Contents
Description
Cyathula Prostrata, also known as the “devil’s horsewhip,” is a perennial plant that belongs to the Amaranthaceae family. It is native to Asia and Africa and can be found in tropical and subtropical regions. The plant has a long history of medicinal use, particularly in Ayurvedic medicine, due to its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus | Cyathula |
Appearance
Cyathula Prostrata has a trailing stem that can grow up to 1 meter long. The stem is green and slightly hairy. The leaves are ovate and have a pointed tip, with a length of about 5-10 cm and a width of 2-5 cm. The flowers are small and greenish-white, and they grow in clusters at the end of the stems. The plant produces small fruits that are round and have a diameter of about 1 mm.
Care Guide
Water
The plant prefers moist soil, but it should not be overwatered. It is recommended to water the plant thoroughly once a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Fertilization
Cyathula Prostrata does not require frequent fertilization. It can be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil
The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of sand, loam, and peat moss is ideal.
Sunlight
The plant prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun. It is recommended to place the plant in a location that receives morning sun and afternoon shade.
Hardiness Zones
Cyathula Prostrata can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cyathula Prostrata is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Spider mites and aphids may also infest the plant, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Cyathula Prostrata is native to Asia and Africa and can be found in tropical and subtropical regions. It prefers moist and shady habitats, such as riverbanks, forests, and wetlands.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Cyathula Prostrata be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors in a bright location that receives partial shade.Q: Is Cyathula Prostrata toxic to pets?
A: There is no evidence that the plant is toxic to pets, but it is recommended to keep it out of reach.Q: How often should Cyathula Prostrata be fertilized?
A: The plant can be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Q: How often should Cyathula Prostrata be watered?
A: The plant should be watered thoroughly once a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Related Plants
- Cyathula Nudicaulis
- Cyathula Officinalis
- Cyathula Prostrata var. Chirayita
References
- “Cyathula Prostrata.” Plantz Africa, www.plantzafrica.com/plantcd/cyathulaprostr.htm.
- “Cyathula Prostrata.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=237749.
- “Cyathula Prostrata (L.) Blume.” The Plant List, www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/kew-237749.
