Overview
Swertia engleri Gilg var. woodii (J.Shan) Sileshi is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Gentianaceae family. It is native to China and has a range of common names, including Wood's felwort, Wood's swertia, and Wood's bitterwort.
Appearance
The plant can grow up to 30cm in height and has a clustered stem that is light green in color. The leaves are arranged oppositely and are lanceolate with pointed tips and a shiny texture. The flowers are small, inconspicuous, and greenish-yellow in color, arranged in clusters.
Uses
Swertia engleri Gilg var. woodii is used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat dysentery, inflammation, conjunctivitis, and coughs. It contains several compounds such as swertiamarin, amarogentin, and xanthones, which provide its medicinal properties.
In addition to its medicinal uses, the plant is also used as an ornamental plant in gardens for its attractive foliage and flowers.
Cultivation
Swertia engleri Gilg var. woodii is a hardy plant that prefers well-drained soils and partial shade. It can be grown from seeds or by dividing the root clumps. When grown for medicinal purposes, the plant should be harvested in the autumn after it has flowered.
Overall, Swertia engleri Gilg var. woodii is a valuable plant with a range of medicinal, ornamental and cultural uses.
Light Requirements
Swertia engleri Gilg var. woodii (J.Shan) Sileshi typically prefers partial to full shade. It can grow under direct sunlight but not for prolonged periods, especially during summer, which can damage the leaves. The plant has moderate to high light requirements, and it thrives in areas with diffused light or where it gets no more than four hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is native to tropical African highlands and thrives in areas with cool to moderate temperatures. The ideal temperature range for Swertia engleri Gilg var. woodii (J.Shan) Sileshi is between 10°C to 21°C, with optimal growth at around 16°C. The plant can tolerate fluctuations in temperature, but not extreme heat or cold, which can damage the leaves, stems, and roots.
Soil Requirements
Swertia engleri Gilg var. woodii (J.Shan) Sileshi prefers well-draining, fertile, and aerated soils that are rich in organic matter. The ideal soil pH range is between 6.0 to 7.0, although the plant can tolerate slightly acidic to neutral soils. The plant does not thrive in heavy clayey soils that hold too much water, as this can lead to root rot. Amending the soil with compost or organic matter can improve its overall structure and fertility, thus promoting healthy plant growth.
Cultivation
Swertia engleri Gilg var. woodii (J.Shan) Sileshi is a plant that thrives in shaded areas with well-draining soil. It needs an area with filtered light and a cool climate to grow. The propagation of this plant is through division or seed. If using seed, you need to stratify the seed for 30 days before sowing.
Watering Needs
Swertia engleri Gilg var. woodii (J.Shan) Sileshi needs a consistent level of moisture, but water should only be given when the soil feels slightly dry to the touch. Avoid over-watering, which may cause root rot and the death of the plant. During the winter period, the plant requires less frequent watering due to the dormant period.
Fertilization
Swertia engleri Gilg var. woodii (J.Shan) Sileshi requires periodic fertilization to promote growth. Use a controlled-release fertilizer during the warm season, following the producer's instructions, and with proper soil moisture. Do not use an excessive amount of fertilizer as this may harm the plant.
Pruning
The pruning of Swertia engleri Gilg var. woodii (J.Shan) Sileshi has the purpose of removing dead leaves, stems, and buds. Pruning also helps the plant maintain its shape, promotes increased air circulation and also encourages increase growth. Pruning should be done in early spring before the growing season starts.
Propagation of Swertia engleri Gilg var. woodii (J.Shan) Sileshi
Swertia engleri Gilg var. woodii (J.Shan) Sileshi can be propagated through seeds and cuttings.
Propagation through seeds
The seeds of Swertia engleri Gilg var. woodii (J.Shan) Sileshi can be collected from the plant when they turn brown and start to split. The seeds are small and should be sown immediately after harvest. It is important to use well-draining soil and keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate. Germination can take up to 2 months, and the seedlings should be kept in a partially shaded area.
Propagation through cuttings
Swertia engleri Gilg var. woodii (J.Shan) Sileshi can also be propagated through cuttings. The cuttings are best taken in late spring or early summer. The length of the cutting should be around 7-10 cm, and the leaves should be removed from the lower half of the cutting. The cutting should be inserted into a well-draining soil mix and kept in a partially shaded area until roots form, which can take up to 2-3 weeks.
Once the roots have formed, the cutting can be transferred to a larger pot or garden bed. It is important to keep the soil moist and the plant in a partially shaded area until it is established.
Disease Management
Swertia engleri Gilg var. woodii is susceptible to several diseases that can affect its growth and productivity. Here are some common diseases to watch out for:
- Anthracnose: This fungus can cause spotting on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. It can also lead to defoliation and stem dieback. The best way to manage anthracnose is to remove and destroy infected plant parts and use fungicides according to label instructions.
- Leaf blight: Symptoms of leaf blight include yellowing and browning of the leaves, as well as spotting and eventual death of the leaf tissue. It is important to remove and destroy infected plant materials and avoid overhead irrigation to prevent the spread of the disease. Fungicides may also be used as a preventative measure.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by soil-borne fungi and can lead to yellowing, wilting, and death of the plant. To manage root rot, ensure good drainage and avoid overwatering. Fungicides may also be used to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
In addition to diseases, Swertia engleri Gilg var. woodii may also be susceptible to various pests. Here are some common pests to watch out for:
- Aphids: These insects suck sap from the plant, causing yellowing and distortion of the leaves. They can be managed by manually removing them or using insecticidal soap.
- Spider mites: Spider mites can cause stippling and yellowing of the leaves, as well as webbing. They can be managed by using a forceful stream of water to knock them off the plant or using miticides.
- Thrips: These insects cause silvering and distortion of the leaves, as well as blackening of the flower buds. They can be managed by manually removing them or using insecticides.
It is important to monitor the plant for any signs of disease or pest damage regularly, as early detection is key to effective management.
