Overview of Sutherlandia Frutescens
Sutherlandia frutescens (L.) R. Br. is a perennial legume shrub that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to southern Africa and widely distributed throughout the dry regions of the continent, including South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe. The plant has been used for centuries in traditional medicine due to its various therapeutic properties.
Common Names
Sutherlandia frutescens is commonly known by various names in different African communities. In South Africa, it's known as Insiswa, Ugumba, Ikhamanga, or Unwele. The Nama people refer to it as Kankerbos (Cancer bush), and in Botswana, it's called Phetola. The scientific name is derived in honor of the Scottish Earl Patrick Sutherland, who was also a botanist.
Uses
The plant is used in traditional medicine to treat numerous ailments, including fever, cough, diarrhoea, flu, asthma, and stomach problems. It has also shown promising potential in the management of conditions such as diabetes, tuberculosis, depression, and cancer. Recent research has indicated that Sutherlandia frutescens has immune-stimulatory and anticancer activities, which makes it a good candidate for use as a complementary therapy in the management of cancer.
The dried leaves and roots of Sutherlandia frutescens are also brewed into tea and ingested as a general health tonic to boost the immune system, promote mental focus, and improve energy levels.
General Appearance
The plant is a shrub that grows up to 1.5 metres tall, with a woody stem and many branches. The leaves are compound, with three leaflets that are oblong and about 30mm long. The flowers are bright orange-red, with petals that are fused into a tube-like shape and bloom in summer. The fruits are flat, brownish seeds that are enclosed in a pod, which splits open when mature.
Sutherlandia frutescens is a drought-resistant plant that thrives in well-drained soils under full sun exposure. It is easy to grow from seeds and is widely cultivated in southern Africa for its medicinal properties and as an ornamental plant.
Growth conditions for Sutherlandia frutescens
Light: Sutherlandia frutescens grows best in full sunlight to partial shade. However, it is important for the plant to receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day in order to thrive.
Temperature: Sutherlandia frutescens is a subtropical plant that grows best in warm temperatures. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°C and as high as 40°C. However, the ideal temperature range for the plant is between 20°C and 30°C.
Soil: Sutherlandia frutescens prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It can grow in a range of soil types including sandy, loamy, and rocky soils, but prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
Water: Sutherlandia frutescens is drought-tolerant and can survive in areas with low rainfall. However, regular watering is recommended to ensure optimal growth and flowering. The plant should be watered deeply once a week, or more frequently if the soil becomes dry.
Fertilizer: Sutherlandia frutescens does not need fertilization if grown in nutrient-rich soils. However, if the soil is poor, a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be applied once a month during the growing season.
Propagation: Sutherlandia frutescens can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in late winter or early spring, while cuttings can be taken in late summer or early autumn. Both seeds and cuttings should be planted in well-draining soil, and kept moist until they are established.
Cultivation Methods
Sutherlandia frutescens (L.) R. Br., also known as the "cancer bush," can be cultivated as an annual or perennial plant. In areas with frost, it is best grown as an annual. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun exposure. When growing the plant from seeds, it is essential to soak the seeds overnight before planting. The plant prefers a pH range between 5.8 and 6.8.
Watering Needs
The plant requires moderate watering during the growing season. Water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch, and avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot. During the winter season, the plant needs less watering, as it goes dormant.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer, preferentially low in nitrogen. Fertilize every two weeks, reducing the frequency to once a month when the flowering period ends. Over-fertilization can lead to excessive foliage growth and reduced flowering.
Pruning
Prune the plant during the winter season to encourage bushy growth and increased flowering. Cut back the plant by one-third, removing old, dead, or damaged branches. Pruning during the growing season can result in reduced flowering.
Propagation of Sutherlandia frutescens (L.) R. Br.
Sutherlandia frutescens (L.) R. Br., commonly known as “cancer bush” or “balloon pea,” is a hardy plant that belongs to the legume family. The plant is native to South Africa and has been traditionally used for various medicinal purposes. Propagation of this plant is typically done through seed propagation, stem cuttings, and division.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method used to propagate Sutherlandia frutescens. The plant produces small, dark brown seeds that can be sown in spring or autumn. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil and covered with a thin layer of soil. The seedlings will typically germinate within two to three weeks and should be kept moist until they are established.
Stem Cuttings
Another method of propagating Sutherlandia frutescens is through stem cuttings. This method is best done during the summer months when the plant is actively growing. Take a 10-15cm cutting from the plant, making sure to include at least two nodes. Remove the lower leaves from the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix and keep it moist. The cutting should root within four to six weeks.
Division
Sutherlandia frutescens can also be propagated through division. This method should be done during the winter months when the plant is dormant. Dig up the entire plant and divide the roots into smaller sections, making sure each section has a good amount of roots and several shoots. Replant the sections in well-draining soil and keep them moist until they are established.
Disease and Pest Management for Sutherlandia frutescens
Sutherlandia frutescens, also known as balloon pea or cancer bush, is a popular medicinal plant in South Africa. However, like any plant, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests. In this section, we will discuss some common diseases and pests that may affect Sutherlandia frutescens and suggest ways to manage them effectively.
Diseases
Root Rot - One of the most common diseases that can affect Sutherlandia frutescens is root rot, which is caused by various fungi. Symptoms of root rot include wilting, yellowing of leaves, and stunted growth. To manage root rot, ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid over-watering the plant. You can also apply fungicides to the soil to prevent the spread of the disease.
Leaf Spot - Another common disease that can affect Sutherlandia frutescens is leaf spot, which is caused by the fungus Cercospora cowpeae. Symptoms include round, brown spots on the leaves. To manage leaf spot, remove any infected leaves and apply a fungicide to the plant. Ensure that the plant is well-ventilated to prevent the disease from spreading.
Pests
Aphids - Aphids are a common pest that can attack Sutherlandia frutescens. They typically feed on the plant's sap and can cause yellowing of leaves, stunted growth, and even death of the plant. To manage aphids, you can blast them off the plant using a strong jet of water or apply insecticidal soap to the plant. You can also introduce natural predators, such as ladybugs or lacewings, to help control aphid populations.
Spider Mites - Spider mites are another pest that can attack Sutherlandia frutescens. They are tiny pests that feed on the plant's leaves, causing yellowing, browning, and even death of the leaves. To manage spider mites, apply a miticide to the plant and prune any heavily-infested leaves. Ensure that the plant is well-hydrated to prevent the mites from taking hold.
In conclusion, it is essential to be proactive in managing diseases and pests that may affect Sutherlandia frutescens. Regular inspection of the plant, maintaining proper hygiene, and taking preventative measures can go a long way in keeping the plant healthy and productive.
