Overview
Dischisma ciliatum (P.J.Bergius) Choisy var. ß crassifolium E.Mey. is a native South African plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is a unique plant with a wide range of uses in traditional medicine and as an ornamental plant.
Origin and Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the “Black-eyed Susan” in English and the “Swart-oog Susanna” in Afrikaans. It is native to South Africa and can be found in the Eastern Cape, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga provinces.
General Appearance
The plant grows up to 1m tall and has a woody base and branched stems. The leaves are narrow and lance-shaped, with a dark green color and a leathery texture. The flowers are yellow with a black centre, resembling a daisy, and appear in late summer. The seeds are small and black.
Uses
Dischisma ciliatum has been used in traditional South African medicine to treat various ailments, including respiratory infections, stomach problems, fever, and skin ailments. The plant contains several bioactive compounds with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties.
Aside from its medicinal uses, the Black-eyed Susan is also planted as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes. Its bright yellow flowers add a pop of color to any garden, and its hardiness makes it a popular choice for landscaping projects.
Light Requirements
Dischisma ciliatum var. ß crassifolium requires a good amount of light for optimal growth. It thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions and can tolerate both direct and indirect sunlight. When grown indoors, it is essential to place the plant in an area that receives bright, indirect light.
Temperature Requirements
Dischisma ciliatum var. ß crassifolium prefers moderate temperature conditions. It grows well in temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 °C (59 to 77 °F). It is not tolerant to extreme temperatures and cannot survive in temperatures below 10 °C (50 °F) or above 30 °C (86 °F). When grown indoors, it is important to ensure that the room temperature is consistent.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers sandy, well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It thrives in soils with a pH of between 5.5 and 6.5. The soil should not be too dense, and it should maintain adequate moisture levels without being waterlogged. A good soil mix should consist of peat moss, sand, and perlite. When planting the Dischisma ciliatum var. ß crassifolium, ensure that the soil is loose and well-aerated.
Cultivation Methods
Dischisma ciliatum (P.J.Bergius) Choisy var. ß crassifolium E.Mey., commonly known as the Silver Crassula or Thick-leaved Crassula, can be propagated by stem cuttings, seeds, or leaf cuttings. It needs bright light but prefers indirect sunlight and can thrive in temperatures ranging from 18 to 28°C. It prefers well-draining soil and is best suited for areas where the humidity level is moderate.
Watering Needs
Dischisma ciliatum is not a drought-tolerant plant. It needs regular watering for growth. Water the plant only when the soil dries up completely. The amount of water required depends on the location and humidity level.
Fertilization
The Silver Crassula generally does not require fertilizer. However, if the plant is grown in soil that is not rich in nutrients, you can fertilize it two to three times a year. Use a balanced fertilizer that is recommended for succulents, and follow the dosage instructions carefully. Overfertilizing can damage the plant.
Pruning
Dischisma ciliatum does not require much pruning, but pruning can help to keep it in shape. Prune it during the growing season to remove dead or damaged leaves and stems. Regular pruning also helps to control the size of the plant. Use a sharp, disinfected tool to avoid spreading diseases.
Propagation of Dischisma ciliatum (P.J.Bergius) Choisy var. ß crassifolium E.Mey.
Propagation of Dischisma ciliatum can be done through various methods, including:
Seed propagation
Seeds of Dischisma ciliatum can be collected from mature plants and sown in well-draining soil. The process can be done during the autumn season, and the seeds need to be sown thinly to reduce the risk of clumping. The soil needs to be moist but not waterlogged, and the seedlings should emerge in a few weeks. Once the seedlings are big enough, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the ground.
Vegetative propagation
Dischisma ciliatum can also be propagated through vegetative means, like division and stem cutting. Division can be done by simply digging up the plant and dividing its roots and rhizomes. The portions should have a good root system and a few stems each. These can then be replanted in pre-prepared soil. Stem cutting is another method that involves taking 2-3 inch long stem cuttings and rooting them in a rooting hormone and well-draining soil mixture. Rooting should take place in a couple of weeks, and the new plants can be transplanted after a few months.
Tissue culture
Tissue culture is a relatively uncommon method of propagating Dischisma ciliatum. It involves taking a small piece of the plant, including cells, tissues, or organs, and growing them in a sterile container under controlled conditions. This process ensures that the new plants are identical to the mother plant and can take up relatively less space than the traditional methods. Tissue culture is challenging, requires specific equipment and expertise, and is often done in a laboratory setting.
Disease Management
Dischisma ciliatum (P.J.Bergius) Choisy var. ß crassifolium E.Mey. is susceptible to several diseases that can damage or kill the plant. Some of the common diseases that affect Dischisma ciliatum (P.J.Bergius) Choisy var. ß crassifolium E.Mey. include:
- Leaf spot diseases
- Fungal diseases
To manage leaf spot diseases, ensure that you remove and destroy all infected leaves and debris. Avoid overhead watering, especially in the late evening or at night, as it promotes the spread of fungal diseases. Also, ensure that you keep the plant well-ventilated and avoid overcrowding.
Fungal diseases, on the other hand, can be managed through the use of fungicides. Apply the fungicides early enough during the infection to prevent the spread of the disease. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the application of the fungicide.
Pest Management
Dischisma ciliatum (P.J.Bergius) Choisy var. ß crassifolium E.Mey. is also susceptible to pest infestations that can cause extensive damage to the plant. Some of the common pests that affect Dischisma ciliatum (P.J.Bergius) Choisy var. ß crassifolium E.Mey. include:
- Spider mites
- Whiteflies
- Scale insects
To manage spider mites, use insecticidal soap or oil spray. These sprays smother the pests and remove their protective coating. Additionally, try to increase the humidity around the plant to reduce the population of spider mites.
Whiteflies and scale insects can be managed through the use of sticky traps or by introducing natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings. These natural predators feed on the pests and help to control their populations effectively. Additionally, you can use insecticidal soaps or horticultural oils to remove the pests and their eggs from the plant.
