Contents
Description
Centella Uniflora is a perennial herb that belongs to the Apiaceae family. It is native to South America, particularly in Brazil and Argentina. This herb is also known as Centella Brasiliensis and commonly called ‘Mandukaparni.’ It is a low-growing plant that spreads by stolons, which can root at the nodes. The leaves of Centella Uniflora are simple, round to reniform, and arranged in a basal rosette.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Centella |
| Species | Uniflora |
Appearance
The leaves of Centella Uniflora are bright green, smooth, and shiny, with a wavy margin. They are often used in traditional medicine due to their medicinal properties. The flowers of Centella Uniflora are tiny, white to pink in color, and arranged in umbels that arise from the center of the basal rosette. The fruit is a schizocarp, which splits into two mericarps, each containing a single seed.
Care Guide
Centella Uniflora requires moist soil and partial shade to grow well. It is recommended to water it frequently, especially during the hot and dry season. The soil should be well-drained and rich in organic matter. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. This herb prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH. It can tolerate a range of hardiness zones, from 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Centella Uniflora is generally a healthy plant, but it can be affected by various pests and diseases. Some of the common pests that attack this herb include spider mites, thrips, and aphids. These pests can cause damage to the leaves, leading to discoloration and deformation. The plant can also be affected by fungal diseases such as leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot. You can control these pests and diseases by using organic insecticides and fungicides, pruning infected leaves, and improving air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Centella Uniflora is native to South America, particularly in Brazil and Argentina. It grows in wetlands, marshes, and swamps. It can also be found in other tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. This herb prefers a warm and humid climate, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Centella Uniflora edible?
A: Yes, the leaves of Centella Uniflora are edible and are used in salads, soups, and other culinary dishes.
Q: Can Centella Uniflora grow in full sun?
A: No, Centella Uniflora prefers partial shade and moist soil to grow well.
Q: How often should I fertilize Centella Uniflora?
A: It is recommended to fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What are the medicinal properties of Centella Uniflora?
A: Centella Uniflora is known to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and wound-healing properties.
Related Plants
- Centella Asiatica
- Centella Cordifolia
- Hydrocotyle Bonariensis
- Hydrocotyle Ranunculoides
References
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3116297/
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/329814230_Centella_uniflora_L_Hydrocotylaceae_A_New_Record_from_Pakistan
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2221169115306608
