Origin
The Bothriocline calycina (S.Moore) M.G.Gilbert, commonly known as the "Orange River Stone Daisy", originates from the arid and semi-arid regions of Southern Africa, particularly in the Namib Desert. This plant is found growing in rocky areas, crevices, and on gravelly soil.
Common Names
The Bothriocline calycina (S.Moore) M.G.Gilbert is commonly known as the Orange River Stone Daisy due to its bright orange flowers that resemble daisies. The plant is also referred to as the Namib Stone Daisy, and Sesotho calls it "Lits'enyane Ke Hlaile," meaning "tiny plant with orange flowers."
Uses
Bothriocline calycina (S.Moore) M.G.Gilbert is primarily used for ornamental purposes due to its vibrant and showy flowers. The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making it a useful plant in the garden and for landscaping. In some places, the plant is used for medicinal purposes, mainly for treating headaches and coughs.
Appearance
The Bothriocline calycina (S.Moore) M.G.Gilbert is a drought-resistant succulent shrub that can grow up to 30cm tall. The leaves are succulent, fused at the base with narrow lobes, and covered with white hairs. The plant produces bright orange-yellow flowers that grow in clusters at the top of the stems. The flowers have yellow centers and have a daisy-like appearance. The fruit produced by the plant is small, dry, and has a hard outer shell.
Light Requirements
The Bothriocline calycina plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It thrives well in areas that receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Insufficient light may lead to stunted growth or poor flowering.
Temperature Requirements
The Bothriocline calycina plant grows well in regions with a warm and temperate climate. It cannot tolerate frost or extremely cold temperatures. The optimal temperature range for this plant is between 18°C to 32°C. It can survive in temperatures as low as 10°C and high as 38°C for short periods.
Soil Requirements
The soil conditions for Bothriocline calycina should be well-drained and sandy loam with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.2. It prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil. The plant cannot tolerate waterlogged soils, which cause root rot. Adding organic matter to the soil can enhance the fertility of the soil to enhance its growth and development.
Cultivation
The Bothriocline calycina (S.Moore) M.G.Gilbert plant is best grown outdoors in areas that experience a Mediterranean or semi-arid climate. It thrives in full sun and requires well-drained soil that is low in nutrients. The plant can tolerate periodic drought conditions and can grow up to three meters in height.
When planting, ensure that the plants are spaced at least 60cm apart and that the soil is well-drained. Use a soil mix that comprises sand, perlite, and peat moss in equal proportions.
Watering Needs
The Bothriocline calycina plant requires moderate watering during its growing season, which is typically in spring and summer. Ensure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering may lead to root rot, which can weaken the plant. Misting the plant with water may help to keep it healthy and hydrated during dry spells.
Fertilization
The Bothriocline calycina plant does not require much fertilization, and over-fertilization may be harmful to it. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. It is best to apply the fertilizer in early spring before the growing season begins.
Pruning
Pruning the Bothriocline calycina plant is not necessary, but it can help to maintain a neat appearance. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Use sharp pruning shears to remove any dead or damaged branches. You can also trim back any overgrown branches to encourage new growth.
Propagation of Bothriocline calycina
Bothriocline calycina, also known as the Silver Aster or River Aster, is a popular ornamental plant. It produces a profusion of lovely white or pale lavender flowers. Propagation of the plant can be done in several ways, including:
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Bothriocline calycina by seed is a common practice. The seeds can be sown directly into the soil or in a container and then transferred to the garden. The best time to sow the seeds is in spring, when the soil is no longer frozen and has warmed up a bit. The seeds germinate in about 14-21 days and will grow quickly in the right conditions.
Cuttings propagation
Propagation of Bothriocline calycina by cuttings is another viable option. It involves taking stem cuttings from the parent plant and rooting them in moist soil or water. The best time to take cuttings is early summer when the plant is actively growing. The cuttings should be about six inches long and should have two or three sets of leaves. The rooting hormone can be used to aid rooting. It takes around four to six weeks for the cuttings to root and grow into new plants.
Division Propagation
Propagation of Bothriocline calycina by division is another possible method. This method entails removing the plant from the ground, dividing it into several smaller sections, and then replanting each division in its own location. The best time to perform this procedure is in spring. Be careful not to damage the roots when digging and separating the plant, and ensure that each division has enough roots and foliage to survive.
Disease Management
Bothriocline calycina is generally considered to be a hardy plant with good resistance against diseases. However, it may still fall prey to some diseases, the most common of which are:
- Leaf Spot: It is caused by bacteria and can cause yellow/brown spots surrounded by concentric circles on the leaves. To manage leaf spot, remove the affected leaves and improve air circulation and drainage around the plant.
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by fungi and often occurs in poorly drained soils. To avoid root rot, ensure proper drainage, and avoid overwatering.
- Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery substance on the leaves. It can be managed by spraying the plant with a mixture of water and baking soda. Neem oil can also be used to control powdery mildew.
Pest Management
Bothriocline calycina is mainly free of serious pest problems. However, some pests that usually attack it include:
- Spider Mites: Spider mites are the most common pests that attack Bothriocline calycina. A spider mite infestation can be identified by small discolored spots on the leaves, which eventually turn yellow. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with water to knock them off or use a botanically-derived miticide.
- Aphids: Both the green and black aphids like to feed on Bothriocline calycina. They suck sap from the plant's leaves and can produce a sticky substance called honeydew. This substance can attract ants and lead to fungal growth. To manage aphids, spray the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
- Caterpillars: Caterpillars are also potential pests of Bothriocline calycina. They eat the leaves and can cause severe damage to the plant. Handpicking them is a safe method for managing caterpillars. However, if the infestation is severe, the use of Bacillus thuringiensis can be effective.
