Origin
Boussingaultia gracilis Miers var. pseudobaselloides (Hauman) Bailey is a plant species that belongs to the family of Asteraceae. This plant is native to South America, specifically in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, and Paraguay. It thrives in tropical and subtropical regions and can be found in areas with moist soils such as marshes, swamps, and wet meadows.
Common names
The plant Boussingaultia gracilis Miers var. pseudobaselloides (Hauman) Bailey is known by a variety of common names, including Creeping Daisy, Yellow Creeping Daisy, and Bajo Flores. In Spanish, it is known as "Margaretita Rastrera".
Uses
Boussingaultia gracilis Miers var. pseudobaselloides (Hauman) Bailey has some medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine in the regions where it grows. It is known to help in the treatment of rheumatism, respiratory illnesses, and skin conditions. Additionally, the plant serves as ground cover in landscaping and is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks.
General appearance
Boussingaultia gracilis Miers var. pseudobaselloides (Hauman) Bailey is a creeping perennial plant that spreads using runners. The plant grows up to 10-15 cm in height and has highly branched stems with small, yellow, daisy-like flowers that bloom from spring to fall. The leaves are fleshy and elongated with a length of up to 5-6 cm and dark green in color. The plant can be grown easily and is tolerant of a wide range of soil conditions and moisture levels.
Light requirements
Boussingaultia gracilis Miers var. pseudobaselloides (Hauman) Bailey thrives in full sun or partial shade. If the plant is grown in a shaded area, it may not produce as many blooms. Therefore, to encourage maximal growth and flowering, it is recommended to plant the species in a spot with full sun exposure.
Temperature requirements
Boussingaultia gracilis Miers var. pseudobaselloides (Hauman) Bailey prefers a warm climate. These plants grow optimally in daytime temperatures of 24-26°C and nighttime temperatures of 18-21°C. Extreme heat waves, as well as cold spells below 10°C, can lead to plant death or damage.
Soil requirements
Boussingaultia gracilis Miers var. pseudobaselloides (Hauman) Bailey grows in a range of soil types, but it prefers well-drained soils with organic matter. Poor drainage and waterlogged soils lead to root rot and stunted growth. Furthermore, the optimal pH range for this species is between 6.0 and 7.0. It is ideal to mix in some sandy soil when the plant is being planted to improve drainage.
Cultivation methods
Boussingaultia gracilis Miers var. pseudobaselloides (Hauman) Bailey grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is important to select an area with good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.
The plant can be propagated from seeds, cuttings, or division. Plant the seedlings or cuttings in the soil at a depth of 1-2 inches and water thoroughly. Space the plants 6-8 inches apart.
Watering needs
Boussingaultia gracilis Miers var. pseudobaselloides (Hauman) Bailey prefers moist soil but not waterlogged soil. The plant should be watered thoroughly once a week or when the top 1-2 inches of soil feels dry to the touch. The frequency of watering should be reduced during periods of drought or in the winter.
Fertilization
The plant should be fertilized every 4-6 weeks during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilization as it can negatively impact the plant's growth and flowering.
Pruning
To promote bushier growth, the plant can be pinched back periodically during the growing season. Pruning may also be necessary to remove dead or damaged branches. The plant can be cut back to the ground in the fall or early spring to encourage new growth.
Propagation of Boussingaultia Gracilis Miers Var. Pseudobaselloides (Hauman) Bailey
Boussingaultia gracilis Miers var. pseudobaselloides (Hauman) Bailey, commonly known as Creeping Succulent, is a versatile plant that can be propagated through various methods. Here are some ways to propagate this plant:
Propagation through Cuttings
Cuttings taken from the mature stem or shoot tips of Boussingaultia gracilis Miers var. pseudobaselloides (Hauman) Bailey are viable for propagation. The cuttings should measure around 4 to 6 inches in length and contain at least two leaves and a portion of the stem. Once you have cut the stem, you can leave it to dry for a few days before planting it.
The cuttings can be planted in a soil-less mixture in a pot or seed tray. Water the mixture lightly and cover it with plastic to create a humid environment. Place the tray or pot in a bright location but avoid direct sunlight. After around two weeks, the cuttings should root.
Propagation by Division
Boussingaultia gracilis Miers var. pseudobaselloides (Hauman) Bailey can also be propagated by division. To do this, gently remove the plant from its pot and separate the stems with roots. Ensure that each stem has a sufficient root system, and then replant each stem in a new pot.
Propagation through Seed
Boussingaultia gracilis Miers var. pseudobaselloides (Hauman) Bailey can also be propagated through seeds. However, propagating through seeds is a lengthy process and requires much patience. Seeds are usually available in specialty nurseries or online.
Sow seeds into a well-draining soil mixture in a pot or seed tray and water them moderately. Cover the pot or tray with plastic to create a humid environment and place it in a bright location but avoid direct sunlight. The seeds should germinate after a few weeks.
Propagation of Boussingaultia gracilis Miers var. pseudobaselloides (Hauman) Bailey can be rewarding, especially when using the correct method. With time, the plant can become an attractive addition to your garden or indoor space.
Disease Management
Boussingaultia gracilis Miers var. pseudobaselloides (Hauman) Bailey is a hardy plant that is less likely to be attacked by diseases. However, some diseases can attack the plant and cause damage. Here are some common diseases and their management measures.
Fungal Diseases
Fungal diseases such as rust, botrytis blight, and powdery mildew can affect the plant. Rust appears as yellow, orange, or red pustules on the leaves and stems. Botrytis blight causes the plant to develop a greyish mould, and powdery mildew appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves. The following management practices can help in controlling fungal diseases:
- Remove all diseased plant parts immediately and dispose of them away from the plant.
- Ensure good air circulation around the plant to prevent damp conditions that favour fungal growth.
- Apply a fungicide such as copper-based products as a preventative measure.
Bacterial Diseases
Bacterial diseases can affect the plant, and bacterial leaf spot is the most common. The disease appears as water-soaked spots that turn brown or black. As the spots enlarge, they form irregular-shaped holes on the leaves. To manage bacteria leaf spot, the following measures can be taken:
- Remove all affected plant parts and dispose of them away from the plant.
- Apply a copper-based fungicide as a preventative measure.
- Practice good garden hygiene by removing all plant debris to reduce the population of the bacteria that cause the disease.
Pest Management
Boussingaultia gracilis Miers var. pseudobaselloides (Hauman) Bailey can also be attacked by some pests. The pests can cause significant damage and affect the growth of the plant. Here are some common pests and their management measures.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that suck plant sap, causing the plant's leaves to become speckled and yellow. To manage spider mites, the following measures can be taken:
- Spray the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge the pests from the plant.
- Apply insecticidal soap, neem oil or horticultural oil to the plant as a preventative measure.
- Introduce spider mite predators such as Ladybirds or lacewings into the garden to help control the pest population.
Mealy Bugs
Mealy bugs are small insects that suck plant sap, causing the plant to weaken, turn yellow, and eventually die. They leave behind a telltale white, cotton-like substance on the plant. The following management practices can help control the pest:
- Remove all affected plant parts and dispose of them away from the plant.
- Apply insecticidal soap, neem oil or horticultural oil to the plant as a preventative measure.
- Introduce mealy bug predators such as lacewings or ladybirds into the garden to help control the pest population.
By following these management practices, Boussingaultia gracilis Miers var. pseudobaselloides (Hauman) Bailey can remain healthy and free from diseases and pests, and thrive in the garden.
