Overview of Cotula turbinata L.
Cotula turbinata L. is a plant species that belongs to the family Asteraceae, commonly known as the Daisy family. The plant is native to the region of Eastern and Southern Africa and is widely distributed across Botswana, Kenya, Swaziland, South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Zambia
Common Names of Cotula turbinata L.
The plant has several common names including sagewood, mountain daisy, and wild chamomile. In South Africa, it is also known as duiwelbos, meaning 'devil's bush', due to the plant's strong smell and association with witchcraft.
Appearance of Cotula turbinata L.
Cotula turbinata L. is a perennial plant that grows up to 30 cm in height. It has grey-green leaves that are deeply lobed and finely dissected. The flowers are yellow and resemble those of chamomile, with a prominent central disc surrounded by numerous ray florets.
The plant has a strong, pungent, and slightly camphoraceous odor which is reminiscent of sage, thus earning it the common name 'sagewood'.
Uses of Cotula turbinata L.
Cotula turbinata L. has a long history of use in traditional medicine. Dried and crushed leaves and flowers have been used as a poultice to relieve fever and pain, and also applied topically to treat skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
Tea made from the leaves and flowers of the plant is used as a digestive aid, and to relieve menstrual cramps and headaches. The tea is also believed to have a calming effect on the nervous system and is used to treat anxiety and insomnia.
The essential oil extracted from the plant has antifungal, antibacterial, and insecticidal properties, and is used in the cosmetics and perfume industry. The oil is also effective in repelling mosquitoes and other insects, and is therefore used in insect repellent sprays.
Light Requirements
The plant Cotula turbinata L. typically grows in full sun to partial shade, thriving best in areas that receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. However, it will tolerate some shade and can also grow in areas with bright indirect light. Therefore, it is best to place the plant in a location that receives the right amount of light based on the availability.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is known to be drought tolerant and can grow in varying temperature ranges. However, Cotula turbinata L. favors mild to warm weather conditions, as it can withstand temperatures between 50°F (10°C) to 86°F (30°C). The ideal growth temperature for this plant is between 68°F (20°C) to 77°F (25°C). The plant may suffer if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C) or if exposed to frost for more than a few hours.
Soil Requirements
Cotula turbinata L. prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter such as loamy or sandy soil. The soil pH should be neutral or slightly acidic, between 6.0 to 7.0 pH. The plant thrives best in soil with a good nutrient-holding capacity. It is also adaptable to a wide range of soil types, including clay soils, as long as they are well-draining. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged or allowed to dry out completely.
Cultivation Methods
Cotula turbinata L. is a drought-tolerant plant that grows well in full sunlight. The plant thrives in well-drained soil and prefers sandy or loamy soil types. It requires slightly acidic to alkaline soil pH levels ranging from 5.5 to 7.5. The ideal time to plant Cotula turbinata is in the spring or early summer when the soil starts to warm up. The plant can be propagated through seeds or by division.
Watering Needs
Cotula turbinata is adapted to dry conditions and can tolerate drought quite well. However, it still requires regular watering, especially during the first year after planting. Watering should be done deeply to promote root growth and avoid watering more than once a week. Cotula turbinata is susceptible to root rot, so avoid overwatering the plant. Mulching can help to maintain soil moisture and prevent soil evaporation.
Fertilization
Cotula turbinata is a low-maintenance plant and generally does not require excessive fertilization. However, to ensure healthy growth and vibrant flowers, it is recommended to apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring season. Use a slow-release fertilizer with the nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) nutrients in a ratio of 10:10:10 or 20:20:20. Additionally, adding organic matter to the soil can enhance the fertility of the soil and enrich the nutrient content of the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to keep the Cotula turbinata plant tidy and promote healthy new growth. Dead or damaged stems and flowers can be removed at any time to maintain the plant's overall health and cleanliness. As the plant grows, it may become leggy and unruly. To control its shape and size, lightly trim back the stems by a third in the spring season. Avoid pruning more than once a year as the plant may take time to recover from heavy pruning.
Propagation of Cotula turbinata L.
Cotula turbinata L., commonly known as Scented Cotula, is a low-growing perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to South Africa and has a strong aroma resembling camphor or menthol. This plant is usually propagated through seeds, division, or cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds of Cotula turbinata L. can be sown in the spring in well-drained soil with full sun exposure. The seeds should be placed on the soil surface, and a light covering of soil should be added. The soil should be kept moist until germination, which usually takes about 10 to 14 days.
The seedlings should be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden after the danger of frost has passed. Seed-grown plants may take up to two years to mature and start blooming.
Propagation by Division
Division is the easiest and most reliable method of propagating Cotula turbinata L. This method is best performed in the spring or early autumn. To divide the plant, gently lift it from the ground and separate the clumps into individual sections, making sure that each section has roots and stems.
The divided sections can be immediately replanted into the garden or pots with well-draining soil. Provide the newly planted sections with adequate water until they are established and showing new growth.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is a quick and easy way to produce new plants of Cotula turbinata L. This method is best performed in late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Take cuttings from the plant's new growth and ensure that each cutting has at least one node and two leaves.
Dip the bottom end of the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a pot with a well-drained soil mixture. The cuttings should be kept in a warm place with bright indirect light and consistently moist soil. Within two to three weeks, the cuttings should start developing roots and small new leaves.
Once the rooted cuttings develop new growth, they can be transplanted into individual containers or directly into the garden.
Disease Management for Cotula turbinata L.
The Cotula turbinata L. plant can be affected by various diseases, including:
- Root Rot: This fungal disease causes the roots to rot, affecting the plant's ability to absorb water and nutrients. To manage root rot, avoid overwatering, and ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil. If affected, the plant should be removed and destroyed to prevent the spread of the disease to other plants.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease appears as a powdery white substance on the plant's leaves. To manage powdery mildew, remove affected parts of the plant, increase air circulation, and avoid wetting the plant's leaves. Fungicides can also be used as a control measure.
- Leaf Spot: This bacterial disease causes dark spots on the leaves, which may lead to defoliation. Manage leaf spot by removing affected plant parts and using copper-based fungicides.
Pest Management for Cotula turbinata L.
The Cotula turbinata L. plant may also be attacked by pests such as:
- Whiteflies: These tiny, white insects suck sap from the plant, causing yellowing and wilting of leaves. To manage whiteflies, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, and remove any heavily infested plant parts.
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects also feed on the plant's sap, causing curling and stunting of leaves. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil and encourage the presence of natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings.
- Spider Mites: These tiny mites cause yellowing and stippling of leaves, and may spin webs on the plant. To manage spider mites, increase humidity around the plant by misting, prune affected plant parts, and use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
