Description of Sutera atropurpurea
Sutera atropurpurea is a flowering perennial plant that belongs to the family of Convolvulaceae. Its common names are 'Purple Sky-Flower', 'Purple Bells', and 'False Violet'. It is indigenous to the Eastern Cape province of South Africa and is a popular houseplant and garden flower around the world.
General Appearance
The Sutera atropurpurea plant grows up to 12 inches tall and spreads up to 15 inches wide. Its leaves are small, pubescent, and somewhat fleshy. The flowers are star-shaped with a purple hue, which is darker on the outside and lighter towards the center. Each flower has an average diameter of 1 inch and blooms in small clusters.
Uses
Sutera atropurpurea is a popular garden and houseplant due to its ever-blooming flowers and ease of care. It makes an excellent hanging basket plant or ground cover and can be used in combination with other plants in containers. In addition, the plant has medicinal properties and has been used in traditional South African medicine to treat various ailments, including stomach disorders and skin infections.
In conclusion, Sutera atropurpurea is a beautiful and versatile plant that can be grown both indoors and outdoors. Its vibrant purple blooms and easy care make it an excellent choice for gardeners of all levels, while its medicinal properties have made it a valuable plant in traditional medicine for centuries.
Light Requirements
Sutera atropurpurea requires bright but indirect light to grow best. It should be shielded from direct sunlight as it may scorch the leaves. East-facing windows or filtered south-facing windows are ideal locations for this plant.
Temperature Requirements
This plant thrives in warm temperatures and requires a temperature range of 18 - 27°C (65 - 80°F). During winters, it is essential to keep the temperature above 10°C (50°F) to prevent damage to the plant. Extreme temperature changes should also be avoided as it can cause leaf drop and stunted growth.
Watering Requirements
Sutera atropurpurea prefers consistently moist soil but overwatering may lead to root rot and other related diseases. Watering the plant once a week should suffice during spring and summer months. In winters, the plant requires less watering and should only be watered when the top 1-inch layer of soil feels dry to touch.
Soil Requirements
Well-draining soil is essential for the growth of Sutera atropurpurea. A pH range of 5.5 to 6.5 is ideal for this plant. One option is to use a potting mix that contains peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. Adding organic matter to the soil can also improve drainage and provide necessary nutrients for the plant.
Cultivation
The Sutera atropurpurea auct. plant is a great addition to any garden and can easily be grown in pots or hanging baskets. It prefers well-draining soil and a spot that receives partial shade.
During the summer, the plant can be moved outside for some fresh air. It grows best in temperatures between 55°F to 80°F.
Watering Needs
Sutera atropurpurea auct. should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist, but not wet. Too much water can lead to root rot and ultimately, the death of the plant. When the top of the soil is dry to the touch, it is time to water the plant.
Fertilization
It is recommended to fertilize the Sutera atropurpurea auct. plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Do not fertilize during the winter when the plant is not in an active growing stage.
Pruning
Pruning is essential in encouraging the plant to continue producing new flowers. Regular removal of dead and faded flowers can also promote new growth. Prune the plant in early spring before growth begins, cutting back any dead or woody stems to encourage new growth.
Propagation of Sutera Atropurpurea Auct.
Sutera atropurpurea auct. is commonly propagated through two primary methods, namely, stem cuttings and seed propagation.
Stem Cuttings
Propagation through stem cuttings is a practical and easy method of Sutera atropurpurea auct. propagation. Cuttings are harvested from a healthy, mature plant in the early spring, just before it enters its active growth phase. The cuttings are taken from the tip of the stem, preferably from the upper section of the plant, and should be 7-10 centimeters in length. The foliage and flowers of the cutting should be removed, leaving only 2-3 leaves closest to the cutting's base.
The cuttings are then planted in a well-draining potting soil mixture, keeping the soil adequately moist. The cutting pot is then covered with a clear plastic sheet to maintain humidity levels around the cutting. In 14-21 days, root formation will commence, and healthy new growth will appear.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation of Sutera atropurpurea auct. involves sowing seeds in the early spring in trays or seed starting kits. The soil mixture should be a well-draining potting mix, with added horticultural sand or perlite to ensure good drainage. The seeds should be lightly scattered over the soil, pressing them lightly, so they stick to the soil.
The tray should then be covered with a sheet of clear plastic to maintain soil moisture levels. After 15-20 days, healthy seedlings will emerge, signaling the start of the growth phase. As the seedlings grow, they should be transplanted into individual pots. In a few months, the new plants will be mature enough for outdoor planting or to be moved into larger pots.
Disease and Pest Management for Sutera Atropurpurea Auct.
Sutera Atropurpurea Auct. is a stunning plant, but just like any other plant, it can be affected by diseases and pests. Here are some of the most common diseases and pests that might affect this plant and how to manage them.
Diseases
Sutera Atropurpurea Auct. is susceptible to several diseases that include:
- Mildew: Mildew is a fungal disease that causes the growth of a white or grayish substance on the leaves of the plant. It can be managed by removing the infected leaves and frequently spraying the plant with a fungicide.
- Root rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, making them mushy and black. It can be managed by reducing the amount of moisture in the soil and allowing it to dry out before watering.
- Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a bacterial or fungal disease that causes yellow, brown, or black spots on the leaves of the plant. It can be managed by removing the infected leaves and spraying the plant with a fungicide or bactericide.
Pests
Sutera Atropurpurea Auct. is also susceptible to several pests that include:
- Aphids: Aphids are tiny insects that suck the sap out of the plant, causing the leaves to curl and yellow. They can be managed by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: Spider mites are also tiny insects that cause yellow or bronze spots on the leaves of the plant. They can be managed by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Whiteflies: Whiteflies are tiny, white insects that suck the sap out of the plant, causing the leaves to turn yellow. They can be managed by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
It's important to monitor Sutera Atropurpurea Auct. regularly and take action at the first sign of disease or pests. Proper care, such as providing adequate water, light, and nutrients, can also help prevent plant infections.
