Overview
Xysmalobium involucratum is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. It is native to southern Africa.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the "woody milkweed", "shrubby xysmalobium" or "ouhoutmelkbos" in Afrikaans.
Appearance
Xysmalobium involucratum can grow up to 1m tall and has woody stems with smooth, greenish-grey bark. The leaves are lance-shaped, 5–12 cm long, and 0.5–1.5 cm wide. The inflorescence is a cluster of up to 30 flowers that appear in late winter or early spring. The flowers are pink, sometimes with white spots, and are tubular in shape.
Uses
Traditionally, the roots of the Xysmalobium involucratum were used in African medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including snake bites, tuberculosis, and stomach problems. The plant contains cardiac glycosides, which have been used to treat heart conditions in modern medicine. The sap from the stems and leaves is toxic and used for fishing as it stuns the fish.
Light Requirements
Xysmalobium involucratum requires full sun to partial shade, which means that it can tolerate about 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day. However, too much shade may lead to poor flowering and weaker growth.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is found in regions with warm to hot summers and cool to cold winters. It requires a minimum temperature of 5°C to grow and can tolerate temperatures up to 35°C. However, during extreme heat, the plant may require additional watering to prevent dehydration.
Soil Requirements
Xysmalobium involucratum prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant can tolerate a range of soil types, including loam, sand, and clay. However, the soil must be slightly acidic to neutral with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. Additionally, the plant prefers soil that is moist but not waterlogged.
Cultivation of Xysmalobium involucratum (E.Mey.) Decne.
Xysmalobium involucratum, commonly known as the string-of-stars, is a plant native to South Africa. Proper cultivation can ensure that the plant grows well and remains healthy.
This plant prefers full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade. It requires well-draining soil with enough organic matter. The soil should be kept relatively dry, and it is best to avoid over-watering, which can lead to root rot.
Xysmalobium involucratum grows well in a range of temperatures, but it is important to keep it away from frost-prone areas. They do well in USDA zones 9 through 11.
Watering Needs of Xysmalobium involucratum (E.Mey.) Decne.
The string-of-stars plant is drought tolerant and can handle long dry periods. It can survive on minimal amounts of water. Watering once or twice per week in the growing season should be enough for the plant to thrive.
During the winter period, the plant requires less water. Over-watering is the primary cause of root rot, which can kill the plant.
Fertilization of Xysmalobium involucratum (E.Mey.) Decne.
Xysmalobium involucratum requires a controlled release fertilizer with a low phosphorus content. It is important to fertilize during the growing season, which is typically in the spring and summer months. Over-fertilizing can cause damage to the plant.
Adding organic matter to the soil can help improve fertility, enabling the plant to obtain vital nutrients required for growth - phosphorus.
Pruning of Xysmalobium involucratum (E.Mey.) Decne
Pruning of Xysmalobium involucratum should be done during the growing season, which is usually in spring and summer. It should only be done when necessary to promote a healthy plant.
Dead and diseased parts of the plant should be removed immediately to prevent the spread of disease. The plant can be pruned to control its size and shape, but it does not require heavy pruning.
To ensure the longevity of the plant, it is essential to take great care during pruning by sterilizing your pruning tools. This ensures that the blades are free of any fungus, which could cause the plant to die.
Propagation of Xysmalobium involucratum (E.Mey.) Decne.
Xysmalobium involucratum (E.Mey.) Decne., commonly known as the "honey stirrer," is a perennial plant native to South Africa. Propagation of this plant can be done through various methods including seed sowing, division, and stem cuttings.
Seed sowing
The easiest way to propagate Xysmalobium involucratum is through seed sowing. Collect the seeds from the plant when the seed capsules have dried up and split open. Sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix, preferably in a seedling tray or pot. Keep the soil moist and place the tray or pot in a warm spot with bright, indirect light. Germination usually occurs within 3-4 weeks.
Division
Another way to propagate Xysmalobium involucratum is through division. The plant forms a woody caudex that can be divided into multiple sections. Carefully dig up the plant and divide the caudex into sections using a sharp knife or pruning shears. Make sure each section has at least one stem and several roots. Plant each section in a well-draining soil mix and keep it moist. Place the pot in a warm spot with bright, indirect light.
Stem cuttings
Xysmalobium involucratum can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Take stem cuttings from the plant during the growing season, preferably in spring or summer. Cut the stem at a 45-degree angle and remove the bottom leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a warm spot with bright, indirect light. Roots should form within a few weeks.
Disease Management
Xysmalobium involucratum is relatively disease-resistant but can fall prey to a few diseases:
- Cercospora leaf spot: This fungal disease attacks the leaves, causing small, circular spots to appear. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected leaves and avoid overhead watering. Applying a fungicide can also be helpful.
- Pythium root rot: This disease causes the plant to wilt and die. It is caused by a water mold and can be triggered by overwatering. To manage this disease, ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering.
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease starts by causing dark, water-soaked spots on the leaves, which eventually turn brown or black, and may involve the whole leaf. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected plant parts and keep the area clean to prevent the disease's spread.
Pest Management
Xysmalobium involucratum is generally pest-resistant. However, some insects may cause problems:
- Aphids: These sap-sucking insects can cause yellowing of the leaves and stunted plant growth. To manage aphids, wash them off with a strong spray of water or apply an insecticidal soap.
- Spider mites: These tiny mites cause a stippled appearance on the leaves and can weaken the plant. To manage spider mites, wash them off with a strong spray of water, apply an insecticidal soap, or use a miticide.
- Mealybugs: These insects feed on the plant's sap and secrete a sticky, sugary substance that can attract ants and other pests. To manage mealybugs, wash them off with a strong spray of water or apply an insecticidal soap.
