Overview
Baccharoides guineensis (Benth.) H.Rob. var. procera (O.Hoffm.) Isawumi is a plant species that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant is also referred to as "African star grass" and is native to West and Central Africa. It is a herbaceous perennial plant that grows up to 1.5 m tall. The scientific name of Baccharoides guineensis is derived from the Latin word "bacca" meaning berry and "oides" meaning "resembling".
Appearance
The Baccharoides guineensis var. procera has a stem that is cylindrical, woody and covered with minute hairs. The leaves are alternate and simple, with a length that ranges from 20 to 40 cm and a width of about 5 to 9 cm. The leaf blade is oblong-lanceolate and slightly serrated at the margin, while the surface is sparsely covered with multicellular hairs. The flowers are yellow and arranged in a corymbose panicle. The fruit is an achene with a length of about 4 to 5 mm and a pappus of about 4 cm.
Common Names
Baccharoides guineensis var. procera has several common names depending on the region where it is found. In Nigeria, it is called "Owu" by the Yorubas, while the Igbos call it "Mmirimiri". In Cameroon, it is known as "Elonge" in Bamileke.
Uses
Various parts of Baccharoides guineensis var. procera have been used medicinally in parts of West and Central Africa. The leaves of this plant are used to treat coughs, rheumatism, and gastrointestinal disorders. The stem bark has been used to treat malaria and to relieve pain. The root of this plant is also used to treat fever, inflammation, and stomach disorders.
Baccharoides guineensis var. procera is also used for animal feed in some parts of West Africa. The plant's lush green foliage is highly nutritious and can be a good source of forage for livestock. Additionally, the plant has ornamental value, thanks to its attractive foliage and yellow flowers. It is used for beautification purposes in parks, gardens, and other landscaping projects.
Growth Conditions of Baccharoides guineensis (Benth.) H.Rob. var. procera (O.Hoffm.) Isawumi
Baccharoides guineensis (Benth.) H.Rob. var. procera (O.Hoffm.) Isawumi, also known as Guinea Golden Aster, is a shrub that is native to West Africa. This plant typically grows to a height of 2-5 meters and has yellow flowers. To ensure proper growth and development, the plant requires specific growth conditions.
Light
The Guinea Golden Aster requires full sunlight to grow. It needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth. Therefore, it is important to plant the shrub in an area that receives plenty of sunlight. Lack of enough sunlight may stunt its growth and reduce its overall health.
Temperature
The plant thrives in warm temperatures and cannot survive in frosty conditions. The recommended temperature range for the Guinea Golden Aster is between 18°C to 35°C. If you live in a cold climate, it is not ideal to plant this shrub outdoors. In such a case, it can be grown in containers and placed indoors during winter.
Soil
Baccharoides guineensis (Benth.) H.Rob. var. procera (O.Hoffm.) Isawumi grows well in fertile, well-draining soil. The plant requires soil with good water retention capacity. Sandy soils with low water retention should be avoided. It is recommended to add organic matter such as compost to the soil to increase its moisture retention capacity.
Proper soil pH is also crucial for the Guinea Golden Aster plant. It requires slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 5.5-7) to thrive. Soil testing kits can be used to determine the pH level of the soil.
In conclusion, to ensure proper and healthy growth of the Guinea Golden Aster, adequate light, warm temperatures, and the right soil conditions are crucial.
Cultivation Methods
Baccharoides guineensis (Benth.) H.Rob. var. procera (O.Hoffm.) Isawumi is best grown in a location that receives full sunlight. The plant requires well-draining soil and should be planted in an area that is protected from strong winds. This plant can be propagated by seeds or by dividing mature plants.
Watering Needs
Baccharoides guineensis (Benth.) H.Rob. var. procera (O.Hoffm.) Isawumi should be watered regularly during the growing season, ensuring that the soil remains consistently moist. However, it is important to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. During the dormant season, watering should be reduced to prevent the soil from becoming too damp.
Fertilization
Baccharoides guineensis (Benth.) H.Rob. var. procera (O.Hoffm.) Isawumi should be fertilized regularly during the growing season, using a balanced fertilizer. This plant prefers a slightly acidic soil, so the fertilizer should be chosen accordingly. While fertilizer is an important part of this plant's care, it is important not to over-fertilize as this can lead to decreased plant health.
