Introduction
Sutera polelensis Hiern subsp. fraterna Hilliard, commonly known as the Pink Necklace, is a flowering plant that belongs to the family of Scrophulariaceae.Origin and Distribution
The Pink Necklace is native to South Africa, particularly found in the eastern parts of the Cape Province. It usually grows in rocky hills, cliffs, and crevices in forests or grassy habitats.Common Names
In addition to the Pink Necklace, this plant is also commonly referred to as Cape Primrose or Bush Violet.Appearance
The Pink Necklace is a small shrub with a prostrate growth habit that can reach up to 25cm in height. The leaves of this plant are small, oval-shaped, and hairy. It produces small, fragrant, trumpet-shaped flowers that are pink with yellow centers. These flowers bloom in clusters, giving the appearance of a pink necklace hence the common name.Uses
The Pink Necklace is mainly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes, particularly in rock gardens and hanging baskets. It is also known for its medicinal properties, with the leaves and stem being used to treat various ailments such as headaches, flu, and coughs. Additionally, the plant is a food source for various insects such as butterflies and bees.Growth Conditions for Sutera Polelensis Hiern subsp. Fraterna Hilliard
Sutera Polelensis Hiern subsp. Fraterna Hilliard is a herbaceous plant that is native to South Africa. This plant is a member of the family Convolvulaceae and is commonly known as the Forest Bells or Polela Forest Bells.
Light Requirements
When it comes to light requirements, Sutera Polelensis Hiern subsp. Fraterna Hilliard needs to be grown in an area that receives partial shade or filtered sunlight. Too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves of the plant to burn and wilt. Therefore, it is recommended to place this plant in a location where it can receive morning sunlight and afternoon shade.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the growth of Sutera Polelensis Hiern subsp. Fraterna Hilliard is between 50°F to 80°F (10°C to 27°C). This plant is sensitive to cold temperatures and cannot tolerate frost, so it is important to protect it from extreme cold during the winter months. It is recommended to grow this plant in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Soil Requirements
Sutera Polelensis Hiern subsp. Fraterna Hilliard prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic to neutral with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. It is recommended to mix sand and perlite into the soil to improve drainage and aeration. This plant can also grow in rocky soil, but it should not be grown in heavy clay soil as it retains too much moisture and can cause the roots to rot.
Cultivation
The Sutera polelensis Hiern subsp. fraterna Hilliard plant requires a light, well-draining soil for optimum growth. It thrives best in areas with morning sunlight and partial shade in the afternoon. This plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it prefers moderate temperatures ranging from 60-75°F.
Watering Needs
Water the plant regularly and deeply to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. It's essential to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Therefore, it's recommended to check the soil moisture before watering by sticking your finger in the soil. If the surface is dry to the touch, it's time to water.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season using a balanced water-soluble fertilizer mixed at half strength. Avoid over-fertilizing as this can damage the roots.
Pruning
Prune your Sutera polelensis Hiern subsp. fraterna Hilliard plant in the spring by cutting back any leggy or damaged stems to encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead or diseased foliage, and pinch back the tips of the stems to promote branching and the formation of new foliage.
Propagation of Sutera polelensis Hiern subsp. fraterna Hilliard
The Sutera polelensis Hiern subsp. fraterna Hilliard plant can be propagated through multiple methods including stem cuttings, division, and by seeds.
Stem Cuttings
The stem cutting method is a simple and efficient way to propagate the Sutera polelensis Hiern subsp. fraterna Hilliard plant. Cut 2-3 inches stem from the plant using sharp and sterilized pruners. Remove the lower leaves from the stem, leaving only the topmost leaves intact and place the stem into a pot filled with damp soil. Keep the pot in partial shade and mist the cutting frequently. After 3-4 weeks, roots will have developed, and new growth will appear indicating that the cutting is ready for a new pot or planted directly into the ground.
Division Method
The division method involves dividing the Sutera polelensis Hiern subsp. fraterna Hilliard plant's root ball into smaller sections. First, remove the parent plant from the container or ground carefully. Next, divide the root ball into multiple sections by gently pulling it apart. Make sure each section has at least one healthy stem, roots, and leaves. Repot each division into a new pot with fresh potting mix and water thoroughly. Keep the pot in partial shade for a few days before moving it to a brighter spot.
Seeds
The Sutera polelensis Hiern subsp. fraterna Hilliard plant can also be grown from seeds. Collect seeds from the parent plant's flowers, spread them on top of pre-moistened soil and cover them with a thin layer of soil. Keep the pot in partial shade and maintain the soil moisture level until the seeds have germinated. Once the seedlings have emerged, move them separately into pots filled with fresh potting mix and water the plants regularly.
Disease Management
One of the most common diseases that affect Sutera polelensis Hiern subsp. fraterna Hilliard is powdery mildew. This disease appears as white or gray powdery spots on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage this disease, start by removing and destroying infected plant parts. You can also apply fungicides to prevent further spore growth. Another common disease is root rot, which causes the roots of the plant to rot and die. To prevent this disease, avoid overwatering the plant, ensure proper drainage, and use well-draining soil. If your plant already has root rot, cut off the affected roots and repot the plant in new, dry soil.
Pest Management
Sutera polelensis Hiern subsp. fraterna Hilliard is also susceptible to several pests, including aphids and spider mites. Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that cause damage to the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage an aphid infestation, use insecticides or a strong jet of water to dislodge the pests. Spider mites, on the other hand, are small arachnids that create webbing and suck the sap from leaves. To manage spider mites, increase humidity levels, keep the plant well-watered, and use miticides if necessary. Additionally, ensure that you regularly inspect your plant for pests and prune off any infested areas immediately.
