Overview of Turnera microphylla Desv.
Turnera microphylla Desv. is a flowering plant species from the Turneraceae family. It is commonly known as yellow alder and is native to Central and South America, specifically Venezuela and Brazil.
General Appearance of Turnera microphylla Desv.
This plant grows as a shrub and can reach up to 2 meters in height. It has small, elliptical leaves that are dark green and glossy. The flowers are yellow and about 2 cm in diameter, with long and narrow petals that are around 1 cm long. The fruit of Turnera microphylla is a capsule that contains many small black seeds.
Common Names for Turnera microphylla Desv.
Turnera microphylla goes by various names depending on the region and language. In English-speaking countries, it is commonly known as yellow alder, while in Spanish, it is called Alderillo Amarillo or Palo Volador. In Brazil, it is referred to as Yellow Trumpet and in Venezuela, it is known as Trompetilla Amarilla.
Uses for Turnera microphylla Desv.
Turnera microphylla has been traditionally used in herbal medicine to treat different ailments, including fever, cough, and headaches. It is also known for its sedative and relaxing properties, making it useful for people suffering from anxiety and insomnia. Moreover, the plant's leaves are often used to make tea, which has a slightly sweet and floral taste.
In some regions, the plant is also used as a natural insecticide and dye for textiles. The flowers of Turnera microphylla are a source of nectar for bees and other insects, making it a valuable plant for pollinators. It is also sometimes grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and greenhouses because of its attractive flowers and foliage.
Lighting Conditions
Turnera microphylla Desv. thrives in areas with full sun exposure and partial shade. Therefore, it requires a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight every day to grow and blossom successfully. If the plant is grown indoors, it needs to be placed near a window that receives bright but indirect sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers warm temperatures between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit (18-29°C). It can grow well in both humid and dry environments, as long as the temperature range is maintained. However, it cannot tolerate temperatures below 40°F (4°C) and high heat above 100°F (38°C).
Soil Conditions
Turnera microphylla Desv. thrives in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter and nutrients. A sandy loam or loam soil with a pH between 5-7 is perfect for this plant. The soil should be kept moist but not saturated to prevent root rot. Adding natural fertilizers such as compost or aged cow dung can help improve soil nutrients and structure.
Cultivation Methods
Turnera microphylla Desv. are best grown in well-draining soil that is nutrient-rich. The plant requires full sunlight exposure, but it also tolerates partial shade. If you live in a colder region, opt for growing the plant indoors as it cannot tolerate extreme cold. Propagation can be done through stem cuttings, division, or seeds, with stem cuttings being the most efficient method.
Watering Needs
Turnera microphylla Desv. requires regular watering, but avoid overwatering as it may cause the roots to rot. Water the plant when the soil surface is dry to the touch. During hot weather, water the plant more frequently to ensure it stays healthy and hydrated.
Fertilization
Fertilization is crucial for healthy growth and blooming of Turnera microphylla Desv. Use a balanced fertilizer during the growing season, and follow the package instructions for best results. Fertilize the plant every two weeks from spring through early fall and stop fertilizing in the winter months.
Pruning
Pruning can keep the plant healthy and maintain its shape. Deadheading spent blooms will encourage the plant to keep flowering. Additionally, pinch back the stems to encourage branching and fuller growth. Prune the plant in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Propagation of Turnera microphylla Desv.
Turnera microphylla Desv. can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings, and layering.
Propagation through Seeds
Seeds of Turnera microphylla Desv. are easily available and can be sown directly in the soil during spring or early summer. The seeds should be sown at a depth of approximately 0.5 cm and covered lightly with soil. The soil should be kept moist during the germination period, which takes about 2-3 weeks.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
Propagation through stem cuttings is an easy and effective method of propagating Turnera microphylla Desv. The cuttings should be taken during spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. The stem cuttings should be approximately 10-15 cm long, and the leaves should be removed from the lower half of the cutting.
The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone powder and planted about 2-3 cm deep in well-draining soil. The soil should be kept moist, and the cuttings should be placed in a warm and bright area away from direct sunlight. The rooting of cuttings takes approximately 4-6 weeks.
Propagation through Layering
Propagation through layering is another effective method of propagating Turnera microphylla Desv. This method can be employed during the spring season. Select a low-hanging stem of the mature plant and bend it down to the soil surface. Remove the leaves from the portion of the stem which will be touching the soil. Make sure the part of the stem which you are burying is in contact with the soil.
The stem should be buried about 5 cm deep in the soil while keeping the remaining portion of the stem out of soil exposure. Water the location thoroughly to keep the soil moist. The stem would have rooted after a few weeks or months and can be transplanted after it has developed young roots.
Disease and Pest Management for Turnera microphylla Desv.
Turnera microphylla Desv. is a popular ornamental plant grown for its attractive, small yellow flowers and green foliage. However, like all plants, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can reduce its growth, vigor, and beauty. In this section, we will discuss some common diseases and pests that may afflict Turnera microphylla Desv. and suggest ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Fungal Leaf Spot: This disease is characterized by irregular dark spots on the leaves, which may coalesce and cause the affected leaves to wither and die. The fungus that causes fungal leaf spot thrives in warm, humid conditions, and can spread quickly through splashing water, insects, or contaminated tools. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves and destroy them. Avoid overhead watering, and ensure adequate spacing between plants for good air circulation. Fungicides can also be used to control the spread of the fungus.
Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that produces yellow-orange powdery spots on the leaves, which later turn brown and can cause severe damage to the plant. The fungus that causes rust thrives in warm and humid conditions and can spread rapidly through wind, rain, or contaminated tools. To manage rust, remove infected leaves and destroy them. Avoid overhead watering and ensure adequate spacing between plants for good air circulation. Fungicides can also be used to control the spread of the fungus.
Common Pests
Mites: Mites are small, spider-like pests that damage the leaves and cause them to turn yellow or brown. They infest the plant in warm, dry conditions and can spread rapidly through wind or contaminated tools. To manage mites, wash the leaves with a high-pressure spray of water to remove the pests or apply an insecticidal soap to kill them.
Whiteflies: Whiteflies are small, white-winged insects that feed on the underside of the leaves and cause them to turn yellow or brown. They infest the plant in warm, humid conditions and can spread rapidly through wind or contaminated tools. To manage whiteflies, spray the foliage with a strong jet of water to dislodge the pests or apply insecticidal soap to kill them.
Aphids: Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that feed on the leaves and stems of the plant, sucking out the plant sap and causing them to curl and wither. They infest the plant in cool, moist conditions and can spread rapidly through wind or contaminated tools. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to remove the pests or apply insecticidal soap to kill them.
In conclusion, Turnera microphylla Desv. is susceptible to several diseases and pests, which can affect its growth and beauty. However, by following the above management practices, you can keep the plant healthy and vigorous and enjoy its beauty for years to come.
