Overview
Strophanthus hispidus DC. var. seidenii is a plant species in the Apocynaceae family. It is a woody vine that is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in the African continent.
Common Names
The plant has several common names, including Gorgla, Ripe Fruits Strophanthus, and Ridderstrophant. These names are mostly used in West Africa and several other parts of the world where the plant is found.
Description
Strophanthus hispidus DC. var. seidenii is a semi-deciduous to deciduous woody vine that grows up to 30 meters long. Its stem is usually twisted and has corky ridges, which make it quite noticeable. The leaves are simple, opposite, oblong-lanceolate, and hairy, with petioles that are about 3 to 12 mm long. The plant produces flowers that are usually pink or white in color, with a funnel-shaped corolla that is about 20 to 35 mm long. The fruit is linear, and its seeds are quite distinctive and have a tuft of silky hairs.
Uses
The plant is well-known for its medicinal properties, and various parts of the plant have been used traditionally for medicinal purposes. The seeds, for instance, are used to treat several ailments, including gonorrhea, hypertension, and cardiac problems. In traditional medicine, it is also used to stimulate the heart and to manage snake bites. The plant is also used as a source of fiber, with its stem being used to make ropes, baskets, and mats. Its timber is also quite valuable, and it is used in the construction of houses and furniture.
Growth Conditions for Strophanthus hispidus DC. var. seidenii
Strophanthus hispidus DC. var. seidenii is a tropical plant that grows prolifically in humid climates. The plant requires specific conditions to thrive and produce its characteristic flowers and fruits. Below are some of the key growth conditions for Strophanthus hispidus DC. var. seidenii:
Light
The plant requires bright, indirect sunlight to grow well. It prefers partial shade and cannot tolerate prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. If grown indoors, the plant should be placed near a window that receives indirect sunlight for several hours daily.
Temperature
Strophanthus hispidus DC. var. seidenii prefers warm temperatures between 20°C to 30°C. Temperatures above 35°C can cause the plant to dry out, while those below 20°C can slow down its growth. The plant cannot withstand frost or extreme cold and should be kept in a warm and sheltered environment.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It grows best in soil that has a pH range between 6.5 and 7, which is slightly acidic to neutral. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
In conclusion, for Strophanthus hispidus DC. var. seidenii to grow successfully, it needs bright, indirect sunlight, warm temperatures between 20°C to 30°C, and well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH range. Adhering to these growth conditions ensures that the plant thrives and produces healthy flowers and fruits.
Cultivation Methods
Strophanthus hispidus DC. var. seidenii is a tropical plant that typically grows in coastal forests, open forests, and savannas. It is cultivated mainly as an ornamental plant, but it also has medicinal properties. It can be propagated from seeds or stem cuttings. If grown from seeds, the seeds should be soaked in water for a day or two to soften the hard seed coat to aid germination. Propagation from cuttings is easier and quicker. The plant prefers slightly acidic soils of pH 5.5 – 6.5. The soil should be well-draining and rich in organic matter. It grows well in partial shade to full sun, depending on the location.
Watering Needs
Strophanthus hispidus DC. var. seidenii is moderately drought-tolerant, but it thrives when the soil is kept consistently moist. During the growing season, water the plant regularly, ensuring that the soil does not become waterlogged. During the dormant period, reduce the frequency of watering while still ensuring that the soil does not dry out completely. A layer of mulch around the base of the plant helps to retain soil moisture.
Fertilization
Strophanthus hispidus DC. var. seidenii benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season to maintain healthy growth and blooming. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer can be applied every three months. Alternatively, a water-soluble fertilizer can be diluted and applied weekly during the growing season. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates.
Pruning
Strophanthus hispidus DC. var. seidenii does not require much pruning apart from the removal of dead, diseased, or damaged branches. Prune the plant lightly after flowering to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. The plant responds well to pinching back the tips of stems to promote branching. Cut back overgrown stems to control the plant's size and shape.
Propagation of Strophanthus hispidus DC. var. seidenii
Strophanthus hispidus DC. var. seidenii is a perennial plant that is native to East Africa and is commonly propagated through seeds or stem cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
The propagation of Strophanthus hispidus DC. var. seidenii by seeds is the most commonly used method. It is best to use fresh seeds and sow them immediately after harvesting in a well-draining soil mixture. The seeds should be sown at a depth of about 1 cm and kept moist until germination. Germination usually takes 2-4 weeks.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Propagation of Strophanthus hispidus DC. var. seidenii by stem cuttings is also possible. The stem cuttings should be taken during the growing season and should be about 10-15 cm long. The cuttings should be dipped into rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mixture. The cuttings should be kept moist and in a semi-shaded area until they start developing new leaves, which should take about 2-4 weeks.
Propagation of Strophanthus hispidus DC. var. seidenii is relatively easy and can be done with minimal effort. Once rooted or germinated, the seedlings should be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the ground.
Disease and Pest Management for Strophanthus hispidus DC. var. seidenii
Being a plant in its natural environment, Strophanthus hispidus DC. var. seidenii may encounter a range of diseases and pests. It is important to identify the problem accurately and manage the issue. Here are some common diseases and pests that may plague Strophanthus hispidus DC. var. seidenii, along with some ways to manage them:
Diseases
Leaf Spotting: Leaf spotting manifests as brown to black spots on the leaves of the plant, which lead to the eventual withering and death of the leaves. It is caused by fungal and bacterial pathogens. Regularly monitoring the plants, keeping the moisture levels even, avoiding wetting the leaves when watering, and providing adequate ventilation can help prevent leaf spotting. Also, immediately remove and dispose of any affected leaves. Fungicides or bactericides can be used to manage leaf spotting if it persists.
Root Rot: Root rot causes the roots to decay, leading to death of the plant. It is caused by fungi that thrive in moist soil. To prevent root rot, avoid overwatering, provide proper drainage, and improve soil aeration. In case of severe root rot, prune the affected roots and repot in fresh soil.
Pests
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the sap from the leaves of the plant and cause significant damage. They are known to thrive in hot and dry conditions. To prevent spider mites, regularly mist the plants, wash plant leaves with cold water, provide adequate ventilation, and avoid over-fertilizing. In case of infestation, use insecticides or miticides to control their population.
Aphids: Aphids are common pests that attack plants by sucking sap from the leaves and stems. They are often found congregated on new growth. To prevent aphids, release beneficial predators like ladybugs or lacewings, apply insecticidal soap solution, maintain healthy growth conditions, or prune any infested plant parts.
By keeping an eye on your Strophanthus hispidus DC. var. seidenii plant, promptly identifying any issues, and following suitable management practices, you can prevent or manage most diseases and pests that may affect it.
