Origin
Blumea elatior (R.E.Fr.) Lisowski is a plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae and is native to Madagascar.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as "Akondroka" in Madagascar.
Uses
In Madagascar, Blumea elatior (R.E.Fr.) Lisowski is traditionally used for its medicinal properties. The leaves are used to treat various ailments such as fever, headache, and stomach problems. It is also used as a topical treatment for wounds and skin infections.
Moreover, the plant has been found to possess antifungal and antibacterial properties, making it a potential source of natural medicine.
General Appearance
Blumea elatior (R.E.Fr.) Lisowski is a herbaceous perennial plant that grows up to 2 meters in height. The plant has a woody base with branched stems that are covered with velvety hairs. The leaves are long and narrow with serrated margins and are also covered with fine hairs. The plant produces small yellow flowers that are arranged in clusters at the ends of the branches.
Light Requirements:
Blumea elatior is a sun-loving plant that requires full sunlight to thrive. It grows best in open areas with direct exposure to the sun. When grown in dimly lit areas, this plant struggles to grow and develop properly, leaving the plant to struggle with stunted growth.
Temperature Requirements:
The plant thrives in areas with a warm climate, with temperatures ranging between 22 to 30°C. The plant is not well adapted to extreme cold, and temperatures falling below 16°C may result in significant growth reduction or a complete halt in growth.
Soil Requirements:
Blumea elatior grows well in soils that are well-drained with good organic matter and slightly acidic to slightly alkaline pH. The soil should be fertile, loose, and aerated to allow maximum water and nutrient absorption. It grows best in soils rich in nitrogen and phosphorous and is relatively tolerant of sandy or clay soils.
Cultivation Methods
Blumea elatior is a perennial plant that requires well-drained soil and bright sunlight to grow. It is native to tropical regions and can tolerate humid conditions. The plant can be propagated through seeds or stem cuttings, with the latter being easier and quicker.
To grow Blumea elatior, prepare a pot or garden bed with well-draining soil mixed with some organic matter. The soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.0. Plant the cutting or seeds and keep the soil moist until the plant establishes.
Watering Needs
Blumea elatior requires moderately moist soil, and the frequency of watering depends on the weather conditions. During the growing season, water the plant deeply once a week or when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. In winter, reduce the watering frequency but do not let the soil dry out completely.
Fertilization
Blumea elatior benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply the fertilizer once a month, following the instructions on the label. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to foliar burn or weak growth.
Pruning
Blumea elatior can benefit from occasional pruning to maintain its shape, remove dead or damaged foliage, and promote bushier growth. Prune the plant after the flowering season ends, cutting back the stems by one-third to one-half of their length. Regular pruning can also prevent the plant from becoming too leggy or invasive. Use clean and sharp pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation of Blumea elatior
Blumea elatior can be propagated by both sexual and asexual means. The methods of propagation are as follows:
Propagation by seeds
Seeds of B. elatior can be collected from ripe flower heads and sown immediately. The seeds can be sown in seed trays or directly in the field. For direct sowing, slight soil preparation is required, and the seeds need to be covered lightly with soil. In about two weeks, the seedlings emerge.
Vegetative propagation
Blumea elatior can also be propagated vegetatively through stem cuttings. The ideal time for taking stem cuttings is during the growing season when the plants are actively growing. Cuttings of about 10-15 cm length can be taken and transplanted into containers filled with well-drained soil. The cuttings need to be kept moist, and in about 2-3 weeks, they start rooting. Once the roots are established, the plants can be transferred to the field.
Tissue culture propagation
Tissue culture propagation is another method that is gaining popularity for the propagation of Blumea elatior. This method involves the use of aseptic techniques to grow plant tissue in vitro. Small pieces of plant tissue, such as leaves or stem segments, are selected and placed on a sterile nutrient medium. In a few weeks, the tissue develops into small plantlets, which can be transferred and grown in soil.
These are the various propagation methods for Blumea elatior. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, and growers choose the method that fits their needs and availability of resources.
Disease and Pest Management for Blumea elatior (R.E.Fr.) Lisowski
Blumea elatior, commonly known as "sambong," is a popular medicinal plant in the Philippines known for its diuretic and analgesic properties. However, just like any other plant, sambong is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can affect its growth and yield. Here are some common diseases and pests that can affect Blumea elatior and ways to manage them:
Diseases
1. Leaf Spot - This fungal disease appears as small, irregularly shaped spots on the leaves that eventually turn dark brown or black. If left untreated, it can cause defoliation and weaken the plant. To manage leaf spot, remove and destroy infected leaves immediately, avoid overhead watering, and apply fungicide if necessary.
2. Root Rot - This disease is caused by waterlogged soil and can result in stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and wilting. To prevent root rot, avoid overwatering and ensure proper drainage. If the plant is showing signs of root rot, remove it from the soil, trim off the damaged roots, and repot in fresh, well-draining soil.
3. Powdery Mildew - This fungal disease appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems. It can cause leaves to curl and distort and weaken the plant. To manage powdery mildew, remove and destroy infected leaves, improve air circulation around the plant, and apply fungicide if necessary.
Pests
1. Aphids - These small, soft-bodied insects can suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to curl and distort. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge them, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil, or introduce natural predators like ladybugs.
2. Spider Mites - These tiny, spider-like pests can cause yellowing leaves and webbing on the plant. To manage spider mites, remove and destroy heavily infested leaves, improve humidity around the plant, and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
3. Whiteflies - These small, flying insects can cause yellowing leaves and sticky honeydew on the plant. To manage whiteflies, remove and destroy infected leaves, improve air circulation around the plant, and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
By being vigilant and promptly addressing any signs of diseases or pests, you can help ensure the health and vitality of your Blumea elatior plant.
