Overview
Blumea crispata (Vahl) Merxm. var. appendiculata (Robyns) Lisowski is a plant species belonging to the family Asteraceae. It is commonly known as the "Bridal Veil Plant."
Origin
Blumea crispata var. appendiculata is native to tropical and subtropical Africa, and specifically found in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ghana, Angola, Tanzania, Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda.
Appearance
The plant grows to a height of 1 to 2 meters. Its leaves are light green, highly branched, and narrowly oblong. The flowers appear in terminal clusters on the top of the stems, with each cluster being 10-20 cm in diameter. The flowers are small, tubular, and yellow in color, with the outermost ones being larger than the inner ones. The fruits of the plant are small, dry, and brown achenes.
Uses
The leaves and roots of Blumea crispata var. appendiculata are used in traditional medicine. The leaves are useful in treating coughs, fever, and menstrual disorders. The roots are used in treating stomach aches and diarrhoea. The plant also has several phytochemicals with pharmacological effects, such as antibacterial and antifungal properties. The plant's flowers make excellent cut flowers for decorative purposes.
Light Requirements
Blumea crispata (Vahl) Merxm. var. appendiculata (Robyns) Lisowski typically prefers full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It is recommended to place the plant in an area where it receives at least six hours of sunlight each day.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species is native to tropical and subtropical regions, and therefore prefers warm temperatures between 20-30 degrees Celsius for optimal growth. Growth may slow down or even stop in colder temperatures below 15 degrees Celsius.
Soil Requirements
Blumea crispata (Vahl) Merxm. var. appendiculata (Robyns) Lisowski prefers well-draining soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5. It is important to maintain consistently moist soil, but avoid overwatering. Adding organic matter to the soil may improve growth and help with nutrient absorption.
Cultivation methods
Blumea crispata (Vahl) Merxm. var. appendiculata (Robyns) Lisowski is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. It can be grown in pots or in the ground and can tolerate a range of soil types.
When planting in the ground, make sure to select a location that receives full sunlight and has well-draining soil. Dig a hole that is twice the size of the plant's root ball and add compost to the soil to improve its fertility.
If growing in a pot, choose a container that is at least 12 inches deep and wide. Ensure that the pot has drainage holes and use a high-quality potting mix with added perlite or vermiculite for better drainage.
Watering needs
Blumea crispata (Vahl) Merxm. var. appendiculata (Robyns) Lisowski thrives in moist soil but can be tolerant of drought. Water the plant when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. Do not overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot.
During the hot summer months, the plant may require more frequent watering. To avoid wetting the foliage, water at the base of the plant using a watering can or hose.
Fertilization
Provide the plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Alternatively, you can use a slow-release fertilizer during the planting period.
Avoid fertilizing the plant during the winter as it goes dormant and does not require extra nutrients.
Pruning
Blumea crispata (Vahl) Merxm. var. appendiculata (Robyns) Lisowski does not require extensive pruning. However, removing spent flowers and stems can encourage bushier growth and prevent the plant from becoming leggy.
Prune the plant in the spring before new growth appears or in the fall after the plant has flowered. Use clean, sharp pruning shears to make a clean cut.
Note that the plant may self-seed, and pruning can prevent it from taking over the growing area.
Propagation of Blumea crispata (Vahl) Merxm. var. appendiculata (Robyns) Lisowski
Blumea crispata (Vahl) Merxm. var. appendiculata (Robyns) Lisowski, commonly known as the Philippine almasiga, is a woody shrub that grows up to 5 meters tall. This plant can be propagated through several methods, which include:
Seed Propagation
Propagation through seed is the easiest and most common method for Blumea crispata (Vahl) Merxm. var. appendiculata (Robyns) Lisowski. Seeds need to be sown during the rainy season, and the best time for sowing is just before the monsoon arrives. The seeds must be sown in raised nursery beds filled with sand or soil mixed with manure. The seeds should be kept moist, and proper drainage must be ensured. Seedlings will germinate after 2-3 weeks, and once they reach a height of 10-15 cm, they can be transplanted to pots or directly into the field.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation is another method to propagate Blumea crispata (Vahl) Merxm. var. appendiculata (Robyns) Lisowski. Cuttings must be taken from semi-hardwood in the rainy season. Each cutting should be approximately 15-20 cm long with at least 2-3 nodes. The leaves must be trimmed to reduce water loss. The cuttings should be dipped into a rooting hormone and placed in a rooting medium consisting of peat moss, sand, and perlite. The cutting must be kept moist, and direct sunlight must be avoided. The cuttings will root after 2-3 weeks and can be transplanted into pots or directly into the field.
Air-Layering Propagation
Air-layering propagation is another method for Blumea crispata (Vahl) Merxm. var. appendiculata (Robyns) Lisowski. Select a suitable branch and remove the bark of a 5 cm section in the middle of the branch. Apply rooting hormone to the exposed tissue and wrap moist sphagnum moss around it. Wrap the moss with plastic to keep it moist and secure the ends with twine. Roots will grow in 4-8 weeks, and the rooted section can be cut from the parent plant and potted.
Propagation through division is also possible for Blumea crispata (Vahl) Merxm. var. appendiculata (Robyns) Lisowski, but it is not a common method. Division should be done during the rainy season, and each division must have a few roots attached to it.
Disease Management
Blumea crispata (Vahl) Merxm. var. appendiculata (Robyns) Lisowski is generally a low-maintenance plant and is not prone to many diseases. However, it can be affected by fungal and bacterial infections. Regular inspection is necessary to prevent the spread of diseases.
One way to manage these diseases is to remove any infected leaves or branches immediately and dispose of them properly. In severe cases, fungicides or bactericides may be necessary. It is important to follow the instructions on the label and wear protective equipment while handling chemicals.
Pest Management
Blumea crispata (Vahl) Merxm. var. appendiculata (Robyns) Lisowski can be affected by several pests, including mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can cause discoloration, distortion, and stunted growth of the plant.
One way to manage pests is to prune and dispose of any infested plant parts immediately. Regular inspection of the plant and keeping it in healthy condition can also help prevent pest infestations. In severe cases, insecticides may be necessary. It is important to choose an appropriate insecticide for the type of pest and follow the instructions on the label carefully.
