Origin
Felicia joubertinae Grau subsp. glabrescens Grau is a plant species native to South Africa. It was named after the renowned South African botanist, Mrs. Margaret Joubert, who discovered the plant in 1965.
Common Names
Commonly known as blue stars or blousterretjie in Afrikaans, Felicia joubertinae Grau subsp. glabrescens Grau is a beautiful and delicate flowering plant that has captured the hearts of many South Africans.
Uses
Blue stars are popular with landscapers and gardeners, who use the plant to add color and texture to outdoor spaces. They are also grown for their medicinal properties. The plant is said to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties and is used to treat sore throats and other ailments.
General Appearance
Felicia joubertinae Grau subsp. glabrescens Grau is a small bushy plant that grows up to 20 cm tall. It has a woody stem and narrow, elongated leaves that are covered in fine hairs. The flowers are daisy-like, with a bright blue color and a yellow center. The plant blooms from mid-summer to early autumn, and the flowers attract bees and butterflies.
Light Requirements
Felicia joubertinae Grau subsp. glabrescens Grau is a plant that loves plenty of sunlight. Therefore, it should be grown in an area that receives full sun for most of the day. When grown inside, the plant should be placed in spots with plenty of light near windows that receive direct sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Felicia joubertinae Grau subsp. glabrescens Grau grows well in warm temperatures ranging between 18-27°C. Growers should keep the plant within this range to ensure healthy growth. The plant may not survive in temperatures below 10°C, whether grown indoors or outdoors. If grown outside, consider transferring to a greenhouse in winter.
Soil Requirements
This plant thrives in well-draining soil and does not require excessive watering. Soil drainage is critical to Felicia joubertinae Grau subsp. glabrescens Grau, as excess moisture may result in root rot. Growers should use loose soil types rich in organic matter like peat moss, which not only encourages soil drainage but also enhances the soil's organic composition. This plant does not require additional fertilizers, and too much fertilizer may be detrimental.
Cultivation
Felicia joubertinae Grau subsp. glabrescens Grau is a beautiful and low-maintenance perennial that makes an interesting addition to any garden. It is best grown in full sun, but it can tolerate some light shade. The plant prefers well-drained soil and can thrive in rock gardens, borders, or containers.
When planting, make sure to space them about 30-40cm apart to allow for proper air circulation. It is also advisable to add compost to the soil before planting to improve soil quality and provide the necessary nutrients for optimal growth.
Watering Needs
The Felicia joubertinae Grau subsp. glabrescens Grau requires moderate watering, especially during dry seasons. Overwatering should be avoided as it can lead to root rot, which would be detrimental to the plant's health.
When watering, it is advisable to water at the base of the plant to prevent water from accumulating on the leaves. This practice can reduce the risk of fungal diseases, which can affect the plant.
Fertilization
Fertilizers can be used to boost the plant's growth and development. For Felicia joubertinae Grau, a slow-release fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen and potassium is recommended. Care must be taken not to apply too much fertilizer as it can lead to overgrowth.
It is advisable to fertilize the plant during the growing season, which is usually in spring and autumn. The fertilizer should be spread evenly over the soil, and excessive amounts should be avoided.
Pruning
Pruning Felicia joubertinae Grau subsp. glabrescens Grau is not mandatory but can help maintain its shape and promote bushier growth. Pruning should be carried out at the beginning of spring, just before new growth appears.
Deadheading, i.e., removing spent blooms as they wither, is recommended to encourage the plant to produce more flowers. It is best to use clean and sharp pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant.
With proper care and cultivation, Felicia joubertinae Grau subsp. glabrescens Grau will thrive and make an excellent addition to any garden.
Propagation of Felicia joubertinae Grau subsp. glabrescens Grau
Felicia joubertinae Grau subsp. glabrescens Grau can be propagated by several methods, including:
Seed propagation
Seeds of Felicia joubertinae Grau subsp. glabrescens Grau can be sown in pots or trays filled with a well-draining soil mix. The seeds can be just covered with soil and kept moist until germination occurs, which typically takes between two to four weeks. Once the seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots or containers.
Cuttings propagation
Cuttings can be taken from the plant's stems during the active growing season. The cuttings should be around 10 cm long, with a few leaves attached to the stem. The lower leaves should be removed, and the stem's bottom should be dipped in rooting hormone powder. The cuttings can be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until they develop roots, which can take between four to six weeks.
Division propagation
The plant can also be propagated through division. This method is best done during the plant's dormant season, which is typically in late autumn or early winter. The plant should be carefully dug up, and the root ball should be divided into smaller sections using a clean, sharp knife. Each section should have a few stems and roots. The sections can be replanted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until they establish themselves.
Overall, Felicia joubertinae Grau subsp. glabrescens Grau can be easily propagated through seed, cutting, or division methods.
Disease Management
Felicia joubertinae Grau subsp. glabrescens Grau is generally a disease-resistant plant. However, it is susceptible to certain fungal diseases.
The most common fungal disease is powdery mildew that appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves. To manage powdery mildew, prune the affected areas, provide good air circulation and avoid getting the leaves wet while watering. You can also spray a fungicide containing sulfur or neem oil.
Another fungal disease is root rot, which is caused by overwatering and poorly-draining soil. To manage root rot, avoid overwatering, ensure proper drainage by using a well-draining potting mix, and repot the plant into a larger container if necessary.
Pest Management
Felicia joubertinae Grau subsp. glabrescens Grau is susceptible to certain pests that could damage the leaves and flowers of the plant.
One common pest is spider mites that cause yellowing of the leaves and webbing around the plant. To manage spider mites, you can use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or a miticide.
Another pest is aphids that feed on the leaves and stems of the plant, causing distortion and deformation of the leaves. To manage aphids, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil, or introduce natural predators like ladybugs.
Mealybugs can also infest the plant and cause damage by sucking sap from the leaves and flowers. To manage mealybugs, you can use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or a systemic insecticide.
Regularly inspecting your plant and keeping a healthy growing environment can help prevent the occurrence of these pests and diseases.
