Stathmostelma bicolor K.Schum.
Stathmostelma bicolor K.Schum. is a species of flowering plant in the family Apocynaceae. It is commonly known as "Two-coloured bitterroot" or "Bitter ball".
Origin
Stathmostelma bicolor K.Schum. is native to the dry savannah regions of West Africa, including Nigeria, Cameroon, and Ghana.
Appearance
Stathmostelma bicolor K.Schum. is a small succulent shrub that grows up to 50 cm tall. The leaves are small, oval-shaped, and grow in pairs along the stem. The flowers are small and white, with a yellow or orange center. The fruit is a small, round capsule that splits open to release the seeds.
Uses
The roots of Stathmostelma bicolor K.Schum. are used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, diarrhea, and dysentery. The plant is also used as a bitter tonic to stimulate digestion and appetite. In addition, the plant is used as an ornamental in dry gardens and landscaping.
Light Requirements
Stathmostelma bicolor K.Schum. thrives in well-lit conditions and requires exposure to direct sunlight for at least six hours a day. It is best to place the plant near sunny windows or on balconies that receive adequate amounts of sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows well in warm climates and cannot tolerate frost or extreme cold. The ideal temperature range for Stathmostelma bicolor K.Schum. is between 20°C and 30°C. Maintain a stable temperature to ensure optimal growth of the plant.
Soil Requirements
Stathmostelma bicolor K.Schum. prefers well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. The plant grows well in loamy or sandy soil with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. It is recommended to mix the soil with compost or organic matter to enrich the soil's nutrient content. Avoid overwatering as it can cause the roots to rot due to waterlogging.
Cultivation methods
Stathmostelma bicolor K.Schum., commonly known as the African milkweed vine, does well in warm and humid subtropical climates. The plant requires well-drained and nutrient-rich soil to thrive, and it should be planted in a location that receives bright sunlight for at least 6-8 hours each day.
The ideal time for planting is in the spring when the temperatures warm up and frost is no longer a concern. The plant can be propagated through seeds or stem cuttings. Stem cuttings should be taken during the growing season and rooted in moist soil.
Watering needs
Proper watering is essential for the healthy growth of Stathmostelma bicolor. The plant should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Overwatering can damage the roots of the plant and kill it. During hot summers and extended dry spells, watering should be increased to prevent the soil from drying out excessively.
Fertilization
Stathmostelma bicolor requires adequate nutrients for optimal growth. Regular application of balanced fertilizers is recommended during the growing season. The fertilizer should be applied as per the recommendations of the manufacturer or a horticulturist. Over-fertilization can lead to fertilizer burn and damage the roots of the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to control the size of the plant and to improve its overall health. Stathmostelma bicolor should be pruned during the growing season to encourage new growth and produce a fuller plant. Dead branches, yellow leaves, and flowers should be pruned to promote the growth of new and healthy shoots.
It is essential to use sharp and sterilized pruning tools to prevent the spread of diseases. The pruning tools should be wiped clean with alcohol after each use. After pruning, the plant should be watered appropriately to prevent dehydration and shock.
Propagation of Stathmostelma bicolor K.Schum.
Stathmostelma bicolor K.Schum. can be propagated through various methods, including:
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagation for Stathmostelma bicolor K.Schum. is through seeds. The seeds are easily obtainable and can be sown directly into the soil during spring or early summer. Before sowing, the seeds must be soaked for 24 hours in warm water to break their dormancy. The sowing depth should be about 2-3 cm. Germination can take up to 4 weeks.
Cuttings Propagation
Stathmostelma bicolor K.Schum. can also be propagated through cuttings. Stem cuttings of length 10-15 cm can be taken from mature plants during spring. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone powder and planted in a potting mix of sand and peat moss. Keep the soil moist and place the cutting in a warm and bright location. Rooting can take up to 2-3 months. Once roots are developed, the cutting can be transplanted to a bigger container or directly to the garden.
Division Propagation
Stathmostelma bicolor K.Schum. can also be propagated through division. This method is best when the plant is mature and has more than one stem. Carefully remove the plant from the soil and divide the stems into smaller segments. Each segment must have healthy roots and shoots. Plant the segments into individual pots and keep them well-watered and in a warm, bright location. Repot the divisions when they become overcrowded.
Disease Management
Stathmostelma bicolor K.Schum. can be affected by different diseases on both the leaves and stems. One of the most common diseases is leaf spot, which is caused by fungi such as Alternaria spp. and Cercospora spp. It is characterized by brown or black spots on the leaves that can expand and cause defoliation. To manage this disease, it is essential to remove and destroy infected plant debris to avoid the spread of the fungi to healthy plants. It is also recommended to avoid overhead watering and ensure good air circulation around the plant to prevent the growth and spread of the fungi.
Another common disease that affects Stathmostelma bicolor K.Schum. is powdery mildew, caused by fungi such as Erysiphe spp. and Sphaerotheca spp. This disease is characterized by a white powdery coating on the leaves and stems that can inhibit proper photosynthesis and weaken the plant. To manage this disease, it is advisable to maintain a proper watering schedule and ensure good air circulation around the plant. Also, chemical fungicides such as neem oil and sulfur can be used to control and prevent the spread of the fungi.
Pest Management
Several pests can attack Stathmostelma bicolor K.Schum. and cause significant damage to the plant. One of the most common pests is spider mites, which are tiny arachnids that can cause yellow stippling on the leaves and eventually lead to defoliation. To manage this pest, it is advisable to maintain optimum humidity levels and provide adequate irrigation to prevent water stress. Additionally, chemical pesticides such as insecticidal soaps and oils can be used to control spider mites.
Another common pest that can attack Stathmostelma bicolor K.Schum. is aphids, small insects that feed on the sap of plants and can reproduce rapidly, leading to a large infestation. Aphids can cause yellowing of leaves, leaf distortion, and stunted plant growth. To manage this pest, it is recommended to use natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings or apply insecticidal soap or oil to suffocate and kill the aphids.
