Overview
Sutherlandia speciosa E.Phillips & R.A.Dyer, also known as Sutherlandia frutescens or “Cancer bush,” is a medicinal plant native to southern Africa. It has been used for centuries by indigenous people to treat a variety of ailments, including inflammation, depression, and cancer. The plant has gained attention in recent years for its potential anti-cancer properties.Appearance
Sutherlandia speciosa is a shrub that can grow up to 1 meter in height. It has thin, elongated leaves that are green and smooth on the upper side and grayish-green and hairy on the lower side. The flowers are bright red or orange and tubular, with a curved shape. They bloom from August to October, and the plant produces papery seed pods in the winter.Uses
Sutherlandia speciosa has a variety of traditional uses and is known for its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been used to treat a range of conditions, including fever, tuberculosis, diabetes, and anxiety. The plant may also have potential as an anti-cancer agent, with studies showing that the active compounds in Sutherlandia speciosa have cytotoxic effects on cancer cells. Sutherlandia speciosa is commonly consumed as a tea or an extract, and additional research is needed to determine its safety and efficacy as a medicinal supplement.Common Names
Sutherlandia speciosa is commonly referred to as “Cancer bush,” “Balloon pea,” or “Gansies” in southern Africa. It is also known as “Kankerbossie” in Afrikaans and “Unwele” in Zulu.Light Requirements
Sutherlandia speciosa E.Phillips & R.A.Dyer is a plant that requires full sunlight exposure for most of the day. It cannot thrive in shady or dark areas as it highly depends on sufficient sunlight to produce energy through photosynthesis. Thus, it is advisable to plant it in open areas with minimal shade or obstructing structures such as buildings. Indoor planting can also be done under grow lights, as long as they simulate natural sunlight appropriately.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm to hot temperatures and is not frost-resistant. Thus, it is suitable for planting in tropical areas or regions with mild temperatures. Sutherlandia speciosa E.Phillips & R.A.Dyer can tolerate a minimum temperature of 5°C and a maximum temperature of 40°C. Extreme temperatures may result in stunted growth or death.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-drained soils that are moderately fertile. Sandy soils with good water-holding capacity and pH between 6.5 - 7.5 are ideal for growing Sutherlandia speciosa E.Phillips & R.A.Dyer. The plant can tolerate harsh soil conditions such as those found in arid areas. However, it is crucial to avoid waterlogging soils as this may lead to root rot. Soil preparation before planting is essential, and it is recommended to add organic rich matter such as compost or manure to improve the soil's fertility.
Cultivation Methods for Sutherlandia speciosa E.Phillips & R.A.Dyer
Sutherlandia speciosa E.Phillips & R.A.Dyer can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in well-draining soil in early spring, and the seedlings should be kept in a warm and bright location until they are large enough to be transplanted. Cuttings can be taken in late spring or early summer, and they should be rooted in a mixture of sand and compost.
Watering Needs for Sutherlandia speciosa E.Phillips & R.A.Dyer
This plant prefers well-draining soil that is allowed to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering can result in root rot, so it is important to only water when the top inch of soil is dry. During the winter months, the plant may only need to be watered once every two weeks, while in the summer it may require watering once a week or more.
Fertilization for Sutherlandia speciosa E.Phillips & R.A.Dyer
Sutherlandia speciosa E.Phillips & R.A.Dyer can benefit from a balanced fertilizer applied every two weeks during the growing season. A slow-release fertilizer can also be used in early spring. Overall, this plant does not require heavy feeding and can survive quite well with minimal fertilization.
Pruning for Sutherlandia speciosa E.Phillips & R.A.Dyer
To promote growth and maintain shape, Sutherlandia speciosa E.Phillips & R.A.Dyer can be pruned in early spring before new growth begins. Dead or damaged branches should be removed from the plant throughout the year. Removing spent flowers can also encourage further blooming.
Propagation of Sutherlandia speciosa
Sutherlandia speciosa is commonly propagated using both vegetative and seed propagation methods.
Vegetative propagation methods
The vegetative propagation of Sutherlandia speciosa is carried out through the use of stem cuttings. The cuttings are taken from young, healthy plants during the growing season.
The cuttings should have at least two nodes and a length of about 5-6cm. They are then dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining medium in a warm, partially shaded area. The cuttings take about 4-6 weeks to root.
Seed propagation methods
Seed propagation of Sutherlandia speciosa is a bit challenging as the seeds have a hard outer coat that requires breaking in order to germinate. Scarification, which is the process of breaking the seed coat, is usually carried out using sandpaper, hot water or sulfuric acid.
The seeds are sowed in a well-draining medium in a warm, partially shaded area. Regular watering is necessary to keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate which usually occurs within 10-21 days after planting.
Seedlings are transplanted to individual pots when they are large enough to handle. They are then grown in a warm, sunny area until they are ready to be planted in the garden.
Disease Management
The Sutherlandia speciosa is generally pretty resistant to most diseases, but it is still susceptible to certain fungal and bacterial infections. The most common diseases that affect this plant are:
- Root Rot: Caused by overwatering, which can lead to the roots becoming waterlogged and the development of rot. Prevent by ensuring the soil is well-draining and not excessively wet.
- Leaf Spots: Caused by various fungal diseases, resulting in the formation of yellow or brownish spots that may increase in size. Prevent by avoiding overhead watering, improving air circulation and avoiding excess moisture. Remove infected leaves and treat with fungicide.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease causes a white powdery coating on the leaves, which can lead to stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. Prevent by avoiding overhead watering and improving air circulation. Treat infected leaves with a fungicide.
Pest Management
Sutherlandia speciosa is also quite resistant to pest infestations, but there are a few pests known to affect this plant:
- Aphids: These are small, pear-shaped insects that can colonize the leaves and flowers, sucking plant sap and causing leaves to curl and yellow. Prevent by washing the plant with a strong jet of water or treating with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider Mites: These are tiny spider-like pests that appear as yellow specks on the leaves, causing the leaves to become yellow, dry, and brittle. Prevent by ensuring the air is not too dry, increasing humidity around the plant, and treating with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Caterpillars: These pests cause damage by munching through the leaves and flowers. Prevent by checking the plant regularly and handpicking any caterpillars or treating with Bacillus Thuringiensis (BT) insecticide.