Origin
Dicoma anomala subsp. cirsioides, also known as the Wild Dicoma, is native to South Africa and can be found growing in the Western Cape Province.
Common Names
The plant is commonly referred to as Wild Dicoma, Harpuisbos, Harpuisrank, or Harpuis by Afrikaans speaking individuals. It is also known by the name Large-leaved Dicoma in English.
Appearance
Dicoma anomala subsp. cirsioides is a small to medium-sized herbaceous plant that can grow up to a height of 1 meter. It has large, lanceolate leaves that are grayish in color and can measure up to 20cm in length and 8cm in width. The plant has a woody stem with branches that can contain small thorns. The flowers are small and grow in clusters at the top of the stem. The plant mostly blooms in spring and summer.
Uses
The leaves of the plant are used to make a herbal infusion that is believed to have medicinal properties. The infusion is commonly used to treat stomach ailments such as diarrhea, stomach cramps, and nausea. The plant is also used in traditional medicine to help treat skin diseases such as eczema and to alleviate symptoms of rheumatism. Dicoma anomala subsp. cirsioides is also used by traditional healers to ward off evil spirits and bad luck.
Dicoma anomala subsp. cirsioides is not commonly grown as an ornamental plant but is sometimes planted in gardens to attract pollinators such as butterflies and bees. The plant can also be used as a natural fence or barrier due to its thorny branches.
Light Requirements
Dicoma anomala Sond. subsp. cirsioides (Harv.) Wild prefers areas with full sunlight exposure. In areas with insufficient sunlight, the plant may grow weaker, with shorter stems, fewer leaves, and smaller flowers. They are commonly found in open fields and on hills with direct access to sunlight.
Temperature Preferences
The plant species Dicoma anomala Sond. subsp. cirsioides (Harv.) Wild prefers moderate temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. The plant may grow slowly in areas with high temperatures ranging from 30 to 35 degrees Celsius; however, intense heat above 35 degrees Celsius will result in the plant experiencing stress or even dying. In cooler temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius, the plant may also experience significant stress as this species is not cold-resistant.
Soil Requirements
Dicoma anomala Sond. subsp. cirsioides (Harv.) Wild grows optimally in well-drained soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. The plant species does not tolerate waterlogging and flooding, and its growth can be stunted or even wilt and die in severe cases. The plant prefers soils with moderate fertility with sufficient organic matter content and a soil depth of at least 30 cm. Additionally, this plant can adapt to a broad range of soil textures, including sandy, loamy, and clayey soils.
Cultivation Methods
Dicoma anomala Sond. subsp. cirsioides (Harv.) Wild can be cultivated in both open fields and containers. It thrives in well-drained soil, with a pH of between 6 and 7.5. The plant requires full sunlight or partial shade to grow optimally. Seeds should be sown in well-prepared soil, and can take up to a month to germinate, depending on conditions.
Watering Needs
The plant requires regular watering, especially during the hot and dry seasons. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged to prevent root rot. In containers, water should be drained to avoid drowning the roots. Irrigation should be done periodically, but caution should be exercised to avoid damaging the plant.
Fertilization
Dicoma anomala Sond. subsp. cirsioides (Harv.) Wild responds well to organic manure, which should be worked into the soil at least twice a year. The plant requires an adequate supply of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium for healthy growth. However, excessive use of chemical fertilizers should be avoided, as this can lead to the accumulation of salts in the soil, which can damage the plant's roots.
Pruning
Pruning is recommended to stimulate bushy growth and increase flower production. Dead flowers or diseased leaves should be removed regularly to prevent the spread of disease and pests. Also, old or overgrown stems should be cut back to encourage new growth. Pruning should be done during the dormant season to minimize damage to the plant.
Propagation of Dicoma anomala Sond. subsp. cirsioides (Harv.) Wild
The Dicoma anomala Sond. subsp. cirsioides (Harv.) Wild is primarily propagated through its seeds. The seeds can be directly sown onto well-drained, sandy soil or in seed trays filled with a mixture of compost and sand. It is important to ensure that the seeds are not planted too deeply as it may affect their germination.
When sowing the seeds directly onto soil, they should be scattered evenly and then covered with a thin layer of soil before watering gently. It is advisable to plant the seeds during the autumn or spring season, as these are the optimal times for germination.
When planting in seed trays, it is important to moisten the mixture of compost and sand before sowing the seeds. The seeds should be sown thinly and then covered with a thin layer of the mixture before watering gently. The trays should be kept in a warm area with optimal sunlight conditions.
Root cuttings can also be used for propagation, but this method is less common. To propagate through root cuttings, a healthy root system is required, which can be divided into small sections. These sections should be planted in a mixture of compost and sand, with the top part just visible above the soil. The soil should be kept moist, and the trays should be kept in a warm area with optimal sunlight conditions.
Disease and Pest Management of Dicoma anomala Sond. subsp. cirsioides (Harv.) Wild
Dicoma anomala Sond. subsp. cirsioides (Harv.) Wild, commonly known as the Mountain Dicoma, is a South African wildflower used for various medicinal purposes. Like any other plant species, it is susceptible to certain pests and diseases that can hamper its growth and development. In this section, we will discuss some of the common diseases and pests that might affect this plant and suggest ways to manage them effectively.
Pest Management
Aphids: These are common pests that suck the sap from the plant leaves, causing them to curl and distort. They also excrete honeydew, which attracts ants and promotes the growth of black sooty mould. To manage aphids, you can blast them off the plant with water or use insecticidal soap. Neem oil or essential oils like peppermint or rosemary can also be effective when used in a diluted form.
Spider mites: These are tiny pests that spin webs on the leaves and suck the plant's sap. To prevent spider mites, you can maintain high humidity around the plant or use a neem oil spray. You can also introduce predatory insects like ladybugs to control their population.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars can chew on the leaves, causing extensive damage. Handpicking them or using Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) is an effective way to manage the caterpillar population.
Disease Management
Fungal infections: Dicoma anomala is susceptible to various fungal infections like powdery mildew, root rot, and leaf spot. To manage these infections, you can use a copper-based fungicide or a neem oil spray. Make sure to avoid overwatering the plant and keep it in well-drained soil.
Bacterial infections: Bacterial infections like bacterial blight and crown rot can cause wilting, yellowing, and death of the plant. To manage bacterial infections, you can use a copper-based fungicide or remove the infected parts of the plant. Make sure to clean your gardening tools regularly to prevent the spread of infection.
Viral infections: Viral infections like mosaic virus can cause mottled leaves and stunted growth. Unfortunately, there is no cure for viral infections, so it's best to prevent them by avoiding contact with infected plants and using disease-free planting material.
By implementing these pest and disease management practices, you can ensure that your Dicoma anomala plant grows healthy and produces beautiful flowers.
