Overview: Sylitra Contorta (N.E.Br.) Baker f.
Sylitra Contorta (N.E.Br.) Baker f. is a plant species that belongs to the family Malvaceae. Commonly known as the twisted sylitra, this plant is a small shrub that is native to southern Africa, specifically in the western parts of Cape Province of South Africa and Namibia.
General Appearance:
Sylitra contorta has a woody stem that grows up to 1.2 meters in height. Its branches are contorted and twisted, which gives the plant a unique appearance. The leaves are simple, alternate, and obovate, with a size of about 4.5 cm long and 2.5 cm wide. The leaves have serrated margins, and the upper surface is dark green while the underside is covered with fine hair. The flowers are solitary and axillary, with five distinct petals that are pale pink to white in color. The fruit is a capsule that is covered with velvety hair.
Common Names:
As mentioned earlier, Sylitra contorta is commonly known as the twisted sylitra. Other common names include the contorted hibiscus, winding sylitra, and twisted marshmallow.
Uses:
The twisted sylitra is often used for ornamental purposes due to its unique twisted branches and attractive flowers. The plant is also used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, cough, and respiratory problems. Native tribes in southern Africa use the plant to treat venomous snake bites and as a natural insecticide.
Additionally, the roots of the twisted sylitra are utilized by the Damara tribe in Namibia to make rope and baskets. The bark is used for its fiber in the paper making industry.
Growth Conditions of Sylitra contorta
Sylitra contorta is a small, leafless, and stem succulent plant that mainly grows in the western parts of South Africa. The plant has unique growth conditions that enable it to survive in harsh environments.
Light Requirements
Like most succulent plants, Sylitra contorta requires bright sunlight to thrive. The plant can withstand direct sunlight for extended periods without getting damaged. A minimum of 6 hours of bright sunlight per day is necessary for the plant to grow well.
Temperature Requirements
Sylitra contorta grows well in warm temperatures, typically ranging between 25°C and 35°C. The plant can tolerate low temperatures of up to 10°C, but prolonged exposure to such temperatures can damage it. During the winter months, the plant should be moved to a warm and sheltered area to prevent frostbite.
Soil Requirements
Sylitra contorta requires well-draining soil that is slightly acidic with a pH ranging between 5.0 and 6.5. The soil should also be rich in nutrients and humus. A mixture of peat moss, sand, and perlite in the ratio of 1:1:1 is an ideal soil mix for Sylitra contorta.
Water Requirements
Sylitra contorta is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot and eventually the death of the plant. The plant should be watered sparingly, only once the soil has completely dried out.
Cultivation of Sylitra contorta
Sylitra contorta, commonly known as "Bushman's Candle," is a shrub that is native to southern Africa. It is drought-tolerant, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun.
It is best to propagate Sylitra contorta through seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be planted in the spring, while cuttings can be taken in the summer. The plant can be transferred to its permanent location when it reaches about six inches in height.
Watering needs
While Sylitra contorta is drought-tolerant, it still needs regular watering during its growth season. Water the soil thoroughly, then let it dry out completely before watering again. Avoid watering the foliage, as this can lead to fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Sylitra contorta does not require fertilization, as it can grow well in nutrient-poor soil. However, adding a slow-release fertilizer in the spring can improve the plant's growth.
Pruning
Sylitra contorta does not require frequent pruning. However, it can be pruned in the early spring to shape it or to remove any dead or damaged branches. Avoid pruning during the summer, as this can cause the plant to produce new growth that may be damaged by cold weather in the fall.
Propagation of Sylitra contorta (N.E.Br.) Baker f.
Sylitra contorta is a relatively easy plant to propagate, and there are a few methods that can be used to increase the population of this plant.
Seed Propagation
One of the most common methods of propagation for Sylitra contorta is seed propagation. The seeds of this plant can be collected and then sown into a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix. The pot should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. It is important to keep the pot in a warm and bright location, as this will increase the success rate of germination.
Softwood Cuttings Propagation
Another way to propagate Sylitra contorta is through softwood cuttings. This method involves taking cuttings from the plant in the early summer when the growth is soft and pliable. The cuttings should be about 6 inches long and have a few leaves on them. They should then be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining potting mix. The pot should be kept moist, but not waterlogged, and kept in a bright location out of direct sunlight.
Division Propagation
Division is also a common method of propagating Sylitra contorta. This method involves dividing an established plant into smaller sections, each with their own roots and shoots. The divided sections can then be planted into individual pots filled with a well-draining potting mix. It is important to keep the soil moist and to avoid fertilizing the new plants until they are well established.
Disease Management for Sylitra contorta
Sylitra contorta can be susceptible to various disease infections that can damage or destroy the plant if not managed properly. Common diseases that affect Sylitra contorta include:
- Leaf spot caused by various fungal pathogens, which leads to yellowing and browning of leaves. To manage leaf spot, affected leaves should be controlled and destroyed immediately, while fungicides can be applied to prevent further spread of the disease.
- Rust caused by Gymnosporangium clavipes, which causes rust-colored raised growths on the plant. To manage rust, remove any infected parts of the plant and apply fungicides to prevent further spread of the disease.
- Root rot caused by excessive moisture, which leads to decay in the root system of the plant. To manage root rot, avoid over-watering or planting the plant in soil that does not drain properly.
Pest Management for Sylitra contorta
Sylitra contorta can also be vulnerable to pest attacks that can weaken or kill the plant if not prevented. Here are common pests that affect Sylitra contorta and how to control them:
- Spider mites are small, red or black arachnids that suck sap from leaves, causing yellowing and stunted growth. To control spider mites, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to the plant or introduce natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings.
- Aphids are small insects that can cluster on new growth and suck plant sap, causing deformities and stunted growth. To control aphids, wash them off with a strong stream of water, apply insecticidal soap, or introduce natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings.
- Caterpillars are the larval stage of moths and butterflies that can eat the leaves and flowers of the plant. To control caterpillars, handpick them off the plant and destroy them, or apply Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) to the plant.
