Overview
Cardanthera breviflora (Burkill) Turrill, also known as the Burkill's cardanthera, is a flowering plant species that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to parts of Africa, including Angola, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. The plant is popular due to its medicinal properties and is commonly used in traditional medicine to treat various conditions.
Appearance
The Burkill's cardanthera plant is a small, herbaceous species that grows to a height of about 30 cm. It has deeply lobed and toothed leaves that are arranged in a basal rosette. The leaves are green and measure about 8 cm in length and 6 cm in width. The stems are slender and hairy, with the flowers growing in terminal clusters. The flowers are small, measuring about 1 cm in diameter, and are characterized by their white petals and yellow centers.
Common Names
The Burkill's cardanthera plant is known by various names in different parts of Africa. In Zambia, it is known as ibumba, while in Zimbabwe, it is called umsundu. Its common names also include African daisy, Cape chamomile, and Cape daisy.
Uses
The Burkill's cardanthera plant has various medicinal uses and is commonly used in traditional medicine in Africa. The plant is believed to possess anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making it useful in the treatment of conditions such as rheumatism and arthritis. It is also used to treat digestive problems such as diarrhea, dysentery, and stomachaches. Additionally, the plant is believed to have antimicrobial properties and has been used to treat infections such as pneumonia and tuberculosis. The plant is also cultivated as an ornamental species due to its pretty flowers and is used for landscaping purposes.
Light Requirements
Cardanthera breviflora requires full sun exposure to thrive. The plant should be placed in an area that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day. Insufficient sunlight may lead to stunted growth and poor flowering patterns.
Temperature Requirements
Cardanthera breviflora grows well in warm temperatures ranging between 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. Temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius can cause the plant to enter a dormant state, while temperatures above 35 degrees Celsius may cause the plant to wilt.
Soil Requirements
Cardanthera breviflora prefers well-drained sandy soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH range should be between 6.0 to 7.5. Waterlogged or heavy clay soils are not suitable for the plant as it can lead to root rot or suffocation, respectively. Addition of organic matter like compost or manure helps to improve soil fertility and structure, and aids in water retention.
Cultivation Methods
Cardanthera breviflora is best grown in full sun with well-draining soil. The plant prefers a warm and dry climate and is tolerant of both drought and heat. It is easy to grow, and propagation is possible from seeds or cuttings.
Watering Needs
This plant is relatively drought-resistant, but it still requires regular watering during the growing season, especially in areas with hot and dry climates. Water the plants deeply, but avoid creating a waterlogged environment that can lead to root rot. During the winter months, reduce watering frequency to maintain a dry soil moisture level.
Fertilization
Cardanthera breviflora does not require heavy fertilization; however, providing it with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season can help it thrive. Apply the fertilizer once a month or as recommended on the product label. Over-fertilization can cause foliage growth at the expense of flowering.
Pruning
This plant does not typically require regular pruning. However, you may want to trim it back to control its size and shape if it begins to outgrow its space or becomes unsightly. Pruning after flowering can promote bushier growth and lead to a more profuse bloom the following season.
Propagation of Cardanthera breviflora
Cardanthera breviflora can be propagated through two main methods: seeds and stem cuttings.
Propagation from Seeds
Seeds should be collected from ripe fruits that have already fallen to the ground. Once collected, the seeds should be cleaned and dried before they are stored in a cool, dry place. When ready to propagate, the seeds can be sowed in trays with well-draining soil mixture and watered regularly. Germination can take up to two weeks.
Propagation from Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings should be taken from healthy and mature plants during the growing season. The cuttings should have at least two nodes and be around 10-15cm in length. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone before being planted in well-draining soil mixture. The soil should be kept moist, and the cuttings should be placed in a shaded area until roots are established. This process can take up to six weeks.
Disease Management for Cardanthera breviflora
Cardanthera breviflora is a very hardy plant, and it is not common for it to fall prey to diseases. However, some factors may cause plant infections and diseases. Some of the most known diseases that may affect this plant include root rot, stem rot, and leaf spot.
To manage root and stem rot, it is essential to ensure that you plant the plant in well-draining soil and avoid soil compaction. Overwatering may also cause rot in the roots and stem. Therefore, you must regulate the amount of water provided to the plant.
Leaf spots may also occur on this plant resulting from fungal or bacterial infections. To manage leaf spot infections, it is vital to keep the surrounding environment clean, remove infected leaves, and observe good air circulation around the plant to prevent the spread of diseases.
Pest Management for Cardanthera breviflora
Cardanthera breviflora is relatively pest-resistant. However, some pests may infest the plant, including spider mites, whiteflies, and aphids. Spider mites and whiteflies may cause severe damage to the plant by sucking out sap from the leaves, resulting in significant stress on the plant or even death.
To manage spider mites and whiteflies, you can use insecticidal soap or horticultural oils on the plant's undersides. You can also control pests by introducing natural predators, such as ladybugs and lacewings, into the garden.
Aphids may also infest the plant, causing the leaves to curl and die. You can manage aphids by introducing natural predators, using insecticidal soap or horticultural oils, or by spraying neem oil on the plant.
Regularly inspecting your Cardanthera breviflora plants for pests and diseases and implementing the appropriate measures can prevent damages and promote healthy plant growth.
