Overview: Euryops evansii Schltr. subsp. evansii
Euryops evansii Schltr. subsp. evansii is a flowering plant that belongs to the family of Asteraceae. This plant is native to East Africa, specifically in Tanzania and Kenya. It is also known by several common names such as yellow bush daisy, yellow daisy bush, and evans euryops.
Appearance:
This plant can grow up to 1.2 meters in height and has a spread of about 1 meter. It has a woody stem, branched and has green leaves that are narrowly lobed, measuring about 7-10 cm long and 1-2 cm wide. The leaves are velvety and hairy to the touch, and they also have an aromatic scent. When it blooms, it produces yellow daisy or sunflower-like flowers, measuring about 4-5 cm in diameter.
Uses:
Euryops evansii Schltr. subsp. evansii is grown as an ornamental plant in gardens, landscapes, and parks due to its attractive yellow flowers and its evergreen foliage. The plant is also known for its medicinal properties. It has been used in traditional medicine for treating a variety of illnesses such as respiratory problems, malaria, and fever. The plant is also used as a natural insecticide and pesticide.
Euryops evansii Schltr. subsp. evansii is relatively easy to grow and maintain, and it prefers a sunny location and well-drained soil. It is drought tolerant and can survive in poor soils. It can be propagated through seed or cuttings.
Light Requirements
Euryops evansii Schltr. subsp. evansii thrives under full sunlight and requires at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Most individuals prefer a location that receives morning sun and afternoon shade, though they can tolerate full sun exposure.
Temperature Requirements
Euryops evansii Schltr. subsp. evansii thrives in warm regions and prefers a warm, sunny, and dry climate. The plant can tolerate temperatures ranging from 10°C to 35°C. It doesn't thrive in regions with frost or snowfalls because it is not frost-hardy.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-draining soil during the growing season. Preferably, it grows best in deep, well-drained soils, rich in organic matter such as loamy soils. Sandy soils that are not prone to waterlogging or heavy clay soils can also provide optimal growth conditions. A pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 is also suitable for optimal growth.
Cultivation
Euryops evansii Schltr. subsp. evansii is a relatively easy plant to grow and is suitable for both beginner and more experienced gardeners. It requires full sun and well-draining soil that is of average fertility with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. This plant does well in a Mediterranean climate that is characterized by warm, dry summers and rainy winters.
Watering Needs
When it comes to watering, Euryops evansii Schltr. subsp. evansii does not need much moisture and should only be watered moderately. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. It is best to allow the top 2-3 inches of soil to dry out before watering the plant again.
Fertilization
The plant requires minimal fertilization as long as it is planted in well-draining soil. However, it will benefit from occasional feeding during its active growing season, which is typically in spring and summer. A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 can be added to the soil. Be sure to follow the instructions on the package and avoid over-fertilizing.
Pruning
Euryops evansii Schltr. subsp. evansii responds well to regular pruning, which helps to promote healthy growth and improve its overall appearance. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins. Use sharp, clean pruning shears to cut back any dead, damaged, or diseased branches. You can also trim back the plant to control its size and shape, but avoid cutting into the woody stems as they don't regrow.
Propagation of Euryops evansii Schltr. subsp. evansii
Euryops evansii Schltr. subsp. evansii is a perennial plant that originates from Madagascar. Its large, yellow daisy-like flowers and its shrubby form make it a popular choice for gardens and landscapes. Propagation of this plant is possible through two different methods - cuttings and seeds.
Propagation by Cuttings
Euryops evansii Schltr. subsp. evansii can be propagated by cuttings during the growing season. Softwood cuttings are often used because they root quickly. It is important to take the cuttings early in the morning when the plant is hydrated and the temperature is cool. The cuttings should be approximately 6 inches long and should only include the tip of the plant with 2-3 nodes. Remove any leaves from the lower half of the cutting.
Place the cuttings in a well-draining soil mixture that is moist but not waterlogged. Place a plastic bag over the container to discourage moisture loss. Keep the container in a warm and bright location, but out of direct sunlight. Mist the cuttings regularly to keep them hydrated.
After about 4-6 weeks, check for root development by gently tugging on the cuttings. Once they are established, transplant the cuttings into their permanent location.
Propagation by Seeds
Euryops evansii Schltr. subsp. evansii can also be propagated by seeds. Collect the seeds when the plant has finished blooming, and the seed heads have turned brown. Remove the seeds from the seed heads and plant them immediately in a well-draining soil mixture.
Water the seeds and keep them in a warm and bright location, but out of direct sunlight. Keep the soil moist until germination occurs, which can take up to two weeks. Once the seedlings have emerged, remove any weaker seedlings to allow for proper growth of the stronger ones.
Transplant the seedlings into their permanent location after they have developed their second set of leaves.
Propagation of Euryops evansii Schltr. subsp. evansii through either cuttings or seeds can be a rewarding experience for gardeners. It allows for the propagation of the plant and the ability to create more of these beautiful plants.
Disease and Pest Management for Euryops evansii Schltr. subsp. evansii
Euryops evansii Schltr. subsp. evansii, commonly known as the African bush daisy, is generally a hardy and low maintenance plant. However, it can be susceptible to some diseases and pest problems. Proper disease and pest management practices can help keep the plant healthy and thriving.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases affecting the African bush daisy is powdery mildew. This fungal disease appears as a white, powdery substance on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, remove infected parts of the plant and improve air circulation around the daisy. Cutting back on watering frequency and avoiding overhead watering can also help prevent the disease from spreading. In severe cases, a fungicide may be necessary.
Another common disease is leaf spot, caused by various fungal pathogens. This disease causes brown or black spots on the leaves, which may eventually turn yellow and drop off. To prevent leaf spot, avoid overhead watering and remove infected leaves as soon as they appear. In severe cases, a fungicide may be necessary.
Common Pests
One of the most common pests affecting the African bush daisy is the spider mite. These tiny pests can cause yellowing and bronzing of the leaves, as well as stunting of the plant. To manage spider mites, wash the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge the pests, or apply insecticidal soap or oil. Predatory mites can also be introduced to control spider mite populations.
The aphid is another common pest that can infest the African bush daisy. These pests feed on the sap of the plant and can cause yellowing and distortion of the leaves. To manage aphids, wash the plant with a strong jet of water or apply insecticidal soap or oil. Ladybugs and lacewings are natural predators of aphids and can be introduced to control the pest population.
Regular inspection and maintenance practices, such as removing dead or diseased plant material and keeping the plant well-watered and fertilized, can also help prevent pest and disease problems from occurring.
