Origin
Helichrysum adscendens auct. is a species of plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. Its native origin is in the Mediterranean region, specifically in areas of North Africa such as Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia.
Common Names
Helichrysum adscendens auct. is commonly known as the climbing or ascending everlasting. In Morocco, it is known as "Ighezrane" or "Igtane n-Waman".
Uses
Helichrysum adscendens auct. is used for medicinal purposes in traditional Moroccan and Tunisian folk medicine. It is commonly used to treat digestive issues such as stomach aches and also to calm nerves. The plant is also used as a natural dye for textiles, producing a yellow color.
General Appearance
Helichrysum adscendens auct. is a perennial plant that can grow up to 60 cm in height. Its leaves are green and gray, and it has bright yellow flowers. The plant has a woody stem and small branches that can be weaved or twisted into rope.
Growth Conditions for Helichrysum adscendens auct.
Helichrysum adscendens auct. is a perennial plant that grows in arid and semi-arid regions. The plant has thin leaves and flowers that are yellow, orange, or red. The typical growth conditions for Helichrysum adscendens auct. can be discussed under the following elements:
Light Requirements
Helichrysum adscendens auct. prefers full sun exposure and grows best in bright light. The plant needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day to grow and flower properly. In low light conditions, the plant may produce fewer flowers and become leggy.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it thrives in warm to hot temperatures. The optimal temperature range for Helichrysum adscendens auct. is between 20°C and 30°C (68°F - 86°F). The plant can survive occasional frost, but extended frost periods can damage the foliage and roots.
Soil Requirements
Helichrysum adscendens auct. requires well-draining soil to grow successfully. The plant can tolerate poor soil conditions but prefers well-draining sandy or loamy soils. The soil pH range for the plant is between 5.5 and 7.5. The addition of organic matter to soil can improve the growing conditions and support the plant's growth and development.
In conclusion, Helichrysum adscendens auct. thrives in full sun exposure, warm to hot temperatures, and well-draining soil. The plant can tolerate poor soil conditions but prefers soil that is enriched with organic matter. Providing the plant with the optimal growth conditions can result in a healthy and productive Helichrysum adscendens auct. plant.
Cultivation of Helichrysum adscendens auct.
Helichrysum adscendens auct. can be grown both indoors and outdoors. For outdoor cultivation, it thrives well in well-drained soil, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. It is ideal to plant them in a sunny area as it loves sunlight.
Planting should be done in early spring or at the end of summer, when the weather is warm and favorable for growth. It is best to plant mature or established seedlings, which can be obtained from reputable plant stores or nurseries.
Watering Needs
Helichrysum adscendens auct. requires moderate watering. Ensure that the soil is well-drained, and the plant receives adequate water, especially during the growing season. During the winter season, watering should be reduced to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to wilting.
Fertilization
The plant thrives well with organic fertilizer or a complete balanced fertilizer. Fertilization should be done before the growing season. When fertilizing, ensure that you follow the recommended application rate, and avoid over-fertilization, which can damage the plant.
Pruning
Pruning Helichrysum adscendens auct. is necessary to promote growth, maintain an attractive shape, and prevent the plant from becoming overgrown. Pruning should be done after the flowering season. It is essential to remove dead flowers or damaged stems and branches. To promote bushier growth, cut back the main stem or pinch back the growing tips.
Propagation of Helichrysum adscendens
Helichrysum adscendens, commonly known as the climbing everlasting, is a drought-tolerant herbaceous perennial that grows up to 3 feet tall. Propagation of Helichrysum adscendens can be done through seeds, stem cuttings, and division.
Propagation through Seeds
The seeds of Helichrysum adscendens can be collected from mature plants in the fall. The seeds are small, so it's important to handle them with care. After collecting the seeds, they should be sown in well-draining soil in the spring. The seeds will germinate in about 2-3 weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted to their permanent location after they have developed 2-3 true leaves.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
Propagation of Helichrysum adscendens through stem cuttings is the quickest way to propagate this plant. The stem cuttings should be taken in the spring or summer when the plant is actively growing. Select a healthy stem and cut it just below a node. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the stem, leaving only a few leaves at the top. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist until the cutting has rooted, which usually takes about 4-6 weeks.
Propagation through Division
Propagation of Helichrysum adscendens through division is best done in the spring or fall. Dig up the entire plant and carefully separate the roots and stems into smaller sections. Each section should have at least one stem and a good root system. Plant the sections in well-draining soil, and water them thoroughly.
Disease and Pest Management for Helichrysum adscendens Auct.
Helichrysum adscendens Auct. is a hardy and low-maintenance plant, but it can still be susceptible to various diseases and pests. Proper disease and pest management practices can help maintain the health and beauty of the plant.
Common Diseases
One common disease that can affect Helichrysum adscendens Auct. is powdery mildew. This fungal disease can be identified by a white, powdery substance on the leaves and stems of the plants. To manage powdery mildew in Helichrysum adscendens Auct., it is recommended to improve air circulation, reduce humidity, and avoid overhead watering.
Another disease that can affect Helichrysum adscendens Auct. is root rot. This disease is caused by waterlogged soil and can lead to a droopy appearance and yellowing of the leaves. To manage root rot, it is important to ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering. Adding perlite to soil can improve drainage.
Common Pests
Helichrysum adscendens Auct. can also be affected by pests like spider mites and aphids. Spider mites are tiny, spider-like insects that can cause yellowing and discoloration of the leaves. To manage spider mites, it is recommended to increase humidity and use insecticidal soap or Neem oil. Aphids, on the other hand, are tiny insects that suck sap from the leaves and stems, leading to stunted growth and curling of leaves. To manage aphids, it is recommended to use a strong stream of water to knock them off the plant or use insecticidal soap.
Caterpillars can also be a problem for Helichrysum adscendens Auct., eating the leaves and flowers of the plant. To manage caterpillars, handpicking may be effective, or the use of Bacillus thuringiensis may be necessary if they persist.
Regular inspections of the plant and maintaining a healthy environment can prevent the spread of diseases and pests, keeping Helichrysum adscendens Auct. healthy and beautiful.
