Description of Cotula pubescens Desf.
Cotula pubescens Desf. is a perennial, herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant is also commonly known as the Golden Buttons, Buttonweed, and Button Daisy. It is a native of northern Africa but has been introduced to various parts of the world, including North and South America, Europe, Asia, and Australia.
General Appearance
Cotula pubescens Desf. is a small plant that usually grows up to 30 cm in height. It has green leaves that are pinnately lobed and toothed with long petioles. The leaves are covered with tiny, silky, and silvery hairs that give them a velvety appearance. The plant produces small yellow or golden-yellow flowers that bloom in spring and summer. The flowers are arranged in button-like clusters, hence its common name "Golden Buttons."
Uses
Cotula pubescens Desf. is used for various purposes, including medicinal, ornamental, and culinary. In traditional medicine, the plant's leaves, stems, and flowers are used to treat digestive disorders, stomach ailments, and respiratory problems. The plant is also used as a natural insecticide and has shown some potential in controlling pests such as aphids and red spider mites.
In landscaping, Cotula pubescens Desf. is grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive appearance and low maintenance requirements. It is commonly used as a ground cover or as an edging plant in rock gardens, patios, and pathways.
The plant is also edible, and its leaves are used as a culinary herb to season and flavor meals. Its distinct aroma and flavor have been described as a blend of oregano, thyme, and chamomile.
Growth Conditions for Cotula Pubescens Desf.
Cotula pubescens Desf. is a low-growing, mat-forming plant that typically thrives in conditions with plenty of full sun. In order to grow and thrive, Cotula pubescens requires a variety of environmental factors that must be carefully provided.
Light Requirements
Cotula pubescens Desf. prefers full sun to partial shade, so it is best to plant it in areas where it will receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. It can also grow well in areas with filtered light if it gets enough direct sun.
Temperature Conditions
The ideal temperature range for Cotula pubescens Desf. is between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. It can tolerate higher temperatures up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, but it will require regular watering and may not thrive in these conditions if the soil is too dry. In colder months, Cotula pubescens Desf. may experience winter dormancy, but it will typically bounce back when the weather warms up again.
Soil Requirements
For optimal growth, Cotula pubescens Desf. requires well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. It is also important to provide soil that is neutral to slightly acidic.
It is recommended to incorporate organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, into the soil to help improve drainage and create a more hospitable environment for the plant. Cotula pubescens Desf. is also highly tolerant of salt and can grow well in coastal areas.
Cultivation methods
Cotula pubescens Desf is commonly grown as a groundcover in rock gardens, rock walls, or as an edging plant. It is a hardy plant and can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions, including drought, poor soil, and full sun.
To cultivate this plant, it is recommended to plant it in spring or fall, in well-drained soil with good organic matter. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, around 6 to 7.
Planting should be done at a spacing of about 10 to 15 cm apart, keeping in mind that the plant will spread over time.
Watering needs
Cotula pubescens Desf. is a drought-tolerant plant and does not require frequent watering. Ensure that the soil is moist, but not waterlogged.
Water the plant deeply, less often, allowing the soil to dry out slightly in between watering. Ensure that the water doesn’t collect in the crown of the plant as this can cause rot.
Fertilization
Fertilization is not necessary for Cotula pubescens Desf. However, if you wish to encourage growth or improve the overall health of the plant, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer, such as a balanced 10-10-10, during early spring. Do not apply too much fertilizer as this can cause the plant to become leggy.
Pruning
Cotula pubescens Desf. is a low-growing plant and does not require pruning. However, if you want to keep the plant tidy or prevent it from spreading too much, you can trim the edges of the plant as needed, or mow the entire plant to a height of about 5 to 8 cm in late winter or early spring.
Propagation of Cotula pubescens Desf.
Cotula pubescens Desf. is a warm-season annual plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family, commonly known as the Tassel Daisy. The plant is propagated mainly through seeds and cuttings. The following are different propagation methods for Cotula pubescens Desf.:
Propagation through Seeds
The easiest way to propagate Cotula pubescens Desf. is through seeds. The seeds of the plant are small, black, and elongated in shape. Seeds should be sown in well-prepared soil in early spring, as soon as the soil has warmed up. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 1/8 inch with a spacing of 4 to 6 inches apart. The soil should be kept moist until the seedlings emerge.
Propagation through Cuttings
Propagation of Cotula pubescens Desf. through cuttings is another method. It involves taking stem cuttings from the plant and planting them in well-drained soil. Before planting the cuttings, they should be dipped in a rooting hormone to encourage root growth. The cuttings should be planted at a depth of 1 inch in the soil, and the soil should be kept moist until the cuttings take root.
Propagation through Vegetative Division
Cotula pubescens Desf. can also be propagated through vegetative division. This method involves dividing the root system of the plant and planting each division in a separate location. The best time to divide Cotula pubescens Desf. is in early spring before the plant starts to grow. Each division should be planted in well-prepared soil and kept moist until the plant becomes established.
Disease Management of Cotula pubescens Desf.
Cotula pubescens Desf. is susceptible to a few diseases that can significantly affect its growth and development. It is essential to recognize the signs and symptoms of the diseases so that appropriate measures can be taken to manage them.
Root Rot
Root rot is a severe disease caused by fungi like Fusarium and Pythium. The infected plants have weak and mushy roots that do not absorb water and nutrients properly, resulting in wilting leaves and plant death. The disease can be managed by providing well-drained soil, avoiding overwatering, and using fungicides.
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is another significant disease of Cotula pubescens Desf., caused by fungi like Phoma and Cercospora. The infected plants have brown or black spots on leaves, which can reduce photosynthesis and stunt the plant's growth. The disease can be managed by removing infected leaves, preventing overcrowding, and applying fungicides.
Pest Management of Cotula pubescens Desf.
Cotula pubescens Desf. can be attacked by various pests that damage foliage or sap important nutrients from the plant. Proper pest management practices can prevent the pest infestation and promote healthy growth.
Aphids
Aphids are tiny, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the leaves, causing stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. Regular inspection and physical control of aphids can reduce infestation. Using neem oil or insecticidal soap is also effective in managing aphid infestations.
Cutworms
Cutworms are caterpillars that feed on the plant's base, causing it to break off and die. To prevent cutworm infestations, remove weeds and debris from the soil, and use barrier rings around the plant base. Applying insecticides can also control cutworms.