Pruning
Pruning Baccharoides guineensis (Benth.) H.Rob. var. procera (O.Hoffm.) Isawumi should be done in the late winter or early spring before new growth starts. This plant should be pruned back to just above a strong bud or shoot to encourage new growth and strengthen the overall structure of the plant. Dead or diseased branches should also be removed at this time.
Propagation of Baccharoides guineensis (Benth.) H.Rob. var. procera (O.Hoffm.) Isawumi
Baccharoides guineensis (Benth.) H.Rob. var. procera (O.Hoffm.) Isawumi can be propagated through different methods depending on the grower's preference. These methods include:
Seed Propagation
The propagation of Baccharoides guineensis (Benth.) H.Rob. var. procera (O.Hoffm.) Isawumi through seed is relatively straightforward. Seeds can be collected from healthy and mature plants during the flowering season.
Clean the seeds before planting by removing dirt, debris, and excess pulp. Soak the seeds in warm water for 24 hours to increase their chances of germination.
Prepare the seedbed by loosening the soil and removing debris. Sow the seeds on top of the soil in rows or broadcast over the entire surface, then lightly cover with soil and gently water. Maintain consistent moisture levels to ensure proper germination and establishment.
Cuttings Propagation
Baccharoides guineensis (Benth.) H.Rob. var. procera (O.Hoffm.) Isawumi can also be propagated through cuttings from mature plants. Collect cuttings in the early morning or late afternoon during the plant's dormant season.
Cut a stem or branch that is 3-6 inches long, with at least two leaves and a node. Remove the lower leaves and insert the cutting into a rooting hormone, then plant it in a well-drained and fertile soil mix.
Water the cutting to settle the soil around it, then cover it with a plastic bag to create humidity. Keep the cutting in a warm, bright, and humid area, watering it as needed until it forms roots and shoots. Remove the plastic covering and gradually acclimate the cutting to direct sunlight.
Baccharoides guineensis (Benth.) H.Rob. var. procera (O.Hoffm.) Isawumi is a resilient and easy-to-grow plant that can be propagated through seeds or cuttings with a high success rate.
Disease and Pest Management for Baccharoides guineensis (Benth.) H.Rob. var. procera (O.Hoffm.) Isawumi
Baccharoides guineensis (Benth.) H.Rob. var. procera (O.Hoffm.) Isawumi is a plant species that is susceptible to a number of diseases and pests. Proper disease and pest management is essential for maintaining the health and productivity of the plant. Below, we describe some of the common diseases and pests that affect this plant and suggest ways to manage them.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are one of the most common pests that can affect Baccharoides guineensis. These small, soft-bodied insects feed on the sap of the plant, leading to stunted growth and the development of yellow leaves. Aphids can be controlled with the use of insecticidal soap sprays or by introducing their natural predators, such as ladybugs or lacewings.
Mites: Mites are another common pest that can affect Baccharoides guineensis. These tiny arachnids feed on the plant’s tissue, leading to the development of yellow or bronze patches on the leaves. Mites can be controlled with the use of miticides or by introducing predatory mites, such as Amblyseius fallacis or Phytoseiulus persimilis.
Whiteflies: Whiteflies are a type of small, flying insect that feed on the sap of the plant and can cause stunted growth and yellowing leaves. They can be controlled with the use of insecticidal soap sprays or by introducing their natural predators, such as parasitic wasps or ladybugs.
Diseases
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a common fungal disease that can affect Baccharoides guineensis. It causes dark, circular spots to develop on the leaves, which can lead to defoliation and reduced plant growth. Leaf spot can be prevented by ensuring that the plant is properly spaced and receives adequate air circulation. Infected leaves should be removed and destroyed to prevent the spread of the disease.
Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, leading to wilted leaves and stunted growth. It is caused by overwatering the plant or growing it in poorly-draining soil. To prevent root rot, ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil and watered sparingly.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes a white, powdery coating to develop on the leaves of the plant. It can lead to stunted growth and reduced plant health. Powdery mildew can be prevented by ensuring that the plant is grown in a well-ventilated area and is watered at the base to avoid wetting the foliage. Infected leaves should be removed and destroyed to prevent the spread of the disease.
