Origin
Erigeron schimperi (Sch.Bip. ex A.Rich.) Sch.Bip. is a plant species that is native to Ethiopia. It grows in the highlands and montane grasslands of the country.
Common Names
Erigeron schimperi is commonly known as Ethiopian Fleabane or Schimper's Fleabane. The name fleabane is given as the plant was traditionally used to repel insects, especially fleas.
Uses
Erigeron schimperi is used in traditional Ethiopian medicine as a remedy for various ailments. The plant has been reported to have antioxidant, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. It is used for the treatment of skin diseases, dysentery, and inflammation. The plant also has a culinary use in which the young leaves are used for seasoning.
General Appearance
Erigeron schimperi is a herbaceous perennial plant that grows up to 60cm tall. It has stems that are branched at the top and covered with fine hairs. The leaves are alternate, lanceolate, and hairy, and have serrated margins. The flowers are small and white, with yellow centers, and grow in clusters at the top of the stems. The plant blooms from June to October. After blooming, the plant produces achenes, which are small dry fruits that contain a single seed.
Light Requirements
Erigeron schimperi grows best in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate direct sunlight in cooler climates but benefits from some shade during hot summers.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to high altitudes and therefore prefers cooler temperatures, ideally between 60-75°F. It can tolerate light frost but may die back during harsh winters.
Soil Requirements
The soil for Erigeron schimperi should be well-draining and rich in organic matter. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils with a pH of 6 to 7.5. It can tolerate rocky or sandy soils but grows best in loamy soils.
Cultivation Methods
Erigeron schimperi is a hardy plant that grows well in average to well-drained soil. The plant blooms in full sun but can tolerate some shade. It is native to rocky areas, so it is suitable for rock gardens. Ensure the plant gets enough sunlight, and the soil is well-draining to promote healthy growth.
Watering Needs
Erigeron schimperi requires regular watering, especially during the summer. The plant does not tolerate drought well, so provide enough water to keep the soil evenly moist. Avoid watering the plant's leaves to prevent diseases and water stress.
Fertilization
Erigeron schimperi is not a heavy feeder. However, you can apply a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to boost growth. Use a slow-release fertilizer that can feed the plant gradually. Avoid over-fertilizing the plant as it can cause growth issues.
Pruning
Erigeron schimperi does not require pruning, but you can trim off any dead or yellowed leaves to enhance the plant's appearance. The plant will also benefit from deadheading any spent flowers to promote continuous blooming. Regular pruning can help you to manage the size of the plant.
Propagation of Erigeron schimperi (Sch.Bip. ex A.Rich.) Sch.Bip.
Erigeron schimperi (Sch.Bip. ex A.Rich.) Sch.Bip. can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation by seeds
Seeds of Erigeron schimperi can be sown in spring or autumn in well-drained soil. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. The seeds should be sown at a depth of about 2-3 mm. Germination can take between 2-6 weeks depending on the conditions. Young seedlings should be potted on and grown on in a sheltered environment before transplanting into their final position.
Propagation by cuttings
Erigeron schimperi can be propagated by softwood cuttings taken in early summer. Cuttings should be taken from the current season's growth and should be about 10 cm long. They should be stripped of their lower leaves and the remaining leaves should be cut in half to reduce moisture loss. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and inserted into a well-drained propagating mix. The cuttings should be kept moist and humid until roots have developed.
Propagation by division
Erigeron schimperi can also be propagated by division. This should be done in spring or autumn when the plant is dormant. The clump should be lifted and the root ball should be divided into smaller sections. Each section should have some healthy roots and shoots. The sections should be replanted in well-drained soil and kept well watered until established.
Disease and Pest Management for Erigeron schimperi (Sch.Bip. ex A.Rich.) Sch.Bip.
Erigeron schimperi is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of conditions. However, like any plant, it is susceptible to diseases and pests. Here are some of the common problems that might affect the plant and how you can manage them.
Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Erigeron schimperi is Powdery Mildew. It is a fungal infection that appears as a white, powdery substance on the leaves. To manage the disease, you can remove the infected parts of the plant and treat it with a fungicide. However, prevention is better than cure, so ensure good air circulation around the plant and avoid over-fertilizing it.
Anthrachnose is another fungal disease that affects the plant. It causes brown spots on the leaves and can cause the plant to wilt and die. To manage the disease, you can remove the infected areas and treat the plant with a fungicide. You can also prevent the disease by avoiding overhead watering and keeping the plant dry.
Pests
The most common pest that affects Erigeron schimperi is the Aphid. These small insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause the leaves to yellow and curl. To manage the pest, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also introduce natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings to the area.
Spider mites are another pest that can affect the plant. They are tiny insects that feed on the underside of the leaves and cause them to turn yellow. To manage the pest, you can wash the plant with water and use insecticidal soap. You can also introduce natural predators like predatory mites.
Overall, prevention is key when it comes to managing diseases and pests in Erigeron schimperi. Ensure proper watering, fertilization, and air circulation. Regularly inspect the plant for any signs of disease or pests, and remove infected areas as soon as you notice them.
