Origin
Bulbostylis hispidula (Vahl) R.W.Haines subsp. intermedia (Lye) R.W.Haines belongs to the family Cyperaceae and is commonly found in Africa, Madagascar, the Arabian Peninsula, and the Indian subcontinent.
Common Names
Bulbostylis hispidula (Vahl) R.W.Haines subsp. intermedia (Lye) R.W.Haines is commonly known as Hairy Woodrush or Hairy Bristle-sedge due to its hairy and bristly appearance.
Uses
Bulbostylis hispidula (Vahl) R.W.Haines subsp. intermedia (Lye) R.W.Haines is a medicinal plant used for treating various ailments such as dysentery, skin diseases, and fever. Its leaves and stems are used for weaving baskets and mats while its seeds are consumed in some parts of Africa.
General Appearance
Bulbostylis hispidula (Vahl) R.W.Haines subsp. intermedia (Lye) R.W.Haines is a perennial plant that grows up to 20cm in height. It has a tufted habit with hairy and bristly stems that are green in color. The leaves are narrow and pointed, with a length of up to 10cm. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, located at the end of the stems, and are reddish-brown in color. The fruit is a small achene.
Light Requirements
Bulbostylis hispidula subsp. intermedia prefers to grow in areas with moderate to high light intensities. The plant needs sufficient light to carry out photosynthesis, which is critical for its growth and development. Therefore, it is recommended to place the plant in bright, indirect light.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can grow in a wide range of temperatures. However, it thrives in warm conditions with temperatures ranging from 20-30°C (68-86°F). When the temperature drops below 10°C (50°F), the plant might shift into a dormant phase, which slows down its growth and development.
Soil Requirements
Bulbostylis hispidula subsp. intermedia grows best in well-draining soils that are slightly acidic. Therefore, soil mixes that consist of peat moss or bark and perlite, sand, or vermiculite can be used. Additionally, it is essential to ensure that the soil pH is between 5.0-6.5, as a high pH level can limit the uptake of essential nutrients, which affects the plant's growth and overall health.
Cultivation methods
Bulbostylis hispidula (Vahl) R.W.Haines subsp. intermedia (Lye) R.W.Haines can be cultivated as a groundcover in well-draining soil. It prefers full sunlight, but can tolerate partial shade. This plant can be propagated through planting seeds or by division of the mother plant.Watering needs
Bulbostylis hispidula (Vahl) R.W.Haines subsp. intermedia (Lye) R.W.Haines requires regular watering during the growing season, especially during hot and dry periods. It is important to maintain moist soil but avoid waterlogging as it can lead to root rot. During winter, watering can be reduced to once or twice a month.Fertilization
Bulbostylis hispidula (Vahl) R.W.Haines subsp. intermedia (Lye) R.W.Haines does not require frequent fertilization. However, during the growing season, a balanced fertilizer rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be applied every two to three months.Pruning
Bulbostylis hispidula (Vahl) R.W.Haines subsp. intermedia (Lye) R.W.Haines does not require regular pruning. However, dead or damaged leaves can be removed to maintain its appearance. During the dormant period, the plant can be trimmed back to promote new growth in the following growing season.Propagation of Bulbostylis hispidula subsp. intermedia
Bulbostylis hispidula subsp. intermedia can be propagated through seed and division.
Propagation by Seed
Seeds may be collected in autumn once they have ripened and become woody. Sow them in a well-draining mix of sand and loam or a commercial seed mix formulated for natives. Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged, and place the pot in a warm and bright position. Germination can occur as early as two weeks or as long as two months. When plantlets are large enough, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
Propagation by Division
The best time to divide a Bulbostylis hispidula subsp. intermedia clump is in early spring before new growth has emerged. Lift the clump carefully from the ground, and cut it into smaller sections using a sharp, clean knife. Each section should have at least one shoot and a healthy root system. Replant the sections in pots or back into the garden, making sure to water well and keep them in a shaded area while they establish.
Disease Management
Bulbostylis hispidula subsp. intermedia is naturally resistant to most pests and diseases. However, it can still be affected by certain fungal and bacterial diseases. Here are some common diseases that may affect the plant and ways to manage them:
- Leaf Spot: This disease results in the formation of brown, circular lesions on the leaves. To manage it, remove the affected leaves and ensure the plant is well-ventilated.
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes the plant's foliage to develop dark spots, and the leaves may eventually wilt and die. To prevent its spread, avoid overhead watering, and remove the infected foliage immediately. You can also apply a fungicide to control the disease.
Pest Management
Bulbostylis hispidula subsp. intermedia may attract some insect pests, which can cause significant damage if not properly managed. Here are some common pests that may affect the plant and ways to manage them:
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause the plant's foliage to appear dusty, and may even cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. To control spider mites, rinse the plant's leaves with a strong blast of water or apply a miticide.
- Aphids: These pests are commonly found on the underside of the plant's leaves and can cause the plant to become stunted. To manage an aphid infestation, rinse the leaves with a strong jet of water or apply insecticidal soap.
As with any plant, it's important to ensure that you provide optimal growing conditions for healthy growth. This includes regular watering, good drainage, and providing an adequate nutrient supply. Additionally, you can prevent pest and disease problems by keeping the plant clean and free of dead or damaged leaves, and by providing adequate air circulation around the plant.
