Origin and Common Names
Becium grandiflorum (Lam.) Pic.Serm. subsp. densiflorum A.J.Paton is a plant species of the family Lamiaceae. It is commonly known as the Blue Pagoda or Blue Aster. It is native to the savannas and woodlands of southern Africa, including Angola, Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa.
Uses
The Blue Pagoda has been used by indigenous people for medicinal purposes. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties and has been used as a remedy for toothache, headache, and chest complaints. The leaves of the plant are also used as a tea to relieve coughs and chest pains.
The plant is also used as a culinary herb in some parts of Africa, where it is added to stews and soups to add flavor. The essential oil derived from the plant has a strong, sweet aroma and is used in perfumes and soaps.
General Appearance
The Blue Pagoda is an evergreen shrub that can grow up to 2 meters tall. It has woody stems and branches that are covered with small, pointed leaves that are about 2 cm long. The leaves are gray-green in color and have a slightly hairy texture.
The plant produces small, blue-purple flowers that are arranged in dense clusters at the end of the branches. The flowers bloom from late summer to early autumn and are highly prized for their ornamental value.
The Blue Pagoda is a hardy plant that requires little care and is well-suited to a variety of growing conditions. It is commonly used in landscaping and is a popular choice for adding color and texture to gardens and outdoor spaces.
Growth Conditions for Becium grandiflorum (Lam.) Pic.Serm. subsp. densiflorum A.J.Paton
Light: Becium grandiflorum subsp. densiflorum grows well in full sunlight. It is commonly found in areas with high light intensity where it is able to soak up as much sunshine as possible to become fully grown.
Temperature: The plant is adapted to tropical and subtropical regions and can survive in a wide range of temperature conditions. It can tolerate cold temperatures, but it's ideal growth temperature range is between 18-28°C.
Soil: Becium grandiflorum subsp. densiflorum grows best in well-drained soils. It thrives in sandy to clay soils that are fertile and rich in organic matter. It also prefers soils with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. However, it can tolerate a wide variety of soil types, including rocky and shallow soils.
Water: The plant requires moderate watering. It should be watered only when the soil is dry to touch, and the amount of water should be sufficient to reach the plant's root zone. Over-watering should be avoided as it can cause root rot and other fungal diseases.
Fertilizer: Fertilizers should be added to the soil every six months to provide essential nutrients for growth. Becium grandiflorum subsp. densiflorum responds well to a balanced N-P-K (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) formula with trace elements, such as magnesium, calcium, and sulfur.
Cultivation
The Becium grandiflorum subsp. densiflorum requires well-draining soil and a sunny location for optimal growth. It can tolerate a range of soil types but prefers slightly alkaline soil. The best time to transplant or plant this species is in spring or autumn. The plant is native to regions with mild winter temperatures but can still grow in regions with harsher winter temperatures.
Watering Needs
The Becium grandiflorum subsp. densiflorum requires regular watering during the growing season, especially during extended periods of drought. It is essential to prevent overwatering and keep the soil watered consistently, to avoid long periods of being dry, as the plant can suffer from root rot.
Fertilization
The Becium grandiflorum subsp. densiflorum does not require high levels of fertilization. However, during the growing season, a slow-release fertilizer applied once or twice can help sustain proper nutrition levels. It is advisable to avoid adding an excess of nitrogen, since too much can lead to the plant's lush growth but can weaken the plant and make it more vulnerable to pests and diseases.
Pruning
During the growing season, trimming the plant's old and withered flowers is sufficient. In the plant's youth, pruning can help establish the plant's structure and remove any damaged or diseased leaves. In general, pruning of Becium grandiflorum subsp. densiflorum should be avoided during the winter, as this can harm the plant's new growth.
Propagation of Becium grandiflorum (Lam.) Pic.Serm. subsp. densiflorum A.J.Paton
Becium grandiflorum (Lam.) Pic.Serm. subsp. densiflorum A.J.Paton, commonly known as the Large-flowered becium, can be propagated through various methods. It is a perennial shrub that belongs to the family Lamiaceae and is native to South Africa. The plant is known for its medicinal properties, and its leaves, flowers, and stem are used to treat various ailments.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation of Becium grandiflorum (Lam.) Pic.Serm. subsp. densiflorum A.J.Paton by seeds is an easy, cost-effective, and reliable method. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining potting mix and covered lightly with soil. The pot should be kept in a warm, humid place, and the soil should be kept moist. The seeds should germinate within two to four weeks.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is another popular method for propagating Becium grandiflorum (Lam.) Pic.Serm. subsp. densiflorum A.J.Paton. Stem cuttings of around 10-15 cm in length can be taken during the growing season. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be dipped in a rooting hormone powder. The cuttings should be planted in a well-draining potting mix and placed in a warm, humid location. The cuttings should root in around four to six weeks, and should be transplanted to a larger container once their roots are well-developed.
Propagation by Division
Becium grandiflorum (Lam.) Pic.Serm. subsp. densiflorum A.J.Paton can also be propagated by division. This method involves separating the plant into two or more sections, each with its own roots and shoots. This should be done in the spring, just before the growing season begins. The plant should be carefully lifted from the soil, and the roots and shoots should be separated gently using a sharp knife or a garden fork. Each section should be transplanted into well-draining soil, and watered regularly to ensure good establishment.
Disease Management
Becium grandiflorum (Lam.) Pic.Serm. subsp. densiflorum A.J.Paton is generally resistant to diseases. However, in rare cases, it may be affected by fungal infections such as powdery mildew and rust diseases.
Powdery mildew first appears as white powdery spots on the leaves. It can be managed by removing affected leaves, improving air circulation and avoiding overhead watering. In severe cases, application of sulfur or fungicides may be necessary.
Rust diseases are characterized by rusty-brown spots on leaves and stems. It can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering, removing affected plant parts, and applying fungicides.
Pest Management
Becium grandiflorum (Lam.) Pic.Serm. subsp. densiflorum A.J.Paton may be attacked by common garden pests such as aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites.
Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can be managed by spraying the plants with a strong jet of water. Alternatively, insecticidal soap or neem oil can be used.
Mealybugs are small white insects covered with a white waxy substance that can be found on the leaves and stems. They can be removed manually or with alcohol-soaked cotton swabs. In severe cases, insecticides may be necessary.
Spider mites are tiny spider-like insects that can be found on the undersides of the leaves. They can be managed by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water or by applying insecticidal soap or neem oil.
