Overview
Becium pumilum (Gürke) Chiov. ex Lanza is a small flowering plant that belongs to the family Lamiaceae. It is commonly known as dwarf mountain sage or small-leaved sage and is native to southern Africa.
Appearance
Becium pumilum is a small, woody, and evergreen shrub that typically grows up to 30 centimeters tall. The stems are slender, branching, and covered in small, soft hairs. The leaves are tiny and opposite, with a length of around 8 millimeters and a width of 3 millimeters. They have an oval shape and a slightly toothed margin, appearing almost gray-green in color.
The plant produces small, tubular flowers that are a pale mauve or lilac color. The flowers are arranged in whorls on the stem, forming dense clusters, and have a gentle aroma.
Uses
Becium pumilum has several traditional medicinal uses such as a remedy for colds, coughs, and chest ailments. It is also said to have antibacterial properties and can be used to treat wounds and skin irritations. The leaves and stems of the plant are also used as a flavoring agent and condiment to some local dishes in southern Africa.
Beyond its medicinal and culinary uses, Becium pumilum is prized as an ornamental plant, particularly for its attractive foliage and delicate flowers. It is well suited to rock gardens and can be grown in containers or as a groundcover in sunny locations.
Light Requirements
Becium pumilum prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate shade but its growth and flowering may be affected by reduced exposure to sunlight. In partial shade, it may take on a more sprawling habit.
Temperature Requirements
Becium pumilum thrives in warm temperatures, particularly in the range of 20-30 °C. It can tolerate some fluctuations in temperature, but it may not perform well in extreme heat or cold. In areas with frost, it may die back to the ground in winter and resprout in spring.
Soil Requirements
Becium pumilum grows well in well-draining soils that are rich in nutrients. It prefers sandy or loamy soils with a pH range of 6.0-8.0. This plant can be sensitive to waterlogging, so it is important to ensure proper drainage. It is also tolerant of drought and can survive in areas with low rainfall.
Cultivation methods for Becium pumilum
Becium pumilum is a herbaceous perennial plant that is native to southern Africa. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate drought and can grow in a range of soils. It is a popular plant for rock gardens, herb gardens, and as a border plant.
The plant prefers a sunny position, but it can also tolerate some shade. It can grow up to 40 cm in height and can spread up to 60 cm. The plant can be propagated by seed or by division.
Watering needs for Becium pumilum
Becium pumilum is a drought-tolerant plant, but it still requires regular watering. It is important to ensure that the soil is well-draining and not waterlogged. The plant should be watered deeply at least once a week, and more often during hot weather.
It is important to avoid overwatering the plant, as this can lead to root rot and other diseases. The top layer of soil should be allowed to dry out between watering.
Fertilization for Becium pumilum
Becium pumilum does not require a lot of fertilization. However, a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help to promote growth and flowering. It is important to avoid over-fertilizing the plant, as this can lead to weak growth and decreased flowering.
The plant can benefit from the addition of organic matter to the soil, such as compost or well-rotted manure. This can help to improve the soil structure and increase nutrient availability.
Pruning for Becium pumilum
Becium pumilum does not require a lot of pruning. However, if the plant becomes woody or overgrown, it can be pruned back in the early spring to promote new growth. Deadheading the flowers can also help to encourage more blooms.
It is important to avoid cutting back more than one-third of the plant at a time, as this can stress the plant and reduce its overall health.
Propagation of Becium pumilum (Gürke) Chiov. ex Lanza
Becium pumilum (Gürke) Chiov. ex Lanza, commonly known as dwarf white basil, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family. The plant is native to South Africa, where it grows abundantly in rocky areas, grasslands, and savannas. Propagation of Becium pumilum can be achieved through different methods, including:
Seed propagation
Propagating Becium pumilum through seeds is one of the most common methods. The plant produces small seeds that can be harvested from mature plants. Seeds should be sown in well-draining soil in early spring when the temperature reaches 18-21°C. The soil should be kept moist until germination, which usually occurs within two weeks. Once the seedlings are large enough, they can be transplanted to their final location in the garden or larger pots.
Division propagation
Becium pumilum can also be propagated through division, which involves separating mature plants into smaller sections. This method is preferable for larger plants that have outgrown their container or those that need rejuvenation. Division should be done in early spring before new growth appears, and the plants should be watered a day before. The plant should then be taken out of the soil, and the roots should be separated into smaller sections. Each section should have at least one stem and a good root system. The divided plants should then be planted in a well-draining soil mixture, and watered regularly until new growth appears.
Cuttings propagation
Cuttings propagation is another method that can be used to propagate Becium pumilum. Cuttings should be taken during early summer, when the plant is actively growing, and stems have hardened. The cuttings should be 10-15 cm long and should be taken from the tips of the plant. The leaves on the lower half of the cutting should be removed. The cuttings should be placed in rooting hormone, then planted in a well-draining soil mixture. The cuttings should be watered and placed in a shaded area until new growth appears, after which they can be gradually introduced to full sun.
Disease and Pest Management for Becium pumilum Plant
Becium pumilum (Gürke) Chiov. ex Lanza is a valuable plant, which is used for medicinal and culinary purposes. Although this plant is relatively easy to grow, it is still prone to various pests and diseases. To keep your Becium pumilum healthy, here are some tips for managing common diseases and pests:
Common Diseases
Verticillium Wilt: This disease is caused by the fungus Verticillium dahliae, which lives in the soil and enters the plant through the roots. It causes wilting, yellowing, and browning of the leaves, and ultimately leads to the death of the plant. To manage this disease, remove infected plants, improve soil drainage, and avoid planting Becium pumilum in the same location for at least three years.
Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves and stems of the plant. To control powdery mildew, keep the plant's foliage dry, prune infected areas, and spray fungicides.
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is caused by the fungus Cercospora spp. and appears as dark brown spots on the leaves of the plant. To control this disease, remove infected leaves, improve air circulation around the plant, and apply fungicides.
Common Pests
Spider Mites: These tiny pests suck the sap out of the plant, causing yellowing and curling of the leaves. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Aphids: Aphids are small insects that suck the sap out of the plant and cause stunted growth. To control aphids, spray the plant with a strong jet of water or apply insecticidal soap.
Whiteflies: These pests suck the sap out of the plant and cause yellowing and curling of the leaves. To control whiteflies, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
By implementing these management techniques, you can keep your Becium pumilum plant healthy and happy.
