Overview
Geigeria burkei Harv. subsp. fruticulosa Merxm. is a shrub-like perennial plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is native to southern Africa and can be found in several countries such as Botswana, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. The plant is known for its medicinal uses and is widely used in traditional medicine.Common Names
Geigeria burkei Harv. subsp. fruticulosa Merxm. is commonly known as the 'Umavumbuka' or 'Umhlonyane' in the Zulu language. In English, it is referred to as the 'Bush Cudweed' or 'African Wormwood'.Uses
The plant has a range of medicinal uses and is used to treat various ailments in traditional medicine. The leaves, stems, and roots of the plant are often used to brew a tea or tincture. It is believed that the plant has anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antimicrobial properties. The tea or infusion made from the plant is used to treat conditions such as coughs, colds, influenza, and bronchitis. It is also used to relieve pain associated with inflammations such as arthritis and rheumatism. Furthermore, the tea made from the plant is believed to be an effective remedy for stomach ailments, including diarrhea and bloating. In addition to its medicinal uses, Geigeria burkei Harv. subsp. fruticulosa Merxm. is also used in African traditional religions for spiritual purposes.General Appearance
Geigeria burkei Harv. subsp. fruticulosa Merxm. is a small shrub that grows up to 2 meters in height. The plant has an upright and branching stem covered with small greyish-green leaves that are hairy to the touch. The flowers of the plant are small and yellow, with a diameter of about 8mm, and are arranged in clusters at the ends of the branches. The plant typically blooms from July to October, and the seeds are dispersed by the wind. The roots of the plant are woody and brown in color, and the plant grows in sandy soils in areas with low rainfall levels.Light Requirements
Geigeria burkei Harv. subsp. fruticulosa Merxm. prefers full sun exposure for optimal growth. It can withstand some partial shade, but too much shade can lead to stunted growth and few flowers.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to warm and dry regions of South Africa and can tolerate temperatures ranging from 10°C to 45°C. However, it is most productive and thrives in temperatures between 25°C to 35°C. Although it can tolerate periodic frost, it does best with protection during winter.
Soil Requirements
Geigeria burkei Harv. subsp. fruticulosa Merxm. prefers well-drained sandy or loamy soil with a pH of 6.5 to 8.5. The soil must be free of any harmful contaminants and not waterlogged. Adding organic matter to the soil can improve its water retention capacity.
Cultivation methods
Geigeria burkei Harv. subsp. fruticulosa Merxm. is a hardy plant that can be grown in full sun or partial shade. It prefers well-drained soil that is high in organic matter.
When propagating this plant, it is best to use seeds that have been properly stored or fresh cuttings. Seeds should be planted in a potting mix and kept moist until they germinate. Cuttings should be taken from healthy plants and planted in a well-draining potting mix.
This plant can be grown indoors or outdoors as long as the temperature does not drop below 50°F (10°C).
Watering needs
Geigeria burkei Harv. subsp. fruticulosa Merxm. needs regular watering during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist but never waterlogged. It is essential to allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering sessions.
During the winter months, reduce watering to once every two weeks to prevent the roots from rotting. Plants grown in containers may require more frequent watering than those growing in the ground.
Fertilization
Geigeria burkei Harv. subsp. fruticulosa Merxm. benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season to encourage healthy growth and flowering. A balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 12-12-12 is suitable for this plant.
Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season. Reduce fertilizer application during the winter months to prevent burning the roots. Organic fertilizers, such as compost or manure, can also be used to fertilize this plant.
Pruning
Geigeria burkei Harv. subsp. fruticulosa Merxm. requires little pruning but can be trimmed back to encourage bushier growth and extend the flowering period.
The best time to prune this plant is in late winter or early spring before the growing season. Dead and diseased branches can be removed at any time of the year. Use clean and sharp pruning tools to prevent damage to the plant.
Propagation of Geigeria burkei Harv. subsp. fruticulosa Merxm.
Geigeria burkei Harv. subsp. fruticulosa Merxm., also known as the African wormwood or Wilde-als, is a popular plant in the family Asteraceae. It is native to southern Africa and is a common component of the savannah vegetation. Propagation of this plant can be achieved through various methods:
Seed propagation
Propagation of Geigeria burkei Harv. subsp. fruticulosa Merxm. from seed is possible. The plant produces seeds which can be harvested and sown during spring or autumn. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil, kept moist and placed in a warm and well-lit location. Seeds normally germinate within two weeks.
Division
Division involves the separation of the plant into smaller sections, each containing a portion of the root system and some shoots. This method is usually carried out during the early spring, prior to the start of the growing season. The separated sections can be planted into a well-drained soil mixture and kept moist.
Plant cuttings
Propagation of Geigeria burkei Harv. subsp. fruticulosa Merxm. can also be achieved through stem cuttings. This method involves taking stem cuttings during the early spring or summer from mature plants. The cuttings should be planted in a well-drained soil mix, kept moist and placed in a warm and well-lit location until they have rooted.
Disease and Pest Management for Geigeria burkei Harv. subsp. fruticulosa Merxm.
Geigeria burkei Harv. subsp. fruticulosa Merxm., also known as the turpentine bush, is a shrub native to southern Africa. While it is relatively hardy, it can still be affected by certain pests and diseases. The following are some of the most common issues that can affect this plant and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Leaf Spots: Leaf spots can occur due to various fungi or bacterial infections. This can lead to defoliation and stunted growth. To manage leaf spots, remove affected leaves and stems and dispose of them. Ensure that the plant is not over-watered and receives ample sunlight for healthy growth.
Canker: Canker is a fungal disease that can affect the bark and stems of the plant. Infected areas will appear sunken and discolored. To manage canker, prune infected areas immediately and dispose of them properly. Copper-based fungicides can also be used to prevent further spread of the disease.
Root Rot: Root rot occurs when the plant is over-watered or grown in poorly-draining soil. Symptoms include yellowing leaves and soft, darkened roots. To manage root rot, allow the soil to properly dry out before watering again. Combine this with regular fertilization to promote healthy root growth.
Common Pests
Spider Mites: Spider mites are small pests that suck the sap out of the plant, causing leaf discoloration and defoliation. To manage spider mites, wash the plant with a stream of water, ensuring that the undersides of the leaves are well-rinsed. Miticides such as neem oil can also be used to kill the mites.
Aphids: Aphids are small, green insects that feed on the sap of the plant, leading to stunted growth and distorted leaves. To manage aphids, wash the plant with a stream of water to dislodge them. Insecticidal soaps or horticultural oils can also be used to kill the insects.
Thrips: Thrips are small, winged insects that cause leaf yellowing and distorted growth. To manage thrips, remove any affected plant material and dispose of it. Insecticidal soaps or neem oil can also be used to kill the insects and keep them from breeding.
By being vigilant and attentive to the needs of the Geigeria burkei Harv. subsp. fruticulosa Merxm. and observing to catch problems early, you can keep the plant healthy and thriving for years to come.
