Overview
Sutera litoralis (Schinz) Hiern, also known as the trailing blue-eyed grass or Sutera, is a flowering plant belonging to the family Goodeniaceae. This plant is native to the coastal regions and rocky cliffs of South Africa.
Appearance
The trailing blue-eyed grass is a small, perennial herb that grows up to 20 centimeters long. It features small green leaves that are lance-shaped and grow in an alternate pattern along the stem. The plant produces clusters of beautiful, small star-shaped flowers with five lobes that are usually colored white or soft pink with a yellow center. The flowers resemble those of lobelias and can bloom all year round.
Common Names
The Sutera litoralis is most commonly known as the trailing blue-eyed grass or Sutera. Other common names include the coastal Sutera and rock Sutera. In South Africa, it is locally referred to as "Beach spirit," "Vygie," and "Vuurbosje."
Uses
Sutera litoralis is mainly used as an ornamental plant for its charming appearance and low maintenance. It is excellent for hanging baskets, rock gardens, or as a ground cover. The trailing blue-eyed grass prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, making it ideal for coastal regions with sandy soils. It is also known to have medicinal properties and has been used by traditional healers to treat eye infections, respiratory problems, and rheumatism.
In summary, the Sutera litoralis is a charming perennial plant that is native to the coastal regions of South Africa. With its green lance-shaped leaves and beautiful star-shaped flowers that come in white or pale pink coloration with a yellow center, this plant is sure to catch one's eye. Common names include trailing blue-eyed grass, Sutera, coastal Sutera, and rock Sutera. It is mainly used for ornamental purposes and is ideal for hanging baskets, rock gardens, or as a ground cover. Additionally, it has medicinal properties and has been used to treat eye infections, respiratory problems, and rheumatism in traditional medicine.Light Requirements
Sutera litoralis prefers moderate to bright light but does not tolerate direct sunlight. It grows well in partially shaded areas, making it an ideal indoor or outdoor plant. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight as it can cause leaf discoloration and scorching.
Temperature Requirements
This plant thrives in warm temperatures between 18°C to 27°C. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°C but struggles in colder temperatures below that. It is recommended to keep the plant indoors during the winter season or in colder climates to maintain the optimal temperature range.
Soil Requirements
Sutera litoralis prefers well-draining, fertile soil rich in organic matter. It can grow in a range of soil types, from sandy to loamy soil. It is essential to ensure adequate drainage to prevent root rot. Adding perlite or sand to the soil mixture can increase drainage and prevent waterlogging.
Cultivation methods
Sutera litoralis, commonly known as trailing lobelia, is a beautiful plant that is ideal for garden beds, hanging baskets, and as ground cover. It grows best in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter and should be placed in areas that receive partial to full sunlight.
Plant the trailing lobelia in the spring after the danger of frost has passed, taking care to space the plants at least 6 to 12 inches apart. The plant prefers neutral to slightly acidic soils with a pH range between 6.6 and 7.5.
Watering needs
The trailing lobelia requires consistent soil moisture to thrive, but it's important not to overwater as this plant can be susceptible to root rot. Ensure the soil is consistently moist, but not soggy or waterlogged. During the hot summer months, you may need to water the plant more frequently to prevent the soil from drying out.
Water the plant at the base, rather than above the foliage, to prevent water from accumulating on the leaves and causing fungal diseases.
Fertilization
The trailing lobelia is a light feeder and only requires a moderate amount of fertilizer. You can apply a slow-release fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season and again in mid-summer to help promote blooming.
Alternatively, you can use a water-soluble fertilizer at half the recommended strength once every two weeks. Avoid excessive application of fertilizers as this can lead to decreased blooms and lush foliage with few flowers.
Pruning
The trailing lobelia is a low maintenance plant that doesn't require heavy pruning. However, to keep it looking neat and tidy, you can occasionally prune back any dead or yellowing leaves and stems throughout the growing season. This plant can also benefit from a light pruning after each bloom cycle to encourage new blooms to form.
If you're growing trailing lobelia in a hanging basket or container, you may need to trim back any stems that grow too long and start to droop over the side. This will help keep the plant looking full and healthy.
Propagation Methods for Sutera Litoralis (Schinz) Hiern
Sutera litoralis (Schinz) Hiern is commonly known as the trailing white satin flower. Propagation of Sutera litoralis can be done by various methods such as seeds, cuttings, and division of mature plants.
Propagation by Seeds
Sutera litoralis seeds can be collected from mature plants in the fall. Care must be taken to ensure that the seeds are ripe before collection and should be stored in a dry and cool place until spring. Seeds should be planted in spring in well-draining soil mix, kept moderately moist. Germination usually takes two to four weeks.
Propagation by Cuttings
Cuttings are the easiest way to propagate Sutera litoralis throughout the year. Select a healthy stem from the parent plant and make a clean cut below a node. Dip the cut end into rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining soil mix. Water the soil well and cover the pot with clear plastic to retain moisture. Cuttings will root in about three to four weeks. Once the plant has enough roots, remove the plastic cover and place the pot in indirect sunlight.
Propagation by Division
Sutera litoralis can be propagated by division when the plant has grown large. Carefully remove the plant from its pot and separate the roots into several sections. Each section should have several healthy stems and roots. Plant the divisions in separate pots containing well-draining soil mix, water well, and let them grow in indirect sunlight until established.
Disease and Pest Management of Sutera litoralis
Sutera litoralis, commonly known as the trailing or creeping phlox, is a popular plant suitable for hanging baskets, window boxes, and ground covers. However, like any other plants, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can affect its growth and appearance. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Sutera litoralis and some ways to manage them:
Common Diseases
1. Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that initially appears as white or gray powdery patches on the leaves, stem, and flowers of the plant. It can weaken the plant's growth and make it more susceptible to other diseases and pests. To manage this disease, you can prune the infected parts of the plant, avoid overhead watering, and treat the plant with fungicide.
2. Root Rot: Sutera litoralis is susceptible to root rot, which is caused by overwatering or poor drainage. You can manage this disease by avoiding overwatering, ensuring proper drainage, and improving soil aeration using perlite or sand.
Common Pests
1. Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck plant sap, causing the leaves to curl and turn yellow. To manage this pest, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil, prune heavily infested plant parts, and encourage natural enemies like ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps.
2. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that spin webs on the leaves and stems of the plant and suck the sap, causing yellowing and leaf drop. To manage this pest, you can spray the plant with water, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, and prune heavily infested plant parts.
By managing the diseases and pests, you can help your Sutera litoralis grow healthy and thrive in a beautiful way.
