Origin of Berkheya bipinnatifida (Harv.) Roessler subsp. bipinnatifida
Berkheya bipinnatifida (Harv.) Roessler subsp. bipinnatifida is a species of perennial plant belonging to the family Asteraceae. The plant is native to South Africa and can be found growing in the Western Cape and Eastern Cape provinces.Common Names of Berkheya bipinnatifida (Harv.) Roessler subsp. bipinnatifida
Berkheya bipinnatifida (Harv.) Roessler subsp. bipinnatifida is commonly known as the Golden Crown. The plant has also been referred to as the Berkheya, Silver Madonna and Berkheya ciliaris.Uses of Berkheya bipinnatifida (Harv.) Roessler subsp. bipinnatifida
Berkheya bipinnatifida (Harv.) Roessler subsp. bipinnatifida is popularly grown as an ornamental plant. The plant produces large golden yellow flowers that bloom in summer and autumn, making it an attractive addition to gardens. The plant also has traditional medicinal uses in South Africa, where it is used to treat skin ailments, headaches, and to improve digestion.General Appearance of Berkheya bipinnatifida (Harv.) Roessler subsp. bipinnatifida
Berkheya bipinnatifida (Harv.) Roessler subsp. bipinnatifida is a perennial plant that grows up to 70 centimeters in height. The plant has deeply lobed leaves that grow up to 12 centimeters in length and 5 centimeters in width. The foliage of the plant has a soft furry texture. The plant produces large, golden yellow, daisy-like flowers that can be up to 10 centimeters in diameter. The flowers are borne on stiff stems that arise from the base of the plant. The plant blooms in summer and autumn, and the flowers are followed by seedheads that are covered in fine hairs.Light Requirements
Berkheya bipinnatifida (Harv.) Roessler subsp. bipinnatifida thrives in full sun. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight exposure each day. Therefore, it is best grown in areas that receive full sunlight all day long.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows best in warm temperatures. The ideal temperature range for Berkheya bipinnatifida (Harv.) Roessler subsp. bipinnatifida is between 18 and 25 degrees Celsius. If grown in temperatures below its ideal range, the plant may suffer stunted growth, while extremely high temperatures can cause the plant to dry up and wilt.
Soil Requirements
Berkheya bipinnatifida (Harv.) Roessler subsp. bipinnatifida does well in well-draining soils with high organic content. The soil pH range should be between 5.5 and 7.5. It grows well in sandy and loamy soils and should be watered moderately. The plant needs good drainage to avoid water-logging the roots, which can cause the root to rot. Adding organic matter to the soil helps to increase soil fertility and improve water retention for the plant.
Cultivation
Berkheya bipinnatifida is a plant that prefers well-drained soil and is resistant to drought. It thrives in full sun and is not suitable for cultivation in areas with high humidity.
For successful cultivation, sow the seeds in early spring in light sandy soil and place under warm and dry conditions to encourage germination. It can also be propagated by taking cuttings in summer and root them in a rooting medium.
Watering Needs
Berkheya bipinnatifida is a drought-tolerant plant and should not be overwatered as it can lead to root rot. Water only when the soil is dry, and avoid wetting the foliage to prevent fungal growth. In times of severe drought, water sparingly to keep the plant alive.
Fertilization
Berkheya bipinnatifida does not require a lot of fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer during the growing season at half strength once a month to promote healthy growth. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months as the plant is dormant during this time.
Pruning
Berkheya bipinnatifida does not require regular pruning as the plant grows in a low and compact manner. However, it is advisable to remove dead leaves and flowers to promote new growth and maintain its overall appearance. Cut off the flowers as soon as they die to prevent self-seeding and to promote continuous blooming.
Propagation of Berkheya bipinnatifida subsp. bipinnatifida
Berkheya bipinnatifida subsp. bipinnatifida can be propagated through different methods such as seed, cutting, and division.
Seed Propagation
The easiest method of propagation for Berkheya bipinnatifida subsp. bipinnatifida is through seeds. Collect seed in autumn from mature plants and sow the seeds immediately. Sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix in a container with at least 2 inches depth. Cover the seeds lightly with soil and keep the soil moist. The seeds will germinate in 2 to 3 weeks.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation is possible but requires a bit more effort than seed propagation. The best time to take cuttings is in late summer, and the cuttings should be 2-3 inches in length. Remove all the leaves except for the top two to three sets and dip the cuttings in rooting hormone powder before planting them in a rooting medium. Keep the medium moist, and roots will start to appear in about a month. Once the roots are 2 inches long, transplant the cutting to a well-draining soil mix.
Division Propagation
Division propagation involves separating a mature clump into two or more portions. The best time for division is during spring or early autumn. Carefully dig up the plant and divide it into sections with a sharp knife. Make sure that each section has some roots and leaves. Then plant each portion in a new location in well-draining soil mix and water thoroughly.
Overall, Berkheya bipinnatifida subsp. bipinnatifida is easy to propagate and can provide a beautiful addition to any garden.
Disease Management
Plants of Berkheya bipinnatifida (Harv.) Roessler subsp. bipinnatifida are susceptible to fungal and bacterial diseases if they are not properly cared for. Common diseases that can attack the plant include:
- Leaf Spot: This disease can be caused by various fungal pathogens that can cause dark or brownish spots on the plant's leaves.
- Root Rot: This disease can be caused by Rhizoctonia, Pythium, Fusarium, or Phytophthora spp. and can cause wilting, yellowing, and death of the plant.
- Gray Mold: This disease is caused by Botrytis cinerea and can cause the death of flowers, leaves, and stems. Affected parts of the plant will become covered in gray mold.
To prevent the spread of diseases, it is recommended to remove affected leaves or plants and keep the area around the infected plants clean. Moreover, a regular application of fungicides and bactericides can help control these diseases.
Pest Management
Berkheya bipinnatifida (Harv.) Roessler subsp. bipinnatifida can also be affected by some pests that could damage the plant's growth and overall health. Common pests that might affect the plant include:
- Aphids: These small soft-bodied insects can be found on the underside of leaves and can cause the leaves to wilt and curl. Aphids can also cause a sticky substance to be produced on the plant known as honeydew.
- Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small whitish insects that can be found on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. They produce a cotton-like substance that can cover the plant, and their feeding can cause yellowing and distortion of the leaves.
- Caterpillars: Some species of caterpillars can feed on the leaves of Berkheya bipinnatifida (Harv.) Roessler subsp. bipinnatifida and cause defoliation.
Good cultural practices and the use of insecticides can help control these pests. Regularly checking the plant for these pests is vital, and if they are present, appropriate measures should be taken immediately to prevent the spread.
