Overview
Stigmaphyllon tomentosum (Desf.) Niedenzu is a species of plant belonging to the family Malpighiaceae. It is commonly known as the Golden Vine or Marmelade Vine and is native to various parts of South America.
Appearance
The Golden Vine is a woody, evergreen climber that grows up to 8 meters in length. The leaves are elliptic, alternate, and grow up to 9 cm long and 4 cm broad. They have a dark green colouration on the top and a light green underside. The flowers of Stigmaphyllon tomentosum are yellow and appear in small clusters along the vines. The resulting fruit is a small, round drupe that is red in colour and resembles marmalade when ripe.
Uses
The Golden Vine is commonly used as an ornamental plant and is particularly popular as a garden climber due to its attractive yellow flowers. It is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as asthma, pneumonia, and fever. The plant has been found to contain various chemical compounds such as flavonoids, tannins, and saponins that have been shown to have medicinal properties.
The fruit of the Golden Vine is also edible and is commonly used to make jellies and jams due to its marmalade-like consistency and flavour. The wood of the plant is used for various construction purposes due to its durability and resistance to decay.
Overall, Stigmaphyllon tomentosum is a versatile plant with a range of uses that make it an asset to both the garden and the medicine cabinet.
Growth conditions for Stigmaphyllon tomentosum (Desf.) Niedenzu
Stigmaphyllon tomentosum (Desf.) Niedenzu, commonly known as "pau-de-balsa" or "velvet leaf," is a tropical woody vine that belongs to the Malpighiaceae family. It is native to South America and can grow up to 30 meters in length. Understanding the growth conditions of this plant is crucial to its successful cultivation.
Light requirements
Stigmaphyllon tomentosum thrives in areas with bright, indirect light. It can tolerate partial shade but does not fare well in complete shade. Placement of this plant in direct sunlight can lead to leaf scorching and stunted growth.
Temperature requirements
Stigmaphyllon tomentosum prefers warm weather with average temperatures ranging from 20 to 30°C. Temperatures below 15°C can be detrimental to this plant and may cause it to stop growing or even die. It is important to protect the plant from frost as it cannot withstand freezing temperatures.
Soil requirements
This plant grows best in well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils. However, it does not thrive in heavy clay soil. The addition of organic matter such as compost or leaf litter can improve soil fertility and drainage.
Overall, Stigmaphyllon tomentosum is a beautiful and valuable plant that can enhance the aesthetic value of any garden. By providing the plant with adequate light, temperature, and soil conditions, anyone can cultivate it successfully.
Cultivation methods:
Stigmaphyllon tomentosum (Desf.) Niedenzu, or known as golden carpet vine, is a tropical vine species that thrives in full sun or partial shade. It prefers well-drained soil, either acidic, neutral, or alkaline. It can be propagated by seeds or stem cuttings.
Watering needs:
Golden carpet vine requires moderate watering, especially during the growing season. It would be best if you watered it thoroughly once a week or when the soil is dry to touch. However, it is essential to avoid waterlogging, which can cause root rot.
Fertilization:
Applying a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, every two to three months will encourage the plant's growth and flowering. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to excessive foliage growth and less flowering.
Pruning:
Golden carpet vine requires occasional pruning to keep it tidy and promote bushier growth. You can trim the vine during the dormant period to remove dead or damaged stems. During the growing season, you can trim the tips of the stems to encourage branching and produce more flowers.
Propagation of Stigmaphyllon tomentosum
Stigmaphyllon tomentosum can be propagated by several methods including seeds, cuttings, and layering.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds of Stigmaphyllon tomentosum can be collected from the plant when they turn brown and begin to fall. The collected seeds can be sown in well-draining soil mix, kept moist, and exposed to diffused sunlight. Germination occurs within 3 to 6 weeks and the seedlings can be transplanted once they develop 2 to 4 true leaves.
Propagation by Cuttings
Softwood cuttings of Stigmaphyllon tomentosum can be taken during the active growth period and treated with rooting hormone. The cuttings should be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist. Bottom heat and high humidity should be maintained to increase the rooting success rate. Hardwood cuttings can also be taken during the dormant season and treated similarly to the softwood cuttings.
Propagation by Layering
Propagation of Stigmaphyllon tomentosum by layering involves bending one of the plant's branches towards the ground, wounding it, and burying the wounded portion in soil. The buried branch should be supported by a stake and kept moist until roots form. The rooted layer can then be separated from the parent plant and transplanted into a separate pot or location.
Disease Management
Stigmaphyllon tomentosum is susceptible to a range of diseases like leaf spot, powdery mildew, and black spot. To manage these diseases, it is recommended to provide good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. The diseased plant parts should be immediately removed and destroyed. Fungicides can be applied to control the spread of the disease. However, it is best to consult with a local horticulturist or agricultural extension agent to choose the correct fungicide for the specific disease.
Pest Management
Common pests that attack Stigmaphyllon tomentosum include aphids, spider mites, and scale insects. To manage pest infestations, it is important to inspect the plant frequently to detect the early signs of infestation. The use of insecticidal soaps, insecticides, or organic controls such as neem oil, can help control pest populations. Pruning infested plant parts and disposing of them properly can also stop the spread of the infestation. Encouraging natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings can also help keep pest populations under control.
