Origin
Trieenea glutinosa (Schltr.) Hilliard, also known as the sticky Trieenea, is a plant species belonging to the family Asteraceae. It is native to the southern parts of Africa, including Zimbabwe and Mozambique.
Common Names
Trieenea glutinosa has several common names, such as the sticky Trieenea, gum-oozing Trieenea, and sticky-heads. The plant derives its name from the sticky secretion produced by its glandular hairs.
Appearance
The sticky Trieenea is a perennial herb that grows up to 30 cm high. It has a woody, branched stem with a sticky, resinous substance exuding from glandular hairs. The leaves are arranged alternately and are elliptic or lanceolate in shape. The upper surface of the leaves is smooth, while the undersurface has glandular hairs that secrete a sticky substance. The plant's flowers are yellow and arranged in heads at the end of the branches.
Uses
The sticky Trieenea has some medicinal uses in traditional African medicine. Its glandular hairs produce a sticky substance that is used to treat skin infections and wounds. The plant also has insecticidal properties and is used to get rid of pests like fleas and lice. Additionally, the dried leaves of the plant are used as a spice in cooking, where they add a slightly bitter taste to dishes.
Growth Conditions of Trieenea glutinosa (Schltr.) Hilliard
Light Requirements: Trieenea glutinosa requires moderate to high light conditions to thrive. It can adapt to both full sun and partial shade, but it is recommended to avoid placing it in direct sunlight for extended periods as it can scorch the foliage.
Temperature Requirements: The plant thrives in warm to hot temperatures and can withstand brief periods of cold temperatures. The ideal temperature range for Trieenea glutinosa is between 18°C to 32°C. Temperatures below 10°C and above 35°C can adversely affect the growth of the plant.
Soil Requirements: Trieenea glutinosa prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil should have a pH range between 6.0 to 7.5. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay, sand, loam, and rocky soil, as long as there is adequate drainage. It is recommended to add a layer of organic mulch to retain moisture and regulate the temperature of the soil.
Cultivation Methods for Trieenea Glutinosa (Schltr.) Hilliard
Trieenea glutinosa is a tropical plant that requires warm temperatures and high humidity to thrive. It is often grown as an indoor plant in cooler climate regions. The plant prefers well-draining, nutrient-rich soil.
Propagation can be done through stem cuttings or by division of mature plants. Cuttings should be taken in spring or summer and propagated in well-draining soil with high humidity. Division should be done in early spring or late fall.
Watering Needs for Trieenea Glutinosa (Schltr.) Hilliard
The plant requires regular watering during the growing season, but the soil should be allowed to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can result in root rot, while under-watering can lead to wilting and leaf loss.
During the dormant season, watering should be reduced, and the plant should be allowed to dry out between waterings.
Fertilization for Trieenea Glutinosa (Schltr.) Hilliard
The plant requires regular fertilization during the growing season, typically every 2-3 weeks. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer should be used, following the manufacturer's instructions for dilution and frequency.
Fertilizer should be withheld during the dormant season.
Pruning for Trieenea Glutinosa (Schltr.) Hilliard
Pruning is not necessary for Trieenea glutinosa, but it can be done to control the plant's size and shape. Pruning can be done at any time but is best done in spring before new growth begins.
Any dead, damaged, or diseased foliage should be removed promptly to prevent the spread of disease. Regular trimming can help maintain the plant's appearance and promote bushier growth.
Propagation of Trieenea glutinosa (Schltr.) Hilliard
Trieenea glutinosa (Schltr.) Hilliard is a beautiful and rare plant that is native to southern Africa. Propagation of this plant species is done mainly through the use of seeds or stem cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
The first step in propagating Trieenea glutinosa using seeds is to collect the seeds from a healthy parent plant. The seeds should be mature and fully developed to increase the chances of germination. The collected seeds should be cleaned and soaked in water for a few hours before sowing.
The planting medium for Trieenea glutinosa seeds should be well-draining and rich in organic matter. The seeds should be sown at a depth of about 1cm and covered with a thin layer of soil. The planted seeds should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Germination of Trieenea glutinosa seeds takes about 3 to 4 weeks.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings offer a faster way to propagate Trieenea glutinosa, and the process involves taking cuttings from healthy, mature plants. The cuttings should be about 6 to 7 cm long, taken at the node, and stripped of their lower leaves.
The cuttings should be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist but not waterlogged. The ideal temperature for root development is around 22°C to 25°C, and the cuttings should be kept in a shaded location to prevent excessive transpiration.
Rooting of the stem cuttings takes about 4 to 5 weeks, and when the new plants have established roots, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Note:
It is important to note that this plant species is rare and protected in some areas. Therefore, it is essential to follow all local regulations when collecting seeds or cuttings for propagation purposes.
Disease Management
Trieenea glutinosa is susceptible to various diseases that can cause significant damage to the plant. Some common diseases of triangle fringed orchids include:
- Black Rot: This disease is caused by a fungus that infects the plant through wounds or damaged areas. It causes blackening of the affected parts, and infected parts dry up and shrivel. To manage black rot, remove all infected parts and apply a fungicide to the plant.
- Leaf Spot: This disease causes yellow or brownish spots on the leaves, and the affected parts eventually dry up and fall off. Leaf spot is caused by several fungi, and management involves removing all infected parts and using a fungicide on the entire plant.
- Bacterial Blight: Bacteria causes this disease, and it affects the new growth of the plant. Bacterial blight causes the leaves to become water-soaked and turn brown, and the affected parts eventually die. To manage this disease, remove all infected parts and use a bactericide on the plant.
Pest Management
Trieenea glutinosa is also susceptible to pest infestations that can weaken or kill the plant. Some common pests of Triangle fringed orchids include:
- Spider Mites: These pests are tiny and usually found on the underside of leaves. Spider mites cause leaves to yellow and dry out, and they can spread quickly. To manage spider mites, use insecticidal soap or neem oil on the plant.
- Mealybugs: These pests are white, waxy insects that feed on the sap of the plant. Mealybugs can cause yellowing and distortion of leaves and the accumulation of a sticky residue on the plant. To manage mealybugs, remove all infected parts and use insecticidal soap or neem oil on the plant.
- Slugs: These pests attack the leaves of the plant and can cause significant damage. Slugs are mostly active during the night and can be managed using traps or baits.
Regular inspection of plants and prompt action in the form of management strategies can help in curbing the spread of diseases and pests and keep the Triangle fringed orchids healthy and productive.
