Strophanthus DC.
Strophanthus DC. is a species of flowering plant in the family Apocynaceae, found in tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and the Americas. It is commonly known as the arrow poison plant due to the toxic properties of its seeds, which have historically been used by various indigenous peoples as a hunting tool.
Common Names:
Strophanthus DC. is known by a variety of common names depending on the region. Some of the more common names include: Corkwood, Foam Bark, Poison Arrow Plant, and Rubber Vine.
Appearance:
Strophanthus is an evergreen climbing plant that can grow up to 10 meters tall. It has a woody stem, with the younger branches being flexible and pliable. The leaves are simple, alternate, and oblong to ovate in shape, with a glossy appearance and a prominent midvein. The flowers are typically white or cream in color, with long tubular corollas and a sweet fragrance. The fruit is a long, slender capsule that contains numerous seeds that are flat and winged.
Uses:
Strophanthus DC. has a long history of use in traditional medicine. The plant contains several active compounds, including cardiac glycosides, which have been used to treat a variety of ailments, including heart disease and hypertension. The seeds of the plant have also been used as an arrow poison by various indigenous peoples, due to their ability to paralyze nerves and reduce blood pressure. Today, Strophanthus DC. is still used in some modern medicines, particularly for the treatment of heart conditions.
Despite its potential medicinal benefits, the use of Strophanthus DC. as an arrow poison is highly discouraged due to its toxic effects. It is important to note that the plant and its products should only be used under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional.
Light Requirements
Strophanthus DC. requires bright, indirect light to thrive. The plant can tolerate a small amount of direct sunlight but may suffer from sunburn or leaf scorch if exposed to too much direct light.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Strophanthus DC. is between 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C). The plant will not tolerate extreme temperatures below 55°F (13°C) or above 85°F (29°C). The plant should be kept away from any sudden temperature changes or drafts.
Soil Requirements
Strophanthus DC. prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be kept moist but not overly wet as the plant is susceptible to root rot. A good soil mix for Strophanthus DC. should consist of two parts peat moss, two parts perlite, and one part coarse sand.
Cultivation methods
The plant Strophanthus DC. is cultivated as a perennial plant, and it requires a warm and humid climate to thrive. The preferred temperature range should be between 25-30 °C. The plant requires well-drained soil rich in organic matter, with a pH ranging from slightly acidic to neutral.
The seeds should be planted at a depth of 0.5 -1 cm in pots or directly into the field. The spacing between the plants should be between 2-3m. The seedlings should be watered regularly and kept under shade until they are established. After establishment, the plant can withstand full sun.
Watering needs
The plant Strophanthus DC. requires regular watering, especially during the dry season or when the soil is dry. Overwatering is not recommended as it may lead to root rot. The soil should also be well-drained, and watering should be done in the early morning or evening when there is less sunlight.
Fertilization
The plant Strophanthus DC. requires regular fertilization to enhance its growth and productivity. Organic fertilizers like compost, manure, and bone meal, should be mixed into the soil before planting or applied as a top dressing later. Chemical fertilizers can also be used, but care should be taken to avoid over-fertilization.
Pruning
Pruning of the plant Strophanthus DC. is essential to control its shape and size. It should be done during the dry season or after harvesting. Dead, diseased or damaged branches should be pruned off to allow for new growth. The pruned branches can also be used for propagation.
Propagation of Strophanthus DC.
Strophanthus DC., a group of twining shrubs commonly known as the arrow poisons, are propagated through vegetative and sexual methods.
Vegetative Propagation
Strophanthus can be propagated through stem cuttings and air layering. Stem cuttings from semi-hardwood or softwood can be taken during the growing season. Rooting hormone can be applied to the cuttings to increase the success rate of rooting. Air layering, on the other hand, involves creating a wound on a branch and covering it with a wet medium to encourage rooting. The rooted shoots can then be detached and planted in a new location.
Sexual Propagation
The arrow poisons can also be propagated through seeds. The seeds should be fresh and free from fungal and bacterial pathogens. They should be sown in a well-draining potting mix and kept moist until germination. Germination can take up to several weeks or months, depending on the species and conditions.
Overall, Strophanthus DC. can be propagated successfully through both vegetative and sexual methods, providing ample opportunities for multiplication.
Disease and Pest Management for Strophanthus DC.
Strophanthus DC. is a plant species that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. This plant is commonly found in tropical regions of Africa and is known for its medicinal properties. However, like any other plant species, Strophanthus DC. is also prone to diseases and pests. Proper management is essential to keep the plant healthy and thriving. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that affect Strophanthus DC. and ways to manage them.
Diseases
1. Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that affects the leaves and stems of the plant. It causes dark lesions on the leaves and stems, leading to premature leaf drop and stunted growth. To manage anthracnose, it is important to remove the infected plant parts and dispose of them properly. Fungicides can also be used to prevent further spread of the disease.
2. Root Rot: Root rot is a common disease caused by fungi that thrive in wet soil conditions. It affects the roots of the plant, causing them to rot and eventually leading to plant death. To prevent root rot, it is important to avoid overwatering the plant and to ensure proper drainage. If root rot has already set in, it is important to remove the plant from the soil, cut away the infected roots, and repot in fresh soil.
Pests
1. Aphids: Aphids are small insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing wilting and stunted growth. To manage aphids, it is important to spray the plant with soapy water or insecticidal soap. Ladybugs and lacewings are also natural predators of aphids and can be introduced to the plant to control their population.
2. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the sap from the leaves of the plant, causing yellowing and defoliation. To manage spider mites, it is important to spray the plant with insecticidal soap. Predatory mites can also be introduced to the plant to control the spider mite population.
By following these disease and pest management practices, you can keep your Strophanthus DC. healthy and thriving. Regular monitoring of the plant is also important to catch any problems early and prevent them from spreading.
