Overview
Sutera calycina (Benth.) Kuntze var. laxiflora (Benth.) Hiern is an herbaceous perennial plant native to South Africa. It is a member of the family Convolvulaceae, commonly known as the morning glory family. The plant is now cultivated in many parts of the world and is appreciated for its ornamental value and medicinal properties.
Common names
The plant is commonly known as the trailing Lysimachia or wandering Jew. In South Africa, it is known as "Vleiloerie" or "Oorbietjie". The plant has also been given other names such as "creeping jenny" or "goldilocks."
Appearance
The plant grows up to 30 cm in height and can trail for up to 1 meter. Its stems are thin and wiry, characteristic of the Convolvulaceae family. The leaves are small, lance-shaped and shiny green in color with a slightly thicker texture than the stem. The flowers are small and trumpet-shaped, featuring five white petals with a yellow center. The plant is evergreen and blooms from spring through to autumn.
Uses
The plant is commonly used as an ornamental plant in gardens in many parts of the world. It is often grown as a ground cover and is especially appreciated for its dainty flowers and trailing habit. It can also be grown in hanging baskets and used to decorate patios and other outdoor spaces.
Sutera calycina (Benth.) Kuntze var. laxiflora (Benth.) Hiern has also been used in traditional medicine for centuries. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties and is used to relieve swelling and water retention. In addition, the plant is believed to have a calming and relaxing effect and has been used to treat anxiety and insomnia.
However, it is important to note that while the plant does have medicinal properties, it should never be ingested without consulting a healthcare professional.
Growth Conditions for Sutera calycina (Benth.) Kuntze var. laxiflora (Benth.) Hiern
Light: Sutera calycina var. laxiflora thrives in areas with bright but indirect light. It is recommended to provide the plant with at least 4-6 hours a day of bright, indirect sunlight. A shaded area that receives morning sun can also be suitable. Direct, harsh sunlight can scorch the plant.
Temperature: This plant prefers average to warm temperatures, around 60-75°F (16-24°C). It can tolerate some temperature fluctuations, but it should not be exposed to extreme heat or cold. Avoid placing it near drafty windows or air conditioning units.
Soil: A well-draining potting mix is essential for the growth of Sutera calycina var. laxiflora. The soil should be nutrient-rich and slightly acidic, with a pH of 5.5-6.5. A combination of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite can provide excellent drainage.
Water: Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Water thoroughly, but do not let the soil become waterlogged. Overwatering can cause root rot and harm the plant. In the winter, reduce watering and let the soil dry out more before watering.
Fertilizer: Feed Sutera calycina var. laxiflora every 2-3 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Do not fertilize during the winter months.
Humidity: Sutera calycina var. laxiflora prefers moderate to high humidity. This can be achieved through regular misting or by placing the plant on a tray filled with pebbles and water. Avoid placing it in a dry area or near heating vents.
Cultivation Methods for Sutera Calycina var. Laxiflora
Sutera calycina var. laxiflora is a tender, trailing perennial plant that requires a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic material. It thrives in areas with partial to full sun exposure. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60°F and 85°F.
You can propagate this plant effectively by cuttings, which should be placed into a rooting hormone before planting into a well-draining soil mix. The cutting should be kept moist and should root within about 21 days.
Watering Needs for Sutera Calycina var. Laxiflora
It's important to avoid overwatering Sutera calycina var. laxiflora because it is susceptible to root rot. Watering should occur only when the soil dries out, and the soil should not stay consistently wet, but rather damp to the touch. Watering should occur at the base of the plant and should be continued until the water is flowing out of the bottom of the pot.
Fertilization Requirements for Sutera Calycina var. Laxiflora
Sutera calycina var. laxiflora requires fertilization to maintain vigorous and healthy growth. Fertilizer should be applied during the growing season, with the application frequency dependent on the type of fertilizer used. A balanced soluble fertilizer with a 20-20-20 NPK ratio is ideal, applied every two weeks at half-strength.
Pruning Tips for Sutera Calycina var. Laxiflora
Sutera calycina var. laxiflora requires pruning to maintain an attractive and healthy appearance. The best time to prune this plant is during its active growth phase, between spring and fall. Use sanitized pruning shears to remove dried or wilted foliage and stems. Trimming back the plant also promotes a bushy, more compact growth habit.
Propagation of Sutera calycina (Benth.) Kuntze var. laxiflora (Benth.) Hiern Plant
Sutera calycina (Benth.) Kuntze var. laxiflora (Benth.) Hiern is a popular trailing plant that is propagated through cuttings or seeds. Below are details on the propagation methods:
Propagation by Cuttings
The best time to take cuttings from Sutera calycina (Benth.) Kuntze var. laxiflora (Benth.) Hiern is during spring or early summer. Choose stem tips that are about 5-8 cm long, making a sharp angled cut below a node. Remove the lower leaves to prevent rotting before inserting the cuttings into moist sand or perlite. Cover them with a plastic bag to maintain humidity and place them in a shaded area. The rooting hormone can also be applied to the cuttings to hasten growth. After 6-8 weeks, roots should have formed, and the new plants can be transplanted into their respective pots.
Propagation by Seeds
The seeds of Sutera calycina (Benth.) Kuntze var. laxiflora (Benth.) Hiern can be directly sowed into pots or seed trays during the spring or summer. Prepare a well-draining potting mix and sprinkle the seeds on the soil surface. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of the potting mix and keep the soil continuously moist. Place the trays or pots in a warm and bright location, but avoid direct sunlight. Within 4-10 days, the seeds should germinate, and the new seedlings will begin to grow. Once the seedlings are well established, they can be planted into larger pots or hanging baskets.
Disease Management
Sutera calycina var. laxiflora is relatively resistant to diseases, but it is still susceptible to some common fungal diseases.
Gray mold, caused by Botrytis cinerea, can be a problem in humid environments. It can easily spread between plants and cause a fuzzy gray mold on leaves and flowers. To manage this disease, it is important to keep the foliage dry by watering at the base of the plant, pruning affected leaves, and promoting good air circulation.
Powdery mildew, caused by various fungi, is another common disease that may affect this plant. It can appear as a white powder on the leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage powdery mildew, you can use fungicides or a mixture of baking soda and liquid soap.
Pest Management
Sutera calycina var. laxiflora may encounter a few common pests and insects, especially if grown in humid environments.
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the leaves and stems. They can be controlled by releasing natural predators such as ladybugs, or by using insecticidal soap.
Mites are another type of pest that may affect this plant. They cause leaves to have a stippled appearance and can be controlled with miticides.
Whiteflies are tiny insects that suck the sap from the leaves. They are usually found on the underside of the leaves and can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Regular monitoring of the plant and immediate management of pests and diseases will help keep Sutera calycina var. laxiflora healthy and thriving.
