Overview
Dicoma montana Schweick is a flowering plant species found in Tanzania and other African countries. The plant belongs to the Asteraceae family, commonly known as the daisy family. It is a herbaceous plant with a number of medicinal uses and is known by several local names across different regions.
Appearance
Dicoma montana Schweick is a herbaceous and perennial plant that grows up to 1-1.5 meters tall. It has a woody base and a basal rosette of leaves that later turn into a stem with branches at the top. The leaves are simple and typically range from 0.5 to 1.5 meters long, with a width of 2 to 7 cm. The flowers are yellow in color, and the entire plant exudes a faint vanilla scent when crushed.
Common names
Dicoma montana Schweick is known by various common names throughout its native range, including Psyllia, Malulu, Linkutcu, Kalonjombe, and Garevusi. These names are often used regionally as well as for the different uses of the plant.
Uses
Dicoma montana Schweick is used extensively for a number of medicinal purposes. The plant parts, including the roots, leaves, and stems, are used after decoction or boiling, either fresh or dried and crushed. The decoction is believed to cure various ailments, such as stomach problems, coughs, and fever. Local communities also use the leaves and stem as a poultice to ease pain and alleviate skin problems. Apart from its medicinal use, it is also used as a source of food for livestock.
Studies have shown that the plant is rich in different chemical compounds, including flavonoids, tannins, and saponins, which have antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. This has made it a subject of interest in traditional medicine, and ongoing research is exploring its potential use in modern medicine.
Growth Conditions for Dicoma Montana Schweick
Light: Dicoma montana Schweick. typically grows in areas with plenty of direct sunlight. It therefore requires at least six hours of direct sunlight exposure per day to thrive. Insufficient light will lead to stunted growth and poor flowering.
Temperature: This plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures as it is adapted to variable climatic conditions. However, it grows best in temperate climates with a temperature range of 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F).
Soil Requirements: Dicoma montana Schweick. is adapted to well-drained, sandy or loamy soils. It is capable of growing in poor soils like rocky soils but prefers soils rich in nutrients. The ideal soil pH range for this plant is 6.0 to 7.0.
The plant is also adapted to low soil fertility and can thrive in areas with low-nutrient soil. However, it is important to note that the nutrient-poor environment affects the plant’s growth rate adversely.
Water: This plant can survive in regions with rainfall varying between 300mm to 800mm annually. It is however highly adapted to dry regions since it can store water in its leaves and taproots, largely contributing to its ability to survive in arid and semi-arid areas.
Other Growth Conditions: Dicoma montana Schweick. grows best in areas with good air circulation and low humidity levels. Very high humidity levels lead to the development of fungal diseases that can scuttle plant growth if not properly managed. Removing old or damaged plant parts regularly helps to minimize disease incidence, ensuring healthy plant growth.
Cultivation methods
Dicoma montana Schweick., commonly known as the Mountain Dicoma, is a perennial wildflower plant grown in many parts of Africa, particularly in the highlands of the eastern Cape province in South Africa. The plant grows well in warm weather and enjoys unobstructed sunlight. Mountain Dicoma is not sensitive to soil types; it can grow in clay, loam, sand, and heavy soil conditions. This plant is propagated by seeds or cuttings, and both methods are feasible for producing healthy plants.
Watering needs
Mountain Dicoma is moderately drought resistant and can grow in both dry and wet conditions. However, its water requirements differ depending on its growth stage and the prevailing weather conditions. When young seedlings are established, they require frequent watering until the plant grows roots and becomes well established. Afterward, the plant can tolerate dry spells and only requires moderate watering to maintain healthy growth. It's recommended to water the plant about once a week.
Fertilization
Mountain Dicoma rarely requires any fertilizer application since it can survive in poor soils. However, providing nutrients to the plant will help it grow faster and produce more flowers. Conduct a soil test to determine the nutrient deficiency in the soil and apply the recommended fertilizer. The application of organic matter such as compost increases microbial activity in the soil and provides a steady supply of nutrients to the plant. It is essential to apply fertilizer in early spring to promote the growth of new shoots and flowers.
Pruning
The pruning of Mountain Dicoma is not critical to the plant's growth, but it enhances the plant's appearance and encourages more flowers. Pruning is best done after the flowering season to avoid disrupting the plant's development. Use a clean, sharp pruning tool to avoid damaging the plant's branches, and prune off dead, diseased, and damaged parts. Prune mature plants to shape the plant and encourage the growth of new shoots and flowers. Mountain Dicoma can tolerate heavy pruning, and this helps keep the plant healthy and vigorous.
Propagation of Dicoma Montana Schweick.
Dicoma montana Schweick. can be propagated through two primary methods - seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method to propagate Dicoma montana Schweick. Collect seeds from mature plants when the fruits ripen and the seeds are brown. Clean them and spread them out to dry.
Use fine sand or well-draining soil mixed with fine sand to sow the seeds in seedbeds or trays. Plant the seeds shallow, about 3 mm deep, and cover them lightly with a thin layer of sand or soil. Keep the soil moist but not wet to prevent damping off.
The seeds usually take about two weeks to germinate Depending on the species, the ideal temperature range is 15 to 25 °C during the day and 10 to 15 °C at night.
After the seedlings have grown to a height of 3 or 4 cm, they can be transplanted to individual containers or to a permanent place in the garden.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation can be the best method for propagating Dicoma montana Schweick. as cuttings generally root easily, ensuring consistent genetic characteristics of the parent plant in the propagated offspring.
Collect 10-12 cm long semi-hardwood cuttings from a healthy parent plant during the growing season. Cut at a 45-degree angle, and remove the lower leaves carefully.
Dip the cut ends of the cuttings in rooting hormone powder and place in a well-draining medium. Keep the cuttings in a warm, bright, and humid environment. Avoid direct sunlight. Keep the soil moist but not wet. Roots will begin to appear within 2 to 3 weeks.
Once they are rooted, transplant them to individual containers and provide good care, including regular watering and proper fertilization.
Both methods of propagation can ensure a successful and beautiful crop of Dicoma montana Schweick., whether for personal use or commercial purposes.
Disease Management
Dicoma montana Schweick. is generally a healthy plant but may suffer from a few diseases that may affect its growth and yield. Some common diseases that may affect the plant include:
- Leaf spot: The fungus causes small, rounded spots, which may be brown, black, or tan in color. The spots may merge together to form large patches, causing the leaves to die prematurely. To manage this disease, ensure good ventilation and avoid overcrowding of plants. Fungicides can also be applied.
- Phytophthora root rot: This disease is caused by a fungus that attacks the roots, causing them to rot. This may lead to wilting and death of the plant. To prevent this disease, ensure good drainage and avoid overwatering. Applying fungicides may also help to manage the disease.
Pest Management
Dicoma montana Schweick. may also be attacked by pests, which may cause significant damage if not managed. Some common pests that may attack the plant include:
- Cutworms: These pests cut off the seedlings at the soil level, leading to stunted growth or death of the plant. To manage cutworms, uproot any weeds that may serve as their host, and apply insecticides.
- Spider mites: These pests suck the sap from the leaves, leading to a yellowish appearance. To manage spider mites, ensure good air circulation and avoid overcrowding of plants. You can also apply insecticidal soap.
- Aphids: These pests suck sap from the plant, leading to stunted growth and curling of leaves. To manage aphids, introduce beneficial insects such as ladybugs, and spray the plants with insecticidal soap.
