General Description:
Sphenandra viscosa (Aiton) Benth., also known as the sticky androsace, is a herbaceous perennial plant of the family Primulaceae. This plant is native to South America, specifically in Chile, Argentina, and the Falkland Islands. The plant is known for its sticky and glandular leaves, which tend to trap insects.
Appearance:
The sticky androsace is a small herbaceous plant that typically grows up to six inches tall. The plant has dense foliage, forming a rosette of basal leaves that are green and sticky to the touch. The leaves are generally oval in shape, ranging from 0.6-2 inches long and 0.4-1 inch wide. The plant produces small, white and pink flowers that bloom during the summer.
Common Names:
The scientific name of this plant, Sphenandra viscosa, is not commonly used. However, it is known by several other common names, including sticky androsace, starwort, and Salix-leaved androsace.
Uses:
The sticky androsace is mainly used for ornamental purposes. The glandular leaves and small flowers make it an appealing addition to rock gardens and alpine beds. Additionally, the plant is sometimes used in herbal medicine as a poultice to treat skin disorders and insect bites. In Chilean folk medicine, the plant is used to treat bronchitis, asthma, and coughs.
Light Requirements
Sphenandra viscosa requires full sun to partial shade for its growth. They generally do well in an environment with bright light. Its growth may be stunted if exposed to low-light conditions for prolonged periods.
Temperature Requirements
These plants thrive well in a wide range of temperatures. However, they prefer a cool to a mild temperature. The optimum growth temperature range is between 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F).
Soil Requirements
Sphenandra viscosa prefers well-drained soil that has moderate moisture retention capacity. They grow well in an acidic soil in the pH range of 4.5 to 6.5. These plants can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, as long as they have good drainage. Adding organic matter to the soil can enhance its fertility, which further promotes plant growth.
Cultivation Methods
Sphenandra viscosa is a perennial herb that requires a sunny location and well-drained soil. The plant can tolerate a wide range of pH levels, from acidic to alkaline. It is usually propagated by seed or division. Planting should be done in the spring or early summer. The seeds should be first soaked in water for 24 hours to soften the seed coat before sowing. It is essential to keep the soil moist during the germination stage, which typically takes 10-14 days.
Watering Needs
Sphenandra viscosa requires regular watering during the growing season, but it is essential to prevent waterlogging. It is best to water the plant in the morning to prevent fungal diseases. The frequency of watering depends on the soil type and weather conditions. It is crucial to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. The plant can withstand some drought but will benefit from regular watering.
Fertilization
The plant does not require high levels of fertilization. However, applying a slow-release fertilizer in the spring can improve growth and flowering. It is also possible to add compost or organic matter to the soil to provide additional nutrients. Care should be taken to avoid over-fertilization, which can cause poor growth and susceptibility to diseases.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to keep the plant tidy and promote bushier growth. The plant should be pruned in the fall or early spring before new growth appears. It is best to remove any dead or diseased branches, as well as any weak or crossing stems. The plant can be cut back to the ground every two to three years to rejuvenate growth. Regular pruning will help the plant maintain its shape and encourage more abundant flowering.
Propagation of Sphenandra viscosa
Sphenandra viscosa (Aiton) Benth. is a small, herbaceous perennial plant that grows in rough or rocky terrain and is native to Chile. It is commonly known as "sticky maidenhair" due to the glandular hairs that cover its leaves and stems, imparting a sticky or greasy feel.
Propagation methods
Propagation of Sphenandra viscosa can be done through both seeds and cuttings.
Seeds
Seeds can be collected from the mature, dried seedpods and sown into pots or directly into the ground. It is best to sow the seeds in early spring, in a well-draining soil mix, and maintain consistent moisture until they germinate.
When the seedlings are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots or into an outdoor garden bed. It is important to space the plants at least 6 inches apart to allow for their spreading habit and to ensure adequate air circulation.
Cuttings
Cuttings can be taken from healthy, mature plants in the early spring or late fall, when the plant is actively growing. The cuttings should be approximately 3-4 inches long, taken from the tips of the stems, and stripped of their lower leaves.
The cuttings should then be dipped into a rooting hormone powder and placed into a well-draining soil mix or a mix of peat moss and perlite. Keep the cuttings moist and warm, and in a bright but indirect light until roots form. Once the cutting has rooted, it can be transplanted into an individual pot or garden bed.
Sphenandra viscosa is generally an easy plant to propagate and grow, requiring only well-draining soil and adequate water and light to thrive.
Disease and Pest Management for Sphenandra Viscosa
Sphenandra viscosa, commonly known as sticky sphenandra, is a hardy plant with few disease and pest problems. However, few issues can arise that require prompt attention to prevent permanent damage. Therefore, here are some of the diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggestions on how to manage them.
Common Diseases
Leaf Spot: Infected leaves show circular or angular spots with dark centers and yellow halos. To manage, remove heavily infected leaves, increase air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and apply fungicide if necessary.
Root Rot: Overwatering or poorly draining soil can cause root rot in the plant. To manage, avoid over-watering, placing the plant in well-draining soil, and adding fungicide to the soil to kill the fungus causing root rot.
Powdery Mildew: Infected leaves appear to have a powdery white or gray coating. To manage, promptly remove any infected parts of the plant and avoid overhead watering. Applying a fungicide can help better manage the powdery mildew.
Common Pests
Spider Mites: The plant can have spider mite issues when kept in hot and dry conditions. To manage, mist the plant occasionally, increase air circulation, and apply insecticidal soap.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs can cause the plant to look yellowed and damaged. To manage, apply insecticidal soap, remove heavily infested plant parts, and increase air circulation.
Scale Insects: Scales can hide under the plant's leaves, sucking its sap, leading to yellowing, stunted growth, and death. To manage, gently scrape them away with a soft brush or cotton swab, apply insecticidal soap, and keep the plant clean.
Following these suggestions timely can keep your Sphenandra viscosa healthy, happy, and free of unwanted diseases and pests.
