Overview of Sutera fastigiata (Benth.) Druce
Sutera fastigiata (Benth.) Druce is a trailing plant belonging to the family Convolvulaceae. The plant is native to South Africa, where it is commonly found growing in the rocky areas of the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and Mpumalanga provinces. It is known by several common names, including Blue Eyed Grass, Black Scabious, and Cape Primrose.
General Appearance of Sutera fastigiata
Sutera fastigiata is a low-growing perennial herb that reaches a height of 15-30cm. The plant produces a profusion of small, bright blue, star-shaped flowers throughout the year, making it a popular choice for gardeners. The leaves are small and narrow, with a glossy texture and a bright green color. The plant's stems are slender and wiry, and they spread out to form a dense mat on the ground.
Uses of Sutera fastigiata
Sutera fastigiata is a versatile plant that can be used for a variety of purposes. In gardens, it is commonly used as a ground cover in rockeries, hanging baskets, and mixed borders. Its bright blue flowers make it an eye-catching addition to any garden, and it can attract butterflies and other pollinators. Medicinally, the plant has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including stomach and lung problems.
Overall, Sutera fastigiata is a hardy and attractive plant that can thrive in a wide variety of conditions. Its low maintenance requirements and beautiful flowers make it a popular choice for gardeners and landscapers alike.
Light Requirements
Sutera fastigiata plants require bright but indirect sunlight. These plants cannot tolerate direct sunlight, which may damage their delicate foliage and blooms. It is recommended to place them in a location with partial shade or filtered light, especially during the hottest hours of the day.
Temperature Requirements
Sutera fastigiata plants thrive in moderate temperatures, ranging from 60-75 degrees Fahrenheit (15-24 degrees Celsius). These plants are not frost-tolerant and must be protected from low temperatures. The ideal temperature range for their growth is between 60-65 degrees Fahrenheit (15-18 degrees Celsius) during the night and 70-75 degrees Fahrenheit (21-24 degrees Celsius) during the day.
Soil Requirements
Sutera fastigiata plants require well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH range between 5.5-7.0. It is recommended to use a high-quality potting mix enriched with organic matter such as compost or peat moss to provide the necessary nutrients for their growth. These plants prefer soil that is moist, but not waterlogged.
Cultivation methods
Sutera fastigiata is a low-growing, spreading perennial plant that is suitable for groundcover or hanging baskets. It prefers growing in well-draining soils with a pH range of 6.0-7.0. You can propagate this plant using stem cuttings, seeds, or plant division. It thrives best in full sun to partial shade, with warmer temperatures (around 70-75°F) and low humidity.
Watering needs
This plant has moderate water requirements, and you should water it when the soil is slightly dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause the plant to wilt. You can ensure adequate moisture retention by adding mulch or organic matter to the soil. During the summer, you may need to water the plant more frequently.
Fertilization
Sutera fastigiata is a light feeder, and too much fertilizer can damage the plant. You can fertilize it using a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season (spring to fall) once a month. Alternatively, you can use a diluted liquid fertilizer once every two weeks. Avoid fertilizing during the winter or dormancy period.
Pruning
Pruning helps to maintain the desired shape of the plant and encourage bushier growth. You can prune Sutera fastigiata after flowering or during the early spring before new growth appears. Use a pair of clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to remove any dead, diseased or damaged leaves or stems. You can also trim back the plant to a third of its size to promote growth and rejuvenation.
Propagation of Sutera fastigiata
Sutera fastigiata (Benth.) Druce, commonly known as the upright sutera, is a beautiful plant that can be grown in containers or hanging baskets. The plant has small, star-shaped flowers that bloom in shades of white or pink. Propagation of this plant can be done using various methods.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
One of the easiest ways to propagate Sutera fastigiata is through stem cuttings. Softwood cuttings taken during the growing season have a higher success rate than hardwood cuttings taken during the dormant season. The ideal time to take softwood cuttings is in late spring or early summer. Use a sharp, sterile knife to cut a 3-4 inch stem tip, removing the bottom leaves.
Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix. Place the pot in a warm and bright spot, but not in direct sunlight. Keep the soil moist and the humidity high by covering the pot with a clear plastic bag or a cloche. The cutting should root in 3-4 weeks, and once roots appear, remove the cover and continue to care for the plant as usual.
Propagation by Division
Sutera fastigiata can also be propagated by division. This method is best done during the early spring when the plant is starting to grow actively. Gently remove the plant from its container and separate the root ball into two or more sections, each with a healthy root system.
Plant each section in a pot with fresh potting soil, and water well. Keep the pots in a warm, bright spot but out of direct sunlight, until the plants are established. Continue to care for the plants as usual.
Propagation by Seed
Sutera fastigiata can also be propagated by seed. Collect the seeds when the flowers have dried up, and the pods have turned brown. Store the seeds in a dry, cool place until the next growing season. In the spring, plant the seeds in a well-draining potting mix, covering them lightly with soil.
Water the seeds well, and keep them moist and warm until they germinate. Once the seedlings have sprouted, transplant them to their individual pots, and care for them as usual.
By following these propagation methods, you can easily grow new Sutera fastigiata plants and enjoy their beautiful flowers year-round.
Disease and Pest Management for Sutera fastigiata (Benth.) Druce
Sutera fastigiata (Benth.) Druce, commonly known as "Fountain Plant," is a perennial herbaceous plant that is primarily grown as an ornamental plant. It is generally easy to grow and maintain, but like any other plant, it may be susceptible to diseases and pests. Here is a brief description of common diseases and pests that might affect Sutera fastigiata and some ways to manage them:
Diseases
Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that is common in plants that are grown in poorly drained soil. The disease causes the plant to wilt, turn yellow, and eventually die. To manage root rot, it is crucial to ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil. Avoid over-watering the plant, and make sure the soil is not waterlogged.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease that affects many ornamental plants, including Sutera fastigiata. The disease is identifiable by a white powdery-like substance on the leaves, stem, and flowers. To manage powdery mildew, remove the infected leaves and flowers and use a fungicide to prevent the spread of the disease. Ensure that there is adequate air circulation around the plant, which will help to prevent the onset of the disease.
Pests
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that are known to attack Sutera fastigiata. They are identifiable by the white web-like substance that they produce on the plant's leaves. To manage spider mites, isolate the infected plant and spray it with neem oil or insecticidal soap. You can also increase the humidity around the plant, which will discourage spider mites from taking hold.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing it to wilt and die. To manage mealybugs, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to wipe off the bugs from the infected plant. You can also spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Sutera fastigiata is generally a disease-resistant plant, but proper care and periodic observation are essential for maintaining a healthy and lush plant. By keeping the plant in well-draining soil, providing adequate air circulation, and using organic pesticides, you can manage most diseases and pests that affect the plant.
