Origin and Common Names
Trianthema salsoloides Fenzl ex Oliv. var. salsoloides is a salty desert plant that grows in Africa, particularly in Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. It is commonly referred to as "Buttonweed," "Pigsweed," or "Desert Horse Purslane" due to its small, round, button-like leaves.
Appearance
This plant is a small, succulent annual herb, with a woody base that grows up to 30 cm tall. Its leaves are thick and fleshy, in a rosette formation, and each is a small, button-like shape measuring around 4-6 mm in diameter. They are green-grey in colour, with a prominent central vein.
The flowers of T. salsoloides var. salsoloides are small, white, and form in clusters along the length of the stems. They are only open in the early morning or in the late afternoon, presumably to avoid the midday desert heat.
Uses
Although Trianthema salsoloides Fenzl ex Oliv. var. salsoloides has no commercial or medicinal uses, it is consumed by some African populations. The San people of southern Africa use it as an emergency food source during their hunting trips, either raw or cooked, as it is high in soluble salts that replace those lost due to sweating. Additionally, some people in other African tribes use the plant in decoctions and poultices to treat a minor ailment like cold, flu, or minor wounds.
Light requirements
Trianthema salsoloides requires full sunlight exposure to grow properly. This plant thrives in direct sunlight, which should be at least 6 hours daily. It is advisable to plant them in an area where there is no shade or where the sun hits directly, as they will not grow well in shady areas.
Temperature requirements
The temperature requirements for Trianthema salsoloides are moderate. They can grow well in a variety of environments from hot, dry regions to moist and humid regions. However, the plant prefers temperatures between 20°C to 30°C. They can withstand temperatures as low as 10°C, but anything below that temperature will be unfavorable for the growth of this plant.
Soil requirements
Trianthema salsoloides requires well-drained soil, which retains moisture effectively. The soil should be neutral to slightly alkaline with a pH range of 7.0-8.5. The plant cannot withstand waterlogged soil, which can lead to root rot. They can grow in sandy, loamy, or clay soils, as long as the soil is well-drained. Organic matter such as compost can be added to the soil to improve soil fertility and structure.
Cultivation Methods
Trianthema salsoloides Fenzl ex Oliv. var. salsoloides, also known as African horse purslane, is a hardy plant that is relatively easy to cultivate. It grows well in sandy, loamy, or clayey soils that are well-draining. Planting can be done by seeds or cuttings. For seeding, sow the seeds on the surface of the soil and press them firmly into the soil. Cuttings can be taken from mature plants and allowed to grow in soil that is well-drained.
Watering Needs
Watering is necessary for the growth and health of the plant. The plant should be watered when the topsoil is dry. During the growing season, the plant should be watered more frequently. However, care must be taken to ensure that the plant is not overwatered as it can lead to root rot. In general, the plant requires moderate watering, with the soil being kept moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization
Fertilization is essential for the healthy growth of the African horse purslane. The plant requires space for nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, among others. Fertilizers suitable for succulent plants can be applied once a month during the growing season. Organic fertilizers, such as compost or aged manure, can also be used to enrich the soil. However, it is vital to avoid over-fertilization, as it can lead to excessive foliage growth with few flowers.
Pruning
Pruning can be done to control the size and shape of the African horse purslane. Pruning can also encourage more blooms and healthier plant growth. Deadheading can be done by cutting off spent flowers to promote more blooms. Pinching new growth from the tips of the plant can encourage branching and fuller growth. It is advisable to prune the plant before it flowers to avoid cutting off flower buds.
Propagation of Trianthema salsoloides var. salsoloides
The plant Trianthema salsoloides Fenzl ex Oliv. var. salsoloides can primarily be propagated through seeds or stem cuttings.
Propagation through Seeds
Seeds of Trianthema salsoloides var. salsoloides can be sown during the spring season in well-draining soil mixed with compost or manure. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil and sprinkled lightly with water. The soil should be kept moist during germination, which can take up to 2-3 weeks. Once the seedlings have grown a few leaves, they can be transplanted to bigger pots or directly to the garden bed.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings can also be used to propagate Trianthema salsoloides var. salsoloides. Cuttings of about 8-10 cm with 2-3 leaves on them should be taken from the plant during the spring season. The bottom portion of the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone powder and planted in well-draining soil mixed with compost or manure. The soil should be kept moderately moist, and the cuttings should be placed in a shaded area till they begin to establish roots. Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted to bigger pots or directly to the garden bed.
Disease and Pest Management for Trianthema salsoloides Fenzl ex Oliv. var. salsoloides
Trianthema salsoloides Fenzl ex Oliv. var. salsoloides is a succulent plant species that grows in a variety of soil types, from sandy to rocky and from acid to alkaline. However, like all plants, Trianthema salsoloides is susceptible to various pests and diseases that can harm its growth and yield.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that Trianthema salsoloides is susceptible to is root rot. This disease is caused by soil-borne fungi and bacteria, which attack the roots of the plant, causing them to rot and die. Root rot can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage and not over-watering the plant. In case of root rot, it is necessary to remove the infected plant and its soil to prevent further spread of the disease.
Another common disease that can affect Trianthema salsoloides is leaf spot. Leaf spots are caused by fungi or bacteria that attack the leaves of the plant, causing them to develop small, dark spots. Leaf spots can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plant and avoiding over-watering it. In case of leaf spot, it is necessary to remove the infected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide or bactericide.
Common Pests
One of the most common pests that can attack Trianthema salsoloides is aphids. Aphids are small insects that suck the sap from the plant and can cause stunted growth and deformation of the leaves. Aphids can be prevented and managed by encouraging natural predators, such as ladybugs and lacewings, and by using insecticidal soaps or neem oil.
Another common pest that can attack Trianthema salsoloides is spider mites. Spider mites are tiny arachnids that feed on the plant's sap, causing yellowing and browning of the leaves. Spider mites can be prevented and managed by ensuring good air circulation around the plant and by using insecticidal soaps or neem oil.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Trianthema salsoloides Fenzl ex Oliv. var. salsoloides is a succulent plant species that can be affected by various pests and diseases. However, with proper care and attention, it is possible to prevent and manage these problems, ensuring the healthy growth and yield of the plant.
