Overview
Zygophyllum orbiculatum Welw. ex Oliv. is a plant species belonging to the Zygophyllaceae family. It is a moderately-sized shrublet that is native to the southern parts of Africa, particularly in Angola, Namibia, and South Africa.
Common Names
Common names for this plant include round-leaved twin-fruit, Welwitsch's twin-fruit, and Umababa.
Uses
Zygophyllum orbiculatum Welw. ex Oliv. has a variety of medicinal uses. Its leaves and stems are traditionally used by indigenous people in southern Africa to treat diarrhoea, ethnoveterinary infections in animals, coughs, and colds. The plant is also used as a poultice for swellings, boils, and sprains. In addition, it is used as an ornamental plant in some parts of the world.
Appearance
Zygophyllum orbiculatum Welw. ex Oliv. is a small, perennial shrublet that grows up to 60 cm high. It has round or oval-shaped leaves that are succulent and fleshy, about 1-2 cm in diameter. The plant produces small yellow flowers from winter to spring. These flowers are followed by fruit that splits into two hairy, round capsules containing numerous seeds.
Growth Conditions for Zygophyllum orbiculatum Welw. ex Oliv.
Zygophyllum orbiculatum Welw. ex Oliv. is a plant species that can thrive under certain growth conditions. Below are detailed descriptions of the typical growth conditions for the plant.
Light
Zygophyllum orbiculatum Welw. ex Oliv. requires a lot of sunlight to grow properly. The plant thrives in areas that receive full sunlight with no shade, especially during the flowering season. Insufficient light can lead to stunted growth, poor flowering, and leaf drop.
Temperature
The plant grows best in warm conditions, with average daytime temperatures of about 25 °C. The plant can tolerate temperatures ranging from 15 to 35 °C but cannot withstand frost. Prolonged exposure to temperatures below 10 °C can lead to the death of the plant or stunt its growth.
Soil Requirements
Zygophyllum orbiculatum Welw. ex Oliv. requires well-drained soils with slightly alkaline to slightly acidic pH levels. The plant prefers sandy or loamy soils rich in organic matter. It cannot tolerate heavy clay soils or waterlogged soils, as it requires good aeration for optimal growth. The plant can also grow in areas with low-quality soils but will require additional nutrient supplements.
Cultivation Methods
Zygophyllum orbiculatum Welw. ex Oliv. is a drought-resistant plant that grows well in arid climates. It can be propagated by seeds or cuttings. The plant prefers full sun and well-drained sandy soil. It requires a warm temperature to thrive, so it is best to keep it in a sunny location.Watering Needs
Zygophyllum orbiculatum Welw. ex Oliv. is adapted to survive in arid environments, so it requires little water. The plant should be watered only when the top inch of soil is dry, approximately every two weeks. Overwatering can harm the plant, so it is better to err on the side of underwatering.Fertilization
Zygophyllum orbiculatum Welw. ex Oliv. is a low-maintenance plant that requires little fertilization. If the plant is potted, it can be fertilized every two to three months. Use a balanced slow-release fertilizer, as the plant will not tolerate excess nitrogen.Pruning
Zygophyllum orbiculatum Welw. ex Oliv. requires minimal pruning. Dead, diseased, or damaged branches can be removed with clean, sharp pruners. If the plant is becoming too bulky or unruly, it can be trimmed to maintain its shape. It is best to prune during the spring or summer to avoid injuring new growth.Propagation of Zygophyllum orbiculatum Welw. ex Oliv.
Zygophyllum orbiculatum Welw. ex Oliv. is commonly propagated by two methods:
Seed Propagation
Seeds are the most preferred method of propagation for Zygophyllum orbiculatum Welw. ex Oliv. The best time to collect the seeds is after the fruit has ripened. The seeds should be sown immediately after collection as their viability decreases over time. Before sowing, the seeds should be soaked in water overnight for optimal germination.
The seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix in a container or seedbed and covered with a thin layer of soil. The container/seedbed should be placed in a well-lit area with a temperature of around 22-25°C. The seeds will germinate within 1-2 weeks. Once the seedlings have emerged, they should be watered regularly to ensure their growth.
Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings are another method of propagation for Zygophyllum orbiculatum Welw. ex Oliv. This method is useful for large plantations. The cuttings are usually taken from the stem that is one-year-old. The cuttings obtained should be 15 cm long and contain at least three nodes.
The cuttings should be washed clean with water and then treated with rooting hormone powder. The hormone powder helps in the quick development of roots. A well-draining soil mix should be prepared, and the cutting should be sown in it and watered well. The container should be placed in a well-lit area with a temperature of around 22-25°C. The cuttings will start rooting within 3-4 weeks.
Both the methods of propagation are effective in propagating Zygophyllum orbiculatum Welw. ex Oliv.
Disease and Pest Management for Zygophyllum orbiculatum Welw. ex Oliv.
Zygophyllum orbiculatum Welw. ex Oliv. is a succulent plant that is native to Africa. While it is a hardy plant, it can be susceptible to a few diseases and pests.
Common Diseases
Root rot is one of the most common diseases that affect Zygophyllum orbiculatum. Overwatering can cause the roots to become waterlogged, leading to fungal growth. To prevent root rot, ensure that the plant is in well-draining soil and is not overwatered. If root rot has occurred, remove the affected parts and repot in fresh soil.
Another disease that can affect Zygophyllum orbiculatum is leaf spot. Leaf spot is caused by a fungus that can be spread by water. To prevent leaf spot, avoid getting water on the leaves when watering the plant. If you notice leaf spot, remove the affected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide.
Common Pests
One of the most common pests that can affect Zygophyllum orbiculatum is mealybugs. Mealybugs are small, white insects that suck the sap from the plant, causing wilting and yellowing of the leaves. To get rid of mealybugs, wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to remove the insects. If this doesn't work, treat the plant with an insecticide.
Scale insects are another common pest that can affect Zygophyllum orbiculatum. Scale insects are small, oval insects that attach themselves to the stems and leaves of the plant, sucking the sap. To get rid of scale insects, wipe the leaves and stems with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. You can also treat the plant with an insecticide.
Preventive Measures
The best way to prevent diseases and pests from affecting Zygophyllum orbiculatum is to ensure that the plant is healthy and well-maintained. This includes providing the plant with proper watering, fertilizing, and lighting. You should also inspect the plant regularly for any signs of disease or pests so that you can take action early.
By following these preventive measures and taking prompt action when needed, you can help to ensure that Zygophyllum orbiculatum remains healthy and beautiful.
