Overview
Blaeria breviflora Engl. is a plant species that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is native to Africa and commonly found in Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Malawi, and Mozambique. This plant is also known by its common names, which include “Ndundulu” and “Twelele”.
Description
Blaeria breviflora Engl. is a perennial herb that grows up to 40 cm tall. The stems are straight, woody, and greenish-yellow. The leaves are simple, alternate, and elliptical to ovate in shape. The flowers are arranged in loose heads with yellow, tubular florets, which are about 1 cm in diameter. The fruit is an achene that is 1-2 mm long.
Uses
Blaeria breviflora Engl. has some traditional medicinal uses. In Zimbabwe, a decoction of the leaves is said to be used for treating malaria and stomach troubles. The roots are also used to make an infusion for treating edema and coughs. This plant is also used in traditional African rituals and is considered to have spiritual powers.
Aside from its medicinal properties, the leaves of Blaeria breviflora Engl. are also used as fodder for livestock such as goats and cattle.
Appearance
Blaeria breviflora Engl. has greenish-yellow straight woody stems that can grow up to 40 cm tall. The leaves are simple, alternate, and elliptical to ovate in shape. The flowers are arranged in loose heads with yellow, tubular florets, which are about 1 cm in diameter. The fruit is an achene that is 1-2 mm long.
Typical Growth Conditions of Blaeria Breviflora Engl.
Blaeria breviflora Engl., also known as the Short-flowered blaeria, is an ornamental plant belonging to the family Asteraceae. It is a native to the African continent and is well suited to grow in sub-tropical environments all over the world. The plant can thrive in a wide range of growing conditions, and its growth and development are influenced by several factors.
Light Requirements
Light is one of the fundamental factors that influence the growth of Blaeria breviflora Engl. The plant requires moderate to high levels of light to grow and develop optimally. Exposure to full sunlight is ideal for the plant, as it promotes faster growth and increased flower production. However, the plant can also grow in partially shaded areas, although the growth rate tends to be slower in such conditions.
Temperature Requirements
Blaeria breviflora Engl. thrives in warm to hot temperatures. The plant prefers temperatures between 18-25°C, and is highly sensitive to cold temperatures below 10°C. In cold temperatures, the plant growth is significantly hindered, and the plant may even die if exposed to temperatures below 5°C for prolonged periods. High humidity levels, combined with warm temperatures, provides an ideal growing environment for the plant.
Soil Requirements
The plant is not picky when it comes to soil types, although it thrives in well-draining, loamy soil. Loamy soils have a good balance of drainage, water-holding capacity, and nutrient availability, which is ideal for the plant's growth and development. It is also essential that the soil where the plant is grown has a neutral pH of around 6.5-7.5. Soil with a pH above 7.5 and below 6.5 can hinder plant growth, and lead to nutrient deficiencies.
Other Requirements
Blaeria breviflora Engl. does not have any other specific requirements, other than regular watering and feeding. The plant requires moderate watering, with soil kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. Regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer also promotes the plant's growth and development. Additionally, proper air circulation is essential for controlling fungal growth and promoting healthy plant growth.
Cultivation Methods
Blaeria breviflora is a perennial herb that thrives well in partially shaded areas, preferably with moist, well-drained soils. Ideally, the plant should be grown in loamy soils, mixed with organic matter, such as compost. The recommended pH range for the soil is between 6.0 to 7.5.
Propagation of Blaeria breviflora is commonly done by seed or vegetative techniques. Sowing of seeds should be done in a greenhouse or indoors in spring. The seeds should be sown shallowly, not more than 1/16 inch deep, and covered with a thin layer of soil. Germination typically takes about 21 days, and the seedlings should be transplanted into pots when large enough.
Watering Needs
Blaeria breviflora requires frequent watering, especially during the growing season, to maintain constant moisture levels in the soil. However, overwatering should be avoided, as it can lead to waterlogging and root rot. Generally, the plant should be watered every two to three days, depending on the weather conditions. During hot and dry periods, it may require more frequent watering.
Fertilization
The application of a balanced fertilizer is crucial in promoting healthy growth and flowering of Blaeria breviflora. The recommended fertilizers include a slow-release granular fertilizer, applied in early spring and mid-summer, or liquid fertilizers such as fish emulsion and seaweed extract. Over-fertilizing should be avoided, as it can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
Pruning
Pruning of Blaeria breviflora is minimal, but deadheading spent flowers can promote continuous blooming throughout the growing season. Also, cutting back the plant by half, at the end of the flowering season, can help promote better growth and flowering the following year. Any dead or damaged foliage and stems should be removed throughout the growing season to maintain a healthy plant.
Propagation of Blaeria breviflora Engl.
Blaeria breviflora Engl., commonly known as the African daisy, can be propagated through various methods such as seeds, stem cuttings, and division.
Propagation by Seeds
The easiest and most common way of propagating Blaeria breviflora is by using seeds. Collect matured seeds from the parent plant and sow them in a well-draining potting mixture. Keep the soil moist, and place the pot in a bright and warm area. The seeds will germinate in two to three weeks.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Blaeria breviflora can also be propagated using stem cuttings. Take stem cuttings from the parent plant with a sharp and sterile knife. Remove the lower leaves from the cutting and dip the cut end in hormone rooting powder. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mixture and keep it moist. Place the pot in a bright, but not direct sunlight. New roots will emerge from the cutting in three to four weeks.
Propagation by Division
Blaeria breviflora can also propagate through division. Carefully dig up the parent plant and separate the rootball into sections with at least two to three shoots. Replant each division in well-draining soil with good drainage and keep them moist. Place the pots in a bright and warm area. The new plants will establish their own root system in three to four weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Blaeria breviflora Engl.
Blaeria breviflora Engl. is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae. It is commonly found in rocky areas and is native to the southwestern regions of Africa. While they are robust and can withstand harsh conditions, they are not impervious to diseases and pests that can hamper their growth and quality.
Common Diseases
One of the common diseases that can afflict Blaeria breviflora Engl. is powdery mildew, which manifests as white patches on the leaves. It is caused by a fungal pathogen and can be treated by removing affected plant parts and spraying the remaining foliage with a fungicide. Leaf spot is another fungal disease that can cause dark spots on the leaves. Spraying the plant with a copper fungicide or removing affected leaves can help prevent the spread of the disease. Root rot is caused by over-watering, making it necessary to adjust irrigation techniques.
Common Pests
Several pests can attack Blaeria breviflora Engl. including aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Aphids and whiteflies can be treated with insecticidal soap, while spider mites can be controlled by spraying the plant with neem oil.
Caterpillars are another pest that can damage the plant by eating the leaves. Handpicking caterpillars or using a natural pesticide like Bacillus thuringiensis can control them. Snails and slugs can also damage the leaves, and it is necessary to remove them by hand or use copper strips to deter them.
Prevention is always the best course of action when it comes to pest and disease management. Ensure that Blaeria breviflora Engl. is planted in well-draining soil, and water the plant only when necessary. Proper care and attention can help keep the plant healthy and reduce the risk of issues associated with pests and diseases.
