Overview:
Strophanthus bequaertii Staner & Michotte is a plant species that belongs to the family Apocynaceae. It is commonly known as Bequaert's arrow poison or the climbing oleander due to its climbing habit and poisonous properties. The plant is endemic to tropical Africa, specifically to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where it grows in the rainforest.
Appearance:
The plant has a climbing stem that can grow up to 30 meters long. Its leaves are dark green and glossy, with a length of up to 15 cm. The flowers of Strophanthus bequaertii are white with a yellow-green center, and they grow in clusters up to 15 cm in diameter. The fruits are elongated and woody, up to 20 cm long. This plant is highly toxic, and all parts of it contain a poisonous compound known as strophanthin.
Uses:
Strophanthus bequaertii has been traditionally used in African medicine to treat various medical conditions like heart disease, snake bites, and poisoning. Research has shown that some of the compounds present in this plant could have potential medicinal benefits. The extract of Strophanthus bequaertii is used to produce an arrow poison that is traditionally used for hunting among African tribes.
Moreover, the purified extract of strophanthin isolated from this plant is used for the management of heart failure, hypertension, and angina pectoris in modern medicine. Other people may also use it as a natural remedy or supplement for the treatment of these kinds of ailments.
However, it is important to note that the plant is highly toxic and should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional or traditional healer.
Light Requirements
Strophanthus bequaertii thrives well in full sunlight to partial shade.
Temperature Requirements
The plant typically grows in warm to hot climates with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 35°C. It can tolerate a minimum temperature of 12°C, but this may reduce its rate of growth.
Soil Requirements
Strophanthus bequaertii grows best in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. It requires fertile soil that is rich in nutrients to support its growth and development.
Cultivation methods
Strophanthus bequaertii is a tropical plant that can be grown outdoors in areas with warmer climates, or indoors in pots.
It thrives in a well-draining, nutrient-rich soil mix and requires at least 6 hours of indirect sunlight per day.
When grown indoors, it is important to provide adequate space for the plant to grow and a trellis or support system for the vine-like stems to climb.
Watering needs
Strophanthus bequaertii requires consistent moisture in its soil to thrive, but it is essential to avoid overwatering.
The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, and it is recommended to water deeply once a week.
If the leaves begin to wilt, it is a sign that the plant needs more water.
Fertilization
Strophanthus bequaertii benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.
A slow-release fertilizer can be applied every 2-3 months, or a liquid fertilizer can be used every 2-4 weeks, diluted to half strength.
It is important to avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive vegetative growth and reduced flowering.
Pruning
To promote a bushier growth habit and encourage more branching, pruning can be done in the early spring before new growth begins.
Strophanthus bequaertii can be trimmed back by up to one-third of its height, focusing on cutting back the top growth and leaving the lower branches intact.
Dead or damaged branches and leaves should also be removed throughout the growing season to keep the plant healthy and attractive.
Propagation of Strophanthus bequaertii Staner & Michotte
Strophanthus bequaertii Staner & Michotte can be propagated through several methods, including seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed Propagation
The plant produces seeds that can be collected when mature. The seeds must be sown immediately because they have a short viability period. The seeds should be cleaned properly and soaked in water for about 24 hours to enhance germination. After soaking, sow the seeds in a seedbed with a well-prepared soil mixture of loam, sand, and compost in the ratio of 2:2:1. Cover the seeds with a fine layer of sieved soil, and water gently. The germination should occur in about two to four weeks.
Vegetative Propagation
While Strophanthus bequaertii Staner & Michotte can be propagated by seeds, it can also be propagated vegetatively through softwood cuttings. Softwood cuttings should be taken from new growth in the early summer when the plant is actively growing. The cuttings should be about 6 inches long and should be taken from the tip of the plant. Dip the cuttings in a rooting hormone powder and stick them into a well-prepared soil mixture of loam, sand, and compost in the ratio of 2:2:1. Water regularly but avoid overwatering. The cuttings should take root in about two to four weeks, and after that, they can be planted in individual pots or outdoors in a well-draining area.
Disease and Pest Management Strategies for Strophanthus bequaertii Staner & Michotte
Strophanthus bequaertii Staner & Michotte is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. This plant is commonly grown in tropical regions and is known for its medicinal properties. However, similar to other plants, Strophanthus bequaertii Staner & Michotte is susceptible to several diseases and pests that can lead to poor plant growth and yield.
Common Diseases of Strophanthus bequaertii Staner & Michotte
Some common diseases of Strophanthus bequaertii Staner & Michotte include:
- Leaf Spot: This disease is caused by fungi and results in the development of yellow or brown spots on the leaves. The infected leaves may fall prematurely, leading to reduced plant growth. To manage this disease, remove the infected leaves and apply a fungicide.
- Anthracnose: This is another fungal disease that affects Strophanthus bequaertii Staner & Michotte, causing the leaves to turn yellow or brown. The infected leaves eventually fall off, leading to stunted plant growth. Applying a fungicide can help manage this disease.
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by soil-borne fungi and results in the decay of the roots. The infected plant may wilt and die prematurely. To manage this disease, provide adequate soil drainage and avoid over-watering the plant.
Common Pests of Strophanthus bequaertii Staner & Michotte
Some common pests that infect Strophanthus bequaertii Staner & Michotte are:
- Aphids: These are small insects that suck sap from the leaves of the plant, leading to stunted growth. You can manage this pest by removing the infected leaves and applying an insecticide.
- Spider Mites: These are tiny pests that feed on the underside of the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and fall off. You can manage this pest by spraying the leaves with water or applying an insecticidal soap.
- Caterpillars: These pests consume the leaves of the plant, leading to reduced plant growth. You can manage this pest by physically removing the caterpillars or applying an insecticide.
In conclusion, to ensure optimum growth and yield of Strophanthus bequaertii Staner & Michotte, it is important to implement effective disease and pest management strategies. Regular monitoring of the plant, timely removal of infected plant parts, adequate watering, and proper application of fungicides and insecticides can help in managing diseases and pests.
