Origin
Cotula cinerea Delile, commonly known as Marocan Chamomile, is a plant species primarily found in North Africa, including Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia. It also occurs in the Iberian Peninsula and Southern France.
Common Names
Aside from Marocan Chamomile, Cotula cinerea Delile is also known by other common names such as Cotula cinerea L., silver Cotula, and silver bush.
Uses
Cotula cinerea Delile is primarily a medicinal herb that has been used throughout history to treat a wide range of ailments. The plant has been found to contain high concentrations of essential oils that possess a range of antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.
Some of the conditions that Cotula cinerea Delile has been used to treat include digestive issues, skin infections, respiratory ailments, and menstrual disorders. The plant has also been used as a natural remedy for anxiety and insomnia.
In addition to its medicinal uses, Cotula cinerea Delile is also prized for its ornamental value. The plant produces attractive silver-grey foliage and yellow daisy-like flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. These features make it an excellent choice for rock gardens, borders, and containers.
General Appearance
Cotula cinerea Delile is a low-growing perennial plant that typically forms mats of silver-grey foliage, measuring 10-15 cm in height. The leaves are small, linear, and finely divided, giving the plant a feathery appearance. The plant's stems are slender and creeping, producing roots at the nodes, which helps it to spread over a wide area.
The plant's yellow daisy-like flowers typically measure 2 cm in diameter and bloom in clusters of up to five flowers. The flowers have a sweet, fruity fragrance and are pollinated by a range of insects, including bees and butterflies.
Overall, Cotula cinerea Delile is an attractive and versatile herb that is valued for its medicinal, ornamental, and ecological benefits.
Light Requirements
Cotula cinerea Delile is a sun-loving plant. It requires full sunlight to thrive and grow properly. It is not suitable for shady areas, and the growth of the plant may decline if it does not receive enough sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Cotula cinerea Delile is between 10°C to 25°C. The plant can tolerate moderate heat but cannot survive in temperatures below 0°C. It is sensitive to frost and may die if exposed to cold weather for an extended period.
Soil Requirements
Cotula cinerea Delile grows well in well-drained soil with good fertility. The pH of the soil should be slightly acidic to neutral (between 6.0 and 7.0). It can grow in different types of soil, including sandy, loamy, or clayey soil. However, the soil should be moist but not waterlogged. It is essential to add organic matter to the soil to improve its fertility and water retention capacity.
Cultivation Methods
Cotula cinerea Delile is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. It can be propagated from seed or division, and prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 5-7.5. It can be grown in full sun or partial shade, and is tolerant of drought and light frost.
Watering Needs
While Cotula cinerea Delile is drought tolerant, it still requires regular watering during the growing season. Water deeply once a week, and ensure the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogged roots. In winter, reduce watering to once a month, or as necessary based on weather conditions.
Fertilization
Cotula cinerea Delile does not require heavy fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth. Do not fertilize during the winter months when growth slows down.
Pruning
Cotula cinerea Delile does not require regular pruning, but can benefit from occasional trimming to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged growth. Prune in late winter or early spring, before new growth appears. Use clean, sharp pruning shears to make clean cuts, and ensure the plant has adequate ventilation and light after pruning.
Propagation of Cotula cinerea Delile
The plant Cotula cinerea Delile can be propagated through various methods including
Seed propagation
Seeds of Cotula cinerea Delile can be sown in seed trays or directly on the ground after the last frost. The seeds need to be covered lightly with soil and kept moist throughout the germination period. Germination typically takes 7-14 days and the seedlings can be transplanted once they have developed their first true leaves.
Division propagation
Cotula cinerea Delile can also be propagated through division. This method involves dividing the plant into smaller pieces that can be replanted to grow new plants. To do this, carefully dig up the plant and separate the clumps into smaller pieces, making sure each piece has roots and shoots.
Cutting propagation
Cotula cinerea Delile can also be propagated through cuttings. Take cuttings from healthy shoots, making sure they have 2-3 nodes. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone powder and plant them in moist soil. Keep the soil moist and warm until the cuttings have rooted and established themselves.
Propagation of Cotula cinerea Delile is relatively easy and can be done by gardeners of all skill levels.
Disease and Pest Management for Cotula cinerea Delile
Cotula cinerea Delile, commonly known as Silver Cotula or Silver Buttons, is a low-growing perennial plant with silvery, thread-like leaves and yellow button-like flowers. This plant is relatively hardy and easy to care for, but it may still be susceptible to a few pests and diseases. Here are some common issues that might affect the plant, along with ways to manage them.
Diseases
Botrytis Blight: This fungal disease can cause browning and dieback of the plant's leaves and buds. It often thrives in cool, damp conditions, particularly in crowded or humid environments. To prevent Botrytis Blight, make sure to provide plenty of air circulation and space around the plant. Avoid overhead watering, and try to water at the base of the plant instead. If the plant is already infected, prune away any affected leaves or flowers and treat with a fungicide.
Root Rot: Overwatering or poorly-draining soil can cause root rot, a condition where the roots become waterlogged and start to die off. This can result in yellowing foliage, wilting, and even complete plant collapse. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and never allow the plant to sit in standing water. Reduce watering if the soil stays consistently moist. If the plant is already infected, repot in fresh, well-draining soil and cut away any damaged roots.
Pests
Mealybugs: These tiny, white insects suck the sap from the plant's leaves and stems, causing yellowing and stunted growth. They often leave behind a white, powdery residue. To control mealybugs, remove any heavily-infested plant parts and treat with an insecticidal soap or oil. You may need to repeat the treatment several times to fully eliminate the pests.
Spider Mites: These tiny, spider-like pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves, as well as the formation of webbing. They thrive in hot, dry environments and can quickly infest a plant. To control spider mites, increase the humidity around the plant by misting or placing it on a pebble tray. You can also treat with insecticidal soap or oil, or try spraying the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge the mites.
By being proactive in preventing and managing these common diseases and pests, you can keep your Cotula cinerea Delile healthy and thriving.
