Overview
Berkheya fruticosa (L.) Ehrh. is a perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is commonly known as the "candelabra flower" due to its unique arrangement of flowers on tall stems that resemble a candelabra.
Origin
Berkheya fruticosa is native to South Africa, where it is found in a variety of habitats ranging from rocky slopes to grasslands and forest margins.
Common Names
The plant is commonly referred to as "Cape thistle" or "gompie" in South Africa, "candelabra flower" or "candelabra thistle" in Europe, and "purple berkheya" in the United States.
Appearance
The plant grows up to 1.5 meters tall and has a woody stem with multiple branches. Its leaves are narrow, gray-green or silvery-white in color, and covered in fine hairs. The flower heads are large, with purple to pinkish-purple petals, and measure up to 8 centimeters in diameter. The flowers grow in a candelabra-like arrangement on tall, upright stems.
Uses
The leaves and roots of Berkheya fruticosa have been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including stomach ulcers, sore throats, and skin conditions. The plant is also commonly used in ornamental gardening, particularly in rock gardens or as a border plant due to its striking appearance.
Light requirements
Berkheya fruticosa prefers full sun exposure for optimal growth and flowering. Although it can tolerate partial shade, it may result in reduced flowering and slower growth rate.
Temperature requirements
This plant is adapted to a Mediterranean climate, where it experiences warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. It thrives in a temperature range of 18°C to 25°C during the growing season and can tolerate occasional frost during the dormant period.
Soil requirements
Berkheya fruticosa thrives in well-draining soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, as long as they are well-drained. A soil rich in organic matter is beneficial to support optimal growth and flowering.
Cultivation Methods
Berkheya fruticosa is a resilient and drought-tolerant plant and is suitable for arid and semi-arid areas. It thrives in well-draining soil and prefers full sunlight exposure, making it an ideal candidate for growing in rock gardens, raised beds, or dry areas. The plant is adaptable and can grow in various soil types, including sandy, loamy, or rocky soils. The best time to plant Berkheya fruticosa is during the spring months when the temperatures increase, and the days are longer. The plant needs sufficient space for its roots to spread, so it is essential to plant them about 20 to 30 cm apart.Watering Needs
Berkheya fruticosa is an extremely drought-tolerant plant, and overwatering can lead to root rot or fungal infections. Water the plant only when the surface of the soil is dry to the touch. During the growing season, water deeply once a week and reduce watering during the winter months.Fertilization
Berkheya fruticosa does not require much fertilization to thrive. However, adding a balanced fertilizer during the growing season can improve the plant's overall health. Fertilize the plant with a slow-release granular fertilizer once or twice a year in early spring just before the growing season begins and again in late summer.Pruning
Pruning the plant will encourage bushier growth and produce a more compact plant. It is best to prune the plant during the dormant season, which is during late winter or early spring. Cut back any dead, damaged, or diseased branches from the previous growth season. You can also prune to shape the plant or to remove any unwanted branches. Deadheading the spent flowers can also help prolong blooming.Propagation of Berkheya fruticosa
Berkheya fruticosa (L.) Ehrh. commonly known as candelabra flower or candelabra plant, is a member of the Asteraceae family.
Propagation methods
Propagation of Berkheya fruticosa can be done through the following methods:
Seeds
Seeds can be sown directly into the soil or started indoors in trays. Seeds should be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist. Germination usually occurs within 2-3 weeks and seedlings can be transplanted outdoors after the last frost.
Cuttings
Cuttings can be taken from the plant in the spring or early summer. Choose a healthy stem and remove a 6-8 inch cutting. Strip off the leaves from the lower half of the stem and dip the cut end into rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix and keep it moist. Roots should start to develop within a few weeks, and the new plant can be transplanted outdoors once it has established.
Division
Berkheya fruticosa can also be propagated through division. Dig up the plant in the spring and gently separate the root ball into sections. Replant the sections in well-draining soil and keep them moist. Each section should develop into a new plant.
It is important to note that Berkheya fruticosa prefers a full sun exposure and well-draining soil. Regular watering is necessary, especially during the growing season. Propagating the plant through any of the above methods will yield new plants that are similar to the parent plant in terms of their growth habits and flowering characteristics.
Disease Management
Berkheya fruticosa (L.) Ehrh. can be susceptible to a variety of diseases that can limit its growth and productivity. Some of the common diseases include:
- Leaf Spot: This is a fungal disease that causes small, circular to irregular spots on the leaves. The spots may start as yellow then turn brown, gray, or black. To manage this disease, infected leaves should be removed and destroyed, and a fungicide applied before the disease spreads.
- Root Rot: This condition is caused by overwatering and fungal infections that cause the roots to rot, leading to wilting and death of the plant. To prevent root rot, ensure the plant is planted in well-drained soil, and don't overwater it.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white-powdery coating on the leaves. It can limit the plant's photosynthesis and eventually kill it. To manage powdery mildew, improve air circulation around the plant, avoid overhead watering, and apply a fungicide when necessary.
- Crown Rot: Crown rot disease is caused by several soilborne fungi that affect the crown of the plant. This can lead to decay and eventually death of the plant. To manage the disease, remove and destroy infected plant parts, and try not to plant susceptible plants in the affected soil.
Pest Management
Berkheya fruticosa (L.) Ehrh. can also be attacked by pests, which can cause significant damage to the plant. Some of the common pests include:
- Aphids: These small insects suck sap from the plant's leaves, leading to wilting and stunted growth. To manage aphids, use a strong blast of water to dislodge them from the plant or apply an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Scale insects: Scale insects are small, crawling pests that attack the plant's leaves and stems, causing yellowing and deformed growth. To manage scale insects, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to wipe them off the plant's surface, or use a horticultural oil spray.
- Spider mites: These pests are tiny, typically not visible to the naked eye, but they cause yellowing and speckling of the leaves. To manage spider mites, wash the plant's leaves with soapy water, use a miticide, or raise the humidity levels around the plant.
Regular monitoring of the plant for any signs of diseases or pests can help in early detection and management of the problem. It is also good to ensure that the plant is in optimal growing conditions, including the right amount of water and sunlight, to prevent stress which can make the plant more susceptible to diseases and pests.
