Plant Description
Brickellia eupatorioides (L.) Shinners var. floridana (R.W. Long) B.L. Turner, commonly known as the Florida brickellbush or false boneset, is a subshrub or perennial herb belonging to the Asteraceae family. This plant is native to the southeastern region of the United States, particularly in Florida, Alabama, Georgia, and Mississippi. The plant can grow up to two feet in height and spread about as wide.
General Appearance
The Florida brickellbush has a woody base, and the stems are green, slightly hairy, and branched. The leaves of this plant are alternate, narrow, and toothed, and they measure about 1-3 inches in length. The plant blooms in late summer to early fall, where it produces clusters of tiny white flowers that are about 1/8 inch wide.
Common Names
The Florida brickellbush is known by many common names, including False Boneset, Florida Brickellbush, and Narrow-leaved Brickellia.
Uses
The Florida brickellbush has been traditionally used in folk medicine for the treatment of various ailments, such as stomach aches, headaches, and snakebites. The plant's compounds have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Additionally, this plant is used in landscaping as a border plant or in naturalistic gardens due to its attractive foliage and delicate flowers.
Light Requirements
Brickellia eupatorioides var. floridana typically prefers full sunlight. It thrives well in areas that receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Lack of enough sunlight may lead to stunted growth and fewer blooms.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species prefers warmer climates with an average daytime temperature range of 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate a wide array of temperatures, but excessive cold can slow down their growth, and frost can ultimately be damaging.
Soil Requirements
This species of Brickellia grows well in soil with good drainage. They thrive in fertile soil that is moist but not waterlogged. The ideal soil pH range is neutral to slightly acidic (6.0-7.5). It is best to avoid heavy clay soils, as they can retain too much moisture, which can lead to root rot.
Cultivation Methods:
Brickellia eupatorioides (L.) Shinners var. floridana (R.W. Long) B.L. Turner usually grows well in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11. It prefers well-drained, sandy soil but can tolerate other soil types, provided they are not waterlogged. The ideal location for planting Brickellia eupatorioides var. floridana is in full sun or partial shade. It is also drought-tolerant and can withstand high temperatures, making it an ideal choice for outdoor landscapes in hot and dry regions.
Watering Needs:
Brickellia eupatorioides var. floridana is moderately drought-tolerant, but newly planted specimens will require regular watering until they are established. After its establishment, this plant can withstand longer periods of drought, but it is essential to water it occasionally during the hot and dry season. Watering should be done at the soil level, and care should be taken not to overwater the soil, as this can result in root rot and other plant diseases.
Fertilization:
Brickellia eupatorioides var. floridana does not require much fertilizer. A light application of slow-release fertilizer during the growing season is enough to provide the necessary nutrients. The ideal fertilizer for Brickellia eupatorioides var. floridana is balanced and contains equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. It is best to avoid fertilizers that are high in nitrogen, as this can promote vegetative growth at the expense of flower production.
Pruning:
Brickellia eupatorioides var. floridana does not require much pruning, but it is essential to remove dead and damaged branches. Also, after flowering, it is advisable to deadhead the plant to promote a longer blooming period. Pinching back the growing tips during early to mid-summer can also encourage branching and bushier growth. However, it is best to avoid late summer and fall pruning, as this can delay the flowering period and result in reduced blooms in the following year.
Plant Propagation of Brickellia eupatorioides (L.) Shinners var. floridana (R.W. Long) B.L. Turner
Brickellia eupatorioides (L.) Shinners var. floridana (R.W. Long) B.L. Turner, also known as Florida Brickellbush, can be propagated through different methods such as seed propagation, stem cutting, and division.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Brickellia eupatorioides can be sown either in spring or fall. Before sowing, the seeds should be stratified for 4-6 weeks to break their dormancy. It can be done by putting the seeds in a moist medium, such as sand, peat moss, or vermiculite, and keeping them in a cool place. After stratification, the seeds can be sown in pots or directly in the soil. The soil should be moist but well-draining and rich in organic matter. The seeds should be covered lightly with soil and kept moist until germination. Germination may take up to 4-6 weeks.
Stem Cutting
Stem cutting is another method to propagate Brickellia eupatorioides. Select a healthy stem from the parent plant and make a cutting of around 4-6 inches in length. Remove the lower leaves from the cutting and dip the end in rooting hormone powder. Plant the cutting in a pot with moist soil and keep it in a warm, bright, and humid place. Mist the cutting regularly to keep the soil moist and help it establish roots. The cutting should root in about 4-6 weeks.
Division
Division is a propagation method that involves dividing the parent plant into smaller sections, each of which can grow into an individual plant. To do this, dig up the parent plant and carefully separate the root ball into smaller sections. Each section should have a healthy portion of roots attached to the stem. Plant the sections in pots or directly in the garden soil. Water the plants well and keep the soil moist until they have established.
Disease and Pest Management for Brickellia eupatorioides var. floridana
Brickellia eupatorioides var. floridana is a hardy plant that is resistant to a range of pests and diseases. However, some diseases and pests can affect the plant, causing reduced growth, leaf loss, and even death. Here is a list of common diseases and pests that might affect the plant, and some ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease causes a powdery white growth on the leaves and stems of the plant. The infected leaves may turn yellow and fall off. To manage this problem, prune infected parts of the plant, improve air circulation, and avoid watering the leaves. You can also apply fungicides to the plant as a preventative measure.
Leaf Spot: This is a fungal disease that appears as small, circular spots on the leaves. The affected leaves may turn brown and fall off. To manage this problem, prune infected parts of the plant, avoid overhead watering, and apply fungicides as a preventative measure.
Rust: This fungal disease appears as yellow or brown spots on the leaves, which eventually turn into reddish-brown pustules. To manage this problem, prune infected parts of the plant, avoid overhead watering, and apply fungicides to the plant as a preventative measure.
Common Pests
Aphids: These tiny insects suck the sap from the plant, causing distorted growth, yellowing, and wilting. To manage this problem, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill the insects.
Spider Mites: These tiny arachnids suck the sap from the plant, causing leaves to turn yellow and drop off. To manage this problem, introduce predatory insects such as ladybugs, or use insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill the mites.
Caterpillars: The larvae of various moths and butterflies can cause serious damage to the plant by eating the leaves. To manage this problem, remove caterpillars by hand or use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) to kill them.
By taking care of your plant and managing any signs of disease or pests early, you can keep Brickellia eupatorioides var. floridana healthy and thriving.
