Overview of Swertia sharpei N.E.Br.
Swertia sharpei N.E.Br. is a flowering plant belonging to the family Gentianaceae. It is commonly known as Sharpe's swertia, after British botanist Bernard Sharpe who discovered this species in 1916 in the Eastern Highlands of Zimbabwe. This plant is endemic to the region and is sometimes also found in neighboring Mozambique.
General Appearance
Sharpe's swertia is a perennial herb that grows up to 60cm tall. It has a basal rosette of leaves that are about 10cm long and 2cm wide. The leaves are lanceolate, entire, and sometimes have a few veins running longitudinally along them. The stem is erect and has a few flowers in dense axillary clusters at the top.
The flowers are pentamerous, meaning they have five sepals, petals, and stamens each. They are tubular and greenish-yellow in color. The fruit is a capsule containing numerous small seeds.
Uses
Sharpe's swertia has been used by indigenous people in Zimbabwe and Mozambique for medicinal purposes. The roots and aerial parts of the plant are boiled and the resulting liquid is ingested to treat various ailments such as fever, diarrhea, and stomachache.
This plant is also used in traditional ceremonies and as a charm to protect against evil spirits. In addition, Sharpe's swertia is sometimes grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks, due to its attractive flowers and foliage.
Light Requirements
Swertia sharpei N.E.Br. thrives in partially shaded to fully shaded areas. The plant can tolerate direct sunlight but excessive exposure can damage the leaves and stunted growth. It is best to grow them under the canopies of trees or in areas with filtered light.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for growing Swertia sharpei N.E.Br. is between 16 to 25 degrees Celsius. The plant can survive in temperatures as low as 10 degrees Celsius and as high as 30 degrees Celsius but growth will be slower and the leaves may become wilted and discolored.
Soil Requirements
Swertia sharpei N.E.Br. prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The pH level of the soil should be between 5.5 to 6.5. The plant can grow in different types of soils such as loam, sandy loam, and clay loam. However, the soil must be moist but not waterlogged as this can lead to root rot and plant death.
Cultivation methods for Swertia sharpei N.E.Br.
Swertia sharpei N.E.Br. is a perennial plant that requires a specific set of conditions for optimal growth. The plant thrives well in well-drained soils with high organic matter content. Before planting, it is advisable to ensure that the soil is loose enough to allow for easy root penetration.
To cultivate Swertia sharpei N.E.Br., propagate the plant from seeds in trays filled with a well-drained organic mix. The trays should be kept in a warm, humid location with high amounts of light. Once the seedlings have grown enough, transplant them into well-draining soil and water them well.
Watering needs for Swertia sharpei N.E.Br.
As a plant native to high-altitude environments, Swertia sharpei N.E.Br. requires moderate watering that should be done at regular intervals. Prolonged dry periods can lead to stunted growth, but overwatering can cause waterlogging, which may damage the roots.
When watering Swertia sharpei N.E.Br., the soil around the plant should be moist, but not waterlogged. The frequency of watering should depend on the temperature and humidity levels of the growing environment. For instance, during hot and dry weather, water the plant more frequently to prevent it from drying out.
Fertilization of Swertia sharpei N.E.Br.
Although Swertia sharpei N.E.Br. does not have specific fertilizer requirements, regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer can help boost plant growth and development. The ideal time to fertilize the plant is during the growing season, which is from spring to fall.
It is recommended to use a slow-release fertilizer that will supply the necessary nutrients gradually. Follow the manufacturer's instructions when applying the fertilizer to avoid overfertilization.
Pruning of Swertia sharpei N.E.Br.
Pruning is generally not needed for Swertia sharpei N.E.Br. as the plant has a naturally compact and bushy growth habit. However, deadheading the spent blooms can encourage the growth of new flowers and prevent the plant from setting seeds.
If the plant becomes too large, prune the top growth to encourage branching and new growth. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring when the plant is dormant.
Propagation of Swertia sharpei N.E.Br.
Swertia sharpei N.E.Br. is propagated through seeds. The plant produces small and black seeds with a size of approximately 2 mm in diameter. These seeds can be obtained from the mature plant's dried capsules.
Seed collection
Seed collection must be done when the capsule of the plant turns brown and starts to crack. The capsules must be carefully harvested and kept in a dry and warm place to facilitate the natural release of the seeds. Once the seeds are released, they can be collected and prepared for storage or immediate planting.
Seed preparation
Before planting the seeds, they must be cleaned and separated from any plant material. They can be washed with water and air-dried or gently wiped with a clean cloth. Afterward, they can be stored in dry containers with an airtight seal until the planting season arrives.
The seeds of Swertia sharpei N.E.Br. can be stored for up to two years without losing their viability. However, it is recommended to use fresh seeds for successful germination.
Seed sowing
The seeds of Swertia sharpei N.E.Br. can be sown directly in the garden bed or in a seed tray. If using a seed tray, they can be sown in a well-draining mix of sand, perlite, and peat moss. The seeds must be gently pressed into the soil and covered with a thin layer of the same mix.
The seeds germinate in approximately 2 to 3 weeks if kept at a temperature of 20 to 25°C. Once the seedlings reach a height of 5 to 10 cm, they can be transplanted to the desired location in the garden.
Disease Management
Swertia sharpei N.E.Br. is susceptible to various diseases that can affect its growth and development. Some of the common diseases that the plant can suffer from are:
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by fungi that attack the roots, causing them to rot. As a result, the plant cannot absorb enough water and nutrients, which affects growth. To manage it, avoid overwatering and make sure the soil is well-draining. Use fungicides if necessary.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease causes a white powdery coating on the leaves and stems. To manage it, use fungicides and maintain good air circulation by spacing plants adequately.
- Leaf Spot: This disease is caused by fungi that cause circular, brown spots on the leaves. To manage it, remove the affected leaves and use fungicides.
Pest Management
Swertia sharpei N.E.Br. is also susceptible to pest damage that can reduce plant growth and yield. Some of the common pests that can attack the plant are:
- Aphids: These small insects can cause stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. To manage them, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Cutworms: These pests cut the stems of the plant at the soil level, causing the plant to wilt and die. To manage them, use collars around the plant stems or insecticides.
- Spider Mites: These pests suck sap from the plant leaves, causing them to turn yellow and fall off. To manage them, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Regular monitoring of the plant for any symptoms of disease or pest damage is essential for effective management. Early detection and intervention can prevent the spread of these undesirable elements and ensure healthy and productive growth of Swertia sharpei N.E.Br. plant.
