Description of Bothriocline subcordata (De Wild.) Wech. Plant
Bothriocline subcordata is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It commonly goes by the name of "Mugunga" in Burundi, where it originated.
Appearance of Bothriocline subcordata Plant
The plant has a shrub-like appearance and can grow up to two meters tall. It has woody stems and leaves that are dark green and hairy. The flowers of Bothriocline subcordata are daisy-like and yellow, and they grow in clusters at the top of the stems.
Uses of Bothriocline subcordata Plant
The plant has various uses in traditional medicine. In Burundi, the roots of the plant are boiled and used to treat stomach ulcers, while the leaves are crushed and applied topically to treat skin infections. Additionally, the leaves and bark of the plant are used for making brooms and baskets. Also, the plant is commonly found in gardens and along roadsides for decorative purposes.
Growth Conditions of Bothriocline subcordata
Light: Bothriocline subcordata prefers partial shade to full sunlight. However, it can tolerate high levels of light exposure as well.
Temperature: This plant grows well in a range of temperatures between 10°C to 25°C. It can tolerate extreme temperatures up to 35°C as well as freezing winters.
Soil: Bothriocline subcordata requires well-drained, sandy or loamy soil with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. It is highly adaptable to a variety of soil types and can also grow in poor soils.
Moisture: This plant prefers moderate watering during its growing season. Overwatering can lead to root rot while under-watering can cause wilting and stunted growth.
Fertilizers: Bothriocline subcordata does not require frequent fertilization. However, applying a slow-release fertilizer once a year during its growing season can be beneficial.
Propagation: Bothriocline subcordata can be propagated from seeds or stem cuttings. Seeds should be sown in well-prepared soil during the spring season while stem cuttings should be taken in late spring or early summer.
Cultivation Methods for Bothriocline Subcordata
Bothriocline subcordata is a hardy plant that thrives in a range of conditions, making it easy to cultivate. This plant requires well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight to grow healthily. It is commonly grown in pots, but it can also be planted in outdoor garden beds.
When growing Bothriocline subcordata in pots, ensure that the container is at least 20 centimeters wide to allow the roots to spread and establish easily. Use a soil mixture that is enriched with organic matter to provide the necessary nutrients.
Watering Needs for Bothriocline Subcordata
The watering needs of Bothriocline subcordata are moderate. Only water the plant when the top layer of soil is dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot. In addition, the plant can tolerate short periods of drought.
During the hot summer months, the plant may need more frequent watering. Ensure that the water permeates the soil and reaches the roots. Water the plant early in the morning or late in the evening to prevent water loss from evaporation.
Fertilization of Bothriocline Subcordata
Bothriocline subcordata does not require frequent fertilization. However, you can apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring to boost growth and promote flowering. Avoid applying fertilizer in winter as the plant is dormant during this period.
Avoid overfertilizing as it can lead to an excessive accumulation of salts in the soil, which can damage the roots and cause the plant to wither. Follow the manufacturer's instructions when applying fertilizer.
Pruning Bothriocline Subcordata
Bothriocline subcordata does not require frequent pruning, but you can shear the plant lightly after flowering to promote bushier growth and enhance its appearance. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches to prevent the spread of pests and diseases.
If you want to propagate the plant, you can take stem cuttings in late spring or early summer. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone before planting it in moist soil. Keep it in a warm and bright spot and mist it regularly until it establishes roots.
Propagation of Bothriocline subcordata
Bothriocline subcordata or "Paper Daisy" is a perennial herb that is native to South Africa. It is a hardy plant that is well adapted to the dry conditions of the African savannah. Propagation of this plant can be done through various methods as described below.
Propagation by Seed
The most common method of propagating Bothriocline subcordata is through seeds. The seeds of Paper Daisy are small and black, and they can be easily collected from the plant during the flowering period. The best time to collect the seeds is when the flower heads have dried up, and the seeds are beginning to fall out of the head.
Before planting the seeds, it is essential to scarify them to break down the hard seed coat. This can be done by rubbing the seeds against sandpaper or by soaking them in hot water for a few hours. Once the seed coat has been softened, the seed can be planted in a pot or directly in the garden soil.
Propagation by Cuttings
Another method of propagating Bothriocline subcordata is through stem cuttings. This method is usually used to propagate the plant during the growing season. The cuttings should be taken from new growth and should be about 5-7 cm long. Remove the bottom leaves from the cutting, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. The cutting can be planted in a pot filled with soil and kept in a warm, bright location. Make sure to keep the soil moist until roots develop.
Propagation by Division
Bothriocline subcordata can also be propagated by division. This method is best done in spring when new growth is visible. The plant can be dug up, and the root can be divided into several sections, each with its own stem and leaves. Plant each section in a separate pot or in the garden soil and water regularly until the plant establishes itself.
Regardless of the propagation method chosen, Bothriocline subcordata is relatively easy to propagate and can grow well in a variety of conditions.
Bothriocline subcordata: Disease and Pest Management
Bothriocline subcordata, commonly called Bergtee, is a shrub that is native to southern Africa. It is an essential ornamental and medicinal plant. Diseases and pests can attack the plant, leading to reduced yield, poor quality, and even death of the plant. Proper management practices can minimize the damage caused by these pests and diseases. Here are some of the common diseases and pests of Bothriocline subcordata and ways to manage them.
Diseases of Bothriocline subcordata
Fungal Diseases: Bothriocline subcordata is susceptible to several fungal diseases, including powdery mildew, root rot, and botrytis blight. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes a white powdery growth on the leaves. Root rot, on the other hand, is a fungal disease that results in the decay of the plant roots. Finally, botrytis blight leads to the decay of the flowers and leaves. You can manage these diseases by using fungicides that contain copper, sulfur, or neem oil, promoting proper air circulation by planting at the recommended spacing level, and avoiding over-watering and waterlogging.
Bacterial Diseases: Bacterial diseases can attack Bothriocline subcordata, causing leaf spots, stem cankers, and blights. Copper-based bactericides can manage these diseases. Prompt removal of infected plant parts and proper sanitation practices can prevent the spread of bacterial diseases.
Pests of Bothriocline subcordata
Mites: Spider mites and red mites can cause damage to Bothriocline subcordata. The mites attack the leaves and suck plant sap, leading to the yellowing and dropping of the leaves. Use insecticidal soaps or neem oil to manage mite infestations.
Thrips: Thrips are tiny insects that feed on Bothriocline subcordata’s foliage and flowers, causing the leaves to have a silvery appearance. They also transmit viruses. Insecticides containing pyrethrin or neem oil can control thrips.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars can attack Bothriocline subcordata, feeding on the leaves and other plant parts. Bacillus thuringiensis-based insecticides can destroy caterpillars.
Good farming practices, including proper crop rotation, maintaining adequate plant spacing, and ensuring general farm hygiene, are integral in preventing pest and disease infestation and promoting yields.
