Overview of Crepis newii Oliv. & Hiern subsp. greenwayi Babc.
Crepis newii Oliv. & Hiern subsp. greenwayi Babc. is a species of flowering plant in the family Asteraceae. It is commonly called Greenway's hawkweed, New's hawkweed, or Greenway's Crepis. The plant is native to Africa and can be found in Malawi, Tanzania, and Zambia.
Appearance of Crepis newii Oliv. & Hiern subsp. greenwayi Babc.
Crepis newii Oliv. & Hiern subsp. greenwayi Babc. typically grows to a height of 60cm and has slim, upright stems. The plant has a small basal rosette of leaves which measures 10-20cm long and 1.5-4cm across. These leaves are narrowly elliptic and are hairless. The upper leaves are sharply arrow-shaped and clasp the stem. The flower heads of Crepis newii Oliv. & Hiern subsp. greenwayi Babc. are yellow and measure 2-2.5cm across. They appear in flat-topped clusters from July to August.
Uses of Crepis newii Oliv. & Hiern subsp. greenwayi Babc.
Crepis newii Oliv. & Hiern subsp. greenwayi Babc. is used in traditional medicine to treat stomach ailments. The leaves of the plant are also used as a substitute for tobacco. Additionally, the plant is cultivated as an ornamental, due to its attractive yellow flowers. Furthermore, the species of Crepis have potential to study the regulation of senescence in plants, as well as, they can be used as a blue-print for breeding to increase the lifespan of plants.
Growth Conditions for Crepis newii Oliv. & Hiern subsp. greenwayi Babc.
Crepis newii Oliv. & Hiern subsp. greenwayi Babc. is a perennial plant that is typically found in rocky areas and open grasslands. It is important to provide the right growth conditions in order for the plant to thrive.
Light
The plant requires full sun exposure in order to grow and flower abundantly. It is important to place it in a location where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature
The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it does best in areas with a cool to moderate climate. In its native range, it can tolerate temperatures as low as -10°C and as high as 30°C. However, in temperatures above 30°C, the plant may experience heat stress and leaf damage.
Soil
The plant prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including loam, sandy loam, and gravelly soils. However, it is important to avoid soils that are excessively wet or waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot and other related issues.
By providing the right growth conditions, Crepis newii Oliv. & Hiern subsp. greenwayi Babc. can grow and thrive in your garden or landscape. With its beautiful yellow daisy-like flowers, it can add brightness and color to any space.
Cultivation
Crepis newii Oliv. & Hiern subsp. greenwayi Babc., commonly known as Greenway's crepids, is a hardy plant that can grow in different types of soils, including rocky and sandy soils. It is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 6 to 8.
The plant prefers full sunlight to partial shade and well-drained soil. It is essential to choose a suitable location for the plant that receives enough sunlight and is not too exposed to the wind.
You can propagate Greenway's crepids through both seeds and division. However, division is the most preferred method. It is best undertaken in spring when the plant reaches mature size.
Watering Needs
Greenway's crepids requires moderate watering, and it prefers slightly moist, but not waterlogged soil. Consistent watering is essential during the growing season, but it's important to avoid overwatering as it can cause the roots to rot.
During the winter season, reduce the watering frequency to allow the soil to dry out a bit. However, it's crucial to ensure that the soil doesn't go entirely dry.
Fertilization
Greenway's crepids does not require heavy fertilization. It is recommended to fertilize the soil before the growing season begins using an all-purpose fertilizer with balanced nutrients.
If the plant seems to be lacking nutrients, a light feeding with organic compost or a nitrogen-rich fertilizer can be beneficial.
Pruning
The plant does not require much pruning, but you can remove dead or diseased branches and trim back overgrown branches in the early spring. This will promote new growth and improve the overall appearance of the plant.
Prune the spent flowers regularly to promote blooming throughout the growing season. However, leave some flowers towards the end of the season for the plant to self-sow.
Propagation of Crepis newii Oliv. & Hiern subsp. greenwayi Babc.
Crepis newii Oliv. & Hiern subsp. greenwayi Babc. can be propagated both sexually and asexually. Various propagation methods are:
Seed Propagation
The plant produces seeds that can be collected for propagation. Collect the seeds when they are fully matured and dry. Sow the seeds in the soil mix made from nutrient-rich soil and perlite. Ensure that the soil is moistened but drained. Place the container in a warm and partially shaded area. Seed germination may take up to four weeks. Once the seedlings have grown enough to handle, transplant them to individual containers.
Cutting Propagation
Softwood cuttings taken from the parent plant can be rooted in a well-drained rooting medium like peat moss or vermiculite. Cut the stem portion about six inches long and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cut end into rooting hormone and place it into the rooting medium. Ensure that the medium is moist but not soggy. Cover the container with plastic wrap and place it in a shaded area. Roots should form in four to six weeks. Once rooted, propagate them to individual containers or outside.
Division Propagation
The plant can also be propagated by division of rhizomes. Carefully dig up the plant and remove the rhizome portions from the main plant with a clean, sharp knife. Each portion should have at least one growing point with roots attached. Plant each division into nutrient-rich soil in well-drained containers and water it thoroughly.
Propagation of Crepis newii Oliv. & Hiern subsp. greenwayi Babc. can be done in various ways for its propagation. It is relatively easy, and one can choose a suitable method according to their convenience. By following these methods, one can propagate and multiply plants quickly
Disease and Pest Management for Crepis newii Oliv. & Hiern subsp. greenwayi Babc.
Crepis newii Oliv. & Hiern subsp. greenwayi Babc., also known as Greenway's hawkweed, is a resilient plant that is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, there are a few common issues that could affect this plant.
Common Diseases of Crepis newii Oliv. & Hiern subsp. greenwayi Babc.
The most common diseases to affect Greenway's hawkweed are fungal. Powdery mildew is a common fungus that can appear as a white, powdery substance on the leaves of the plant, which can cause yellowing and death of the leaves. Rust is another fungal disease that can affect the plant, causing yellow or brown spots on the leaves.
To prevent fungal diseases, ensure good air circulation around the plant and avoid watering the foliage. Also, remove and destroy infected plant debris.
Common Pests of Crepis newii Oliv. & Hiern subsp. greenwayi Babc.
Crepis newii is rarely affected by pests. However, aphids and spider mites can be found on the plant and can cause damage to the leaves. Aphids suck sap from the plant, causing the leaves to become distorted, while spider mites can cause yellowing and small webs on the leaves.
One way to prevent pests is to keep the plant in good health and ensure it is not stressed. Also, insecticidal soap or neem oil can be used to manage aphids and spider mites.
Crepis newii Oliv. & Hiern subsp. greenwayi Babc. is a beautiful and hardy plant that is generally easy to care for. With proper care and attention, this plant should thrive and be pest and disease-free for years to come.
