Overview
Calendula tripterocarpa Rupr. is a plant species that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is a known herb that is widely recognized for its medicinal properties and its bright yellow and orange flowers that are often used as ornamentals. This plant is native to Central Asia and some parts of Siberia, and it is now commonly cultivated in several countries around the world.
Common Names
This plant is commonly referred to as Siberian marigold, triple-winged marigold or bur marigold. It is also known by its scientific name Calendula tripterocarpa or by its synonyms, Calendula alata and Calendula maritima.
Appearance
Calendula tripterocarpa is a low-lying plant that usually grows up to 10-30 cm in height. It has pale green simple leaves that are alternate and deeply lobed. The flowers are bright yellow or orange in color, and they usually have three wings or elongated sepals that resemble petals. The petals are tubular and grow up to 1-2 cm in diameter. This plant typically blooms from July to September and produces large numbers of small, dry seeds.
Uses
Calendula tripterocarpa has been used in traditional medicine for centuries due to its anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic and analgesic properties. It is believed to help treat several health conditions, including skin irritations, burns, wounds, insect bites, gastrointestinal problems and menstrual disorders. The plant contains several active compounds, including triterpenoids, flavonoids, and carotenoids, which are responsible for its therapeutic effects. Calendula tripterocarpa is also used in cosmetics and personal care products, such as lotions, soaps, and shampoos.
Overall, Calendula tripterocarpa is a versatile plant that has benefits in traditional medicine, cosmetic, and horticultural applications.Growth Conditions of Calendula tripterocarpa Rupr.
Calendula tripterocarpa Rupr. or the Three-winged Marigold is a drought-resistant plant that is native to Central Asia. It belongs to the family Asteraceae and commonly used for medicinal purposes. Proper growth conditions are necessary to cultivate this plant successfully.
Light Requirements
This plant is a sun-loving plant and requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight. Lack of enough sunlight might result in improper growth and low yield. Therefore, it is preferable to plant this species in a location where direct sunlight is available throughout the day. South-facing areas are especially suitable.
Temperature Requirements
Calendula tripterocarpa Rupr. can grow in a variety of temperature ranges, from 15°C to 25°C. However, it can tolerate temperatures as low as -10°C. In areas that experience frost, it is preferable to grow this plant in a greenhouse or indoors during winter.
Soil Requirements
This plant can grow in different types of soils, whether sandy, loamy or clayey, but it requires soil with good drainage. Wet soil will rot the roots, so care should be taken to ensure the soil is well-drained. The ideal pH must be between 6.0 to 7.0. Additionally, the soil must be rich in organic matter to ensure proper growth. Adding compost or manure to the soil is recommended.
Cultivation methods for Calendula tripterocarpa Rupr.
Calendula tripterocarpa Rupr. is a hardy, perennial plant that is relatively easy to cultivate. It prefers well-drained, fertile soil and a full sun position but can tolerate partial shade. It can be grown outdoors in garden beds or containers, from seed or nursery-grown plants. To grow the plants, one should prepare the soil well by adding organic matter, planting either in the spring or fall, and spacing plants approximately 12 to 18 inches apart.
Watering needs for Calendula tripterocarpa Rupr.
Calendula tripterocarpa Rupr. requires deep, regular watering, especially during hot and dry seasons. Watering also helps to stimulate the growth of young plants and produce abundant flowers. A general rule is to ensure that the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged. If the soil feels dry to at least an inch deep, water well. However, overwatering should be avoided to prevent root rot and reduce the risk of fungal diseases. Rainwater or tap water without chlorine is ideal for watering.
Fertilization for Calendula tripterocarpa Rupr.
Calendula tripterocarpa Rupr. grows well in soil that is rich in organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure. However, if the soil is poor or lacking essential nutrients, it may require fertilization. The best time to apply fertilizer is during the growing season, preferably early to mid-spring. Use a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 or 5-10-5 applied in moderate amounts, following the manufacturer's instructions. Over-fertilization can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
Pruning for Calendula tripterocarpa Rupr.
Calendula tripterocarpa Rupr. does not require much pruning, but it can be beneficial to prune back any dead or damaged leaves and flowers regularly. Deadheading, which involves removing spent flowers, can also encourage the plant to produce more blooms and prolong the flowering period. Additionally, pruning back leggy stems and cutting plants back to the ground once flowering has finished can rejuvenate the plant and encourage bushier, more compact growth.
Propagation Methods for Calendula tripterocarpa Rupr.
Calendula tripterocarpa Rupr. is a hardy perennial plant that is characterized by its pretty yellow flowers. Propagation of this plant can occur in several ways. Here are some of the most commonly used methods:
Seed Propagation
Calendula tripterocarpa Rupr. can be propagated through seed. The best time to collect seeds are when the flowers have dried up and the seedheads have turned brown. Once collected, the seeds can be sown directly into the soil. Seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil that has been mixed with compost. They should be covered lightly with soil and should be kept moist until germination.
Cuttings Propagation
An easy way to propagate this plant is through cuttings. Cuttings can be taken from your existing plant and rooted in a nursery pot. Take a cutting of a healthy stem, about 4-6 inches long, and make sure it has several leaves attached to it. Remove the lower leaves and insert the cutting in a soil mix of peat moss and perlite. Water the cutting, put a plastic bag over the top of the pot, and leave it in a bright, indirect light. Once roots develop, new growth will appear at the top and the plant can then be transplanted into the ground.
Division Propagation
The division method of propagation involves digging up a mature plant and then dividing it into several smaller clumps using a sterilized knife or garden shears. Each smaller clump should have a healthy root system and at least one or two stems. Each clump should be replanted in well-draining soil mixed with compost. Water the plant thoroughly after planting and continue to keep the soil moist until the plant is established.
Disease Management
Calendula tripterocarpa Rupr. can be affected by several diseases that can reduce plant health, yield, and quality. Some of the common diseases include:
- Powdery Mildew: This is a fungal disease that appears as white or grayish patches on the leaves and stems. It can reduce photosynthesis, plant growth, and yield. To manage it, apply fungicides such as sulfur or copper-based products. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering as it promotes disease spread.
- Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that appears as yellow, orange, or reddish powdery spots on the leaves and stems. It can cause leaf drop, defoliation, and even death in severe cases. To manage it, remove and destroy infected plant parts and apply fungicides such as neem oil or copper-based products.
- Bacterial Blight: Bacterial blight is a bacterial disease that causes water-soaked lesions on leaves and stems. It can cause stem cankers, wilting, and plant death. To manage it, remove and destroy infected plant parts, avoid overhead watering, and apply copper-based products.
Pest Management
Calendula tripterocarpa Rupr. can be attacked by various pests that can cause damage to the plant. Some of the common pests include:
- Aphids: Aphids are tiny insects that suck plant sap, causing leaf curling, stunted growth, and deformation. To manage them, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, introduce beneficial insects such as ladybugs, and remove severely infected plant parts.
- Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the underside of plant leaves, causing yellowing, mottling, and leaf drop. To manage them, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil, increase humidity around the plant, and introduce predatory mites.
- Cutworms: Cutworms are caterpillars that cut plant stems at soil level, causing young plant death. To manage them, handpick and destroy them, use physical barriers such as collars around the plant stems, and apply Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) insecticide.
