Overview
Sutera macrantha Codd, also known as the trailing blue-eyed grass, is a beautiful flowering plant that belongs to the family Convolvulaceae. The plant is native to South Africa, where it can be found growing in the Eastern Cape, Kwazulu-Natal, Free State, and Mpumalanga provinces. This lovely plant has become a favorite among gardeners because of its attractive flowers and its ability to thrive in a variety of growing conditions.Appearance
Sutera macrantha Codd is a trailing plant that can grow up to 30cm in height and can span up to 1.5m wide. It has numerous thin, wiry stems that form a dense mat of foliage. The leaves are small, oval-shaped, and light green in color. The plant produces an abundance of small, star-shaped flowers that are a lovely shade of blue-violet. The flowers are cup-shaped and have a yellow center. They bloom in spring and summer and attract a variety of pollinators such as bees and butterflies.Common Names
Sutera macrantha Codd is commonly known as the trailing blue-eyed grass because of its delicate blue flowers. In South Africa, the plant is also known as the creeping Sutera or the bloutrommel.Uses
Sutera macrantha Codd is a popular plant for use in hanging baskets, window boxes and as ground cover in garden beds. It is a fast-growing plant that is relatively easy to care for. It prefers a well-drained soil and a position in full sun or partial shade. The plant is resistant to drought and can tolerate a variety of soil types. In addition, the plant is said to have medicinal properties and has been used traditionally in South African herbal medicine to treat gastrointestinal disorders and headaches.Light Requirements
Sutera macrantha Codd is a sun-loving plant that requires bright, indirect light to grow. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves. If the light is insufficient, the plant may not produce many flowers and can become leggy. Therefore, it is best to place it in a well-lit area, such as a north-facing window or under grow lights.
Temperature Requirements
Sutera macrantha Codd prefers warm temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C). It can tolerate temperatures outside of this range, but it may not grow or flower to its full potential. In addition, make sure to keep it away from drafts or extreme temperature changes, as this can stress the plant and impact its growth.
Soil Requirements
Sutera macrantha Codd thrives in well-draining soil that contains organic matter, such as compost or peat moss. A soil pH between 5.5-6.5 is ideal for this plant. It is also recommended to use a soil mix that contains perlite or vermiculite to ensure proper drainage. When planting, be sure to use a container with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Cultivation of Sutera macrantha Codd
Sutera macrantha Codd is a relatively easy plant to cultivate and grow, making it suitable for novice and expert gardeners alike. When planting, ensure that the soil is well-draining and fertile to give the plant the nutrients it needs to thrive. The plant prefers full sun or partial shade, so plant it in an area that receives at least 4-5 hours of sunlight per day.
Watering Needs
Sutera macrantha Codd requires moderate watering, which means watering the plant once a week. However, the watering frequency may vary depending on the weather condition. During the hot season, it might require more watering to compensate for the evaporation rate. On the other hand, during the rainy season, you may need to water less frequently. Water the plant thoroughly but avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant with a good all-purpose fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering. Apply the fertilizer once a month from early spring until late summer. Be careful not to over-fertilize, which can cause the plant to produce more foliage instead of flowers.
Pruning
Pruning Sutera macrantha Codd is not necessary, but it can help promote bushy growth and more flowers. Trim back any leggy or spindly growth to encourage more compact growth. Remove any dead or damaged branches as well as spent blooms to keep the plant looking neat and tidy.
Propagation of Sutera macrantha Codd
Sutera macrantha Codd, commonly known as the Wild Phlox or Large-Flowered Sutera, is a herbaceous perennial plant that can be propagated through several methods. The following are the most common propagation techniques for Sutera macrantha Codd:
Propagation by Seeds
Sutera macrantha Codd plants can be propagated easily from seeds. You can either collect the seeds from the mature plant or purchase them from a reputable source. You must sow the seeds in seedling trays filled with well-draining soil mix, and keep the soil moderately moist. Cover the tray with a plastic cover and place it in a warm and bright location. Germination can take anywhere between 2 to 4 weeks. Once the seedlings are large enough, transplant them into individual pots.
Propagation by Cuttings
Cuttings are an easy and quick way to propagate Sutera macrantha Codd plants. Take cuttings of about 4 inches in length from a mature plant. Strip the leaves from the bottom of the cutting and dip the cut ends in rooting hormone. Plant the cuttings in a well-draining soil mix and water the soil. Keep the soil moist and the cutting in bright, indirect light. Roots should develop within 2 to 3 weeks. Once the cutting has developed roots, it can be transplanted to individual pots.
Propagation by Division
Division is another method of propagating Sutera macrantha Codd plants. Wait until the plant has finished flowering and has entered dormancy. Gently remove the plant from its container and carefully divide the root ball into smaller sections. Each section must have some leaves and roots attached. Replant the divided sections in well-draining soil mix and water the soil. Keep the soil moist, and the plant in shaded or partial shade until new growth appears.
Disease and Pest Management for Sutera Macrantha Codd
Sutera macrantha Codd, commonly known as the pink snow bush, is a South African plant that produces beautiful pink flowers. However, like most plants, it is susceptible to attacks from pests and diseases that can compromise its health and beauty. Here are some of the common pests and diseases that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Pests
1. Aphids: Small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from leaves and stems, resulting in distorted growth and yellowing of leaves. Control aphids by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
2. Spider mites: Tiny pests that suck sap from leaves, causing leaves to become yellow or bronze. Control spider mites by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water to remove them, or by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
3. Whiteflies: Small flying insects that feed on plant sap, causing leaves to yellow and become stippled. Control whiteflies by using sticky yellow traps or spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Diseases
1. Powdery mildew: A fungal disease that appears as a white powdery coating on leaves, stems, and flowers. Control powdery mildew by using a fungicide, such as neem oil, or by removing infected plant parts and improving ventilation and air circulation.
2. Root rot: A fungal disease that causes the plant to wilt, turn yellow, and ultimately die. Control root rot by improving soil drainage and avoiding over-watering.
3. Leaf spot: A fungal disease that appears as brown or black spots on leaves. Control leaf spot by removing infected plant parts and improving air circulation to prevent moisture buildup.
By taking preventive measures and utilizing appropriate control methods, you can effectively manage pests and diseases that may affect your Sutera Macrantha Codd plant. This will help maintain its health and beauty, allowing you to enjoy the stunning pink flowers for a long time.
