Contents
Description
Strophanthus Divaricatus is a type of flowering plant that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. It is native to tropical regions in Africa, including Cameroon, Gabon, and Congo. This plant is commonly known by its other names, such as Poison Rope, Twisted Cord Flower, or Arrow Poison Vine.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Strophanthus |
Appearance
Strophanthus Divaricatus is a woody vine that can grow up to 10 meters long. It has thin, twisted stems that look like ropes, hence its name. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and oblong-shaped, and they can grow up to 10 cm long. The flowers are white and star-shaped, with a diameter of around 5 cm. They bloom in clusters and have a pleasant fragrance. The fruit of this plant is a long, slender, and cylindrical capsule that contains numerous seeds that are surrounded by silky hairs.
Care Guide
Strophanthus Divaricatus is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in various conditions. Here are some care tips:
- Water: This plant prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought. Water it regularly but avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: You can fertilize this plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Strophanthus Divaricatus prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: This plant can grow in full sun to partial shade. However, it prefers bright, indirect light.
- Hardiness Zones: Strophanthus Divaricatus is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Strophanthus Divaricatus is generally a pest and disease-resistant plant. However, it can be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. You can prevent infestations by keeping the plant clean and healthy and using insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat any pests present. Root rot can also occur if the soil is too wet or poorly drained.
Habitat
Strophanthus Divaricatus is native to tropical regions in Africa, where it grows in the understory of forests and along riverbanks. It can also thrive in disturbed areas such as roadsides and abandoned fields. It is commonly used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including heart disease, fever, and snake bites.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Strophanthus Divaricatus toxic?
A: Yes, this plant contains cardiac glycosides, which are toxic to humans and animals if ingested. It is commonly used as an arrow poison by indigenous people in Africa.
Q: Can Strophanthus Divaricatus grow indoors?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown indoors as long as it receives enough light and is not overwatered.
Q: How often should I fertilize Strophanthus Divaricatus?
A: You can fertilize this plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can I propagate Strophanthus Divaricatus from cuttings?
A: Yes, you can propagate this plant from stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining soil mix.
Related Plants
- Strophanthus Gratus
- Strophanthus Kombe
- Strophanthus Preussii
- Strophanthus Speciosus
References
- Flora of Zimbabwe: Strophanthus Divaricatus. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.zimbabweflora.co.zw/speciesdata/species.php?species_id=135180
- Strophanthus Divaricatus. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.plantzafrica.com/plantqrs/strophanthdiv.htm
- Carranza, J. (2014). Poison Rope. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/strophanthus-divaricatus
