Plant Description:
×Elysitanion aristatum is a hybrid breed commonly known as Lantana or Lantana camara that belongs to the family Verbenaceae. It is a robust evergreen shrub that can grow up to two meters tall and two meters wide. The plant has small oval-shaped dark green leaves, and its flowers are in clusters that bloom in red, yellow, orange, and white colors. The stems of this plant are square-shaped, and when damaged, they emit an unpleasant smell.
Origin:
The Lantana plant is native to Central and South America but has spread widely to various continents, including Asia and Africa. Its commercial value has made it an invasive species that can grow in any soil type and under different weather conditions, making it challenging to eradicate.
Common Names:
The ×Elysitanion aristatum plant has various common names such as lantana, big-sage, wild-sage, shrub-verbena, Spanish-flag, yellow-sage and other native names in different countries.
Uses:
Lantana camara has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. Its leaves, stems, and roots have antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties, making them useful for healing wounds, sores, and fever. The plant attracts bees, butterflies, and birds, making it an essential plant for pollination, and the flowers are also used in perfumes and cosmetics. However, Lantana camara contains toxic compounds that can be harmful to livestock and wildlife, making it necessary to control its growth.
hereLight Requirements
The plant ×Elysitanion aristatum requires full sun to partial shade, with at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. It is best suited for areas with bright and indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight for prolonged periods may result in leaf burn, so it is recommended to provide some shade during the hottest hours of the day.
Temperature Requirements
×Elysitanion aristatum prefers moderate temperatures between 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F) during the day and cooler temperatures around 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F) at night. Frosty conditions should be avoided as this can lead to the death of the plant. It is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 10 to 11.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. The soil should be rich in organic matter, as this plant benefits from nutrient-rich soils. A soil mix containing sand, clay, and perlite improves drainage and helps keep the soil slightly moist but not waterlogged. It grows well in soils that are slightly acidic to neutral.
Cultivation
Plant ×Elysitanion aristatum in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers mildly acidic soils with a pH between 6 and 7. Plant in a location that receives full sun to partial shade, and protect it from strong winds.
Watering Needs
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply and thoroughly once or twice a week, depending on the weather and the soil's moisture level. Avoid overwatering as this plant is susceptible to root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant once a month with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Use a slow-release granular fertilizer or a diluted liquid fertilizer. Make sure not to apply too much fertilizer as it can lead to excessive leaf growth and reduced flowering.
Pruning
Prune the plant before the growing season, typically in late winter or early spring, to encourage branching and bushier growth. Clip back any dead or diseased branches, and remove any crossing or rubbing branches. Pinching back the tips of the branches can also promote fuller growth.
Propagation of ×Elysitanion aristatum (Merr.) Bowden
Propagation is an essential technique for gardeners and farmers to cultivate plants like ×Elysitanion aristatum (Merr.) Bowden. This plant has several propagation methods that include:
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is one of the easiest ways to propagate ×Elysitanion aristatum (Merr.) Bowden. The seeds of the plant should be harvested when they are ripe and stored in a cool, dry place until planting. To facilitate germination, the seeds can be scarified or soaked in water for up to 24 hours before planting. The seeds should be sown in well-drained soil, kept moist, and placed in a partially shaded location until they germinate.
Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings propagation can be done during the active growth period of the plant. The plant's cuttings should be taken from a healthy, mature parent plant, and the cutting should have two or three leaves. The cut end of the cutting should then be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-drained soil mixture. The cutting should be kept moist and warm until roots form.
Division Propagation
Division propagation is done when the plant has reached maturity and has developed multiple stems or clumps. The plant should be dug up, and the root ball needs to be separated into sections, ensuring that each section has a good portion of roots and shoots. The separated sections should be replanted in well-drained soil and kept moist until new growth appears.
Disease and Pest Management for ×Elysitanion aristatum (Merr.) Bowden
While ×Elysitanion aristatum (Merr.) Bowden is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions, it is not immune to pests and diseases. Being a hybrid plant, it inherits a variety of characteristics from its parent plants, both of which are native to the Philippines. Some of the common diseases and pests that may affect this plant are discussed below along with suggestions for their management.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that can affect ×Elysitanion aristatum (Merr.) Bowden is leaf spot. Leaf spot is a fungal disease that can cause brown or black spots on the plant's leaves. These spots can enlarge and merge, leading to premature defoliation of the plant. To prevent leaf spot, ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil, and avoid watering the leaves. Fungicides can also be used to manage leaf spot.
Another common disease is powdery mildew. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that can cause a white powdery coating on the plant's leaves. This can lead to leaf curling and stunted growth. To manage powdery mildew, ensure adequate spacing between plants, provide proper air circulation, and use fungicides.
Common Pests
Aphids are one of the most common pests that can affect ×Elysitanion aristatum (Merr.) Bowden. Aphids are small insects that suck sap from the plant, causing leaf distortion and yellowing. To control aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Ladybugs and lacewings can also help control aphids.
Spider mites are another common pest that can affect the plant. Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the plant's leaves, causing leaves to become yellow and brittle. To control spider mites, regularly spray the plant with water to remove them, and use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Conclusion
Overall, proper management of pests and diseases is crucial for the healthy growth of ×Elysitanion aristatum (Merr.) Bowden. Proper care of the plant, including adequate spacing, proper air circulation, and regular watering, can help prevent many of the common diseases and pests. When necessary, using fungicides and insecticides can also be helpful for managing pests and diseases.
