Overview
Zygophyllum gaetulum Emb. & Maire subsp. gaetulum is a perennial plant in the family Zygophyllaceae that is native to North Africa.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as “Harmel,” “Harmal,” or “Harmala” in North Africa. In some regions, it goes by the name “Espand,” “Aspand,” or “Esphand”.
Appearance
Zygophyllum gaetulum subsp. gaetulum is a greyish-green shrub that typically grows up to two meters tall. It has slender, woody stems that grow upright in a loosely branching pattern. The leaves of this plant are small and oval-shaped, measuring about 1-2 cm in length. Its flowers bloom in small clusters and are pale yellow or whitish in color.
Uses
The plant has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. The roots and seeds of the plant contain several alkaloids, including harmine and harmaline, which have been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as fever, respiratory problems, and digestive disorders.
In addition to its medicinal properties, Zygophyllum gaetulum subsp. gaetulum has many other uses. The seeds of the plant are used to make dyes and perfumes, while the plant’s stems and branches are used as fuel and for making charcoal. In North Africa, the plant is sometimes used as an incense to ward off evil spirits during spiritual ceremonies.
Growth Conditions for Zygophyllum gaetulum Emb. & Maire subsp. gaetulum
Zygophyllum gaetulum Emb. & Maire subsp. gaetulum is a hardy plant that can grow in a range of conditions, although it prefers arid environments. The following are the growth conditions required for healthy growth:
Light Requirements
The plant requires plenty of sunlight to grow well. It needs to be planted in an open area where it will receive direct sunlight for at least six hours daily. Although it can survive in partial shade, this will lead to decreased growth rates and smaller plants.
Soil Requirements
Zygophyllum gaetulum Emb. & Maire subsp. gaetulum is well-suited to a variety of soil types but prefers well-draining soils that are slightly alkaline. The ideal pH level is between 7 and 8.5. The soil should be nutrient-rich and well-aerated, to allow for root growth. If the soil is too compact, it may inhibit the growth of the plant.
Temperature Requirements
Zygophyllum gaetulum Emb. & Maire subsp. gaetulum is known for its ability to tolerate extreme temperatures, even up to 50°C. However, it prefers moderate temperatures between 20°C and 35°C. It is a drought-tolerant plant that can survive in harsh environments, but it requires occasional watering to thrive.
In conclusion, Zygophyllum gaetulum Emb. & Maire subsp. gaetulum is a hardy and adaptable plant that is well-suited to arid environments. It requires direct sunlight, well-draining alkaline soils, and moderate temperatures to grow well. With proper care, this plant can thrive and contribute positively to the surrounding ecosystem.
Cultivation Methods
Zygophyllum gaetulum Emb. & Maire subsp. gaetulum, commonly called the Gaetulian bean, is a drought-tolerant, evergreen shrub species indigenous to North Africa. In general, the shrub is well adapted to desert environments and requires minimal maintenance to thrive.
The ideal soil type for cultivation is sandy or loamy with good drainage. The plant should be positioned in a location with full sun exposure and exposed to the wind. The shrub species is resilient to cold temperatures, but in regions exposed to heavy frost, it is essential to plant in a greenhouse or container.
Watering Needs
Gaetulian bean is relatively drought-tolerant, but like most shrub species, it needs consistent watering during the first year after planting to establish a solid root system. Afterward, irrigation should be minimized, and the plant left to rely mainly on rainwater.
When irrigating, it is advisable to avoid watering the leaves and shoot systems. Instead, watering should be done close to the base of the plant, allowing it to penetrate into the soil and get absorbed by the roots.
Fertilization
Like most shrub species, Zygophyllum gaetulum Emb. & Maire subsp. gaetulum requires minimal fertilizer application, and in most cases, it is optional. When necessary, applying slow-release fertilizers in the early spring is ideal for promoting early spring's lush growth.
The shrub's organic matter should be kept healthy by choosing proper mulch for the soil and avoiding the use of synthetic fertilizers. These fertilizers contain high levels of salt that can damage the shrub's roots and reduce its growth rate.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for maintaining the best shape of the plant. This shrub species responds well cuts and pruning when its young and should, therefore, be pruned immediately after planting. This encourages the plant to develop a uniform shape and promotes the growth of new shoots.
Once established, the shrub should be pruned once a year when the weather warms up in the spring. The process involves cutting off dead, diseased, or damaged branches and shaping the plant to prevent it from becoming too dense.
The top part of the plant should be pruned to promote the growth of new branches and shoots, creating a more abundant, uniform plant. Pruning stimulates new growth and is an effective strategy for maintaining the plant health by limiting the accumulation of dead organic matter.
Propagation of Zygophyllum gaetulum Emb. & Maire subsp. gaetulum
Zygophyllum gaetulum Emb. & Maire subsp. gaetulum can be propagated through various methods, including:
Seed propagation
Seeds of Zygophyllum gaetulum Emb. & Maire subsp. gaetulum can be collected from the plant during the summer or early autumn months. The collected seeds must be soaked in water for one to two days and then sown in well-drained soil. It takes about four to five weeks for the seeds to germinate, and the seedlings can be transplanted to a permanent location after they have grown sufficiently.
Cuttings propagation
Zygophyllum gaetulum Emb. & Maire subsp. gaetulum can also be propagated by taking stem cuttings. The best time to take stem cuttings is during the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. The cuttings must be about 10 cm in length and should be taken from the non-flowering shoots of the plant. The cuttings must be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in well-drained soil. It takes around two to three weeks for the cuttings to develop roots, and they can be transplanted to a permanent location later.
Dividing the plant
Zygophyllum gaetulum Emb. & Maire subsp. gaetulum can also be divided to propagate. The plant must be lifted carefully from the soil and separated into smaller sections. Each section must have a good root system and some shoots. The divided sections must be planted in well-drained soil and watered regularly until they establish themselves.
Disease Management
Zygophyllum gaetulum Emb. & Maire subsp. gaetulum is generally a hardy plant that is resistant to diseases. However, there are some diseases that may affect it:
- Leaf spot disease: This disease causes round spots on the leaves of the plant, which may turn yellow and then brown. It can be caused by fungi or bacteria. To manage leaf spot disease, you can prune the affected areas and dispose of them properly. You can also spray a fungicide on the plant.
- Root rot: Root rot is caused by a fungus that affects the plant's roots. It can cause the plant to wilt and die. To manage root rot, you can remove the affected plant and its soil and replace it with new soil. You can also apply a fungicide.
Pest Management
There are some pests that may affect Zygophyllum gaetulum Emb. & Maire subsp. gaetulum:
- Aphids: Aphids are tiny insects that suck the sap from the plant's leaves. They can cause the leaves to curl and turn yellow. To manage aphids, you can wash the plant with a strong jet of water. You can also apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause the leaves of the plant to turn yellow and speckled. They can also create webs. To manage spider mites, you can wash the plant with a strong jet of water. You can also apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Whiteflies: Whiteflies are tiny insects that suck the sap from the plant's leaves. They can cause the leaves to turn yellow and sticky. To manage whiteflies, you can wash the plant with a strong jet of water. You can also apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Regular monitoring of the plant can help detect any pest infestations or diseases early. It is also important to maintain good soil and plant hygiene to prevent pests and diseases from affecting the plant.
