Introduction
Dicoma aethiopica S.Ortíz & Rodr.Oubiña, also known as the Ethiopian Dicoma, is a species of flowering plant from the family Asteraceae. It is native to Africa, specifically found in Ethiopia, Tanzania, Malawi, and Kenya.Common Names
The plant is known by various common names, including Ethiopian Dicoma, Wild Cotton, African Dicoma, African Daisy, and Fikaieira.General Appearance
Dicoma aethiopica is a perennial plant that grows up to 1.5 meters tall. It has a woody stem that is often branched and covered in numerous hairs. The leaves are alternate, narrow, and long (up to 20 cm) with serrated edges. The flowers are arranged in clusters at the top of the stem and are usually yellow or white in color. The fruits are small, dry, and usually have two or three achenes.Uses
The plant has various medicinal uses such as treating stomach pain, diarrhea, and pneumonia. The leaves are crushed and boiled to make a tea that can be used for treating malaria, diabetes, and respiratory infections. The root extract is used as an aphrodisiac and to treat genital infections. The plant is also used for fencing and livestock fodder. The seeds can be used to produce oil that is used in cooking and soap making. Additionally, the plant is used in the preparation of traditional beer.Light Requirements
Dicoma aethiopica S.Ortíz & Rodr.Oubiña plants can adapt to a wide range of light conditions but prefers partial shade to full sun exposure. In hotter regions, a partial shade environment will benefit the plant more. In contrast, in colder regions, it needs full-sunlight for optimal growth.
Temperature Requirements
Dicoma aethiopica has been known to tolerate a wide range of temperature conditions, including both cool and warm temperatures. However, it grows best in temperatures ranging from 18 to 28 °C. The plant can survive temperatures as low as -7°C and as high as 35°C. The optimal temperature range for this plant is 22-25°C.
Soil Requirements
The soil should be well-drained, with a pH level between 5.5 and 7.5. Dicoma aethiopica is tolerant of a wide range of soil types, but it prefers loamy and sandy soils with excellent drainage properties. Adding organic matter to the soil is beneficial to the plant, promoting better water retention and nutrient absorption.
Cultivation methods for Dicoma aethiopica S.Ortíz & Rodr.Oubiña
Dicoma aethiopica S.Ortíz & Rodr.Oubiña is a perennial herb that requires a warm climate and well-drained soil for growth. The plant prefers full sunlight exposure and requires light shade in hotter regions. It can thrive in a variety of soils, including sandy or loamy soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5.
Propagation can be done through seedlings or cuttings. Seedlings can be sown in pots, which should be placed in a warm and humid place. They must be watered regularly and transplanted when they grow bigger. Cuttings should be taken from the stem and treated with a rooting hormone before being planted.
Watering needs for Dicoma aethiopica S.Ortíz & Rodr.Oubiña
Dicoma aethiopica S.Ortíz & Rodr.Oubiña requires watering once a week during the growing season. The plant requires moderate watering, especially in the summer season. Watering should be done in the early morning or late evening to avoid water evaporation.
It's important to avoid over-watering and waterlogging, which can result in root rot and damage to the plant. The soil should not be too wet or too dry. Touching the soil will give an indication of the moisture level, and the plant should be watered as needed.
Fertilization methods for Dicoma aethiopica S.Ortíz & Rodr.Oubiña
Dicoma aethiopica S.Ortíz & Rodr.Oubiña requires regular fertilization during the growing season to ensure healthy growth and development. Fertilization should be done with organic fertilizers such as compost or manure, or chemical fertilizers based on the soil test results.
Organic fertilizers should be applied once a month, while chemical fertilizers should be applied every two weeks. Dosage should be as recommended by the manufacturer's instructions or a specialist. Excess fertilization can damage the plant, so care should be taken in ensuring that the plant receives the correct quantity.
Pruning methods for Dicoma aethiopica S.Ortíz & Rodr.Oubiña
Pruning Dicoma aethiopica S.Ortíz & Rodr.Oubiña should be done once a year before the growing season commences. The plant should be pruned to remove the yellow or damaged leaves, which can affect the plant's overall growth.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage new growth. If the plant becomes leggy, prune the stems to promote bushier growth. Prune the plant to control growth and prevent the spread of diseases. Wipe pruning shears with an alcohol solution before pruning to avoid spreading diseases.
Propagation of Dicoma aethiopica S.Ortíz & Rodr.Oubiña
Dicoma aethiopica S.Ortíz & Rodr.Oubiña can be propagated by seeds, cuttings, or division.
Seed Propagation
Seeds can be sown directly in the soil or in a nursery bed. The best time to sow the seeds is during the rainy season. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 0.5 cm and kept moist until they germinate, which can take up to two weeks. Once the seedlings have two true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
Propagation by Cuttings
Cuttings can be taken from mature plants. The cuttings should be 10-15 cm long and have at least two nodes. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cutting should be treated with rooting hormone. The cuttings can be planted in a mixture of sand and peat moss and kept moist. Rooting should occur in three to four weeks, and the rooted cuttings can be transplanted into individual pots.
Propagation by Division
Dicoma aethiopica S.Ortíz & Rodr.Oubiña can also be propagated by division. This is best done in the spring or early summer. The plant should be dug up and carefully divided into sections, ensuring that each section has roots and several shoots. The divided sections can then be planted in individual pots or directly into the garden.
Disease and Pest Management for Dicoma aethiopica S.Ortíz & Rodr.Oubiña
Dicoma aethiopica S.Ortíz & Rodr.Oubiña is not known to be highly susceptible to diseases and pests, but it may occasionally be affected by a few of them. Here are some of the most common ones and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Leaf spot: This is a fungal disease that causes circular or irregular spots on the leaves. The spots may be yellow, brown, or black and can merge to form large blotches. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected leaves, avoid overhead watering, and apply a fungicide as directed.
Root rot: This is a fungal disease that affects the roots, causing them to rot and die. It may be caused by poor soil drainage or excessive watering. To manage this disease, ensure proper drainage, avoid overwatering, and apply a fungicide as directed.
Pests
Aphids: These are small insects that suck sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and distorted leaves. To manage them, wash the plant with a strong jet of water, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil, or introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings.
Spider mites: These are tiny pests that feed on the underside of the leaves, causing yellowing and bronzing of the foliage. To manage them, wash the plant with a strong jet of water, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil, or introduce natural predators such as predatory mites or ladybugs.
Cutworms: These are larvae of moth species that feed on the stem of the plants just below the soil surface, causing wilting and death of the plant. To manage them, use collars of paper or cardboard around the stem, apply a biological control such as Bacillus thuringiensis, or handpick them at night when they are active.
With proper care and management, Dicoma aethiopica S.Ortíz & Rodr.Oubiña can be a healthy and attractive addition to any garden.
