Origin
The Felicia abyssinica Sch.Bip. ex A.Rich. var. neghelliensis (Cufod.) Mesfin is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is native to Ethiopia, particularly in the northern and central regions of the country.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Beggarticks, and the local people in Ethiopia call it "Enqokey" in Amharic and "Girie" in Tigrigna.
Uses
The plant has various medicinal applications in Ethiopia. It is used locally as a remedy for headaches, malaria, and other ailments. The leaves are also used to make a tea that is believed to have diuretic properties and can help in the management of high blood pressure.
Additionally, the plant has ornamental value and is cultivated in gardens for its attractive purple-blue flowers that bloom during the rainy season.
General Appearance
The Felicia abyssinica Sch.Bip. ex A.Rich. var. neghelliensis (Cufod.) Mesfin is a herbaceous plant that grows up to 1m tall. The leaves are simple, alternate, and lanceolate, with a length ranging from 10-15cm. Its flowers are purple-blue, daisy-like, and have yellow centers, with a diameter of about 2.5cm. The plant's stem is usually hairy, making it distinctive from other closely related species in the Asteraceae family.
Light Requirements
Felicia abyssinica Sch.Bip. ex A.Rich. var. neghelliensis (Cufod.) Mesfin generally prefers full sun to partial shade. In order to thrive and grow properly, it requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. The plant can tolerate some shade, but it will not thrive in heavy shade conditions.
Temperature Requirements
Felicia abyssinica Sch.Bip. ex A.Rich. var. neghelliensis (Cufod.) Mesfin can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. However, it grows best in a moderate temperature range between 20-25°C. The plant can survive relatively hot and dry conditions, but it cannot tolerate severe frost and freezing temperatures.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. It can grow in a variety of soils including sandy loams, clay loams and silt loams. However, it cannot tolerate waterlogged soils or soils with poor drainage. The optimal pH for the plant is between 6.5-7.5. Regular soil testing and amendment with organic matter can help in maintaining optimal soil conditions for the growth of Felicia abyssinica Sch.Bip. ex A.Rich. var. neghelliensis (Cufod.) Mesfin.
Cultivation
Felicia abyssinica Sch.Bip. ex A.Rich. var. neghelliensis (Cufod.) Mesfin is a hardy plant that can survive in a wide range of environments. It grows well in well-draining soils but can also tolerate heavy soils. Plant the seedlings in well-draining soil mixed with compost and manure. The plant prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. The recommended plant spacing is 30cm between each plant. They can be grown in containers, but ensure the pot size is optimal for root growth.
Watering Needs
Felicia abyssinica Sch.Bip. ex A.Rich. var. neghelliensis (Cufod.) Mesfin requires consistent moisture, but the soil must not be waterlogged. Water the plant twice a week, but during hot and dry weather, the plant may require more water. Check the soil moisture by inserting a finger two inches into the soil; if it's dry, add water.
Fertilization
The plant requires feeding to ensure optimal growth and flower development. Apply a balanced fertilizer, rich in potassium and phosphorous, every two weeks during the growing season. The fertilization frequency can be reduced to once a month when the plant is not actively growing. Follow the manufacturer's instructions when applying the fertilizer to avoid over-fertilization.
Pruning
Felicia abyssinica Sch.Bip. ex A.Rich. var. neghelliensis (Cufod.) Mesfin does not need pruning unless you want to shape it. If you choose to shape the plant, prune the tips regularly to promote bushier growth. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms. To avoid insects and diseases, prune with clean and sharp pruning tools.
Propagation of Felicia abyssinica Sch.Bip. ex A.Rich. var. neghelliensis (Cufod.) Mesfin
Felicia abyssinica Sch.Bip. ex A.Rich. var. neghelliensis (Cufod.) Mesfin can be propagated through different methods:
Seed Propagation
Felicia abyssinica Sch.Bip. ex A.Rich. var. neghelliensis (Cufod.) Mesfin can be propagated through seeds. Seeds should be collected from the plant when they are ripe. The seeds should be air-dried, cleaned, and stored in a cool, dry place before sowing. They should be sown in a well-drained seed-starting mix and kept moist but not waterlogged.
Cuttings Propagation
Felicia abyssinica Sch.Bip. ex A.Rich. var. neghelliensis (Cufod.) Mesfin can be propagated through stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from healthy plants and treated with rooting hormone before they are inserted into a well-drained planting medium. The cuttings should be kept moist and warm, with high humidity until they form roots.
Division Propagation
Felicia abyssinica Sch.Bip. ex A.Rich. var. neghelliensis (Cufod.) Mesfin can also be propagated through division. The plant should be dug up and the root system carefully separated. Each division should have a good root system and a few shoots. The divided plants should be replanted in a well-draining medium and kept moist until they establish themselves.
Disease and Pest Management for Felicia abyssinica Sch.Bip. ex A.Rich. var. neghelliensis (Cufod.) Mesfin
Felicia abyssinica Sch.Bip. ex A.Rich. var. neghelliensis (Cufod.) Mesfin, commonly known as Abyssinian felwort, is a flowering plant that is native to Africa. Like most plants, it is susceptible to diseases and pests, which can significantly affect its growth and production. Proper disease and pest management practices are essential to ensure its healthy growth and sustainable production. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Fungal infections: Felicia abyssinica is prone to fungal infections such as leaf spots, rusts, and powdery mildews, which can cause yellowing, wilting, or dropping of leaves. These diseases can be managed by ensuring good air circulation, avoiding overhead watering, and applying fungicides.
Bacterial infections: Bacterial infections such as blackleg and soft rot can cause the death of the plant's stem and root. The best way to manage these diseases is by removing and destroying infected plant parts, disinfecting tools, and applying copper-based bactericides.
Viral infections: Viral infections such as mosaic, curling, and yellowing of leaves can cause stunted growth and reduce yields. The best way to manage these diseases is by removing and destroying infected plant parts and controlling insect vectors.
Common Pests
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause yellowing and discoloration of leaves as they suck sap from them. They can be managed by improving humidity levels, removing infested leaves, and applying insecticidal soaps or oils.
Thrips: Thrips are small insects that can cause distortion and curling of leaves as they feed on them. They can be managed by removing and destroying infested leaves, controlling weeds, and applying insecticides.
Aphids: Aphids are small insects that can cause wilting, yellowing, and stunted growth of plants as they suck sap from them. They can be managed by removing and destroying infested leaves, controlling ants, and applying insecticidal soaps or oils.
Proper disease and pest management practices can help ensure the healthy growth and sustainable production of Felicia abyssinica Sch.Bip. ex A.Rich. var. neghelliensis (Cufod.) Mesfin.
