughs and sore throats, while the roots are used to treat snake bites. Additionally, the inflorescence is used as a traditional remedy for impotence and as an aphrodisiac.
Sphalmanthus grossus is also an ornamental plant that is grown for its attractive foliage and exotic inflorescence. It thrives in shady and moist conditions, making it an ideal plant for gardens and landscapes. However, it should be handled with care as it contains calcium oxalate crystals that can cause skin irritation and other health problems when ingested.
Light Requirements
Sphalmanthus grossus plants require bright to partial shade for optimal growth. They can tolerate partial to full shade as well, but they may become leggy and produce fewer flowers. Direct sunlight should be avoided as it can burn the leaves of the plant.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for Sphalmanthus grossus plants is between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures, but they are not frost resistant. Temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit can damage the plant and cause it to die back.
Soil Requirements
Sphalmanthus grossus plants prefer well-draining, rich soil that is slightly acidic to neutral in pH. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. The addition of organic matter to the soil can improve its overall quality and drainage.
Cultivation of Sphalmanthus grossus
Sphalmanthus grossus, commonly known as the False Buttonweed, is a herbaceous shrub that is native to southern Africa. It prefers warm temperatures, and can grow up to 1.5m tall. When cultivating Sphalmanthus grossus, it's important to provide the proper growing conditions so that it can thrive. The following tips will help you grow and care for your False Buttonweed:
Watering Needs
Sphalmanthus grossus prefers moist soil but can also tolerate periods of dryness. When watering, ensure that the soil is evenly moist, but not waterlogged to avoid root rot. Use a well-draining soil mixture and water the plant once or twice a week, depending on the temperature and humidity in your area. Make sure to keep an eye on the soil moisture levels, and adjust watering frequency as necessary to prevent over or under watered plants.
Fertilization
To encourage lush growth, it is best to fertilize the Sphalmanthus grossus once every two weeks during spring and summer. You can use an all-purpose fertilizer, but ensure to dilute it according to the manufacturer's instructions. During the growing seasons, the plants produce new leaves and flowers, which requires more nutrients to thrive. The fertilizer should be applied to the soil, taking care to avoid contact with the foliage to avoid scorching them.
Pruning
Pruning is essential in maintaining the shape of the Sphalmanthus grossus, and rejuvenating the plant by promoting new growth. It's best to prune the False Buttonweed just before the growing seasons, after the flowers fade. Use a sharp and sterile pair of pruning shears to avoid harming the plant. Remove dead, damaged, or diseased foliage. Trim up to one-third of the height to rejuvenate the plant.
In summary, growing the Sphalmanthus grossus requires the provision of adequate watering, proper fertilization and routine trimming. With these tips, you can successfully cultivate a healthy False Buttonweed.
Propagation of Sphalmanthus Grossus
Sphalmanthus Grossus (Aiton) N.E.Br. is also known as the African Mangosteen or Bushveld Mangosteen. It is a tree that is native to Sub-Saharan Africa and is primarily found in woodlands and forests. The tree is valued for its edible fruit and has recently gained interest in the medicinal world for its potential health benefits.
There are two primary methods of propagating Sphalmanthus Grossus: seed and vegetative propagation.
Seed Propagation
Seeds should be collected from fully mature fruit. The seeds are recalcitrant, which means they cannot be stored for an extended period and should be sown as soon as possible. The seeds require a viable embryo and are typically sown in a well-draining potting medium and placed in a warm, humid environment. Germination can occur within 2-4 weeks.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation can be done using cuttings or air-layering. Cuttings should be taken from semi-hardwood or hardwood stem tips and treated with a rooting hormone. Place the cuttings in a well-draining potting medium and cover them with plastic to create a humid environment. They should be kept in a shaded area until they develop roots, which typically takes 2-3 months.
Air-layering involves making a small cut in a stem and applying rooting hormone. The cut area is then covered with a ball of moist sphagnum moss and wrapped with plastic. Once roots have formed, the stem can be cut off and planted in a potting medium.
Disease and Pest Management for Sphalmanthus grossus (Aiton) N.E.Br.
Sphalmanthus grossus is a stunning, large-leaved plant that can make a great addition to any tropical or subtropical garden. However, like other plants, Sphalmanthus grossus might be prone to certain pests and diseases that can affect its growth and appearance. Here are some of the most common Sphalmanthus grossus disease and pest problems and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Crown Rot is a fungal disease that can affect the roots and crown of Sphalmanthus grossus, leading to the appearance of yellow and wilted leaves. To manage crown rot, you can improve soil drainage and avoid overwatering. You might also have to remove the affected plants to prevent the spread of the disease.
Leaf Spot is another fungal disease that can lead to the appearance of brown or black spots on the leaves of Sphalmanthus grossus. To manage leaf spot, you can prune the affected parts of the plant, improve air circulation around the plant, and avoid overhead watering.
Mosaic Virus is a viral disease that can cause mottling and yellowing of the leaves in Sphalmanthus grossus. Unfortunately, there's no cure for mosaic virus, so you might have to remove the infected plants to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pests
Mealybugs are common pests that can infest Sphalmanthus grossus, sucking the sap from the plant and causing the leaves to turn yellow and wilted. To manage mealybugs, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil, or physically remove the pests with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
Spider Mites are small pests that can cause yellow speckles on the leaves of Sphalmanthus grossus. To manage spider mites, you can use a strong stream of water to dislodge them from the leaves, or spray the plant with an insecticidal soap.
Scale Insects can also infest Sphalmanthus grossus, causing the leaves to yellow and wilted. To manage scale insects, you can use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to physically remove the pests or use an insecticidal soap.
By being vigilant and promptly treating any issues, you can keep your Sphalmanthus grossus looking healthy and thriving for years to come.
