Strophanthus GERRARDII

Strophanthus GERRARDII - Gerrard's strophanthus, Strophanthus.

Strophanthus is a genus of climbing shrubs and lianas in the dogbane family (Apocynaceae), comprising more than 35 species distributed in tropical regions of Africa and Madagascar. These plants are distinguished by robust, flexible stems, often reaching considerable length, and slender, leathery leaves arranged oppositely or with a slight spiral deviation. Particular ornamental value is imparted to the genus by large, fanciful flowers with long, thread-like appendages on the petals.

The flowers of Strophanthus are white, cream, yellow, or pinkish, often with a contrasting pattern. They possess characteristic elongated corolla lobes that can hang down or twist into a spiral. The fruits consist of two long follicles containing numerous seeds with a silky plume that facilitates wind dispersal. Many species of the genus have long been known for their rich content of cardiotonic compounds.

Gerrard's strophanthus is a liana that can reach 2 m (6.6 ft) in length. The leaves are green, smooth, and glossy. The flowers are bright, pinkish-yellow. In addition to an interesting appearance, they also have a pleasant fragrance reminiscent of roses.

The seeds are large, about 10 mm (0.4 in) long, oblong, light brown, and equipped with a long silky plume that aids wind dispersal. Germination is usually stable - about 60–75%.

Before sowing, the seeds are soaked for 12 hours in warm water or a mild growth stimulator solution. Planting is carried out in a light substrate of peat and sand or leaf mold and perlite; seeds are buried 5–8 mm (0.2–0.3 in) deep with the tail pointing upward. Sowings are placed in a mini-greenhouse or covered with film and germinated in the light, but not in the sun, at a temperature of 24–28 °C (75–82 °F). Stable humidity is maintained, and daily airing is carried out.

Seedlings appear on average after 15–25 days; the minimum period is about 10 days, and the maximum possible is more than 40 days. After a pair of true leaves appears, young plants are carefully potted into individual containers. The plant can also be propagated by semi-lignified cuttings, but rooting requires greenhouse conditions and high air humidity.

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Strophanthus prefers bright diffused light and warm conditions. The optimal temperature during the period of active growth is 22–28 °C (72–82 °F). Direct midday rays can cause burns, so light shading is required. In winter, the plant requires a cooler regime - about 12–15 °C (54–59 °F); during this period, partial or complete leaf drop is possible, which is normal for the genus. In spring, with rising temperatures and longer daylight hours, the plant becomes leafy again.

Watering is carried out moderately: the substrate should dry slightly in the top layer between waterings. Water stagnation is excluded, as the roots are sensitive to waterlogging. In winter, watering is reduced to a minimum. During the warm season, it is beneficial to periodically mist the leaves or provide elevated air humidity, especially in hot weather.

Strophanthus requires a light, breathable substrate - a mixture of leaf mold with the addition of sand, perlite, or coconut coir. A suitable soil reaction is neutral or slightly acidic. Fertilizers are applied every two weeks during the active growth period, primarily using complex mineral fertilizers.

Most species require a support - a trellis, netting, or tensioned guides, as the shoots are climbing and lengthen quickly. The plant's sap is toxic, so all work, including pruning and repotting, is performed wearing gloves.