Plant Description:
Gossypium anomalum Wawra ex Wawra & Peyr. subsp. triphyllum (Harv.) Roberty, a sub-species of Gossypium anomalum, is a rare shrub which is indigenous to South Africa, specifically in the Western Cape Province. It is a member of the Malvaceae family, which includes other plants such as hibiscus and okra. The plant is named for its three-parted leaves, which is the significant characteristic of the sub-species. G. anomalum subsp. triphyllum has been studied due to its exceptional and unique morphology.
Plant Uses:
The primary use of Gossypium anomalum Wawra ex Wawra & Peyr. subsp. triphyllum is as an ornamental plant. Due to its rarity, it is cultivated in botanical gardens and private collections as a collector's item with significant horticultural value. The plant's beautiful features, such as its large, golden yellow flowers, make it a popular garden plant. It is also grown in commercial gardens for its ornamental value to be sold as a cut flower or bouquet.
General Appearance:
The plant is a small, multi-branched shrub that grows to an average height of 2 meters. It has a slow growth rate, which makes it a fantastic plant for container gardening. Gossypium anomalum subsp. triphyllum has light green, three-lobed leaves that grow up to 5 cm long. It produces large, bright yellow flowers that bloom in the summer and, at times, throughout the year. The flowers are around 10 cm in diameter and have five petals that are five times longer than the sepals, adorned with deep purple-pink blotches at the base of the petals. The fruit of the plant is a capsule that splits open into five segments to release cotton-like fibers that are used for stuffing pillows, cushions and for spinning cotton.
Overall, Gossypium anomalum Wawra ex Wawra & Peyr. subsp. triphyllum is a magnificent plant, valued for its unique physical features, ornamental characteristics, and commercial value.Light Requirements
Gossypium anomalum Wawra ex Wawra & Peyr. subsp. triphyllum (Harv.) Roberty is a plant that thrives in full sun. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight exposure daily to grow properly.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm temperatures throughout its life cycle. The ideal temperature range for growing Gossypium anomalum Wawra ex Wawra & Peyr. subsp. triphyllum (Harv.) Roberty is between 25°C and 35°C. It can tolerate temperature fluctuations but is susceptible to frost damage.
Soil Requirements
Gossypium anomalum Wawra ex Wawra & Peyr. subsp. triphyllum (Harv.) Roberty requires well-draining and fertile soil for optimal growth. It prefers sandy loam or loamy soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.5 for best results. Avoid planting the cotton plant in heavy clay soils as they are poorly drained and will lead to waterlogging.
Cultivation Methods
Gossypium anomalum Wawra ex Wawra & Peyr. subsp. triphyllum (Harv.) Roberty, commonly known as Wild Cotton, is a perennial plant that can grow up to 2 meters in height. The plant prefers well-drained sandy soil and full sun exposure. It can tolerate temperatures up to 35°C, but cannot survive frost or very low temperatures.
Since the plant is a wild variety, it is advisable to plant it in areas where it can grow freely, without being disturbed. Most of the time, it grows along river ba??nks or hillsides.
Watering Needs
The Wild Cotton plant requires moderate watering, especially during the summer months. It can survive without water for extended periods as it is drought-tolerant. However, one must ensure that the soil does not become too dry, which can lead to wilting or the death of the plant.
It is best to water the plant deeply and infrequently, rather than shallowly and on a regular basis. This ensures that the roots have access to the water, and the plant grows deep and strong. Watering must be done in the morning or evening to avoid scorching the leaves during the hot sun.
Fertilization
The Wild Cotton plant requires minimal fertilization, as it is adapted to grow in nutrient-poor soil. However, adding compost or organic fertilizers during the planting stage can help provide the necessary nutrients to the plant. Excessive fertilization can lead to stunted growth and poor cotton quality.
If the plant is growing in poor soil, then it is advisable to provide periodical nitrogen fertilizers, as cotton requires nitrates to produce good flowers and matured fruits. However, the addition of other fertilizers must be done with great care, following the instructions given in the package.
Pruning
Wild Cotton does not require pruning, as it grows naturally and does not develop a shrubby or spindly growth habit. However, if there is any sign of disease or pest infestation, the affected parts must be pruned and destroyed, to prevent the spread of the disease. If the plant is growing too large, removing a few branches or twigs can be done, but it must be undertaken judiciously, so as not to affect the plant's overall growth and form.
Propagation of Gossypium anomalum Wawra ex Wawra & Peyr. subsp. triphyllum (Harv.) Roberty
Gossypium anomalum Wawra ex Wawra & Peyr. subsp. triphyllum (Harv.) Roberty, commonly known as wild cotton, is a perennial shrub that can be propagated via several methods.
Seed Propagation
Gossypium anomalum Wawra ex Wawra & Peyr. subsp. triphyllum (Harv.) Roberty can be propagated through seeds. The seeds are small and black in color. The ideal time for seed sowing is during the spring season. The seeds can be soaked in water for 24 hours before sowing to soften the coat. The seeds are then sown in well-draining soil, and kept moist until germination. Germination can take 10-20 days.
Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings can also be used for the propagation of Gossypium anomalum Wawra ex Wawra & Peyr. subsp. triphyllum (Harv.) Roberty. The cuttings should be taken from the mature stems which are disease-free and have at least two nodes. The cuttings should be 3-4 inches in length and should be dipped in rooting hormone to facilitate root formation. The cuttings are then planted in a well-draining soil mixture and kept moist until established.
Division Propagation
Division is also a method of propagating Gossypium anomalum Wawra ex Wawra & Peyr. subsp. triphyllum (Harv.) Roberty. This method involves dividing the mature plant into smaller sections, with each section having at least one stem and root system. The divided sections are then planted in well-draining soil, and kept moist until established.
Disease Management
G. anomalum subsp. triphyllum is a relatively healthy plant, but just like any other plant, it is susceptible to diseases. The most common diseases that may affect G. anomalum subsp. triphyllum include:
- Leaf spot: This disease is caused by fungi and is characterized by circular spots on the plant leaves. To manage this disease, remove the affected leaves and ensure the plant is well-ventilated
- Vascular wilt: This disease causes wilting of the G. anomalum subsp. triphyllum plant. It is caused by fungi in the soil and can be managed by ensuring the soil is well-drained and sterilized before planting.
- Bacterial blight: This disease is characterized by black spots on the leaves and stems of the plant. It is caused by bacteria and can be managed by removing the affected parts and applying copper-based fungicides.
Pest Management
G. anomalum subsp. triphyllum is also susceptible to pest attacks. Some of the common pests that may affect the plant include:
- Aphids: These are small green or black insects that suck the sap from the plant. To manage them, spray the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
- Whiteflies: These are tiny white flies that suck sap from the plant leaves. To manage them, use sticky traps or insecticidal soap.
- Spider mites: These are tiny pests that are difficult to see with the naked eye. They feed on plant sap and leave tiny webs on the plant. To manage them, spray the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
