Overview of Becium Ternatum G.Taylor
Becium ternatum G.Taylor is a perennial plant that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. The plant is also commonly known as three-toothed barbeton daisy or three-leaved pig's ear.
Origin and Distribution of Becium Ternatum G.Taylor
Becium ternatum G.Taylor is native to South Africa and can be found in various regions of the country, including the Cape provinces, Eastern Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal. The plant thrives in a range of habitats, including coastal areas, grasslands, and semi-arid lands.
Appearance of Becium Ternatum G.Taylor
The plant typically grows up to 45 cm tall and 30 cm wide. Becium ternatum G.Taylor has narrow, elongated leaves that are usually 1.5–6 cm long and 0.5–2 cm wide. The plant produces small, tubular lavender to blue-purple flowers that bloom in summer and fall.
Traditional Uses of Becium Ternatum G.Taylor
The Zulu people of South Africa have traditionally used Becium ternatum G.Taylor to treat a variety of ailments, including headaches, coughs, and indigestion. Additionally, the plant is used externally to treat skin diseases and wounds. The leaves of the plant are rich in essential oils and have a pleasant fragrance, making it a popular choice for use in traditional medicines and aromatherapy.
Cultivation and Uses in Landscaping
Becium ternatum G.Taylor is a hardy plant that is well-suited for xeriscaping and low-water gardening. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Becium ternatum G.Taylor is an attractive plant that can be used as a ground cover or as a border plant in landscaping. It can also be used in rock gardens or containers.
Light requirements
Becium ternatum G.Taylor thrives in direct sunlight. This plant requires a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight per day. Lack of sufficient sunlight may cause the plant's leaves to wither and droop.
Temperature requirements
The optimal temperature range for Becium ternatum G.Taylor is between 18°C and 28°C. However, this plant can grow in a range of temperatures, including cold and hot temperatures, with varying growth rates.
Soil requirements
Becium ternatum G.Taylor prefers well-draining soils with adequate water retention. This plant thrives in sandy, loamy, or clayey soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH ranging between 6.5 and 7.5. The soil should also be rich in organic matter and nutrients.
Cultivation of Becium ternatum G.Taylor
Becium ternatum G.Taylor, also known as three-leafed turpentine bush, is a hardy and drought-resistant plant that grows well in warm subtropical to tropical regions. It requires well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. The plant prefers to be in full sun, but it can withstand partial shade.
Watering Needs
The Becium ternatum G.Taylor plant is very drought-resistant and can manage with less water. It should be watered once per week in regular soil conditions, but in dry periods, it can be watered once every two weeks. Overwatering can cause root rot, so it is essential to ensure the plants' soil has proper drainage.
Fertilization
Becium ternatum G.Taylor plants are not heavy feeders and generally do not require fertilization. However, applying fertilizer can promote vigorous growth and green foliage. A low-nitrogen fertilizer that contains phosphorus and potassium is suitable for this plant. Fertilize the plants once annually, preferably during the plant's growing season.
Pruning
Pruning Becium ternatum G.Taylor plants is minimal and should be done conservatively. Pruning is best done during Spring, which promotes fresh growth. Dead or diseased branches and overgrowth should be removed to maintain the desired shape. Light pruning should be done after flowering to keep a compact habit.
Propagation of Becium ternatum G.Taylor
Becium ternatum G.Taylor, commonly known as three-leafed becium, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to southern Africa. It is renowned for its medicinal value and is also used as an ornamental plant. Propagation of this plant can be done through several methods which include:
Seed propagation
The most common method of propagating Becium ternatum G.Taylor is through seeds. The seeds of this plant can be collected at the end of the growing season when the flowers have died and dried. The collected seeds should be stored in a dry and cool place until ready for planting. The seeds should be sown in a well-prepared seedbed in spring. A light covering of soil is all that is needed since the seeds require light to germinate. Keep the soil moist until germination, which should take approximately 7-10 days.
Cutting propagation
Cuttings can also be used to propagate Becium ternatum G.Taylor. Cuttings should be taken in the early summer, when the plant is in full growth. Choose non-flowering branches and take a 10cm long cutting just below a node. Remove all the leaves except for the top two or three leaves. Dip the base of the cutting in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and the cutting warm, and roots should form in approximately 4-6 weeks.
Division propagation
Becium ternatum G.Taylor can also be propagated through division. Mature plants can be dug up, and the root system divided into sections using a sharp, sterile knife. Each section should have several stems and a well-developed root system. The divided sections should be replanted in a well-draining potting mix and kept moist until established.
With proper care, Becium ternatum G.Taylor can be propagated successfully through any of the above methods. However, seed propagation is the easiest and most reliable method of propagation.
Disease and pest management for Becium ternatum G.Taylor
Becium ternatum G.Taylor, also known as three-leaved wealth, is a resilient plant and is not usually susceptible to pests and diseases. However, it may experience some problems. Here are some of the most common pests and diseases that might affect this plant and ways to manage them:
Pests
1. Spider mites: These are tiny sap-sucking pests that are barely visible to the naked eye. They can cause yellowing and wilting of leaves. You can control spider mites by washing them off the plant with a strong jet of water or spraying them with insecticidal soap. Prevention is key, and you can keep spider mites at bay by keeping the plant well-ventilated and regularly spraying it with water.
2. Mealybugs: These fluffy white pests tend to cling together on the stem tips of the plant, causing a sticky residue and stunted growth. You can control mealybugs by washing them off the plant with water or using an insecticidal spray. It is important to keep the plant well-watered and misted, as mealybugs thrive in dry environments.
Diseases
1. Root and stem rot: This is caused by fungi that thrive in moist soil. Root rot can cause the plant to wilt and eventually die. To control root and stem rot, try to avoid overwatering the plant and ensure the soil has good drainage. You should also remove any infected plant parts and treat the remaining plant with a fungicide.
2. Powdery mildew: This is a fungal disease that appears as white powder on the leaves. It is caused by poor air circulation and high humidity. To control powdery mildew, remove any infected leaves and improve the air circulation around the plant. You can use a copper fungicide if the problem persists.
Becium ternatum G.Taylor is a low-maintenance plant with a good resistance to pests and diseases. However, it is important to keep an eye out for these common problems and take proactive measures to prevent and control them.
