Overview
Strophanthus hispidus DC. var. parvistigmatica Schnell is a plant species belonging to the Apocynaceae family. It is native to tropical, sub-tropical regions of Africa where it grows in various habitats such as moist evergreen forests, riverbanks, and savannas.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as "Bushman's Poison" or "Arrow Poison Plant" due to its historical use in African tribal cultures as a potent poison for hunting and warfare. It is also sometimes referred to as "Large-flowered Strophanthus" because of its strikingly large, white flowers.
Uses
The plant has a long history of medicinal uses in traditional African medicine. It contains cardiac glycosides, which have powerful effects on the heart and cardiovascular system. It is used to treat various conditions such as heart failure, hypertension, and irregular heartbeat. In addition, the plant has been used as a stimulant, emetic, and purgative.
Appearance
Strophanthus hispidus DC. var. parvistigmatica Schnell is a woody, perennial plant that can grow up to 10 meters tall. It has a robust, branching stem and large glossy leaves that are elliptic in shape. Its flowers are large, velvety white, and trumpet-shaped with distinctive yellow-green stripes on the inside. The fruit is a long, narrow, seedpod that splits open when mature to release numerous seeds.
Overall, Strophanthus hispidus DC. var. parvistigmatica Schnell is an impressive plant with a rich historical and cultural significance. Its potent medicinal properties and unique appearance make it a valuable addition to the plant kingdom.Light Requirements
The strophanthus hispidus DC. var. parvistigmatica Schnell requires mostly full sunlight to grow healthy. The plant requires at least six hours of direct sunlight every day to thrive. It can grow in partially shaded areas but may result in reduced flowering and slow growth.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers a well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should have a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. The strophanthus hispidus DC. var. parvistigmatica Schnell requires moist soil, but not one that is waterlogged, as it may result in root rot. The plant can grow in a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
Temperature Requirements
The strophanthus hispidus DC. var. parvistigmatica Schnell can tolerate temperatures between 10°C to 30°C. However, it requires a warm and humid climate to grow healthy. The plant cannot withstand frost and may die at temperatures below 10°C.
Fertilizer Requirements
The strophanthus hispidus DC. var. parvistigmatica Schnell requires regular feeding with balanced fertilizers. The recommended fertilizer ratio is 10-10-10 or 14-14-14, with appropriate trace elements. Fertilize the plant once every two months, especially during the growing season, to ensure it receives enough nutrients to grow healthy.
Cultivation Methods
The Strophanthus hispidus DC. var. parvistigmatica Schnell plant requires adequate space for its roots to spread out. It thrives well in well-drained soil, with a pH ranging between 6 to 7, which is slightly acidic. This plant favors bright to indirect light and thrives best when placed in temperatures between 18°C to 26°C. It grows well in both outdoor and indoor environments, but it requires moderate watering frequency.
Watering Needs
The Strophanthus hispidus DC. var. parvistigmatica Schnell plant requires moderate watering. It is critical to allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering the plant. Overwatering the plant can lead to root rot and cause the plant to die. In summer, water once a week, and in winter, water only when the soil has dried out.
Fertilization
The Strophanthus hispidus DC. var. parvistigmatica Schnell plant thrives well in nutrient-rich soil. Fertilizers rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are ideal for this plant. Fertilize the plant once every month during the growing season, which is from early spring to late summer. During the winter season, the plant goes dormant and requires no fertilization.
Pruning
Pruning this plant is done to control its size and shape. Pruning should be done in early fall or late winter when the plant is growing slowly. Remove the dead or yellow leaves, stems and branches that are diseased, damaged, or weak. Prune only a third of the plant to prevent excessive stress and growth retardation.
Propagation of Strophanthus hispidus DC. var. parvistigmatica Schnell
Strophanthus hispidus DC. var. parvistigmatica Schnell, commonly known as "Kakamadou" in Cameroon, is a woody vine species that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. It is a medicinal plant used for treating various health issues, such as fever, heart disease, and poisoning. To propagate Strophanthus hispidus DC. var. parvistigmatica Schnell, there are several methods that can be used.
Seed propagation
Seeds of Strophanthus hispidus DC. var. parvistigmatica Schnell are usually collected after the fruit is ripe and allowed to dry. The seeds can then be sown directly in the soil or in a container filled with potting mix. It is necessary to cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil or vermiculite and keep them moist. Once the seeds have germinated, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Cuttings propagation
The stem cuttings of Strophanthus hispidus DC. var. parvistigmatica Schnell can also be used for propagation. Softwood cuttings can be taken during the growing season and treated with rooting hormone to enhance root formation. The cuttings are then planted in prepared soil or potting mix and kept moist until they have rooted. The rooted cuttings can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Layering propagation
Layering is another propagation method used for Strophanthus hispidus DC. var. parvistigmatica Schnell. A low hanging branch of the plant can be selected, and a small incision is made on the stem underneath a leaf node. The branch is then buried in the soil, with the incised portion remaining exposed. After a few weeks, roots will form at the incision site. Once adequate roots have developed, the plant can be detached from the parent plant and planted in its permanent location.
Disease Management
Strophanthus hispidus DC. var. parvistigmatica Schnell is generally resistant to most diseases, including fungal, bacterial, and viral infections. However, there are still some diseases that can affect the plant and reduce yields if not managed properly. The most common diseases that affect this plant are:
- Leaf spot: This is a fungal disease that causes circular spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected leaves and apply a fungicide.
- Anthracnose: This is another fungal disease that causes leaf spots and can also affect other parts of the plant, such as stems and fruits. To manage anthracnose, prune infected plant parts and apply a fungicide.
- Root rot: This is a soil-borne disease caused by fungi that attack the roots. To manage root rot, improve soil drainage and avoid overwatering. Remove and destroy infected plants.
Pest Management
Strophanthus hispidus DC. var. parvistigmatica Schnell is also vulnerable to pest attacks. Some of the common pests that affect this plant include:
- Spider mites: These pests feed on plant sap, and their infestation leads to yellow or brown leaves. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on sap and can cause leaf curling and distortion. To manage aphids, remove them by hand or spray the plant with insecticidal soap.
- Mealybugs: These pests are small, white insects that suck plant sap and produce a waxy coating. The infestation leads to stunted growth and wilting. To manage mealybugs, wipe the plant with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol or spray with insecticidal soap.
Regular monitoring of the plant and practicing good sanitation habits can help prevent disease and pest infestations. Ensure that the plant is adequately watered and fertilized and that the growing conditions are optimal. Using organic methods for pest and disease management can be an effective approach.
