Overview
Gazania beguinotii Lanza, also known as Monotiella beguinotii, is an evergreen perennial plant species that belongs to the Asteraceae family. The plant is native to southern Africa and is known for its colorful flowers and ornamental value.
Appearance
The Gazania beguinotii Lanza typically grows up to a height of 12 cm to 50 cm tall and about 20 cm to 30 cm wide. It features a basal rosette of leaves and slender, wiry stems that produce daisy-like flowers. The leaves are silver green in color and deeply lobed, growing up to 3.5 cm wide and long. The flowers come in an array of colors, including yellow, orange, pink, and red, with a black or brown center.
Common names
The Gazania beguinotii Lanza is commonly known by several other names, including Trailing Gazania, Creeping Gazania, Monotiella beguinotii, and Succulent Gazania.
Uses
The Gazania beguinotii Lanza is primarily used for ornamental purposes and is a popular choice for rock gardens, borders, and ground covers. The plant can also be grown in pots and containers. Gazanias are known for their tolerance to drought and their ability to thrive in poor soil conditions, making them a suitable choice for low-maintenance landscaping.
Light Requirements
Gazania beguinotii Lanza plants grow well in full sunlight. They require at least 6 hours of sunlight daily to enable optimal growth and blooming.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is generally suitable for warm to hot climatic conditions, with a preferred temperature range between 10°C to 35°C. At temperatures above 30°C, the plants require adequate watering to prevent them from becoming dehydrated.
Soil Requirements
The ideal soil for Gazania beguinotii Lanza is well-drained, slightly acidic to slightly alkaline, and sandy. The plant's roots do not tolerate waterlogged soil, and in such conditions, the roots may rot. Soil pH should be between 6.5 to 7.5 for the best results. Soil fertility is not a major factor in plant growth, with the plants capable of growing in soils that have low nutrient content.
Cultivation Methods of Gazania beguinotii
Gazania beguinotii Lanza is an excellent choice for gardeners who want a vibrant and colorful flower all year round. These plants thrive in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter and should be planted in full sunlight. It is essential to ensure that the soil has good drainage, as these plants do not tolerate waterlogged soil. Gazania beguinotii should be planted in the garden during spring after the last frost.
The best way to propagate Gazania beguinotii is through stem cuttings, which should be done in autumn or spring. The cuttings should be taken from healthy plants and put in a well-draining compost mix. Once they have rooted, they can be transplanted into the garden.
Watering Needs of Gazania beguinotii
Gazania beguinotii Lanza should be watered regularly, especially during the hot summer months. These plants are drought-tolerant, but they need adequate moisture levels to flower profusely. It is essential to water the plants at the base rather than from above as this minimizes the risk of root rot. Rainwater or distilled water is preferable to tap water as tap water may be too hard and cause mineral buildup in the soil.
Fertilization of Gazania beguinotii
It is essential to fertilize Gazania beguinotii Lanza regularly to ensure healthy growth and continuous flowering. These plants require a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 20-20-20. Fertilizers with high levels of nitrogen should be avoided as they may cause the plant to produce more leaves than flowers. It is recommended to fertilize during the plant's active growing season, which is from spring to autumn.
Pruning of Gazania beguinotii
Gazania beguinotii Lanza does not require extensive pruning, but it is essential to deadhead the flowers periodically. Deadheading involves removing spent blooms, which promotes continuous flowering. It is also essential to remove any yellow or diseased leaves, as they may attract pests or diseases. If the plant becomes too leggy or straggly, it can be pruned back to promote bushier growth.
Propagation of Gazania beguinotii Lanza
Gazania beguinotii Lanza is commonly known as the treasure flower or the African daisy. It is a beautiful ornamental plant that is propagated mainly through seeds.
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Gazania beguinotii Lanza can be easily propagated indoors, and it is best to start the seeds in early spring. The steps for seed propagation are as follows:
- Fill a seed tray or container with seed starter mix or potting soil that is well-draining.
- Sow the seeds on the surface of the soil, lightly pressing the seeds down into the soil.
- Water the container from the bottom and allow the soil to absorb the water.
- Cover the container with a plastic bag or plastic wrap to maintain moisture and humidity.
- Place the container in a bright, warm location with temperatures between 70-75 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Remove the plastic cover when the seeds start to germinate, which typically takes about 10-14 days.
- Transplant the seedlings into individual pots once they develop their second set of true leaves and are large enough to handle.
- Provide plenty of bright light and allow the plants to grow until they are ready for outdoor planting.
Division of Clumps
Gazania beguinotii Lanza can also be propagated through division. This is typically done in the spring or early fall.
- Dig up the Gazania plant carefully, making sure to preserve as much of the root system as possible.
- Shake off excess soil and gently divide the plant into sections, making sure that each section has its own set of leaves and roots.
- Replant the divided sections in individual pots or in the garden, making sure to water thoroughly.
- Provide the plants with adequate light, water, and nutrients until they are well established.
Propagation of Gazania beguinotii Lanza through division tends to produce larger plants faster, as they already have a more extensive root system.
Disease and Pest Management for Gazania beguinotii Lanza
Gazania beguinotii Lanza, commonly known as the Trailing Gazania, is a tough, ornamental plant that is low maintenance and suitable for planting in gardens, borders, and containers. However, like all plants, it can be susceptible to diseases and pests that may affect its growth, health, and vigor. Here are some common pests and diseases that may affect your Gazania beguinotii Lanza plant, and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Fungal Leaf Spot: This plant disease is caused by several fungi, and it can cause brown or black spots on the plant's leaves. To prevent this disease, avoid watering the plant from above, remove and destroy all infected leaves, and apply a fungicide spray labeled for use on Gazania beguinotii Lanza.
Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant. This disease is caused by overwatering or poorly-drained soil, and it can cause the plant to wilt and die. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining by adding sand or perlite, avoid over-watering the plant, and apply a fungicide spray if necessary.
Bacterial Leaf Spots: This disease is caused by bacteria and affects the plant's leaves. Symptoms include yellow halos around brown spots on the leaves, and in severe cases, the leaves may fall off. To prevent this disease, avoid overhead watering, remove and destroy infected leaves, and apply a copper-based fungicide labeled for use on Gazania beguinotii Lanza.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the plant's leaves and stems, causing them to twist and curl. To control aphids, wash them off the plant with a gentle stream of water, apply insecticidal soap, or release natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that feed on the plant's sap, causing the leaves to yellow and become mottled. To control spider mites, wash them off the plant with a gentle stream of water, increase humidity around the plant, and apply an insecticidal soap or miticide labeled for use on Gazania beguinotii Lanza.
Snails and Slugs: Snails and slugs are common garden pests that can feed on the plant's leaves, flowers, and stems. To control them, handpick them off the plant, create barrier by placing copper tape, or use a bait that is labeled for use on Gazania beguinotii Lanza.
Regular monitoring of your Gazania beguinotii Lanza plant is essential to identify and treat any diseases and pests promptly. Always follow the instructions on any pesticide and fungicide sprays, and avoid applying them during hot weather or when the plant is under stress.
