Overview
Spilanthes americana var. stolonifera is a plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family and is native to South America. The plant has a long history of use in traditional medicine for various ailments. Its striking flowers and potential therapeutic properties make it a popular ornamental plant in many regions of the world.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known by many names based on its region of origin, but some of its common names include Para cress or toothache plant, spilanthes, spilanthes acmella, and buzz buttons.
Appearance
The plant Spilanthes americana var. stolonifera is a herbaceous perennial plant that can grow up to heights of 40-60 centimetres. Its leaves are simple, opposite, and have rounded or lanceolate shapes that form a rosette at the base of the plant. The plant has yellow button-like flowers with a central cone-shaped disc and a series of small petals surrounding them.
Uses
The plant has been used for various medicinal purposes in traditional medicine across South America, Asia, and Africa. The plant contains various compounds, including spilanthol, which is responsible for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. It is often used for oral health, helping to relieve toothache, gum infections, and cavities. It may also help to relieve pain, fever, and inflammation.
Besides its medicinal properties, Spilanthes americana var. stolonifera has been used in cooking as a flavoring agent for soups, salads, and curries. The plant has a pungent and tingling sensation, which stimulates saliva and enhances taste buds. It is also a popular garden plant, often grown for its striking and vibrant flowers.
Growth Conditions for Spilanthes americana var. stolonifera
Spilanthes americana var. stolonifera, also known as Paracress, is a tropical plant in the Asteraceae family. It is an annual herb that grows low to the ground and produces small yellow flowers.
Light
Spilanthes americana var. stolonifera prefers full sun to partial shade. It can grow in direct sunlight but may require some protection during intense afternoon heat. If grown indoors, the plant must receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Temperature
The ideal temperature range for Spilanthes americana var. stolonifera growth is between 21 and 27 degrees Celsius. The minimum temperature required for growth is 15 degrees Celsius, while the maximum temperature should not exceed 32 degrees Celsius.
Soil
Spilanthes americana var. stolonifera grow well in fertile, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil, with a pH range between 6 and 7.5. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. To aid drainage, it can be planted in raised beds or pots.
Cultivation
Spilanthes americana var. stolonifera is a hardy plant that can be grown in a range of soil types, including poor and rocky soils. For best results, however, it is recommended that the plant be grown in moist, well-drained soil with a pH of around 6.5 to 7.5. The plant prefers full sun or partial shade, but can still grow in shaded areas.
Sow the seeds in the soil during early spring with a spacing of about 15-25cm between plants. Spilanthes americana plants require a minimum temperature of approximately 20? for proper germination.
Watering Needs
While Spilanthes americana is relatively drought tolerant, it still requires regular watering to thrive. It is recommended that the plant be watered once or twice a week, depending on the soil type and weather conditions. Avoid overwatering the plant as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Spilanthes americana plants have a low nutritional requirement and do not need regular fertilization. Nevertheless, it is recommended you apply a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing the plant during its dormant period.
Pruning
Spilanthes americana is a bushy plant that can grow up to 30-60 cm in height and 15-25 cm in width. While the plant does not require regular pruning, cutting back the stems and flowers can promote a thicker, bushier growth habit. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Cut off any damaged or dead stems at the base.
Propagation of Spilanthes americana var. stolonifera
Spilanthes americana var. stolonifera can be propagated through various methods such as seed propagation, stem cuttings, and division.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method for propagating Spilanthes americana var. stolonifera. Collect the seeds from the matured flowerheads during fall and sow them in a well-draining soil mix. The ideal soil pH for growing Spilanthes is 5.5 to 6.8. After sowing the seeds, keep the soil moist but not too wet. You can cover the pots with a plastic bag to maintain a warm and humid environment, which can enhance the germination rate.
Stem Cuttings Propagation
Stem cuttings are another way to propagate Spilanthes americana var. stolonifera. During the growth period, take 10 cm long cuttings from the plant’s healthy stems, at about 45-degree angle. Remove the leaves from the lower section of the stem, leaving the top leaves intact. Then plant the stem cutting in a pot with a well-draining soil mix, keeping the soil moist but not too wet. You can also use a rooting hormone to enhance the rooting of stem cuttings.
Division Propagation
Division is a propagation method for Spilanthes americana var. stolonifera that involves separating the plant’s root clumps into sections. You can do this in early spring or fall when the plant is dormant. Dig out the clump and separate the roots into smaller sections, each containing a few stems and roots. Then, plant them in a pot or garden bed containing a well-drained soil mix, with the crown of the plant leveled to the soil surface. Keep the soil moist but not too wet and put the plant in a shaded spot for a few days to promote recovery.
Disease and Pest Management of Spilanthes americana var. stolonifera
Spilanthes americana var. stolonifera is a hardy plant that is resistant to most diseases and pests. However, it may still fall prey to some common pest and disease problems. Here are some of the most common diseases and pests that affect the plant and how to manage them:
Diseases
Fungal Diseases: The most common fungal diseases that affect Spilanthes americana var. stolonifera are leaf spot and powdery mildew. These diseases are characterized by the presence of yellow or brown spots on the plant's leaves, which eventually spread and cause premature leaf drop.
To manage these fungal diseases, it is essential to keep the plant free from moisture. Wet leaves increase the risk of fungal infections. Also, avoid overhead watering and irrigate the plant early in the morning to allow the leaves to dry out during the day. You can also apply a fungicide spray to prevent or manage fungal infections.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are the most common pests that affect Spilanthes americana var. stolonifera. These tiny insects feed on the sap of the plant, causing stunted growth and deformation of leaves.
To manage aphids, you can introduce natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings into the garden. You can also apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphid infestations.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are another common pest that affects Spilanthes americana var. stolonifera. These pests thrive in hot, dry conditions and are often found on the undersides of leaves. They suck the sap from the plants, causing yellowing and browning of leaves.
To manage spider mite infestations, you can apply neem oil or insecticidal soap. Avoid overhead watering and maintain adequate humidity levels to discourage spider mite infestations.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars are often found feeding on the leaves of Spilanthes americana var. stolonifera. These pests can cause extensive damage to the plant by chewing on the leaves and stems.
To manage caterpillar infestations, you can pick them off the plant by hand or introduce natural predators like birds into the garden. You can also apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) to control caterpillar infestations.
By being vigilant and taking the necessary steps to manage pests and diseases, you can ensure that your Spilanthes americana var. stolonifera plant remains healthy and productive.
