Overview of Baccharoides calvoana var. insignis
Baccharoides calvoana var. insignis is a tropical evergreen shrub that is native to West Africa. It is a member of the Asteraceae or sunflower family, and it can reach a height of up to 3 meters. The plant is commonly found in the rainforest zones of Nigeria, Cameroon, and Ghana, and it thrives in moist soils with good drainage and partial shade.
Common Names for Baccharoides calvoana var. insignis
The plant is known by various common names in its native range, including "Akun Esan" in Nigeria and "Ahyen" in Ghana. Its scientific name, Baccharoides calvoana var. insignis, is also used to refer to the plant.
Appearance of Baccharoides calvoana var. insignis
Baccharoides calvoana var. insignis has a bushy habit and produces woody stems. The leaves are elliptic in shape, around 8-15 cm long and 4-7 cm wide, and are dark green with a glossy surface. The plant produces small yellow flowers which are arranged in clusters on the terminal ends of the stems. The plant's seed is bright yellow and fluffy.
Uses of Baccharoides calvoana var. insignis
In traditional medicine, Baccharoides calvoana var. insignis has been used to treat various ailments such as fever, malaria, and rheumatism. The plant has also been used as a herbal remedy for wound healing and as a natural insecticide to control pests. Some communities in Nigeria use the plant's leaves to improve the taste of pap, a local delicacy made from maize.
In addition to its medicinal uses, Baccharoides calvoana var. insignis has also been used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks, as well as for erosion control and reforestation of degraded lands.
Growth Conditions for Baccharoides calvoana var. insignis
Light: Baccharoides calvoana var. insignis prefers full to partial sunlight exposure. The plant thrives in areas with a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Temperature: This plant requires warm temperatures to grow properly. As such, it is recommended for cultivation in regions with a temperature range of 18-30°C (64-86°F). Temperatures below 10°C (50°F) may cause stunted growth or even die back of the plant.
Soil: Baccharoides calvoana var. insignis grows well in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The ideal pH level ranges between 6.1 and 7.5. The soil should be kept consistently moist to ensure proper growth, but not waterlogged as this could lead to root rot.
Fertilizer: This plant thrives with frequent fertilization regimes. Suitable fertilizers include commercial slow-released fertilizers such as 15:15:15 (NPK) applied every two weeks in the growing season. Alternatively, organic fertilizers with low nitrogen and high phosphorus and potassium supply could be applied every three weeks during the growing season.
Propagation: Baccharoides calvoana var. insignis can be propagated through seed sowing, cuttings, and layering. The preferred method is the use of cuttings, which should be taken from mature healthy plants in the early morning or late afternoon. These cuttings can then be treated with rooting hormones and planted in well-drained soil mix.
Cultivation Methods
Baccharoides calvoana var. insignis is a shrub plant that grows well in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in areas with good sunlight and well-drained soil. The plant prefers a warm and humid climate with temperatures between 20°C to 30°C.
The planting hole should be dug in advance and should be double the size of the container in which the plant is bought, and the hole should be filled with compost or manure to provide extra nutrients to the plant. The plant should then be watered well to ensure that the soil is compact and there are no air pockets.
Regular watering is essential for the plant, particularly during the first few months after planting. To avoid waterlogging, ensure that the plant is planted in well-draining soil.
Watering Needs
The Baccharoides calvoana var. insignis plant requires moist soil, although it should not be watered excessively. Water the plant when the soil feels dry to the touch, and the plant's leaves are starting to wilt.
During hot and dry periods, the plant will require more water. Ensure that the soil is well-draining to avoid waterlogging or root rot.
Fertilization
The Baccharoides calvoana var. insignis plant requires regular feeding with high-quality nitrogen-rich fertilizers to ensure strong growth and development. Fertilizers should be applied every two to three months, or depending on the type of fertilizer being used.
A mixture of organic and inorganic fertilizers is recommended. Ensure that the fertilizer is applied according to the manufacturer's instructions, and discontinue fertilization during the winter months.
Pruning
The Baccharoides calvoana var. insignis plant requires regular pruning to maintain its shape and encourage new growth. Pruning should be done during the plant's dormant season, which is usually in the winter months.
Dead or diseased branches should be removed immediately to prevent the spread of disease. To promote healthy growth, remove any weak or crossing branches, and cut back the tips of the stems to encourage bushier growth.
When pruning, ensure that the tools are sharp to avoid damaging the plant, and disinfect them with rubbing alcohol or bleach between cuts to avoid spreading diseases.
Propagation of Baccharoides calvoana var. insignis
Baccharoides calvoana var. insignis is usually propagated through seeds and stem cuttings.
Propagation through Seeds
The seeds of Baccharoides calvoana var. insignis can be collected from the matured plant and sown in a well-prepared seedbed. The seedbed should be kept moist and the seeds should germinate within two weeks. Once the seedlings have grown to a height of about 4-6 inches, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly in the garden.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings can be taken from the plant during the growing season, preferably in the early morning. The cutting should be about 4-6 inches long and should have 2-3 nodes. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder. Plant the cutting in a well-drained potting mix and water it thoroughly. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a well-lit area, but out of direct sunlight. The stem should develop roots within 4-6 weeks.
Whether propagating through seeds or stem cuttings, it is important to keep the soil moist and provide the necessary nutrients for healthy growth. Baccharoides calvoana var. insignis prefers well-drained soil and partial shade to full shade, making it an ideal plant for a shaded garden or indoor decoration.
Disease and Pest Management for Baccharoides calvoana var. insignis
Baccharoides calvoana var. insignis, also known as the African daisy, is a hardy perennial that is relatively disease and pest-resistant. However, just like any other plant, it can be susceptible to various diseases and pests. The following are some of the most common ones to watch out for:
Diseases
Powdery Mildew: This is a fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery substance on the leaves and stems of the plant. It can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves and stems, increase airflow around the plant, and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides may also be used.
Leaf Spot: This fungal disease appears as small, circular spots on the leaves, which may eventually turn yellow and fall off. To prevent leaf spot, avoid overhead watering, and ensure proper spacing between plants for adequate airflow. Fungicides may also be used.
Pests
Aphids: These soft-bodied insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause wilting, stunted growth, and distorted leaves. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong stream of water to knock them off, or use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Spider Mites: These tiny pests thrive in hot, dry conditions and can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. To manage spider mites, increase the humidity around the plant by misting it regularly, or use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Snails and Slugs: These pests can be a problem during the rainy season and can cause significant damage to the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage snails and slugs, handpick them off the plant, or set up traps around the garden using beer or yeast as bait.
By being vigilant and taking appropriate steps, you can manage the above diseases and pests and keep your Baccharoides calvoana var. insignis healthy and thriving.
