Origin
Tapiphyllum schumannianum Robyns subsp. mucronulatum (Robyns) Verdc. belongs to the Araceae family and is native to tropical Africa.
Common Names
The plant's common names include Arrowhead Vine, African Evergreen, Five Fingers, Goose Foot, and Nephthytis.
Uses
The plant has ornamental value and is commonly grown for its attractive foliage. It is easy to care for, making it a popular choice for indoor gardening. The leaves of the plant are also used in traditional medicine to treat skin diseases and fever.
General Appearance
Tapiphyllum schumannianum Robyns subsp. mucronulatum is a compact and sturdy plant that grows up to 30 inches tall. The leaves are arrow-shaped, with pointed tips, and are a glossy green color with white veins. The plant forms a dense clump and produces small white flowers, which are not ornamental. The plant prefers bright, indirect light and well-drained soil, and should be watered when the soil is dry to the touch.
Light Requirements
Tapiphyllum schumannianum Robyns subsp. mucronulatum (Robyns) Verdc. grows best in bright, filtered light. Direct sunlight can scorch the plant's delicate foliage. Therefore, it is best to place the plant near a window that receives bright, indirect light. Eastern or western-facing windows work best.
Temperature Requirements
This plant grows well in warm temperatures, ideally between 21 to 26°C. It is essential to keep the plant away from cold drafts and air conditioning vents that can cause temperature fluctuations and damage the foliage.
Soil Requirements
The Tapiphyllum schumannianum Robyns subsp. mucronulatum (Robyns) Verdc. prefers well-draining and nutrient-rich soil. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite is ideal for this plant. Additionally, it is crucial to ensure the soil's pH is between 6.0 and 7.5, which is slightly acidic to neutral.
Cultivation methods
The Tapiphyllum schumannianum Robyns subsp. mucronulatum (Robyns) Verdc. plant prefers a warm climate and grows best in well-draining soil. The plant needs an abundant amount of light to grow and remain healthy, but it is also crucial to avoid direct sunlight exposure. Tapiphyllum schumannianum Robyns subsp. mucronulatum (Robyns) Verdc. is not frost-resistant and has to be protected from temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Watering needs
The Tapiphyllum schumannianum Robyns subsp. mucronulatum (Robyns) Verdc. plant requires frequent watering to maintain moisture in the soil. The plant prefers moist soil conditions but can also tolerate brief periods of drought. Overwatering can cause root rot and is hence not advisable.
Fertilization
Fertilization is necessary to supply essential nutrients to the plant. Adding a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season is sufficient. It is essential to avoid over-fertilizing the plant as this can lead to an imbalance of nutrients and cause harm to the plant.
Pruning
Tapiphyllum schumannianum Robyns subsp. mucronulatum (Robyns) Verdc. plant requires regular pruning to control its growth and maintain its shape. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before the growing season starts. It is essential to use sharp and sterile pruning tools to avoid infecting the plant with diseases. It is best to remove the dead or diseased wood first and then prune the live wood using the right shape or form.
Propagation of Tapiphyllum schumannianum Robyns subsp. mucronulatum (Robyns) Verdc.
Tapiphyllum schumannianum Robyns subsp. mucronulatum (Robyns) Verdc. can be propagated through various methods, including:
Division
The plant can be divided during the growing season when new shoots are developing. Using a sharp and clean knife, divide the clump into smaller divisions, ensuring that each division has a healthy root system and foliage. The smaller divisions can be replanted into pots or directly into a garden bed.
Seed propagation
T. schumannianum can be grown from seed, but this method requires patience and appropriate conditions for germination. The seeds must be collected from the plant when they are fully matured, which is indicated by the drying and splitting of seed capsules. The seeds can be sown directly into pots or garden beds during the spring or summer months. The soil must be well-draining and moist. The germination can take anywhere from two to three weeks.
Stem cuttings
This method of propagation involves taking stem cuttings from the plant during the growing season. Select a healthy stem that is at least 6 inches long and free of any diseases or pests. Cut the stem below a leaf node, remove the lower leaves, and dip it into rooting hormone. Place the cutting into a pot with well-draining soil mix and keep the soil moist. Rooting can take up to four weeks, and the new plant can be transplanted once the roots have established.
Disease and Pest Management for Tapiphyllum schumannianum Robyns subsp. mucronulatum
Tapiphyllum schumannianum Robyns subsp. mucronulatum is a tough plant but, like every other plant species, it is susceptible to various pests and diseases. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot occurs mainly due to the fungus Alternaria tenuissima. It is characterized by small, round, gray-to-brown spots on the leaves. They are often surrounded by a yellow halo. To manage this, affected parts must be pruned and destroyed, and the plant should be sprayed with a copper-based fungicide.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is caused by the fungus Erysiphe cichoracearum. It appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers. This disease thrives in humid conditions. Plants should be kept well-spaced to avoid high humidity, and copper-based fungicides may be used to treat the plant when powdery mildew is observed.
Pests
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white, cottony insects that usually congregate in large numbers on the undersides of leaves and along the stem of the plant. They suck sap from the plant, causing leaves to yellow and curl. To eliminate them, use a cotton swab and alcohol to dab and kill the insects manually. Alternatively, you can use insecticidal soap, horticultural oil, or neem oil to get rid of the mealybugs.
Scale Insects: Scale insects are brown, reddish-brown, or black bumps on the stems or the undersides of the leaves. They secrete honeydew, which attracts ants and encourages the growth of sooty mold. A systemic insecticide, such as neonicotinoids or insecticidal oil, can be used to manage scale insects.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny, eight-legged arachnids that cause damage to leaves by sucking out chlorophyll. They thrive in dry, hot conditions, and their presence is usually evident when the plant is discolored and webbing is present. They can be controlled by regularly misting the plant and using insecticidal soap, horticultural oil, or neem oil.
By properly managing these common diseases and pests, Tapiphyllum schumannianum Robyns subsp. mucronulatum can thrive for many years and bring beauty to your garden.
