Overview of Facelis apiculata Cass.
Facelis apiculata Cass., known by its common names "Yapa," "Cucha-cucha," and "Borrachera" is a species of flowering plant in the family Asteraceae. It is native to South America, particularly Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay, and Uruguay, and is commonly found in mountainous regions with a dry, rocky habitat.
General Appearance of Facelis apiculata Cass.
Facelis apiculata Cass. is characterized by its compact shrub-like form, growing up to 1.5 m tall. The plant has small, green, and pointed leaves that are hairy on the underside, while the upper surface is smooth and shiny. The tiny flowers are arranged in clusters that are typically yellow or white.
Uses of Facelis apiculata Cass.
Several cultures have recognized the medicinal and commercial value of Facelis apiculata Cass. For example, indigenous people in Bolivia use it to treat respiratory and digestive problems, and also utilize it as a natural insect repellent. In Brazil, the plant is a source of fiber used for weaving baskets and other handicrafts.
Facelis apiculata Cass. is also considered for research and future use in the production of bioactive compounds, which can be used as potential drug candidates in the pharmaceutical industry.
Moreover, the plant is also known to occupy extensive areas under grazing/farming in South America and can serve as a potential forage for animals, particularly for sheep and goats due to their drought resistance and nutritional value.
Light Requirements
Facelis apiculata Cass. is adapted to grow in a variety of habitats, including open fields and disturbed areas. It is a plant that thrives in full sunlight exposure. Therefore, the species requires at least six hours of direct sunlight a day to grow to its full potential.
Temperature Requirements
Facelis apiculata Cass. is a plant with a high tolerance for high temperatures. It is highly resistant to droughts, and it can tolerate temperatures as high as 38°C. Although this plant can survive in hot temperatures, it does require a substantial amount of water supply to sustainability thrive.
Soil Requirements
The species Facelis apiculata Cass. is adapted to grow well in a wide range of soil types, including sandy soils, clay soils, and loamy soils. The species is known to grow in soils with a pH ranging from 4.5 to 8.0. The plant prefers well-drained and fertile soils rich in organic matter, which helps to nourish the plant and to sustain its growth.
Cultivation of Facelis apiculata Cass.
Facelis apiculata Cass. can be grown in a variety of soil types, ranging from sandy to loamy, with good drainage. It prefers full sunlight exposure and can be grown in high-temperature areas with sufficient watering. The plant is drought-resistant and can withstand harsh weather conditions.
Watering Needs
Facelis apiculata Cass. requires moderate watering. The plant should be watered once a week or when the soil appears to be dry. The frequency of watering depends on the weather, with more watering required during hot and dry seasons.
Fertilization
Fertilization is necessary for the healthy growth of Facelis apiculata Cass. The plant thrives on nitrogen and phosphorus-based fertilizers. Organic fertilizers such as compost and manure can also be used. The fertilizer should be applied during the growing season, usually in spring or summer.
Pruning
Regular pruning is recommended for Facelis apiculata Cass. It helps to maintain the plant's shape and encourage new growth. Pruning should be done early in the growing season, just before new shoots emerge. Dead or damaged growth should be removed, and the plant should be shaped using pruning shears or scissors.
Propagation of Facelis apiculata Cass.
Facelis apiculata Cass. can be propagated by both sexual and asexual means.
Sexual Propagation
The plant produces small, yellow flowers that mature into seed heads containing small achenes. These seeds can be collected and sown directly into the ground or into pots filled with a well-draining potting mix. The seeds should be planted at a depth of around 1cm and kept moist until they germinate, which can take up to 2 weeks.
Asexual Propagation
Facelis apiculata Cass. can be propagated asexually through stem cuttings or division. Stem cuttings should be taken in spring or summer from the current season's growth. Cuttings should be around 10cm long and should be taken from healthy, disease-free plants. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting and dip the end in rooting hormone before placing it in a pot filled with well-draining potting mix. Keep the cutting moist and in a warm, bright spot until roots develop in around 4-6 weeks.
Division is another asexual propagation method that can be used for Facelis apiculata Cass. This is best done in spring, as the plant is emerging from dormancy. Dig up the entire plant and carefully separate the clumps of stems and roots. Replant the divisions in a prepared bed or pot and keep moist until established.
Disease and Pest Management for Facelis apiculata Cass.
Facelis apiculata Cass., commonly known as "palo piojo", belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant is native to South America and is commonly found in grasslands, hillsides, and disturbed areas. As with any plant, Facelis apiculata Cass. may be susceptible to pests and diseases. Below are the most common diseases and pests that might affect this plant, along with suggestions for management.
Common Diseases
Facelis apiculata Cass. is susceptible to fungal, bacterial, and viral diseases. The most common diseases include powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot.
- Powdery Mildew: This disease appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. It can be managed by maintaining good air circulation, avoiding overhead watering, and applying a fungicide.
- Rust: Rust appears as yellow, orange, or brown bumps on the leaves and stems of the plant. It can be managed by removing infected parts of the plant, applying a fungicide, and maintaining good air circulation.
- Leaf Spot: This disease appears as brown or black spots on the leaves of the plant. It can be managed by removing infected parts of the plant, applying a fungicide, and avoiding overhead watering.
Common Pests
Facelis apiculata Cass. is also susceptible to insect pests, such as aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites.
- Aphids: These insects are small and usually green or black in color. They can be managed by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Whiteflies: These insects are small and white in color. They can be managed by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider Mites: These insects are tiny and can be difficult to spot. They can be managed by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil and maintaining good humidity levels.
Overall, to prevent diseases and pests in Facelis apiculata Cass., it is important to maintain good plant health. This includes regular watering, fertilization, and pruning. Regular monitoring of the plant can also help prevent and manage any potential issues.
