Overview
Amphilophis intermedia (R.Br.) Stapf is a species of plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant is also known as syn Celmisia intermedia and is native to the South Island of New Zealand.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known as mountain daisy, spear-leaved daisy, and Marlborough rock daisy.
Appearance
The Amphilophis intermedia plant grows up to 60cm in height and has attractive silver-grey leaves. The flowers are white and have a yellow center. The plant flowers from October to December and grows best in well-drained soil in sunny or partially shaded areas.
Uses
Amphilophis intermedia has a range of uses including medicinal, ornamental, and culinary. The plant's root has been used to treat stomach ailments and the leaves have been used as a mild pain reliever. In addition, the plant is used as an attractive ornamental plant in gardens due to its striking appearance and ability to thrive in various conditions. Some individuals also use the leaves to make tea.
Light Requirements
Amphilophis intermedia requires moderate to bright light to thrive. It is best grown in a location that receives direct sunlight for at least 4-6 hours a day. However, it can tolerate some shade, provided the location still receives bright light.
Temperature Requirements
Amphilophis intermedia is a warm-weather plant that requires temperatures between 20-30°C to grow. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 15°C, but growth will slow down considerably. In colder regions, it is best grown in a greenhouse or indoors.
Soil Requirements
Amphilophis intermedia prefers a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH range of 6.0-7.0 is ideal for growth. It can also grow in sandy or loamy soils but requires regular fertilization to provide the necessary nutrients. The soil should be kept moist but not water-logged to prevent root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Amphilophis intermedia or the Small-Spiked Screw Pine is a low-maintenance plant that thrives well in warm temperature and high humidity. It can be grown indoors as well as outdoors. If you are planning to grow it indoors, make sure to place it near a window or any area with good natural sunlight. Plant it in a well-draining potting mix and choose a pot that is slightly larger than the size of the plant.
For outdoor cultivation, choose a location that is partly shaded and receives bright indirect sunlight throughout the day. Make sure the soil is well-drained and enriched upon planting.
Watering Needs
To grow healthy and lush, the Amphilophis intermedia needs to be watered regularly. It is essential not to overwater the plant, as it can cause root rot. Water the plant once or twice a week, depending on the season and the moisture level of the soil. During hot weather, it may need more frequent watering, while in the winter, it needs less. A plant that is overwatered will have yellow leaves, while under watering will cause browning and shedding of leaves.
Fertilization
Fertilization should be done bi-weekly during the growing season, preferably using a balanced liquid fertilizer at half the recommended strength. It is not advisable to fertilize the plant during winter as it hibernates and does not grow as actively. Overfertilizing the plant should also be avoided as it may cause the plant to burn and develop stunted growth.
Pruning
Amphilophis intermedia does not require frequent pruning. However, if it outgrows its space, it can be periodically trimmed to maintain its shape and size. Do not prune more than 25% of the plant at any given time, or it may cause stress on the plant. It is recommended to prune in the growing season to allow room for new growth. When pruning, ensure the equipment used is sharp and clean, and avoid tearing the leaves.
Propagation of Amphilophis intermedia
Amphilophis intermedia, commonly known as the swamp stringbush, is a shrub species native to Australia. It can reach up to 2 meters in height and is commonly found in wetland areas.
Seeds
The most common method of propagating Amphilophis intermedia is through seeds. The seeds can be collected from the plant when they have matured and are ready to be harvested. The best time to harvest the seeds is towards the end of autumn when the plant has finished flowering. The seeds should be stored in a cool, dry place until they are ready to be planted.
Before planting the seeds, they should be soaked in water for 24 hours to soften the hard outer coating. This will allow for easier germination. The seeds should then be planted in a well-draining soil and covered lightly with soil. They should be kept moist and watered regularly until they germinate.
Cuttings
Another method of propagating Amphilophis intermedia is through cuttings. This method can be used to propagate the plant faster than from seeds. Cuttings should be taken from new growth on the plant in spring or summer. The cuttings should be taken from the tips of the branches and should be around 10-15 cm in length.
The bottom end of the cutting should be dipped in a rooting hormone and then planted in a well-draining soil. The cutting should be kept moist and watered regularly until it has rooted. This method is also good for propagating specific cultivars.
Division
Division is another method of propagating Amphilophis intermedia, although it is less common. This method involves dividing an established plant into smaller sections and replanting them. It is best done in early spring.
To divide the plant, carefully dig it up and separate the roots and stems into smaller sections. Each section should have some established roots and a few stems. These sections should then be planted in a well-draining soil and kept moist and watered regularly until they establish.
Overall, Amphilophis intermedia is a relatively easy plant to propagate, and these three methods are effective ways to propagate the plant.
Disease Management
Amphilophis intermedia(R.Br.) Stapf is relatively disease-resistant, but it can suffer from fungal infections and physiological disorders. Here are some common diseases that might affect the plant:
- Phytophthora root rot: Phytophthora parasitizes roots and can cause root rot and stem blight. Avoid overhead watering and poorly drained soil. Use disease-free planting material, and remove and destroy infected plants.
- Leaf spot: Caused by the fungus Mycosphaerella dearnessii, leaf spot can cause circular, brown spots with purple margins. Remove infected leaves and use a fungicide to control the disease.
- Cercospora leaf spot: Cercospora spp. can cause yellow spots that appear on the upper surface of leaves. Severe infections may cause leaves to drop prematurely. Remove infected leaves and use a copper-based fungicide.
Pest Management
Amphilophis intermedia is relatively pest-resistant, but it can suffer from such pests like;
- Eastern tent caterpillar: This pest constructs a web-like nest on branches and feeds on foliage. Prune out the webs and burn them or use a biological control agent.
- Japanese beetle: Adults feed on foliage and skeletonize leaves, leaving only the veins. Apply insecticide when the pests are present. Pheromone traps can also help to trap and kill adult beetles.
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects suck sap from foliage, often causing plant deformities. Use insecticidal soap or a strong spray of water to control the infestation.
