Contents
Description
Heterotis Rotundifolia, also known as Peki dawa or African parsley, is a medicinal plant native to West Africa. It belongs to the family of Apiaceae, which includes plants such as carrots and parsley. Heterotis Rotundifolia is a perennial herb that grows up to 60 cm in height. It has a straight stem and alternate leaves that are round, lobed, and serrated. Its flowers are small and white, and they grow in umbels. The fruit of the plant is a dry, round, and flattened schizocarp which contains two seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Heterotis |
Appearance
Heterotis Rotundifolia has alternate leaves that are round or heart-shaped with lobes that are serrated. The leaves are dark green and have a glossy appearance. The stem of the plant is straight and branched. The flowers are small, white, and grow in umbels. The fruit of the plant is a dry, round, and flattened schizocarp which contains two seeds. Heterotis Rotundifolia can grow up to 60 cm in height and spreads up to 90 cm in width.
Care Guide
Water
Heterotis Rotundifolia requires moderate watering. It should be watered when the topsoil is dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Fertilization
Fertilize Heterotis Rotundifolia with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months.
Soil
Heterotis Rotundifolia prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged.
Sunlight
Heterotis Rotundifolia prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can lead to poor growth and disease.
Hardiness Zones
Heterotis Rotundifolia is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Heterotis Rotundifolia can be prone to powdery mildew, leaf spot, and rust. It can also attract aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. To prevent these pests and diseases, make sure to keep the plant well-watered and fertilized. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control pests.
Habitat
Heterotis Rotundifolia is native to West Africa and can be found in countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, Togo, and Benin. It grows in wetlands, swamps, and along riverbanks.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the medicinal use of Heterotis Rotundifolia?
A: Heterotis Rotundifolia is used in West African traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments such as malaria, fever, and inflammation.
Q: Can Heterotis Rotundifolia be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Heterotis Rotundifolia can be grown indoors as long as it receives enough sunlight and is kept in well-draining soil.
Q: Is Heterotis Rotundifolia a perennial or an annual plant?
A: Heterotis Rotundifolia is a perennial plant.
Q: How is Heterotis Rotundifolia propagated?
A: Heterotis Rotundifolia can be propagated by seeds or by division.
Related Plants
- Parsley (Petroselinum crispum)
- Carrot (Daucus carota)
- Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)
References
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6973097/
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/314775738_Heterotis_rotundifolia_Don_African_parsley_-_a_review_on_its_phytochemistry_pharmacology_and_ethnobotanical_uses
- https://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/27405
