Overview: Tiliacora odorata auct.
Tiliacora odorata, also known as Yanang or Yanang leaf, is a climbing vine plant that belongs to the Menispermaceae family. It is commonly found in South and Southeast Asia, mainly in Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam.
General Appearance: Tiliacora odorata auct.
The plant has a thick stem and can grow up to 3-5 meters in length. It has large leaves that are 12-20 cm long and 8-15 cm wide. The leaves are dark green, shiny, and have a heart-shaped base. The flowers are small with a yellowish-green color, and the fruits are small, round, and yellowish-green.
Common Names: Tiliacora odorata auct.
Tiliacora odorata is known by various common names in different regions, including Yanang, Yanang leaf, Yanang juice, and Chinese globeflower. In Thailand, it is called Bai Yanang, and in Laos, it is known as Phak I-Non.
Uses: Tiliacora odorata auct.
The leaves and stems of Tiliacora odorata are used for various purposes. Yanang leaf is commonly used as a cooking ingredient in traditional Southeast Asian dishes, such as curries and soups. The juice extracted from the leaves is also used as a natural food preservative and flavoring agent.
In traditional medicine, Yanang leaf is used to treat various ailments, such as diarrhea, fever, and respiratory infections. It is also believed to have anti-inflammatory properties and can help lower cholesterol levels.
Furthermore, the plant's stems and leaves are used for handicrafts and weaving, and the vine's roots are used to make a yellow dye for textiles.
Overall, Tiliacora odorata is a versatile plant that has various uses in different aspects of life, from food and medicine to crafts and textiles.Growth Conditions for Tiliacora odorata auct.
Tiliacora odorata auct. is a climbing vine that thrives in tropical and subtropical regions. It is a shade-loving plant and grows well in low light conditions.
Light Requirements
Tiliacora odorata auct. requires partial to full shade. Growing the plant in direct sunlight can cause leaf burn, especially during the hot summer months. It is recommended to place the plant in a spot that receives bright, indirect light.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm temperatures between 18 and 32 degrees Celsius. Temperatures below 15 degrees Celsius can be detrimental to the plant's growth and cause leaf drop. The plant can tolerate slight temperature drops during winter, but it is important to keep it away from drafty windows or doors to avoid temperature shock.
Soil Requirements
Tiliacora odorata auct. prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be slightly acidic, between 5.5 and 7.0. The plant can grow in a wide range of soil types, including loam, sandy loam, and clay loam. It is recommended to add compost or peat moss to the soil to increase its fertility and water retention capacity.
Cultivation of Tiliacora Odorata
Tiliacora odorata is a tropical vine that thrives in areas with high humidity, warm temperatures, and partial shade. It grows in a wide range of soil types, but prefers well-draining, moist soil that is rich in organic matter.
Watering Needs
Tiliacora odorata requires consistent moisture to thrive. It is important to water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. During the growing season, water the plant once or twice a week. During the dry season, increase the frequency of watering to keep the soil evenly moist.
Fertilization
To encourage healthy growth and development, fertilize Tiliacora odorata with a balanced fertilizer every three months. Use a slow-release fertilizer and apply it according to the package instructions. Alternatively, you can apply a liquid fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Pruning
Pruning is not essential for Tiliacora odorata, but it can help to shape the plant and encourage healthy growth. Prune the plant in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or damaged branches, and cut back overgrown branches to promote new growth.
Propagation of Tiliacora odorata auct.
Tiliacora odorata auct. or commonly known as "Phak Muea" is most commonly propagated through stem cuttings. However, there are other methods that can be used to propagate this plant.
Stem Cuttings Propagation
To propagate T. odorata auct. through stem cuttings, select a healthy stem with at least three nodes. Cut the stem at an angle of 45 degrees just below the node, and remove the bottom one or two leaves. Dip the cut end of the stem in a rooting hormone and plant it in a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix.
Place the pot in a warm and humid location, and keep the soil moist but not soggy. The cutting should start developing roots in 2-3 weeks. Once the plant has developed roots, you can transplant it to a larger pot with soil suitable for the plant.
Seed Propagation
This plant can also be propagated from seeds. Collect mature seeds when the fruit turns yellow or orange. Soak the seeds in water for 24 hours before planting them in a pot. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and keep the soil moist. The seeds should germinate in 2-3 weeks.
However, seed propagation is relatively slower than stem cuttings since it takes a bit longer for the plant to mature and produce flowers. Additionally, seedlings may exhibit some variation in growth since they are not clones of the parent plant.
Disease and Pest Management for Tiliacora odorata auct.
Tiliacora odorata auct. is a tropical vine noted for its medicinal properties due to alkaloids found in its leaves, stems, and roots. Like other plants, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can negatively affect its growth and development. Here are some common issues and ways to manage them:
Common Diseases
Leaf Spot - This disease is caused by fungal spores that thrive in warm, humid conditions. Symptoms include brown or black spots on the leaves that eventually turn yellow and drop. To manage, remove infected leaves and ensure proper air circulation. Avoid overhead watering and use fungicides as necessary.
Root Rot - Excess water in the soil can cause the roots to rot, leading to stunted growth and eventual death. To prevent, make sure the soil has good drainage and avoid overwatering. Treat with a fungicide if necessary.
Powdery Mildew - This disease is caused by a fungus that forms a white powder on leaves and stems. It can stunt growth and prevent photosynthesis. Manage through proper air circulation, pruning infected parts, and using fungicides. Avoiding overhead watering can also help.
Common Pests
Mealybugs - These are small, white insects that suck plant sap, causing wilted leaves and stunted growth. To manage, remove the bugs manually or use a soft-bristled brush to scrub them off. Avoid over-fertilization and use insecticides if necessary.
Spider Mites - These pests appear as small, red or yellow dots on leaves and spin webs. They can cause discoloration, defoliation, and plant death. To manage, increase humidity levels, remove infected leaves, and apply insecticides.
Aphids - These are small, soft-bodied insects that can cause curling leaves and stunted growth. They reproduce quickly, so management is important. Control them through manual removal, spraying with water, or using insecticides. Beneficial insects like ladybugs can also help control their population.
Implementing proper disease and pest management can help keep Tiliacora odorata auct. healthy and productive. Regular inspections and early detection can prevent serious infestations and preserve the plant's medicinal properties.
