Origin and Common Names
Chrysanthemoides monilifera (L.) Norl. subsp. septentrionalis Norl. is commonly known as Bitou Bush or Boneseed. This invasive plant species is native to South Africa but has spread across many countries, including Australia, New Zealand, and Europe.
General Appearance
Bitou Bush is a dense, shrubby plant that grows up to two meters tall. It has succulent green leaves that are oval-shaped and leathery, measuring between 2-12 cm long and 1-5 cm wide. The plant produces yellow, daisy-like flowers between May and October, which are about 2.5 cm in diameter, and the seeds are small, hard, and black in color.
Uses
The Bitou Bush is an invasive species that threatens the biodiversity of the native habitats where it grows. It displaces other plants and reduces the food and habitat available for native animals. Despite being an aggressive invader, the plant has some beneficial uses. The flowers are used to make a yellow dye for textiles, and the oil extracted from the seeds is used in Insecticides and medicines. The plant contains several chemical compounds that have antibacterial properties. In addition, the foliage of the plant is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscaping. However, it should be noted that choosing invasive species for ornamental purposes could lead to their rapid spread in the natural environment.
Light Requirements
Chrysanthemoides monilifera subsp. septentrionalis typically grows well in full sunlight but can also tolerate partial shade. However, insufficient light can lead to reduced growth and flowering.
Temperature Requirements
Chrysanthemoides monilifera subsp. septentrionalis is native to southern Africa and is well adapted to a range of temperatures. Typically, it grows best in temperatures between 10°C and 25°C (50°F and 77°F). Extreme cold can cause damage to the plant, and during hot summers, it may experience periods of dormancy.
Soil Requirements
Chrysanthemoides monilifera subsp. septentrionalis can grow in a variety of soil types but prefers well-drained soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. It is drought-tolerant and can withstand dry periods, but excessive moisture can lead to root rot. The plant can also grow well in sandy soils and is tolerant of saline and alkaline conditions.
Cultivation Methods for Chrysanthemoides monilifera subsp. septentrionalis
Chrysanthemoides monilifera subsp. septentrionalis is commonly known as the Bitou Bush. It is a tough evergreen shrub that can grow up to three meters high and spreads to two meters wide. The plant is drought and salt tolerant and can grow in a wide range of soil types, from sandy to clay soil.
The Bitou Bush grows best in full sunlight, but it can tolerate partial shade. It can be propagated from cuttings or seeds. If you are propagating from seeds, sow them in spring or autumn. The cuttings should be taken in late winter or early spring.
Watering Needs for Chrysanthemoides monilifera subsp. septentrionalis
The Bitou Bush is a drought-tolerant plant that requires minimal watering once established. For optimum growth, you should water the plant deeply every two weeks. Ensure that the soil is well-draining and does not get waterlogged. During the hot summer months, you may need to water the plant more frequently to prevent it from drying out.
Fertilization for Chrysanthemoides monilifera subsp. septentrionalis
The Bitou Bush does not require much fertilizer. Apply a slow-release fertilizer during spring or early summer. Avoid applying fertilizer during the dormant winter months. Excessive fertilization can lead to excessive vegetative growth, which can make the plant more susceptible to pests and diseases.
Pruning for Chrysanthemoides monilifera subsp. septentrionalis
Pruning is not necessary for the Bitou Bush. However, if you want to shape the plant or control its size, you can prune it after flowering. Prune the plant using sharp and clean pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant. Remove the dead, diseased, or crossing branches to maintain the plant's health and vigor.
Propagation of Chrysanthemoides monilifera subsp. septentrionalis
Chrysanthemoides monilifera subsp. septentrionalis, commonly known as the Boneseed plant, is propagated through seeds or cuttings.
Propagation through Seeds
Seeds of Boneseed plant are collected in late summer or early autumn. They must be extracted from the mature fruits and dried thoroughly before sowing. Seed treatment methods such as scarification, stratification, or soaking in water can be used to enhance seed germination. After treatment, seeds should be sown in a well-draining seed raising mix and covered lightly with soil. Germination usually takes around 2-3 weeks, and seedlings are ready for transplanting after 6-8 weeks.
Propagation through Cuttings
Softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings of Boneseed plant can be taken in early spring or late summer. The cuttings should have at least 2-3 nodes and preferably measuring 10-15 cm in length. The lower leaves should be removed, and the stem dipped in rooting hormone powder. The cuttings are then inserted into a well-draining propagation mix such as perlite or sand and kept in a humid environment. Rooting takes around 6 to 8 weeks, and the rooted cuttings can be transplanted into a container or directly into the soil.
Disease Management
Chrysanthemoides monilifera subsp. septentrionalis is susceptible to several diseases including rust, leaf spot, and powdery mildew. Rust appears as yellow to brown pustules on the lower leaf surface and can be controlled by applying fungicides. Leaf spot is characterized by small, circular or irregularly-shaped spots on the leaves and can be managed by removing affected plant parts and practicing good sanitation. Powdery mildew appears as a white powdery layer on the leaves and can be mitigated by improving air circulation and reducing humidity.
Pest Management
Several pests can also affect Chrysanthemoides monilifera subsp. septentrionalis, including aphids, mealybugs, and scales. Aphids suck sap from the plant, weakening it and promoting the growth of sooty mold. They can be managed by applying insecticidal soap or neem oil. Mealybugs produce a white, powdery substance on the leaves, and can be controlled by wiping affected leaves with a solution of alcohol and water or insecticidal soap. Scales feed on the plant's sap and produce a sticky substance, attracting ants and promoting fungal growth. They can be managed by removing heavily-infested plant parts or by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
