Overview:
Buphthalmum odorum Schousb. is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is commonly known as Yellow Oxeye or Sweet Oxeye, and is native to Europe and Asia. The plant is highly valued for its ornamental and medicinal uses.
Appearance:
Buphthalmum odorum Schousb. is a herbaceous perennial that can grow up to 90 cm in height. It has long, upright stems that are covered in soft, green leaves. The leaves are deeply-lobed and have toothed margins, giving them a fern-like appearance. In summer, the plant produces large, bright yellow flowers that are about 6 cm in diameter. The flowers have a sweet fragrance and attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies.
Uses:
Buphthalmum odorum Schousb. has both ornamental and medicinal uses. In landscaping, the plant is commonly used as a border or accent plant in gardens or mixed borders. It is easy to grow and requires minimal care, making it a popular choice for novice gardeners. The plant's yellow flowers are also used in arrangements and bouquets.
Medicinally, Buphthalmum odorum Schousb. has been used for centuries for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. It has traditionally been used as a treatment for eye infections and other eye-related conditions, such as styes and conjunctivitis. The plant is also used to treat respiratory ailments, such as asthma, bronchitis, and coughs. It has a calming effect on the respiratory system and can help to reduce inflammation in the lungs.
In addition to its medicinal properties, Buphthalmum odorum Schousb. has also been used in food and drink. The plant's leaves have a sweet flavor and can be used as a natural sweetener. They are often added to teas and herbal infusions for their health benefits and pleasant taste.
Light Requirements
Buphthalmum odorum Schousb. or Oxeye daisy is commonly found in open fields with full sun exposure. Therefore, it requires full sun to grow. The plant can tolerate a slight shade, but it is not suitable for the overall growth of the plant and may cause stunted growth or abnormal development.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species prefers to grow in moderate temperatures, but it can withstand chilly weather conditions. It is not frost sensitive and can withstand cold temperatures as low as -10°C. However, during a heatwave, the plant needs to be watered frequently to avoid water stress and heat damage.
Soil Requirements
Buphthalmum odorum Schousb. grows best in loamy soil with good drainage. It doesn't do well in waterlogged soils, which leads to root rot and weak growth. The soil pH should range between 6.0-7.5, which is slightly acidic to the slightly alkaline soil. The plant is capable of tolerating poor soil conditions, but it won't produce the maximum amount of blossoms at that point.
Cultivation
Buphthalmum odorum Schousb. prefers full sunlight and well-draining soil. It grows well in sandy or loamy soils and can tolerate slightly acidic to neutral pH. The plant is hardy and can withstand cold temperatures up to -10°C. It can be grown in containers or directly in the ground.
Watering Needs
Buphthalmum odorum Schousb. needs regular watering during the growing season to keep the soil moist. However, it does not tolerate waterlogged soil, so water only when the topsoil feels dry to the touch. In winter, reduce watering to once a month as the plant goes dormant.
Fertilization
Buphthalmum odorum Schousb. does not require heavy fertilization. An annual application of compost or organic fertilizer in the spring is sufficient. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers that promote green growth at the expense of flowers.
Pruning
Buphthalmum odorum Schousb. benefits from pruning to maintain its shape and promote bushy growth. Prune the plant back in early spring before new growth emerges. Cut back the stems to about a third of their length, taking care to make the cuts just above a node. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage additional blooms.
Propagation of Buphthalmum odorum Schousb.
Buphthalmum odorum Schousb. can be propagated through four methods: seeds, division, cuttings, and layering.
Seeds
The seeds of Buphthalmum odorum Schousb. can be collected in the fall, or early spring once they have matured. The seeds must be sown in the spring, between March and May. Start by preparing seed beds in full sun with well-drained loamy soil. The seed should be covered with a thin layer of soil and kept moist until germination, which usually occurs within 2-3 weeks. Seedlings should be spaced out about 30 cm apart.
Division
The plant can be propagated through division, during the fall or early spring. Start by digging up the plant, and gently separate the roots and shoots. Each piece should have both roots and shoots. Replant the divisions in pots or directly in the ground, ideally in full sun and in moist soil.
Cuttings
Cuttings can be taken from lateral shoots in early summer. Cuttings should be 10 cm long, and dipped in rooting hormone. The cuttings must be placed in a well-draining propagation mix. Cover with a clear plastic bag and place in a bright but cool location. Keep the soil moist and mist the cuttings every day until growth appears. Once growth appears, discard the plastic bag and transplant the cuttings into larger pots or directly into the ground.
Layering
Buphthalmum odorum Schousb. can also be propagated through layering in early spring. Select healthy shoots that are close to the ground, and gently scrape the bark in the middle of the stem. Dust the area with rooting hormone and bend the stem to the ground, burying the scraped area with soil. Place a small stone on top of the area to keep it covered and moist, and wait for rooting to occur. This usually takes about 3-4 weeks. Once rooted, cut the new plant away from the parent plant and transplant it into a pot or directly into the ground.
Disease and Pest Management for Buphthalmum odorum Schousb.
Buphthalmum odorum Schousb., also known as yellow oxeye, is a herbaceous perennial plant that is native to Europe. It is commonly grown in gardens and landscapes for its attractive yellow flowers. However, like all plants, Buphthalmum odorum Schousb. is susceptible to several diseases and pests that can cause significant damage. Below are some of the common diseases and pests that affect Buphthalmum odorum Schousb. and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of Buphthalmum odorum Schousb. Infected plants may have stunted growth and reduced flowering. To manage powdery mildew, remove the affected plant parts, improve air circulation around the plant, and spray with a fungicide.
Crown Rot: Crown rot is a fungal disease that affects the base of the plant, causing the stem to wilt and decay. Infected plants may die if left untreated. To manage crown rot, remove the infected plant and surrounding soil, improve soil drainage, and avoid overwatering.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the leaves and stems of Buphthalmum odorum Schousb. Infected plants may have stunted growth and distorted leaves. To manage aphids, remove the affected plant parts, use a strong jet of water to wash them off, or spray with insecticidal soap.
Slugs and Snails: Slugs and snails are common pests that feed on the leaves and flowers of Buphthalmum odorum Schousb. Infected plants may have ragged holes in the leaves and damaged flowers. To manage slugs and snails, use physical barriers such as copper tape or crushed eggshells, handpick them off the plants, or use an organic slug bait.
By implementing the above disease and pest management practices, you can help ensure the health and longevity of your Buphthalmum odorum Schousb. plants. Regular inspection and prompt action are key to preventing and managing pest and disease issues.
