Overview
Turnera oculata Story var. oculata is a small flowering plant commonly known as the "Eyed Passionflower." It belongs to the family Passifloraceae. This plant is native to the tropical regions of the Americas, including Central America, the Caribbean, and South America.Appearance
The plant grows up to 20 inches in height and spreads 15-20 inches wide. It has deep green leaves, oval in shape, and serrated edges. Each leaf measures about 3-6 cm long. The plant produces bright yellow flowers, which measure approximately 3-4 cm in diameter. The center of the flowers is adorned with a distinctive black and white pattern that resembles an eye. The flowers are hermaphroditic, producing both male and female organs.Uses
Traditionally, Turnera oculata Story var. oculata has been used in herbal medicine to treat various ailments. The plant contains phytochemicals that have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-cancer properties. It is also believed to have aphrodisiac effects and has been used to enhance sexual appetite and function. In addition to its medicinal properties, the plant is also grown as an ornamental plant. Its bright yellow flowers and unique black and white eye pattern make it a popular choice for gardens and landscapes.Cultivation
Turnera oculata Story var. oculata is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in warm and humid environments. It prefers well-draining soil and requires a moderate amount of water. The plant can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. It is a perennial plant, but it may die back in colder climates. It can be grown in containers or planted directly in the ground. The plant is relatively pest-resistant and is not known for attracting many insect pests or diseases.Light Requirements
Turnera oculata Story var. oculata requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It is recommended to keep the plant in a location where it receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. In too much shade, the plant may not produce flowers and may become leggy.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for Turnera oculata Story var. oculata is between 60°F and 85°F (15°C to 29°C). The plant can't tolerate frost and temperatures below 40°F (4°C) can be damaging. Extreme heat can cause wilting in the plant, which can be avoided by providing sufficient shade or misting the plant regularly.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained soil, and it can thrive in a variety of soil types, such as sandy, loamy, or clay soils. The soil should be rich in organic matter for the plant to grow optimally. The soil pH range for the plant should be between 6.0 and 7.5. The plant can be sensitive to waterlogged conditions, so ensure that the soil doesn't hold too much moisture.
Cultivation Methods
The Turnera oculata Story var. oculata plant is a tropical shrub that is typically grown as an ornamental plant. It prefers warm temperatures and partial to full sunlight exposure. The plant can be propagated through seed or stem cuttings. To propagate through stem cuttings, take a 3 to 4-inch cutting and place it in moist soil. Keep the soil moist and warm, and the cutting should begin to grow roots within several weeks.
Watering Needs
Turnera oculata Story var. oculata should be watered regularly, but be careful not to overwater. The plant prefers well-draining soil, and the soil should not be allowed to become waterlogged. During periods of drought, make sure to water the plant deeply to encourage strong root growth.
Fertilization
The Turnera oculata Story var. oculata plant benefits from a balanced fertilizer that is high in nitrogen. Apply the fertilizer every two to three weeks during the growing season. Be careful not to over-fertilize or you can damage the plant.
Pruning
The Turnera oculata Story var. oculata plant should be pruned regularly to keep its shape and size under control. Pruning can also encourage bushier growth and more flowers. Prune the plant in the early spring before new growth begins. Remove any damaged or diseased wood, as well as any branches that are crossing or rubbing against other branches. Cut back the remaining branches by one-third to one-half of their length to encourage bushier growth.
Propagation of Turnera oculata Story var. oculata
Turnera oculata Story var. oculata is commonly propagated through seed and vegetative methods. Here, we will discuss each in detail:
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Turnera oculata Story var. oculata are readily available and can be sown either directly in the field or in a nursery depending upon the availability of resources. Here are the steps for propagating Turnera oculata Story var. oculata using seeds:
- Collect mature seed capsules from the plant
- Clean and dry the seeds
- Sow the seeds in a seedling tray or directly in the field
- Make sure the sowing medium is fertile and well-draining
- Provide the seeds with sufficient water and sunlight
- Germination may take around 2-4 weeks
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation of Turnera oculata Story var. oculata involves taking cuttings, division or layering. Here are the steps for each method:
- Cuttings: Take a healthy stem cutting with 3-4 leaves. Treat the lower end of the cutting with rooting hormone and plant it in a soilless mix. Keep under high humidity until roots appear.
- Division: Divide the bushy plants by carefully separating the root ball into multiple pieces. Each piece must have a portion of the stem and a few leaves. Plant each division in a separate container with well-draining soil mix.
- Layering: Select a low branch, remove the leaves from its lower half and make a shallow wound on the bark. Apply rooting hormone and partially bury the wounded end of the branch in the soil. Once roots appear, cut the branch off the mother plant and transplant it in a separate container.
Following the above steps can ensure successful and healthy propagation of Turnera oculata Story var. oculata.
Disease Management
The Turnera oculata Story var. oculata is relatively resistant to disease. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as leaf spot and powdery mildew. To manage fungal diseases, it is essential to ensure proper air circulation around the plant by adequate spacing between individual plants. Avoid overhead watering as much as possible and water at the base of the plant instead. Remove any diseased leaves or stems and dispose of them promptly. Fungicides can also be applied, but it is best to use them as a last resort.
Pest Management
Several pests can affect Turnera oculata Story var. oculata, including aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Aphids are tiny, sap-sucking insects that can cause curling and yellowing of leaves. Spider mites, on the other hand, are generally visible as tiny dots on leaves and can cause yellowing and generally poor plant growth. Whiteflies are tiny, flying insects that congregate on the undersides of leaves and can cause significant damage to the plant.
To manage pests, it is essential to routinely inspect the plants to catch any infestations early. Isolate and remove any severely infested plants to prevent the spread of pests to other plants. Insecticidal soap or oil can be effective in controlling aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. However, it is essential to follow instructions carefully and avoid applying these products during the heat of the day to reduce the risk of sunburn and plant damage.
