Origin and Common Names
Strychnos unguacha A.Rich. var. pubescens (Soler.) Gilg, also known as "unguacha" or "barba de chivo," is a plant species native to the central and eastern regions of South America, particularly in Brazil and Peru.
General Appearance
This small evergreen tree or shrub typically grows up to 5 to 10 meters tall and has a dense, rounded crown with a spreading habit. The leaves are simple, opposite, and ovate with a glossy green color and a velvety texture. The flowers are small, white or cream-colored, and funnel-shaped, which grow in clusters. The fruit is a fleshy capsule that contains numerous seeds enclosed in an orange-red aril.
Uses
Strychnos unguacha A.Rich. var. pubescens (Soler.) Gilg has a wide range of medicinal uses. It has been traditionally used in indigenous medicine for various ailments, including fever, anxiety, and as an analgesic. Phytochemical analysis revealed that the plant contains various alkaloids, including strychnine and brucine, which have been used for their tonic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory properties. The plant is also used in the production of dyes, specifically for wool and silk, due to the presence of flavonoids.
Light Requirements
Strychnos unguacha A.Rich. var. pubescens (Soler.) Gilg requires full sun exposure for optimal growth. It can tolerate partial shade but may grow slower or produce fewer flowers and fruits. Therefore, it is recommended to plant it in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
Although Strychnos unguacha A.Rich. var. pubescens (Soler.) Gilg is native to South America, it can adapt to a wide range of temperatures. It prefers warm to hot climates with a mean annual temperature of 22–26°C, but it can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°C and as high as 40°C. However, frost can damage or kill the plant, so it is not recommended to grow it in areas prone to frost.
Soil Requirements
Strychnos unguacha A.Rich. var. pubescens (Soler.) Gilg can grow in a variety of soils, but it performs best in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. Soil pH should be 5.5–7.0, which is slightly acidic to neutral. The plant can tolerate some salinity, but excessive salt levels can be harmful. It is also important to provide adequate soil moisture without creating waterlogged conditions that can lead to root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Strychnos unguacha A.Rich. var. pubescens (Soler.) Gilg is a tropical plant that adapts well to a variety of soil conditions. It is important to choose a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter. The ideal pH level of the soil should be in the range of 5.5 to 6.5. This plant requires plenty of sunlight to thrive. Therefore, it should be grown in an area that receives plenty of sunlight, but it should be protected from direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day.
Watering Needs
Watering the plant regularly is essential to keep it healthy and thriving. Water the plant when the top inch of soil becomes dry. Be sure to water the plant thoroughly, but avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot. The plant can tolerate temporary drought, but long periods of drought can cause damage to the plant.
Fertilization
Regular fertilization is required to keep the plant healthy and promote growth. Fertilize the plant every 2-3 weeks with a balanced fertilizer that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Alternatively, you can use an organic fertilizer rich in nitrogen. Be sure to follow the instructions on the fertilizer package, as overfertilizing can be harmful to the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential part of caring for Strychnos unguacha A.Rich. var. pubescens (Soler.) Gilg. Prune periodically to remove dead or damaged limbs and to shape the plant. Prune back any excess growth or suckers to encourage bushier growth. Pruning should be done during the growing season to stimulate new growth.
Propagation of Strychnos unguacha A.Rich. var. pubescens (Soler.) Gilg
Strychnos unguacha A.Rich. var. pubescens (Soler.) Gilg can be propagated by different methods:
Seed Propagation
Seeds of the plant can be collected during its fruit season. The seeds need to be soaked in water for 24 hours to remove the pulp around them. They can then be directly sown into a well-draining soil mix, covered with a thin layer of soil, and kept moist. Germination usually takes about 2-4 weeks.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation can be done using 10-15 cm long stem cuttings from the parent plant. The cuttings should be taken from mature, healthy plants with no signs of diseases. The lower leaves of the cuttings should be removed and the cuttings can be dipped in rooting hormone powder to enhance their rooting. The cuttings are then planted in a well-draining soil mix in a rooting medium and kept moist. Rooting usually occurs in about 4-6 weeks.
Air-Layering Propagation
Air-layering can also be used for propagation. This method involves wounding the stem of an established plant by removing a small portion of bark and applying rooting hormone to the wound. A small amount of moist sphagnum moss is then wrapped around the wound and covered with plastic wrap. The moss should be kept moist until roots develop. Once roots have formed, the branch can be cut below the air-layer and planted into well-draining soil mix.
Regardless of the propagation method used, it is important to keep the newly propagated plants in a warm, humid environment for a few months to ensure their establishment.
Disease Management
Some common diseases that might affect Strychnos unguacha A.Rich. var. pubescens (Soler.) Gilg include:
- Anthracnose
- Leaf spot
- Powdery mildew
To manage these diseases, start by practicing good sanitation and maintaining plant health. Remove and dispose of any infected plant material, and avoid overhead watering to reduce moisture on leaves. Fungicides can also be used to control these diseases, but it's important to follow the instructions carefully and apply them at the first sign of infection.
Pest Management
Common pests that might affect Strychnos unguacha A.Rich. var. pubescens (Soler.) Gilg include:
- Spider mites
- Aphids
- Caterpillars
To manage these pests, start by regularly inspecting your plants for signs of infestation. Remove any affected plant parts and use insecticidal sprays or soaps to control pests. You can also introduce beneficial insects, such as ladybugs or lacewings, to naturally control pest populations.
