Overview and Origin
Dicoma thuliniana S.Ortiz & Rodr.Oubiña & Mesfin is a species of flowering plant in the family Compositae. It is native to Ethiopia and only grows in a few locations in the country, particularly in the high-altitude Afroalpine and Afromontane regions. The plant was first discovered by scientists in 1998 and was named after Professor Anders Thulin, a renowned Swedish botanist.
Common Names
Dicoma thuliniana is commonly known as the Ethiopian Dicoma and is referred to as "Dinkoro" in the Gamo-Gofa-Dawro language, a local dialect spoken by some communities in Ethiopia. There are few other common names for this plant because of its limited distribution and habitat.
Appearance
Dicoma thuliniana has a compact growth habit, with stems that grow to about 15-20 centimeters in height. The leaves are alternate, dark green, and glabrous, with a slightly toothed and lanceolate shape. The plant produces small, yellow flowers that grow in clusters. The fruits are achenes that are ovate in shape and about 2-3 millimeters long. They are attached to a pappus that is about 4-5 millimeters long.
Uses
Dicoma thuliniana is used in traditional medicine in Ethiopia for the treatment of various ailments, including diarrhea, stomachaches, and stomach ulcers. Its roots and leaves are boiled and prepared as a decoction for use in such treatments. The plant is also used as fodder for livestock in the high-altitude areas where it grows. In addition, Dicoma thuliniana has potential commercial value for use in the development of new anti-inflammatory drugs and as a natural dye in the textile industry.
Light requirements
Dicoma thuliniana S.Ortiz & Rodr.Oubiña & Mesfin prefers full sunlight for optimum growth and flowering. It can tolerate partial shade, but the plant may become less compact and have reduced flowering.
Temperature requirements
The plant is adapted to grow in arid and semi-arid regions, and can withstand a wide range of temperatures. The optimal temperature range for Dicoma thuliniana S.Ortiz & Rodr.Oubiña & Mesfin growth is between 15°C and 25°C. However, it can tolerate temperatures as low as -5°C and as high as 35°C.
Soil requirements
Dicoma thuliniana S.Ortiz & Rodr.Oubiña & Mesfin requires well-draining soil with a sandy or loamy texture. It can tolerate slightly acidic to alkaline soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 8.0. The plant is adapted to grow in nutrient-poor soils and can tolerate drought conditions. However, it grows best in soils that have been enriched with organic matter and in regions with moderate rainfall.
Cultivation Methods
Dicoma thuliniana S.Ortiz & Rodr.Oubiña & Mesfin is a hardy perennial plant that can survive in a broad range of soil types and climatic conditions. It grows best in areas with full exposure to sunlight and well-drained soils. The plant can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, or division of mature plant clusters. It is recommended to plant it in spring, after the last frost has passed. The optimal planting distance between plants is at least 30 cm.
Watering Needs
Watering is crucial during the early stages of the plant's growth. The plant requires regular watering until it is fully established. Once established, Dicoma thuliniana S.Ortiz & Rodr.Oubiña & Mesfin can tolerate periods of drought. It is important to note that overwatering can lead to waterlogged soil, which can cause root rot.
Fertilization
Dicoma thuliniana S.Ortiz & Rodr.Oubiña & Mesfin is a low maintenance plant that does not require frequent fertilization. It grows satisfactorily in soils with adequate organic matter. However, if the plant shows signs of stunted growth or yellowing leaves, a balanced fertilizer can be applied during the growing season. It is essential to avoid over-fertilization, as it can burn the plant's roots.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Dicoma thuliniana S.Ortiz & Rodr.Oubiña & Mesfin. However, occasional maintenance pruning can be done to remove dead or damaged leaves or to shape the plant. The best time for pruning is during the plant's dormant period, which is usually in the winter. When pruning, use clean and sharp pruning tools to avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation methods for Dicoma thuliniana
Dicoma thuliniana is a perennial plant that produces showy purple-pink flowers and has a typical height of 30-45cm when mature. The plant has a wide distribution in Ethiopia and other African countries. Proper propagation techniques can help maintain and expand the plant population. The following are the most widely used propagation methods for Dicoma thuliniana.
Seeds propagation
Seeds are the most common method of propagation for Dicoma thuliniana. The fresh seeds are usually collected from the plant after blooming and dried in cool, well-ventilated places. After drying, the seeds should be stored in air-tight containers to prevent moisture from damaging them. The seeds are then sowed in seedbeds filled with well-prepared soil. Covering the seedbeds with plastic or providing shade helps to maintain appropriate moisture levels for the seeds. Germination occurs within 10-15 days, and seedlings can be transplanted after six months when they have developed enough root systems.
Cutting propagation
Cutting propagation is a viable method, especially when there are no available seeds. The cuttings are usually taken from healthy and mature plants during the active growing season. The cuttings should be about 10cm long. The lower leaves are then trimmed off, and the cuttings are placed in plastic bags with a little water to prevent them from drying out. The cuttings are inserted into a rooting hormone and planted in well-mixed soil. The containers should then be covered with plastic to keep the soil moist and maintain high humidity levels. The cuttings generally root in 3-4 weeks and can be transplanted once they have established a strong root system.
Division propagation
Propagation through plant division is not a common method for Dicoma thuliniana, but it is viable. Only mature and well-grown plants that are quite large can be subjected to plant division. The plants are dug out and separated into several small plant sections, with each section having a portion of the root system intact. The small plant sections can then be transplanted into well-prepared soil at appropriate intervals for the best growth of each division.
Proper care and attention should be given to the propagated plants to improve survival rates, and they should be watered and fertilized as needed. Also, it is critical to keep the soil moist by mulching. The propagated Dicoma thuliniana plants will grow and blossom blooms after their reproductive maturity period.
Disease and Pest Management for Dicoma thuliniana S.Ortiz & Rodr.Oubiña & Mesfin
Being a wild plant species, Dicoma thuliniana S.Ortiz & Rodr.Oubiña & Mesfin can be vulnerable to some diseases and pests. Here are some common problems that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
One of the common diseases affecting Dicoma thuliniana is powdery mildew. This fungal infection appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. It can weaken the plant and reduce its vigor. To manage powdery mildew, you can apply a foliar spray of neem oil, baking soda solution, or sulfur-based fungicides. Proper plant spacing and good air circulation can also help prevent powdery mildew from happening.
Another disease that can affect Dicoma thuliniana is leaf spot. This bacterial or fungal infection shows as small, dark spots on the leaves, eventually leading to their yellowing and dying. To manage leaf spot, remove and destroy the infected leaves, and avoid overhead watering. You can also apply copper-based fungicides or other appropriate materials to control the disease.
Pests
One of the common pests that prey on Dicoma thuliniana is aphids. These small insects suck sap from the plant, causing it to wilt and deform. To manage aphids, you can spray the plant with a mixture of water and dish soap, or use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Ladybugs, lacewings, and other beneficial insects can also help control aphids.
Another pest that can attack Dicoma thuliniana is spider mites. These tiny arachnids cause yellowing, stunted growth, and webbing on the plant. To manage spider mites, you can remove and destroy the affected leaves, or use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or other miticidal treatments. Increasing humidity and reducing dust can also help prevent spider mites.
Overall, maintaining good plant health by providing sufficient water, nutrients, and sunlight, as well as monitoring for and promptly addressing any issues, can go a long way in keeping Dicoma thuliniana healthy and thriving.
