Origin and Common Names
Berkheya subulata Harv. var. wilmsiana Roessler is a plant species that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is commonly known as the Wilms' berkheya and is native to the southwestern region of Africa, particularly in Namibia and South Africa.
General Appearance
The Wilms' berkheya is a low, densely-tufted perennial plant that grows up to 10 cm in height. It has a distinctly recognizable basal rosette of leaves that are densely hairy and toothed. The stems are slender and are also densely covered with short hairs. The plant bears purple or pink, solitary flower heads that sit on long, slender stems that can grow up to 25 cm tall.
Uses
The Wilms' berkheya has been traditionally used by indigenous people in the region for a variety of medicinal purposes. The dried plant parts are used to make a tea that is believed to exhibit anti-inflammatory properties and treat a variety of ailments, including stomach pains and respiratory infections. The plant is also grown as an ornamental in rock gardens or lightly shaded areas, where its showy flowers and unique appearance add an aesthetic appeal to the landscape.
Light Requirements
Berkheya subulata Harv. var. wilmsiana Roessler grows best when exposed to full sunlight. It is a highly adaptable plant, meaning it can also tolerate partial shade, but it thrives in sunny locations. In general, the brighter the light, the better the plant growth and flower production.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from hot summers to colder winters, but it prefers warm temperatures between 20°C to 30°C. It can also tolerate temperatures as low as 5°C, but the growth will slow down, and the plant might go into a dormant phase. Extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, can damage the plant or kill it entirely.
Soil Requirements
Berkheya subulata Harv. var. wilmsiana Roessler grows best in well-draining, sandy soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal soil pH for the plant ranges from acidic to slightly alkaline (between 5.5 to 7.5). Ensure the soil is not compacted as this can restrict root growth and cause the plant to struggle. Avoid heavy clay soils that retain water, as they can cause waterlogging and root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Berkheya subulata Harv. var. wilmsiana Roessler is relatively easy to grow and maintain in a garden. This plant thrives in full sun positions; therefore, it's vital to plant it where it receives direct sunlight for 6-8 hours daily. It requires well-drained soils that are fertile, rich in organic matter, and with a pH between 6 and 7.5. You can improve the soil's texture and fertility by adding compost or organic matter before planting.
The ideal time to plant this plant is at the beginning of the growing season. It's best to plant seedlings that measure a minimum of 3 inches in height, with at least two sets of mature leaves for rapid establishment. Water your newly planted seedlings until they establish themselves.
Watering Needs
Berkheya subulata Harv. var. wilmsiana Roessler requires moderate watering, but it can tolerate dry periods, especially when it's well-established. Water your plants deeply once per week or when the top 3-4 inches of soil feel dry. Ensure that the soil drains well as they do not like wet conditions. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which is dangerous for your plants.
Fertilization
Proper fertilization will enhance the growth and blooming of Berkheya subulata Harv. var. wilmsiana Roessler. Apply a well-balanced fertilizer once every four weeks during the growing season. Use a low nitrogen fertilizer to prevent excessive leaf growth at the expense of flower blooms.
You can also use a slow-release granular fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season and water to encourage even distribution. Alternatively, top-dress the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to add a slow-release nitrogen source to the soil.
Pruning
Berkheya subulata Harv. var. wilmsiana Roessler requires minimal pruning. Deadheading spent flowers will encourage continuous blooms throughout the growing season. At the end of the growing season, you can cut back the plant's dead growth to prepare for the next growing season. If your plant is looking unruly, trim it back to maintain its shape and reduce its height by a third.
Propagation of Berkheya subulata Harv. var. wilmsiana Roessler
Berkheya subulata Harv. var. wilmsiana Roessler, commonly known as the Silver Burr, is a sturdy plant that grows up to 50cm tall. The plant is native to the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, and it belongs to the family of Asteraceae. This plant grows in rocky environments and has grey-green leaves covered with woolly hairs. The flowers are bright yellow and bloom during late summer.
Berkheya subulata Harv. var. wilmsiana Roessler can be propagated through various methods, the most common being:
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Berkheya subulata Harv. var. wilmsiana Roessler can be sowed during spring in warm soils. Before planting, the soil must be made fertile by adding compost and other organic matter. The seeds must be sown in well-draining soil and must be covered with a thin layer of peat. Water the seeds regularly to keep the soil moist. In about 10-14 days, the seeds will germinate, and new plants will emerge.
Division
The Silver Burr can also be propagated through division. Dig up the plant and separate the roots and rhizomes into several sections. Ensure that each section has a healthy root system and at least one shoot. Replant these sections into well-draining soil, and water thoroughly.
Cuttings
Berkheya subulata Harv. var. wilmsiana Roessler can be propagated using stem cuttings too. Take cuttings about 10-15cm long from young and tender shoots. Place the cutting into well-draining soil, and water regularly. The cuttings will start to root in around 2 to 4 weeks.
Overall, Berkheya subulata Harv. var. wilmsiana Roessler can be propagated through seed, division, or cuttings. These methods are quite reliable, and the resulting plants will be very similar to the parent plant.
Disease and Pest Management for Berkheya subulata Harv. var. wilmsiana Roessler Plant
Berkheya subulata Harv. var. wilmsiana Roessler is a beautiful plant that requires proper care and attention for its healthy growth. Here are some common diseases and pests that may affect this plant along with their management suggestions:
Diseases
1. Powdery mildew: This disease is characterized by the presence of a white powdery substance on the leaves and stems of the plant. It is caused by fungal infection and results in stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. To manage this disease, you can spray the plant with a fungicide. Ensure that the plant is not overcrowded and there is proper air circulation and sunlight.
2. Leaf spot: Leaf spot is another fungal disease that appears as small black or brown spots on the leaves of the plant. It can be managed by avoiding overhead watering and ensuring that the plant is not overcrowded. You can also prune the infected leaves and apply a fungicide to the plant.
3. Rust: Rust appears as orange spots on the leaves of the plant and is caused by fungi. To manage this disease, you can remove the infected leaves and apply a fungicide to the plant. Ensure that the plant is not overcrowded and there is proper air circulation.
Pests
1. Aphids: Aphids are small insects that suck sap from the leaves of plants and can cause deformities and stunted growth. You can manage these pests by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Avoid over-fertilizing the plant as this may attract more aphids.
2. Spider mites: These pests are too small to be seen with the naked eye and cause yellowing and shedding of leaves. You can manage spider mites by using an insecticidal soap or neem oil or by simply rinsing the plant with high-pressure water. Ensure that the plant is not stressed by over-fertilization or lack of moisture.
3. Whiteflies: Whiteflies are small white insects that feed on the sap of the plant and cause yellowing of leaves and stunted growth. You can manage these pests by introducing natural predators such as ladybugs or by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
By following these management techniques, you can keep your Berkheya subulata Harv. var. wilmsiana Roessler healthy and beautiful.
