Becium aureoviride P.A.Duvign. - Description
Becium aureoviride, commonly known as the golden-green becium or green becium, is a herbaceous plant species from the Lamiaceae family. The plant is native to the southern regions of Africa, including Zimbabwe and South Africa.
General Appearance
The golden-green becium is a perennial plant that can grow up to 1 meter in height. It has an upright stem with branches that are covered by small, light-green leaves. The leaves are oval-shaped and typically measure around 2 cm in length. The plant produces small, spherical flowers that are pale purple in color and grow in clusters at the top of the stem.
Common Names
Besides being called golden-green becium or green becium, the plant is also known by other names like Baccharis micrantha and Ocimum micranthum.
Uses
The golden-green becium is widely used in traditional medicine to treat several ailments such as stomach disorders, coughs, colds, and influenza. The plant's leaves are used in poultices to treat wounds, insect bites, and skin irritations. Also, it is used as a natural insect repellent.
In conclusion, Becium aureoviride is a unique and valuable plant species that have several medicinal uses. Its striking appearance makes it a beautiful addition to any garden, and its usefulness has led to its cultivation around the world.
Growth Conditions for Becium aureoviride P.A.Duvign.
Light: Becium aureoviride requires full sunlight to partial shade for optimal growth. It can tolerate full shade but may not flower as profusely.
Temperature: This plant is native to the subtropical regions of Southern Africa and can tolerate a wide temperature range. It prefers daytime temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C and nighttime temperatures around 15°C.
Soil: Becium aureoviride grows well in well-drained soils with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. It can tolerate poor soils but requires adequate moisture during periods of drought to avoid wilting. Adding organic matter to the soil can help improve its fertility.
Water: Adequate watering is necessary for the proper growth of this plant. It requires regular moderate watering but can tolerate periods of drought. Overwatering can lead to root rot and should be avoided.
Fertilizer: Becium aureoviride does not require heavy fertilizer applications but can benefit from occasional feeding with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Fertilizers can be applied every 2 to 3 months.
Cultivation of Becium Aureoviride P.A.Duvign.
Becium Aureoviride P.A.Duvign is a hardy, drought-resistant plant that is ideal for cultivation in dry areas. It is recommended to grow this plant in well-drained soil with neutral to slightly acidic pH levels. The plant prefers full sun and can also endure partial shade.
Watering Needs of Becium Aureoviride P.A.Duvign.
This plant is highly tolerant of drought conditions; therefore, it requires minimal watering. Water the plant sparingly, only when the soil dries out completely. However, if grown in low rainfall areas, the plant may require occasional watering.
Fertilization of Becium Aureoviride P.A.Duvign.
Becium Aureoviride P.A.Duvign is a low maintenance plant that requires very minimal fertilization. It is recommended to avoid excessive fertilization as it can lead to leggy growth. Apply a well-balanced fertilizer once or twice a year, particularly during the growing season, to promote healthy growth.
Pruning of Becium Aureoviride P.A.Duvign.
This plant does not require regular pruning, but you can trim it from time to time to promote bushier growth. Cut back any leggy or spindly stems and remove any dead or damaged parts of the plant. Prune Becium Aureoviride P.A.Duvign at the end of the flowering season to promote new growth.
Propagation of Becium aureoviride P.A.Duvign.
Becium aureoviride P.A.Duvign., also known as Parsley-leaf becium, is a perennial plant commonly found in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The plant is known for its aromatic and medicinal properties and is valued for its ornamental use in landscaping. Propagation of Becium aureoviride can be done using various methods.
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Becium aureoviride can be done using seeds. The seeds are small and can be sown in seed trays filled with a well-draining growing medium. The plant prefers a sandy loam soil type. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and water them lightly. Ensure that the seed trays are kept moist, and the soil temperature is around 20-22°C. The seeds will germinate in about 2-3 weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted to individual pots when they have reached a height of 10-15cm.
Cutting Propagation
The propagation of Becium aureoviride can also be done using cuttings. This method involves taking a stem cutting of about 10-15cm long from a mature plant. Remove the lower leaves from the stem and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder. Plant the cutting in a pot filled with a well-draining growing medium and water it lightly. The cutting should be kept moist and placed in a partially shaded spot. After around 6-8 weeks, the cutting should have developed roots and can be transplanted to individual pots.
Division Propagation
Division propagation is another method of propagating Becium aureoviride. The method involves dividing the root ball of a mature plant into smaller sections. Each section should have a healthy shoot and a good set of roots. Plant each section in an individual pot filled with a well-draining growing medium and water them lightly. The plants should be kept in a partially shaded spot and should be regularly watered until they are established.
Propagation of Becium aureoviride is relatively easy and can be done using seeds, cuttings, or division. The plant is best propagated in spring or early summer, and the young plants should be kept in a partially shaded spot until they are well established.
Disease and Pest Management for Becium aureoviride P.A. Duvign.
Becium aureoviride P.A. Duvign. is a plant species that belongs to the Lamiaceae family and is known for its medicinal properties. As with any plant, there are a few diseases and pests that can affect the plant. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and how to manage them:
1. Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal infection that appears on the leaves of the plant. The leaves will have a white, powdery appearance and can eventually turn yellow and fall off. To manage powdery mildew, it is important to keep the plant dry and well-ventilated. Avoid overhead watering and remove any infected leaves immediately. Fungicides can also be used to control powdery mildew.
2. Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny insects that can be found on the undersides of the leaves. They can cause discoloration and webbing on the plant, which can affect its growth. To manage spider mites, it is important to regularly inspect the plant for any signs of infestation. Wash the plant with water and soap to remove any spider mites and their eggs. In severe cases, insecticides can be used to control spider mites.
3. Caterpillars
Caterpillars are the larval stage of moths and butterflies and can be found feeding on the leaves of the plant. They can cause extensive damage to the plant if left uncontrolled. To manage caterpillars, it is important to regularly inspect the plant for any signs of infestation. Handpicking the caterpillars or using biological control agents such as Bacillus thuringiensis can help manage caterpillar infestations.
4. Root Rot
Root rot is a common fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant. It can cause the roots to turn brown and mushy, which can affect the plant's ability to absorb nutrients and water. To manage root rot, it is important to provide proper drainage and avoid overwatering the plant. Fungicides can also be used to control root rot.
By following these tips for disease and pest management, you can help maintain the health and growth of your Becium aureoviride P.A. Duvign. plant.
