Overview of Cacalia bipinnata Thunb.
Cacalia bipinnata Thunb., also known as Japanese Indian Plantain or San'ao-huse-kazura in Japanese, is a perennial plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. The plant is native to Japan, Korea, and eastern Siberia. It can grow up to 1 m in height and is usually found in shady areas such as forests, thickets, and along streams.
Appearance of Cacalia bipinnata Thunb.
The plant has a slender and erect stem which is covered with fine hairs. Its leaves are alternate, deeply dissected, and pinnately lobed. The leaf blades are about 5-10 cm long and 4-7 cm wide. The flowers are small and yellowish-green, clustered in flat-topped inflorescences at the tips of the branches. The fruit is a small achene with a tuft of hairs at the tip.
Uses of Cacalia bipinnata Thunb.
Cacalia bipinnata Thunb. has many medicinal properties and has been used in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine for centuries. The plant contains flavonoids, alkaloids, and other bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and anti-bacterial properties. The roots and aerial parts of the plant are used to make a decoction or infusion that is used to treat various health issues such as gastroenteritis, diarrhea, dysentery, and respiratory tract infections. The plant is also used in cosmetics and skincare products due to its antioxidant and anti-aging properties.
Light Requirements
Cacalia bipinnata Thunb. prefers partial shade to full sun for optimal growth. It can tolerate some shade, but excessively low light may lead to poor growth and reduced flowering.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Cacalia bipinnata Thunb. is between 15°C to 25°C. Temperatures below 10°C can damage the plant. It thrives in warm and humid conditions with good air circulation.
Soil Requirements
Cacalia bipinnata Thunb. grows well in well-draining soils with a pH range between 5.5-7.5. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged, and high organic matter content may help enhance growth. Suggestive fertilizers to use include N:P:K in the ratio of 5:10:5 or 5:10:10.
Cultivation methods
Cacalia bipinnata Thunb., commonly known as pauciflora, is a hardy plant that can be cultivated in different types of soil, including well-drained, sandy loam, and clay soils. It can grow in moderately acidic to neutral soil pH levels. The plant prefers full sun but can also grow in partial shade. It can be propagated by seeds or stem cuttings and should be planted in the early spring or fall.
Watering needs
Pauciflora requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. However, it is essential to avoid overwatering, as too much water can make the soil waterlogged and cause root rot. It is recommended to water the plant once per week and increase the frequency during the hot and dry season. The soil should be kept moist but not saturated.
Fertilization
Pauciflora does not require frequent fertilization, and excessive use of fertilizer can damage the plant. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer can be applied during the spring or early summer to aid in growth. Additionally, organic matter such as compost can be added to the soil to improve its fertility and water retention abilities.
Pruning
Pauciflora does not require much pruning, as it has a naturally mounding growth habit. However, if the plant becomes too bushy or leggy, it can be trimmed back in the early spring before new growth appears. It is also recommended to deadhead the flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming throughout the growing season.
Propagation of Cacalia bipinnata Thunb.
Cacalia bipinnata Thunb. is a plant primarily propagated through seeds. Other propagation methods include by dividing the plant's roots, stem cuttings, or layering.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Cacalia bipinnata Thunb. can be directly sown on the planting bed or in seed trays. Sow the seeds at a depth of ¼ inch and provide adequate moisture to ensure proper germination. It takes approximately 2-3 weeks for the seeds to germinate. Once the seedlings have matured, transplant them to their permanent location. Ensure that the soil is well-drained, and the plant receives adequate sunlight and moisture for optimal growth.
Root Division
Cacalia bipinnata Thunb.'s root division method is typically carried out in autumn or spring when the plant is not actively growing. Dig up the plant from the ground and gently remove the soil around the roots. Carefully separate the root clump into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has a viable stem and root structure. Replant the separated sections into their permanent location, and ensure that the soil is well-drained and kept moist for optimal growth.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings of Cacalia bipinnata Thunb. are taken during the plant's active growing season. Cut a section of stem that contains leaf nodes, ensuring that it is healthy and disease-free. Dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone and plant it in moist soil. Ensure that the cutting obtains adequate sunlight and moisture during rooting, and transplant the stem cutting to its permanent location once it has rooted.
Layering
Cacalia bipinnata Thunb.'s layering method is ideal for a mature plant that already has established roots. Choose a healthy and disease-free stem and gently wound it, ensuring that the bark is removed carefully. Cover the wounded section with moist soil and secure it with a stake or anchor. Keep the soil moist and wait for the roots to develop. Once the roots have developed, carefully cut off the rooted section from the parent plant and transplant it to its permanent location.
Disease and pest management for Cacalia bipinnata Thunb.
Cacalia bipinnata Thunb., commonly known as Chinese thoroughwax, is a species of perennial herb that is native to Asia. Although generally resistant to diseases and pests, this plant may sometimes encounter problems that require management to keep the plant healthy.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Cacalia bipinnata Thunb. is powdery mildew. This fungal disease appears as white, powdery spots on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected plant parts and avoid overhead watering. Applying fungicides may also prevent the spread of the disease.
Another disease that may affect Cacalia bipinnata Thunb. is rust. Rust appears as small, reddish-brown pustules on the underside of the leaves and can cause extensive damage to the plant. To manage this disease, remove infected plant parts and dispose of them properly. Applying fungicides may also help to prevent the spread of rust.
Common Pests
Cacalia bipinnata Thunb. may also be affected by several pests. One of the most common pests is aphids. Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant and can cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. To manage aphids, use a strong jet of water to dislodge them from the plant or apply insecticidal soap.
Another pest that may affect Cacalia bipinnata Thunb. is spider mites. These pests are small, spider-like creatures that feed on the plant's sap and can cause discoloration and wilting of leaves. To manage spider mites, remove and destroy infected plant parts and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Finally, slugs and snails may also be a problem for Cacalia bipinnata Thunb. These pests feed on the leaves and flowers of the plant, leaving large holes and causing significant damage. To manage slugs and snails, remove any hiding places near the plant and physically remove the pests by hand. Erecting barriers made of copper or applying slug and snail bait may also help to prevent damage.
