Overview:
Blumea viscosa, also known as "sticky daisy," is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the family Asteraceae. The plant is native to the tropical regions of Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, and the Philippines, but it has also been introduced to other parts of the world.
General Appearance:
The plant has a woody stem that can grow up to a meter tall, and has dense, hairy foliage that is sticky to touch. Its leaves are broadly elliptical, measuring around 5-20 cm long and 2.5-12 cm wide, with a pointed tip and a wavy margin. The plant produces yellow flowers in clusters, each measuring around 4 mm long.
Common Names:
In different countries, Blumea viscosa has a variety of common names, including Indian fleabane, ngai camphor, boraphet, tasmanian mountain daisy, and sticky chrysanthemum.
Uses:
The plant has various medicinal applications. The leaves and stem are dried and made into powder or tea and can be used for treating cough, asthma, and intestinal worms. It can also be applied to wounds, burns, and bruises to provide relief. The plant also has insecticidal properties and can be used as an herbal insecticide. In India, the leaves are boiled and used as an antiseptic wash for animals. The plant is also used in traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of rheumatism, fever, and sores.
Light Requirements
Blumea viscosa prefers partial to full sunlight for optimal growth. It can tolerate moderate shading but prolonged shadows can affect flowering and overall plant health. Thus, it is recommended to place the plant in a spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Blumea viscosa growth is between 20 to 30 °C. However, the plant can tolerate temperatures as low as 15°C and as high as 40°C to a certain extent. Prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures can be harmful to the plant's growth and survival.
Soil Requirements
Blumea viscosa grows best in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.2. It is recommended to add compost or aged manure to the soil to improve its texture and water retention capacity. The plant can also grow in poor soils but with adequate fertilization and mulching. Water-logged soils can cause root rot and other diseases. Hence, it is vital to avoid overwatering or planting the plant in areas with poor drainage.
Cultivation Methods for Blumea Viscosa (Mill.) V.M.Badillo
Blumea viscosa (Mill.) V.M.Badillo is an easy-to-grow plant that can thrive well in different environments.
It can grow in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. For better root development, it's recommended to plant this plant in beds or raised garden beds. Ensure to loosen the soil to a depth of at least 12 inches and add compost to enhance soil fertility and promote healthy plant growth.
Blumea viscosa (Mill.) V.M.Badillo can grow in full sun or partial shade and requires moderate watering to grow well.
Watering Needs for Blumea Viscosa (Mill.) V.M.Badillo
Regular and consistent watering is essential for the healthy growth of Blumea viscosa (Mill.) V.M.Badillo. This plant requires moderate watering and thrives best in well-drained soil. Avoid overwatering this plant as it can lead to root rot.
Watering should be done when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry, and it is advisable to use a moisture meter to determine soil wetness accurately. In the dry season, more frequent watering is required, while less watering is necessary during the rainy season.
Fertilization of Blumea Viscosa (Mill.) V.M.Badillo
Blumea viscosa (Mill.) V.M.Badillo requires a well-balanced fertilizer to promote strong growth. Fertilization can be done twice a year, during the growing and flowering season.
Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10, which will supply the necessary nutrients for the plant's growth. Apply the fertilizer as directed on the package and avoid over-fertilization, as it can lead to salt buildup, causing harm to the plant.
Pruning of Blumea Viscosa (Mill.) V.M.Badillo
Pruning is necessary to promote branch growth and remove any dead or damaged parts, leading to healthier and bushier growth. Pruning should be done during the dormant season or immediately after blooming.
Remove any dead or weak branches, and cut back one-third of the plant's height to encourage new growth. Avoid removing large amounts of foliage, as it can lead to stunted growth or reduced flowering.
Overall, Blumea viscosa (Mill.) V.M.Badillo is a low maintenance and easy-to-grow plant that can thrive well under different growing conditions. With proper care and growing conditions, this plant will undoubtedly be a beautiful addition to any garden or landscape.
Propagation of Blumea viscosa
Blumea viscosa (Mill.) V.M.Badillo, also known as Philippine blumea, is a perennial shrub commonly found in Asia. It is often used in traditional medicine due to its medicinal properties. Propagation of Blumea viscosa can be done by various methods, including:
Seed propagation
The easiest way to propagate Blumea viscosa is through seeds. The seeds can be collected from matured fruit capsules, which are usually ready to harvest around October to November. The seeds can be simply sown on a prepared bed, or in trays filled with seedling mix. Keep the soil moist and the temperature between 20-25°C. The seeds will germinate within two to four weeks.
Cutting propagation
Blumea viscosa can also be propagated by cuttings. This can be done by taking stem cuttings from the mother plant during the active growth period. The cuttings should be at least 15 centimeters long with several leaves. Dip the cut end of the stem in a rooting hormone, such as indole butyric acid, before planting it in a rooting medium. Keep the cuttings in a shaded area, and maintain high humidity until roots have formed.
Division propagation
Another method of propagating Blumea viscosa is through division. This can be done by digging up the mother plant and dividing the roots and stems into smaller sections. Each section should have several stems and roots, and be able to stand alone. Plant each section in a prepared bed or container with well-draining soil. Water thoroughly and keep in a shaded area until new growth emerges.
Disease and Pest Management for Blumea viscosa (Mill.) V.M.Badillo
Blumea viscosa is a hardy plant that is resistant to several pests and diseases. However, there are still a few known diseases and pests that can affect the plant. Therefore, it is important to know how to manage these issues to ensure that the plant stays healthy and thrives.
Common Diseases
Blumea viscosa is susceptible to certain diseases, such as powdery mildew, root rot, and leaf spot. Powdery mildew appears as a white, powdery substance on the leaves. Root rot is caused by overwatering and affects the roots, causing them to turn brown and mushy. Leaf spot presents itself as dark lesions on the leaves.
To manage these diseases, prune away infected parts of the plant and discard them immediately. Maintain proper plant hygiene, such as not allowing water to sit on the leaves, providing adequate drainage, and removing debris from around the plant. For severe cases, apply fungicides, or consider chemical treatments.
Common Pests
The most common pests that affect Blumea viscosa are aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. These pests suck the sap from the plant, causing the leaves to wilt, curl, and turn yellow or brown.
To manage these pests, introduce natural predators, such as ladybugs, to the area. Alternatively, you can use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or a horticultural oil to control these pests. Regularly inspect the plant to catch any infestations early and take action immediately.
Overall, managing diseases and pests for Blumea viscosa requires careful observation, proper plant hygiene, and prompt action. By taking these precautions, you can keep your plant healthy and thriving for years to come.
