Origin
Symphostemon insolitus (C.H.Wright) Hiern, commonly known as African Red Basil, belongs to the Lamiaceae (Mint) family. The plant is mainly found growing wild in Tanzania and Kenya in East Africa.
Common Names
Aside from African Red Basil, Symphostemon insolitus may also be referred to as Mtunduwasefu, Shiferaw, and Nyiruri in Tanzania; and Kambele and Kimbele in Kenya.
Uses
The leaves and stems of African Red Basil are rich in essential oils and are used in traditional African medicine to treat various ailments such as tuberculosis, respiratory infections, and intestinal parasites. The plant is also used as a spice in cooking for its characteristic basil-like flavor, and as a perfume in cosmetics and soaps due to its pleasant scent.
Apart from its medicinal and culinary uses, African Red Basil also has potential economic value as a source of essential oils that can be used in the production of perfumes, cosmetics, and aromatherapy products. In addition, the plant has ornamental value and can be grown as a decorative plant in gardens and parks due to its attractive foliage and colorful flowers.
General Appearance
African Red Basil is a perennial herb that can grow up to 2 meters tall. It has dark green leaves that are lance-shaped and up to 10 cm long, with serrated edges and a slightly hairy texture. The plant produces small, pink to purple flowers that are arranged into whorls around the stem and bloom in summer and autumn.
The stem of African Red Basil is square in shape and slightly hairy, and the plant produces a strong fragrance that is similar to that of traditional sweet basil. African Red Basil is an evergreen plant that thrives in warm, tropical climates and requires well-drained soil and regular watering to grow successfully.
Light Requirements
The Symphostemon insolitus plant requires full sunlight to grow and thrive. It needs at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight every day. Therefore, it is preferable to plant it in an area that receives direct sunlight, such as south-facing areas or open fields. Lack of sunlight or insufficient light can lead to weak growth, yellowing of the leaves, and even death of the plant.
Temperature Requirements
Temperature is another crucial element that affects the growth and development of the Symphostemon insolitus plant. It requires a warm climate, and it can only thrive in USDA zones 10 to 11. The plant cannot tolerate frost, and it will die if the temperature falls below 40°F. The optimal temperature range for its growth is between 60°F to 85°F. Therefore, it is advisable to plant it in areas with a warm climate, and it should be protected from cold temperatures and frost, especially during winter.
Soil Requirements
The Symphostemon insolitus plant prefers fertile, well-drained, and slightly acidic soil. It can develop root rot when planted in waterlogged or poorly-drained soils. The soil should be rich in organic matter such as compost or manure, which improve soil drainage and enhance its nutrient-holding capacity. The pH of the soil should range between 5.5-6.5 for optimal growth. Additionally, it is advisable to add mulch to retain soil moisture which ensures the plant gets adequate nutrients for optimal growth and development.
Cultivation
Symphostemon insolitus is a plant species native to West Central Africa. This shrub grows well in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11 and prefers well-drained soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It thrives in partial shade to full sun exposure and requires protection from frost.
Watering Needs
The watering requirements of Symphostemon insolitus largely depend on soil conditions and environmental factors. This plant needs moderate watering, and the frequency of watering should be adjusted based on the season, humidity, and temperature. It is best to water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch and avoid overwatering, as it can cause root rot.
Fertilization
To ensure healthy growth, Symphostemon insolitus requires regular fertilization. During the growing season, it is recommended to apply a balanced fertilizer every two weeks or monthly. Nitrogen-rich fertilizers should be avoided as they can promote leafy growth and hinder flower and fruit production. Organic fertilizers or slow-release fertilizers are ideal choices.
Pruning
Pruning Symphostemon insolitus is essential as it helps maintain its shape and improve flowering. This plant is best pruned in late winter or early spring before the growing season. To promote new growth, it is best to prune the plant after the flowers have faded. The dead and damaged branches should be removed, and any crossing or crowded branches should also be eliminated. Regular pruning will help keep the shrub looking healthy and encourage more flowering.
Propagation Methods of Symphostemon insolitus
Symphostemon insolitus is a rare species of plant found in Central America. It is a member of the Lamiaceae family and is known for its beautiful purple flowers and aromatic fragrance. To propagate this plant, there are multiple methods that can be used depending on the grower's preference.
Division
Division can be done during transplanting. When transplanting S. insolitus from one pot to another, the plant can be divided into smaller sections before replanting. The plant will naturally regrow making this an easy method to duplicate the plant.
Seeds
The most common propagation method for this plant is through seeds. S. insolitus produces a good amount of seeds which can be sown directly into the soil or started indoors. When starting seeds indoors, they should be sown in a well-draining potting mix. Seeds germinate at a temperature range of 20–25°C and can take up to 30 days to emerge. Once the seedlings develop their second pair of leaves, they can be transplanted to individual containers or planted outside.
Cuttings
S. insolitus can also propagate from cuttings. Take stem cuttings that are at least 10cm long and have at least two nodes. Remove all the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone. Plant cuttings in a pot filled with moist soil. Make sure to keep the soil moist and provide some humidity. Cuttings should root in about 2-3 weeks.
It is essential to consider what works best for propagation of S. insolitus and choose the most appropriate propagation method. No matter which method is chosen, with proper care, propagation of S. insolitus should be a success!
Disease and Pest Management of Symphostemon insolitus (C.H.Wright) Hiern
Symphostemon insolitus is a plant that is susceptible to different pests and diseases. Proper management of pests and diseases is crucial to ensure that the plant grows well and reaches its full potential. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Symphostemon insolitus and ways to manage them.
Diseases
1. Root Rot: Root Rot is a fungal disease that causes damping off, wilting, and rotting of roots. To manage this disease, the practitioner should ensure that the soil is well-drained and that the plant is not overwatered. If this disease is detected, it's recommended to remove the infected parts of the plant and treat with the appropriate fungicide.
2. Leaf Spot: Leaf Spot is a fungal disease that causes black or brown spots on the leaves. This disease can cause defoliation and weaken the plant. To manage Leaf Spot, remove all infected plant parts and treat with the appropriate fungicide. Avoid overhead watering and provide adequate ventilation as this disease thrives in moist conditions.
Pests
1. Spider Mites: Spider Mites are common pests that thrive in warm and dry conditions. These pests suck the sap from the leaves of the plant, causing the leaves to appear speckled or yellowish. To manage spider mites, use organic or chemical insecticides, prune infected areas, and increase the humidity around the plant by misting regularly.
2. Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white, and cottony pests that feed on the leaves and stems of the plant. They can cause stunting, yellowing, and dropping of leaves. To manage mealybugs, wipe the leaves with a soft cloth dipped in rubbing alcohol, and apply insecticides if the problem persists.
3. Scale insects: Scale insects are small, immobile pests that attach to the leaves and stems of the plant, sucking the sap from it. They can cause a yellowing of leaves, loss of leaves and stems, and plant decline. To manage scale insects, scrape them off with a soft brush, apply horticultural oil or insecticidal soap, or introduce beneficial insects that eat the scales.
By following these methods, a practitioner will be able to control the pests and diseases that may affect Symphostemon insolitus. The key is to catch these issues early and attend to them quickly before they become severe and cause irreversible damage to the plant.
