Overview
Dichrocephala bicolor (Roth) Schltdl. is commonly known as the False Chamomile due to its similarities with the Chamomile plant. This plant belongs to the Asteraceae family and is native to tropical and sub-tropical regions of the Americas.Appearance
Dichrocephala bicolor is a herbaceous plant that can grow up to 1m in height. Its stem is green, hairy, and branched, with leaves that are ovate to elliptical, and have toothed margins. Its flowers are yellow with a brown center, similar in appearance to a daisy, and can bloom throughout the year.Uses
Dichrocephala bicolor has several medicinal properties and has been traditionally used to treat various ailments. It has anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties, making it useful in treating urinary tract infections and digestive problems. Its leaves and flowers have also been used to reduce fever and alleviate cold symptoms. Additionally, it has been used in traditional medicine to treat skin conditions, like eczema and dermatitis.Cultivation
Dichrocephala bicolor is easy to cultivate and is commonly grown in gardens as an ornamental plant. It prefers well-drained soil and a sunny location, but can also grow in partial shade. It can be propagated by seed or by stem cuttings and does well in tropical and sub-tropical climates with temperatures above 10°C. It can also be grown as a potted plant, making it a great addition to indoor gardens.Light Requirements
Dichrocephala bicolor plant requires bright but indirect sunlight. It should be provided with around 4-5 hours of sunlight every day. Direct sunlight can harm the plant and cause the leaves to wilt or scorch. Therefore, it is advisable to keep the plant in a partially shaded area to avoid any damage.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature for the growth of Dichrocephala bicolor ranges between 20-30°C. The plant cannot tolerate extreme temperatures and may not survive in harsh conditions. It is best to keep the plant indoors, away from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight.
Soil Requirements
Dichrocephala bicolor plant requires well-draining soil with a neutral pH. It is preferable to use loamy soil mixed with sand or perlite to enhance the drainage system. The plant can thrive in both acidic and alkaline soil, but the ideal pH range should be between 6.5-7.5. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged, as overwatering may cause root rot, affecting plant growth and health.
Cultivation Method for Dichrocephala bicolor (Roth) Schltdl.
Dichrocephala bicolor, commonly known as false arnica, belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is native to South America and is commonly cultivated as a landscape plant in warmer regions. To cultivate Dichrocephala bicolor, you need to follow the below steps:
- Choose a sunny location for planting.
- Prepare the soil by mixing compost and sand into it.
- Plant the Dichrocephala bicolor seedlings or seeds in spring.
- Keep the plants approximately 14 inches apart from each other.
- Once the plant is established, it can tolerate partial shade as well.
Watering Needs for Dichrocephala bicolor (Roth) Schltdl.
Dichrocephala bicolor requires frequent watering, especially during the summer season. However, it would help if you avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot. Here are some tips to follow:
- Water the plant deeply at least once a week.
- During the summer season, water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to touch.
- It would help if you watered the plant less during the winter season.
Fertilization for Dichrocephala bicolor (Roth) Schltdl.
Fertilization is essential for the healthy growth of Dichrocephala bicolor. You can use a balanced fertilizer to feed the plant. Here are some guidelines:
- Apply fertilizer in early spring when new growth starts appearing.
- Repeat the application every four weeks until early summer.
- Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10
- Alternatively, you can use compost as a natural fertilizer.
Pruning for Dichrocephala bicolor (Roth) Schltdl.
Pruning is necessary to maintain the shape and size of Dichrocephala bicolor. You can also use this time to remove any dead or diseased parts of the plant. Follow these guidelines:
- Prune the plant during the late winter or early spring season.
- Use sharp and clean pruning shears to make cuts.
- Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged stems and leaves.
- Cut back one-third of the old stems to stimulate new growth.
- To control the size, cut back the stems as needed.
Propagation of Dichrocephala bicolor
Dichrocephala bicolor (Roth) Schltdl. is commonly known as the Chinese marshflower. It is a fast-growing and hardy plant that is easy to propagate. Here are the various propagation methods:
Seed propagation
The easiest and most common method of propagating Dichrocephala bicolor is through seeds. Sow the seeds in well-draining soil and maintain a temperature of 22-25°C. Seeds germinate within 7-10 days.
Division
Another method of propagating Dichrocephala bicolor is through division. This method is most suitable for mature plants. Lift the plant from the ground and gently divide its roots into smaller sections. Plant each section in a new pot or in the ground, and water daily.
Cutting propagation
Dichrocephala bicolor can also be propagated by stem cuttings. Cut the stem at a 45-degree angle, and dip the bottom of the cutting in rooting hormone powder. Plant the cutting in well-draining soil, and keep the soil moist. It will take around 6-8 weeks for the cutting to root and start growing.
Grafting
Grafting is not a common method of propagating Dichrocephala bicolor. However, it can be done by joining two plant parts together. Grafting is typically done between two plants of the same species, and it requires precision and expertise.
Disease Management
Dichrocephala bicolor is relatively resistant to most diseases, but it can still suffer from some fungal and bacterial infections. Here are the most common diseases that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Leaf spots
If you notice small, water-soaked spots on the leaves that later turn brown, it might be a sign of a fungal infection. To prevent it, avoid overhead watering, remove diseased leaves promptly, and apply a fungicide following the instructions on the package.
Stem rot
A white, fuzzy mold that develops on damaged stems might indicate stem rot, a fungal disease that can cause the plant to wilt and eventually die. To prevent it, avoid overwatering, provide good ventilation, and remove the affected areas immediately. Apply a fungicide if necessary.
Bacterial wilt
Bacterial wilt can cause sudden wilting and death of the plant, without any visible signs of fungal growth. Unfortunately, there is no cure for bacterial wilt, and the affected plant should be removed and destroyed to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Dichrocephala bicolor is not usually bothered by pests, but it can fall victim to some insects that feed on it. Here are the most common pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Aphids
If you notice sticky honeydew on the leaves and small, soft-bodied insects clustering on the stems and buds, it might be a sign of aphids. To control them, spray the plant with a jet of water to dislodge the insects, prune heavily infested areas, and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary.
Whiteflies
If you notice small, white insects that fly off in a cloud when you disturb the plant, it might be a sign of whiteflies. To control them, vacuum the insects off the leaves, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil, or introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings.
Caterpillars
If you notice large holes in the leaves and droppings on the ground, it might be a sign of caterpillars feeding on the plant. To control them, remove the caterpillars by hand, use a biological insecticide containing Bacillus thuringiensis, or introduce natural predators such as birds or parasitic wasps.
