Origin
Trichodesma africanum (L.) Lehm. var. ehrenbergii (Schweinf. ex Boiss.) Post. is a herbaceous plant that is native to Africa. It is found in countries such as Egypt, Sudan, Ethiopia, Somalia, Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
Common Names
Trichodesma africanum (L.) Lehm. var. ehrenbergii (Schweinf. ex Boiss.) Post. is commonly known by several names, including Ehrenberg's redmouth, hairy-leaved milkwort, and African borage.
Uses
The plant has medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine to treat several ailments. The roots and leaves are used to make a herbal tea that is believed to have beneficial effects on the digestive system. The tea is also used to treat respiratory infections and fever. The crushed leaves of the plant are applied topically to treat wounds and skin infections. In some parts of Africa, the plant is also used as a food flavoring.
General Appearance
Trichodesma africanum (L.) Lehm. var. ehrenbergii (Schweinf. ex Boiss.) Post. is an annual or biennial plant that can grow up to 1.2 meters tall. It has hairy leaves that are grayish-green in color, and its stem is also covered in fine hairs. The flowers are small and blue, and they bloom in clusters at the end of the branches. The plant prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate drought conditions.
Light Requirements
Trichodesma africanum (L.) Lehm. var. ehrenbergii (Schweinf. ex Boiss.) Post typically grows in full sunlight or partial shade. The plant requires at least six hours of direct sunlight exposure daily for optimal growth and development.
Temperature Requirements
Trichodesma africanum (L.) Lehm. var. ehrenbergii (Schweinf. ex Boiss.) Post is a warm-season plant that thrives well in regions with a tropical or subtropical climate. The ideal temperature range for the growth of this plant is between 20°C to 30°C. The plant cannot survive in areas with freezing temperatures, and frost can cause severe damage to the foliage and stems.
Soil Requirements
The plant is adaptable to different soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clayey soils. However, it prefers soils that are well-draining, moist, and rich in organic matter content. The pH range of the soil should be between 6.0 to 7.5. Proper soil preparation is essential, and adding adequate nutrients and organic matter will enhance the growth and development of the plant.
Cultivation Methods
Trichodesma africanum (L.) Lehm. var. ehrenbergii (Schweinf. ex Boiss.) Post is a hardy plant that is best grown in well-draining soils. It can be propagated by seeds or cuttings and should be planted in full sun or light shade. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil pH but prefers soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5. The site should also have good air circulation.
Watering Needs
The plant requires moderate watering during the growing season, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Irrigation should be reduced during the winter months when the plant is inactive. Overwatering can promote the growth of fungus and other diseases, so it should be avoided.
Fertilization
Trichodesma africanum (L.) Lehm. var. ehrenbergii (Schweinf. ex Boiss.) Post benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is an ideal choice. The fertilizer should be applied once a month, starting in the early spring and extending to the early fall. Excessive fertilization can lead to overgrowth and may make the plant more susceptible to diseases.
Pruning
The plant does not require much pruning, but deadheading spent blooms can encourage further blooming. Trimming the plant to remove yellow or wilted leaves and stems can help maintain its appearance and reduce the risk of disease.
Propagation of Trichodesma africanum (L.) Lehm. var. ehrenbergii (Schweinf. ex Boiss.) Post
Trichodesma africanum (L.) Lehm. var. ehrenbergii (Schweinf. ex Boiss.) Post can be propagated by seed or vegetative methods such as stem cuttings.
Propagation by seed
The seeds of Trichodesma africanum (L.) Lehm. var. ehrenbergii (Schweinf. ex Boiss.) Post can be directly sown into the soil after the last frost date. The soil should be well-draining and enriched with organic matter. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 1-2 cm and spaced 20-30 cm apart. The seeds will germinate in 7-14 days depending on the soil temperature.
Propagation by stem cuttings
Trichodesma africanum (L.) Lehm. var. ehrenbergii (Schweinf. ex Boiss.) Post can also be propagated by stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem that is about 6-8 inches long and free from any diseases or pests. Cut the stem below a node and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone and plant it into a pot filled with well-draining soil. Water the soil and cover the cutting with a clear plastic bag or a plastic container. Place the pot in a bright location but out of direct sunlight. The cutting should root in 2-3 weeks.
Disease management
Trichodesma africanum (L.) Lehm. var. ehrenbergii (Schweinf. ex Boiss.) Post is relatively resistant to diseases. However, some fungal and bacterial pathogens can cause harm to the plant, leading to reduced growth and yield. The following are the common diseases that can infect the plant:
- Leaf spot disease: This disease is characterized by circular to oval-shaped spots on the leaves. The spots may vary in size and color and may eventually lead to defoliation. The disease is caused by different fungal pathogens. To manage this disease, avoid overhead watering and remove infected leaves and branches and destroy them. Apply a fungicide if the disease is severe.
- Root rot: Root rot is a soil-borne disease caused by different fungal pathogens. Infected plants show wilting, yellowing, and eventually, death. To prevent root rot, plant the Trichodesma africanum (L.) Lehm. var. ehrenbergii (Schweinf. ex Boiss.) Post in well-drained soil, avoid waterlogging, and do not overwater the plants. Remove and destroy the infected plants to avoid fungal spores' spread.
- Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, stems, and flowers. Symptoms of the disease include white or gray powdery spots on the plant's surface. To control powdery mildew, maintain proper air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and apply fungicides.
Pest management
Trichodesma africanum (L.) Lehm. var. ehrenbergii (Schweinf. ex Boiss.) Post does not attract many pests. However, some insects and mites can attack the plant. The following are the common pests that can infest the plant:
- Spider mites: Spider mites are small arachnids that cause yellowing and distorted leaves. The presence of tiny webs on the leaves indicates the infestation. To manage these pests, wash the plant's foliage with water or apply insecticidal soap or oil.
- Whiteflies: Whiteflies are small, winged insects that attack the undersides of the leaves, causing yellowing and stunted growth. To control whiteflies, use insecticidal soap or oil and eliminate weeds that could harbor the pests.
- Thrips: Thrips are tiny insects that suck the sap out of the leaves, causing them to discolor and deform. To manage these pests, use sticky yellow traps, prune infested leaves and flowers, or apply insecticidal soap or oil.
