Description of Strophanthus hispidus DC.
Strophanthus hispidus DC. is a species of flowering plant in the family Apocynaceae, found mainly in the tropical regions of Africa. This plant is known by different common names such as Thorny-stemmed corky tree, Ouari, Girofle Chloranthus, Kalima, and Baobanum.
General Appearance
The plant is a woody climber that can grow up to 30 feet tall. It has a thorny stem with corky bark, and its leaves are about 8 cm long. The flowers of Strophanthus hispidus DC. are white, pink, or yellow, with a tubular shape, and they grow in clusters at the end of the stem. The seeds of the plant have a characteristic shape and texture, which resembles a pointed beak or horn, giving the plant its name.
Uses
Strophanthus hispidus DC. has a variety of uses in traditional African medicine. The bark, roots, seeds, and leaves of the plant are used to treat different ailments. Some of the most common medicinal uses of this plant include the treatment of snake bites, heart palpitations, and fever.
The active compounds in the plant are cardiac glycosides, which are used to treat heart conditions. The seeds of the plant are used to produce strophanthin, which is used as a heart stimulant and is known to be effective in treating heart failure, angina, and other related conditions.
Aside from medicine, the plant has other uses that have commercial value. The seeds of Strophanthus hispidus DC. are used in the manufacture of insecticides, while the bark is employed in tanning of leather.
In conclusion, Strophanthus hispidus DC. is a medicinal plant that has been used to treat different ailments in traditional African medicine. Its usefulness and efficacy in treating heart conditions have been demonstrated over time.Growth Conditions for Strophanthus hispidus DC.
Strophanthus hispidus DC. is a perennial plant that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. It is native to tropical Africa and is commonly found in areas with high humidity and rainfall.
Light Requirements
This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade. It requires ample amounts of sunlight for proper growth and development. If grown in too much shade, its growth may be stunted, and it may produce fewer flowers.
Temperature Requirements
Strophanthus hispidus DC. prefers warm temperatures and cannot tolerate frost. It grows best at temperatures between 20 to 30°C. If the temperature drops below 15°C, the plant may stop growing or may even die.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-drained soil that is rich in nutrients. The pH level should be around 5 to 6 for optimal growth. Sandy loam or loamy soils are the best for this plant. It is important to note that the soil should not be waterlogged as it may lead to root rot and plant death.
Water Requirements
Strophanthus hispidus DC. requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. However, overwatering should be avoided as it can lead to root rot. The plant should be allowed to dry out slightly between watering sessions.
Fertilizer Requirements
To promote growth, regular fertilization is recommended. A complete organic fertilizer applied every two months is ideal for this plant. However, over-fertilization should also be avoided as it can lead to excessive leaf growth and fewer flowers.
Cultivation methods
Strophanthus hispidus DC., commonly known as the hairy strophanthus, is a tropical climbing plant that is native to Africa. It is renowned for its medical properties as its seeds are used in the production of cardiovascular drugs. Cultivating this plant is relatively easy if you follow the recommended guidelines:
- Strophanthus hispidus DC. thrives in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter.
- The plant requires partial shade and protection from the direct sun.
- You should propagate the seeds during the rainy season by sowing directly in the soil at a depth of about 1 cm and spacing them at least half a meter apart.
- Alternatively, you can propagate by stem cuttings which should also be done in the rainy season, cutting about 20-25 cm from matured stems and inserting them into loamy soils at a spacing of around 15 cm. Ensure that it is watered regularly.
Watering needs
Strophanthus hispidus DC. requires ample water to grow, but it does not like waterlogged soils. So, it would be best if you maintained a moderate watering routine:
- Water the plant regularly especially during the dry season, but avoid overwatering as it may lead to root rot.
- Ensure that you water the plant at the base and avoid watering the leaves to prevent the development of fungal diseases.
- It is recommended that you water the plant either early in the morning or late in the afternoon to minimize water loss due to evaporation.
Fertilization
Fertilization is a crucial aspect of cultivating Strophanthus hispidus DC. The following steps have to be followed:
- Regular fertilization with organic matter such as compost is necessary to provide the plant with the required nutrients.
- You can apply fertilizers that contain nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to the soil to encourage healthy growth and flowering.
- The amount and frequency of application of fertilizers depend on the soil fertility and growth rate of the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential aspect of Strophanthus hispidus DC. cultivation, and it has to be done regularly to promote healthy growth and disease control:
- Trim off any dead or damaged branches as they may attract pests and become a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi.
- Prune the plant during the dry season to minimize the risk of infection.
- You should prune the plant to control its size and shape. Cut back the branches that have already flowered.
- Regular pruning will promote new growth and increase the flowering of the plant.
Propagation of Strophanthus hispidus DC.
Propagation of Strophanthus hispidus DC. is done mainly through seeds. However, propagation by stem cuttings is possible with a bit of difficulty. The following methods can be used for propagation:
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Strophanthus hispidus DC. are small and have a silky appendage that aids in their dispersal. Sow the seeds in seedling trays that have well-draining soil. The seeds should be covered with only a light dusting of soil. Water the seeds twice daily, and keep them in partial shade. It may take up to four weeks for the seeds to germinate.
Stem Cutting Propagation
Propagation by stem cuttings is less common. Cut a stem with a length of 15 to 20 cm. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder. Plant the cutting in well-draining soil. Water the cuttings and keep them in partial shade. After four to six weeks, the cuttings should have developed roots and can be transplanted into a larger pot or into the garden.
Care of Propagated Plants
Once the seeds or cuttings have been planted, it is essential to keep the soil damp but not soaked. Moisten the soil twice daily. Once the plants have established roots, they can be transplanted into larger pots or into the garden. Strophanthus hispidus DC. prefers partial shade and well-draining soil rich in humus. Given the right conditions, the plant will produce beautiful white and pink flowers.
Disease and Pest Management for Strophanthus hispidus DC. Plant
Strophanthus hispidus DC., commonly known as the African arrow poison, is a medicinal plant with various pharmacological properties. However, the plant is susceptible to various diseases and pests that affect its growth and yield. In this section, we will discuss the common diseases and pests that affect this plant and suggest ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Fungal Diseases: The most common fungal diseases affecting Strophanthus hispidus DC. are leaf spot, stem rot, and powdery mildew. Leaf spot causes the leaves to have brown spots, which eventually turn black, leading to leaf fall. Stem rot causes the plant's stems to become soft and mushy, leading to plant death. Powdery mildew appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves, leading to stunted growth.
Bacterial Diseases: Strophanthus hispidus DC. is also susceptible to bacterial diseases such as bacterial leaf spot and bacterial wilt. Bacterial leaf spot causes the leaves to have small water-soaked spots that later become necrotic. Bacterial wilt causes the plant to wilt and die.
Pest Management
Aphids: Aphids suck sap from the plant, leading to stunted growth and the spread of diseases. They can be managed by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars feed on the leaves of the plant, leading to defoliation and reduced yield. They can be managed by handpicking them or using Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt).
Disease Management
Fungal Diseases: Fungal diseases can be managed by regular inspection of the plant, removal of affected plant parts, and application of fungicides such as copper-based fungicides.
Bacterial Diseases: Bacterial diseases can be managed by avoiding plant stress, proper sanitation, and avoiding the use of contaminated tools. Infected plants should be removed and destroyed.
Overall, it is important to monitor Strophanthus hispidus DC. for diseases and pests regularly. Early detection and management can prevent the spread of diseases and pests and ensure optimal plant growth and yield.
