Origin and Common Names
Strophanthus thollonii Franchet is a plant species that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. It is native to West Africa and can primarily be found in Nigeria, Ghana, and Cameroon. The plant has a few common names, including Thollon's strophanthus, poison rope, and poison arrow vine.
Appearance
Strophanthus thollonii Franchet is a woody vine that can climb up to 7 meters high. Its stem is thin and cylindrical, with leaves shaped like oblong-lanceolate, and have a length of 5–10 cm. The leaves are deep green and relatively smooth on both sides. Flowers of Strophanthus thollonii are white or yellowish-white, tubular, and scented. They have five petals that fold back to reveal the long, white, or yellow corona at its center.
Uses
Strophanthus thollonii Franchet has several medicinal uses. The plant contains cardiac glycosides, which can be used to treat cardiac conditions. The species has been known to be used for both traditional and modern medicine for its ability to strengthen the heart's muscle contractions. The root and stem bark of Strophanthus thollonii are used for arrow poison in several traditional communities. The bark is peeled and pounded into a paste, which is applied to the arrowheads before use.
Growth Conditions for Strophanthus thollonii Franchet
Strophanthus thollonii Franchet is a tropical plant that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. It has a unique stem architecture that allows it to grow up to six feet tall. The leaves are oblong and dark green, making it an attractive indoor plant. Here are the typical growth conditions for Strophanthus thollonii Franchet:
Light Requirements
The plant prefers partial shade or filtered light. Direct sunlight can cause sun-scalding, which may harm the plant's growth. However, if your plant is well-established and has full foliage, it can handle some direct sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Strophanthus thollonii Franchet thrives in warm temperatures ranging from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F). It can't tolerate low temperatures and frost. It's vital to place the plant in a warm area in the house and keep it away from cold drafts.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained and fertile soil that contains plenty of organic matter. A sandy loam soil mixed with compost or organic fertilizer provides the ideal growing environment for Strophanthus thollonii Franchet. The PH should range between slightly acidic and slightly alkaline (PH 6.6 to 7.8).
Watering Requirements
The plant needs to be watered regularly, but you should allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering. Overwatering can cause the roots to rot, and the plant will begin to wilt. The best way to avoid this problem is to use a well-draining potting mix and a pot with drainage holes.
Fertilization Requirements
Fertilization is crucial to promote healthy growth and a beautiful blooming period. Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 20-20-20. Apply every two weeks during the growing season and stop fertilizing the plant during the winter dormancy period.
Cultivation methods
Strophanthus thollonii Franchet is a perennial plant that is indigenous to West and Central Africa and typically grows up to 10ft high. It prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil and a location with partial shade to full sun. It's cultivated by seed sowing or vegetative propagation.
For seed sowing, it's best to start in the spring, where the seeds are cleaned, soaked in water for 24 hours, and then planted in a seed tray with sterilized soil. The tray is then covered with plastic to maintain moisture until the seeds start to germinate, which may take up to 2 weeks.
Propagation by cutting is another method of cultivation, where cuttings should be made in the spring or summer from a matured plant. Cuttings should be about 6 inches long, and the bottom half should be dipped in rooting hormone before planting them in sterilized soil. Cover the pot with a plastic bag to maintain moisture until the cutting starts rooting, which may take 4 to 6 weeks.
Watering needs
Strophanthus thollonii Franchet requires moderate watering during its growing season, from spring to fall. The soil should be kept slightly moist, but avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot. It's essential only to water when the top inch of the soil is dry, and it's also important to avoid wetting the foliage to prevent fungal diseases.
During the winter months, the plant goes into a dormant stage, and watering should be reduced. Water just enough to keep the soil from becoming too dry, but do not water if the soil is still moist.
Fertilization
The plant requires low to moderate fertilization during its growing season. Fertilize every two weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half-strength. Overfertilization can cause burn and stunted growth; hence, moderation is key.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to keep the plant in shape and to encourage new growth. Prune Strophanthus thollonii Franchet after flowering in the late summer or early fall.
Remove any drying or dead stems and cut back one-third of the plant's length. Pruning will encourage the plant to branch out and produce new shoots. It's also essential to pinch back any new growth to promote bushiness and prevent leggy growth.
Propagation Methods for Strophanthus thollonii Franchet
Strophanthus thollonii Franchet is a woody climber plant that is commonly found in Africa. The plant is known for its medicinal uses, and it is used to treat heart disease, fever, and poisoning. Propagation of Strophanthus thollonii Franchet is important to ensure a steady supply of the plant for medicinal use, scientific research, and commercial purposes. Here are the commonly used methods to propagate Strophanthus thollonii Franchet:
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Strophanthus thollonii Franchet is through seeds. Seeds can be collected earlier by harvesting the fruits when they are mature. The seeds should be stored in a cool and dry place before planting. The seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours to remove the hard seed coat. After soaking, the seeds can be sowed in a nursery bed or directly in the field. The soil should be prepared by loosening it and removing any weeds. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil, watered regularly, and kept in a shaded area until germination occurs. Seed germination usually takes about 10 to 14 days. When the seedlings are about 6 months old, they can be transplanted to the field.
Cuttings Propagation
Propagation of Strophanthus thollonii Franchet can also be done by using stem cuttings. The stem cuttings should be taken from mature plants that are at least two years old. The cuttings are taken from semi-hardwood stems that are still green and flexible. The cuttings should be about 10 to 15 cm long, and the leaves should be removed from the lower part of the stem. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone, and then planted in a mixture of sand and peat moss. The cuttings should be placed in a shaded area and watered regularly until they have rooted. Rooting usually takes about 4 to 6 weeks. After rooting, the cuttings can be transplanted to the field.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering is another method of propagating Strophanthus thollonii Franchet. In air layering, a section of the stem is wounded and covered with moist sphagnum moss or peat moss. The wound is covered with plastic to keep the moisture in. Roots will develop at the wounded area, and after a few weeks, the layer can be cut off and planted in a separate container. The container should be kept in a shaded area and watered regularly until the plant has established roots. The rooted plant can then be transplanted to the field.
In conclusion, Strophanthus thollonii Franchet can be propagated through seed, cuttings, and air-layering. Each of these methods has its benefits and disadvantages, and it is important to choose the most suitable method depending on the needs and resources available.
Disease and Pest Management for Strophanthus thollonii Franchet
Strophanthus thollonii Franchet, commonly known as the Thollon's corkwood plant, is a popular ornamental plant in gardens. However, just like every other plant, the Thollon's corkwood plant is prone to diseases and pest infestations. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the Strophanthus thollonii Franchet plant, as well as some ways to manage them:
Diseases
1. Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that is characterized by yellowing or browning of leaves, followed by the appearance of spots on the leaves. It can be managed by removing the infected parts and spraying with a fungicide.
2. Powdery Mildew: This is a fungal disease that appears as a powdery white coating on leaves, flowers, and stems. It can be managed by improving air circulation around the plant and spraying with a fungicide.
3. Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that causes the plant to wilt and the leaves to turn yellow. It can be prevented by avoiding overwatering and ensuring that the plant is grown in well-drained soil.
Pests
1. Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the plant, causing it to weaken and deform. They can be managed by spraying the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
2. Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white, cotton-like pests that suck the sap from the plant. They can be managed by spraying the plant with a mixture of water and alcohol or insecticidal soap.
3. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that live on the undersides of leaves, causing them to turn yellow and fall off. They can be managed by spraying the plant with water or insecticidal soap.
By implementing proper disease and pest management techniques, you can keep your Strophanthus thollonii Franchet plant healthy and vibrant, ensuring that it remains a beautiful addition to your garden.
