Origin
Buchnera lastii Engl. subsp. pubiflora Philcox, commonly known as Buchner's blue calico or Buchner's tick clover, originates from the high-altitude locations of the Western Cape Province in South Africa.
Common names
Buchner's blue calico or Buchner's tick clover are the most commonly used names for this plant. Other less commonly used names for the plant include Blou-Kaliko, Bloukpense or Bloupensies in Afrikaans.
Uses
Buchnera lastii Engl. subsp. pubiflora Philcox is commonly cultivated as an ornamental plant. Its attractive blue flowers and compact growth habit make it a popular choice for gardens and landscapes. The plant is also known to have medicinal qualities, and is used to treat coughs and colds by the local people in South Africa's Western Cape Province.
General appearance
Buchnera lastii Engl. subsp. pubiflora Philcox is a small evergreen shrub that grows up to 0.5m in height and width. The plant has an upright growth habit and forms a dense shrub. The leaves are small and feathery, and the flowers are blue in color and appear in dense clusters at the tips of the branches. The flowers are bell-shaped and measure up to 1cm in length. The plant blooms from October to February.
Light Requirements
The Buchnera lastii Engl. subsp. pubiflora Philcox requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It flourishes well in areas with a minimum of four hours of direct sunlight, especially in the mornings. In areas with intense sunlight, it is advisable to provide some form of shading to prevent damage to the plant.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers a moderate temperature range of 18-25°C (64-77°F). It can tolerate colder temperatures up to 5°C (41°F) and hot temperatures up to 35°C (95°F) provided there is sufficient water supply to the plant. However, it is best to avoid extreme temperature fluctuations and to ensure that the plant is protected from freezing conditions during winter.
Soil Requirements
Buchnera lastii Engl. subsp. pubiflora Philcox thrives in well-drained, sandy, or loamy soils. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH range of 6.0 to 6.5. It does not tolerate waterlogged soils and requires a fertile soil with a pH level that allows for the efficient uptake of nutrients. It is essential to ensure that the soil is well-aerated to prevent the roots from rotting.
Cultivation Methods
Buchnera lastii Engl. subsp. pubiflora Philcox is a perennial shrub species that thrives in areas with cool temperatures and well-drained soils. It is suitable for outdoor cultivation in areas with a temperate climate, but can also be grown indoors in pots under controlled environmental conditions. The plant requires exposure to direct sunlight for at least six hours daily, but should be protected from strong winds that can cause damage to the leaves or the stems.
Watering Needs
The plant requires regular watering to maintain an evenly moist soil condition. Buchnera lastii Engl. subsp. pubiflora Philcox does not tolerate drought and may wilt if left without water for prolonged periods. However, the soil should not be waterlogged as this can lead to root rot. It is recommended to water the plant deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions and the moisture level of the soil. During the winter season, reduce the frequency of watering to prevent waterlogging.
Fertilization
Buchnera lastii Engl. subsp. pubiflora Philcox does not require frequent fertilization, but a balanced application of fertilizer can boost its growth and flowering. Apply a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season, preferably once every three to four months. The fertilizer should be rich in nitrogen and phosphorus to support healthy foliage growth and vibrant flower blossoms. Avoid over-fertilizing the plant as this can cause fertilizer burn or stimulate excessive vegetative growth at the expense of flowering.
Pruning
Buchnera lastii Engl. subsp. pubiflora Philcox requires minimal pruning but can benefit from periodic maintenance to remove dead or damaged branches, promote bushier growth, and shape the plant. Pruning should be done after the flowering season, preferably in the fall or early winter. Use sharp pruning shears to make clean cuts, and avoid cutting into the healthy bark or stems. Do not prune too much of the plant at once, as this can stress it and reduce its overall health.
Propagation of Buchnera lastii Engl. subsp. pubiflora Philcox
Buchnera lastii Engl. subsp. pubiflora Philcox can be propagated by seed or division.
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Buchnera lastii Engl. subsp. pubiflora Philcox can be sown directly in the soil or in seed trays. It is recommended to sow the seeds in late spring or early summer, just after the last frost. The seeds should be sown on the surface of the soil, as they require light to germinate. They should be kept moist and warm, and should germinate within two to three weeks.
Division Propagation
Buchnera lastii Engl. subsp. pubiflora Philcox can also be propagated by division. This method involves dividing the plant's roots and replanting the divided sections in new locations. It is recommended to do this in the early spring, just as the plant begins to emerge from dormancy. The plant should be dug up carefully, and the roots should be separated with a sharp, sterilized knife or garden shears. Each new section should have enough roots and shoots to support growth. These new sections can then be replanted in new locations.
Disease management for Buchnera lastii Engl. subsp. pubiflora Philcox
Buchnera lastii Engl. subsp. pubiflora Philcox is a relatively disease-resistant plant. However, it may still fall victim to a few diseases, especially if grown in unfavorable conditions.
Leaf spot: This common fungal disease appears as yellow or brown spots on the plant's leaves and can lead to leaf drop. To manage leaf spot, remove and dispose of all infected leaves and try to improve air circulation and reduce humidity levels around the plant.
Root rot: This fungal disease is most likely to occur if the plant is kept in poorly drained soil or overwatered. Any infected plant should be removed and disposed of immediately to prevent the spread of the fungus.
Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white, powdery coating on the plant's leaves. To manage powdery mildew, remove and dispose of all infected leaves, improve air circulation, and reduce the humidity around the plant.
Pest management for Buchnera lastii Engl. subsp. pubiflora Philcox
Buchnera lastii Engl. subsp. pubiflora Philcox is relatively pest-resistant. However, below are a few common pests that may affect the plant:
Aphids: These small insects appear as tiny, green, or yellow bugs clustered on the plant's leaves and stems. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or oil, or simply wash them off the plant with a strong stream of water.
Spider mites: These tiny mites can be hard to see with the naked eye but may cause webbing and leaf discoloration. To manage spider mites, use insecticidal soap, try increasing the humidity around the plant, or simply wash them off with a strong stream of water.
Thrips: These small, slender insects cause distorted growth and leaf drop. To manage thrips, apply a systemic insecticide that will be absorbed by the plant, or release predatory insects that feed on thrips, such as lacewings.
