Origin
Eremophila willsii is a flowering plant species that belongs to the family Scrophulariaceae. It is an Australian native plant and is widely distributed across mainly arid to semi-arid regions of western and central Australia.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as "Wills' Eremophila" or "Two-Leaf Eremophila".
Appearance
Eremophila willsii is a small shrub that grows up to 1.5 meters in height. The plant has two types of leaves: oval-shaped leaves which are about 1 cm long and needle-shaped leaves which are approximately 3 cm long. The leaves are dark green and have a waxy texture. The flowers of Eremophila willsii are tubular-shaped and have a reddish-brown color. They bloom between April and September.
Uses
The plant has been traditionally used by Indigenous Australians for medicinal purposes. The leaves of Eremophila willsii were used to treat coughs, colds, and sore throats. The plant also has ornamental value and is used as a garden plant due to its unique foliage and flowers.
Light Requirements
Eremophila willsii requires full sun exposure for optimal growth and flowering, making it an excellent addition to xeriscapes. It can tolerate partial shade, but flowering may be less when grown in such conditions.
Temperature Requirements
Eremophila willsii is native to arid regions and requires warm temperatures for optimal growth. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F (-7°C) but may suffer damage below that. During the summer, it can tolerate extremely high temperatures and drought conditions.
Soil Requirements
Eremophila willsii prefers sandy or gravelly, well-draining soil with a slightly alkaline to neutral pH. It cannot tolerate poorly drained, heavy soils as they can lead to root rot and other diseases. Amending the soil with organic matter such as compost can help improve soil structure and nutrient content.
Cultivation of Eremophila willsii
Eremophila willsii is native to the desert areas of Western Australia. The plant prefers a warm and dry climate with well-draining soil. It does not tolerate frost or humid conditions. If the area you live in has high humidity, it is advisable to grow the plant in a pot instead of the ground
Watering Needs
The Eremophila willsii plant requires minimal watering. In the summer season, watering the plant once a week is sufficient. During the winter season, water the plant only once a month. Overwatering can cause root rot, so make sure the soil is dry to the touch before watering.
Fertilization
Eremophila willsii does not require fertilizer; however, a general-purpose fertilizer during the spring season can help promote growth. Use a low phosphorus fertilizer as high phosphorus levels can cause root damage.
Pruning
Eremophila willsii does not require extensive pruning unless the plant becomes overgrown. Pruning can be done in the early spring season by removing any dead wood, and trimming the tips of any excessive growth. To promote bushy growth, prune just above a leaf node.
Propagation of Eremophila willsii
Eremophila willsii is a beautiful flowering plant that can be propagated using several methods such as:
1. Seed Propagation
The easiest and the most common method of propagating Eremophila willsii is through seeds. The seeds can be collected from the plant during the late summer or early autumn and sowed in soil in late spring. The seeds should be placed in a well-draining soil mix and covered with a thin layer of sand. The seeds should be kept moist, and the soil temperature should be kept between 20-30 degrees Celsius. Germination of seeds typically occurs within two to four weeks.
2. Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation is another effective method of propagating Eremophila willsii. The process involves taking cuttings from the plant during summer or early autumn. Take cuttings of about 10cm in length, removing the leaves from the lower one-third of each cutting and dipping it in rooting hormone. Plant the cuttings in a well-draining soil mix and water regularly. Additionally, it is ideal to provide warmth and humidity to the cuttings by covering them with plastic or placing them in a greenhouse. Roots will form within four to six weeks, and the cuttings can then be transferred to individual pots.
3. Layering Propagation
Propagation of Eremophila willsii through layering is a simple and effective method. In this process, a low branch of the plant is bent down to the ground and covered partially with soil. The branch is held down with a wire or peg, and the root system develops where the plant touches the soil. Once the roots have developed, the branch can be cut and planted in a well-draining soil mix. Layering propagation is useful to start new plants with a larger size and an established root system.
Overall, these are three of the most common propagation methods for Eremophila willsii. It is essential to maintain a moist soil environment and provide ample light for the best results.
Disease and Pest Management for Eremophila willsii
Eremophila willsii, commonly known as the Turquoise Emu Bush, is a hardy plant that can tolerate drought and extreme weather conditions. However, like any other plant, it is susceptible to various pests and diseases. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and how to manage them:
Diseases
Phytophthora root rot: This fungal disease thrives in wet soils and can cause the plant to wilt and eventually die. To manage this disease, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering. Remove any infected plants and debris from the garden and treat the soil with a fungicide.
Crown Rot: This bacterial disease attacks the base of the plant, causing it to rot. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering the plant and ensure it has proper drainage. Remove any infected plants and treat the soil with a fungicide.
Bacterial Leaf Spot: This disease causes circular, water-soaked spots on the leaves, which may turn yellow and then brown. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves and avoid overhead watering. Treat the plant with a copper-based fungicide.
Pests
Whiteflies: These pale insects are usually found on the undersides of the leaves and suck the sap out of the plant, causing it to weaken and eventually die. To manage whiteflies, use a homemade insecticidal soap or neem oil to reduce the population, or release beneficial insects such as ladybugs to prey on them.
Aphids: These tiny, soft-bodied insects feed on the sap of the plant, causing stunted growth and distorted leaves. To manage aphids, use a strong jet of water to dislodge them from the plant, or release beneficial insects like lacewings or parasitic wasps to prey on them.
Caterpillars: These voracious eaters can quickly defoliate a plant if not managed. To manage caterpillars, handpick them from the plant and remove them, or use a biological control agent like Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) to kill them.
By taking preventive measures like keeping the plant healthy and minimizing stress, and keeping an eye out for signs of disease or pest infestations, you can minimize the risk of damage to your Eremophila willsii plant.
