Overview
Helichrysum brownei S.Moore var. glandulosum Hedberg, also known as Helichrysum glandulosum, is a species of flowering plant in the family Asteraceae. It is native to the Cape Province of South Africa and can be found in the Western and Eastern Cape provinces.
Common Names
The plant has several common names, including sticky everlasting, sticky helichrysum, and glandular everlasting.
Uses
The plant is used for medicinal and ornamental purposes. In traditional medicine, it is used to treat respiratory infections, allergies, and fever. The plant contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties.
As an ornamental plant, it is often used in dried flower arrangements due to its long-lasting blooms. The plant produces yellow or white flowers that are small and clustered together.
General Appearance
The plant typically grows to a height of 1-2 feet, and its leaves are green, narrow, and elongated. The leaves and stems are covered in tiny hairs, giving them a sticky texture. The flowers are small and clustered together in rounded heads, producing a fragrant and long-lasting bloom. The flowers can range in color from yellow to cream-white. The plant prefers full sun and well-draining soil and can thrive in dry, rocky areas.
Growth Conditions for Helichrysum brownei S.Moore var. glandulosum Hedberg
Helichrysum brownei S.Moore var. glandulosum Hedberg, commonly known as the glandular everlasting, is a perennial herb that is native to Ethiopia and Kenya. It can be found growing in grasslands, woodlands, and rocky areas, typically at altitudes of 1,000 to 2,500 meters.
Light Requirements
In its natural habitat, the glandular everlasting prefers full sun to partial shade. It requires at least six hours of sunlight per day to grow and flower successfully. When grown indoors, it is important to provide ample light through the use of artificial light sources such as grow lights.
Temperature Requirements
The glandular everlasting prefers moderate temperatures and is intolerant of extreme hot or cold temperatures. The ideal temperature range for growth and flowering is between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius. When grown indoors, it is important to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the day and night.
Soil Requirements
The glandular everlasting requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers soil that is slightly acidic, with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot. When grown in containers, it is important to use a potting mix that is specifically formulated for herbaceous perennials.
Overall, the glandular everlasting is a relatively low-maintenance plant that can thrive with minimal care as long as its basic growth requirements are met.
Cultivation methods
Helichrysum brownei S.Moore var. glandulosum Hedberg is a perennial plant that is native to South Africa and grows well in warm and dry climates. It thrives in well-draining soils with good air circulation, and requires full sun to light shade.
Propagation of the plant can be done through seeds or cuttings, with cuttings being a more reliable method. The ideal time to plant the cuttings is in early spring, and they should be planted in a well-draining potting mix that is kept moist but not waterlogged.
Watering needs
Helichrysum brownei S.Moore var. glandulosum Hedberg requires moderate watering during the growing season, but can tolerate some drought. It is important to avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot and other problems.
It is best to water the plant deeply, but less frequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. During the winter months, watering should be reduced to prevent the plant from becoming waterlogged.
Fertilization
Helichrysum brownei S.Moore var. glandulosum Hedberg benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. It is recommended to use a balanced fertilizer every two weeks when the plant is actively growing.
Organic fertilizers such as fish emulsion or compost tea can also be used to supply the plant with essential nutrients.
Pruning
Helichrysum brownei S.Moore var. glandulosum Hedberg requires pruning to maintain its shape and prevent it from becoming leggy. The best time to prune the plant is in the early spring before new growth begins.
Deadheading spent blooms also helps to promote new growth and prolong blooming. It is important to use clean and sharp pruning tools to prevent the spread of disease.
Propagation of Helichrysum brownei S.Moore var. glandulosum Hedberg
Helichrysum brownei S.Moore var. glandulosum Hedberg can be propagated through various plant propagation techniques. These include:
Seed propagation
One of the most common ways to propagate Helichrysum brownei S.Moore var. glandulosum Hedberg is through seed propagation. To do this, harvest the ripe seeds from the plant and sow them in a well-draining soil mixture. Cover the seeds lightly with soil and make sure that it is kept moist. Keep the container in a warm and well-lit spot and within a few weeks, you should see the seeds sprout. Once they have grown big enough to handle, transplant them to individual pots.
Division
Another way to propagate Helichrysum brownei S.Moore var. glandulosum Hedberg is through division. This method involves separating an established plant into two or more parts. To do this, dig up the plant and gently separate its roots into sections with a clean, sharp knife or spade. Each section should have some roots attached and a few shoots. Plant the divided sections into well-draining soil that has been enriched with compost or other organic matter. Water the transplants thoroughly and keep them in a warm and bright location until they are established.
Cuttings
Helichrysum brownei S.Moore var. glandulosum Hedberg can also be propagated through stem cuttings. This method involves taking a cutting from an established plant and rooting it in well-draining soil. The best time to take cuttings is in the spring or early summer. Cut the stem at an angle and strip off the leaves from the bottom portion. Dip the cutting in a rooting hormone and plant it in a soil mixture that is damp but not too wet. Cover the cutting with a plastic bag to create a mini greenhouse that will help retain moisture. After a few weeks, the cutting should start showing root growth and new leaves. Once this happens, remove the plastic and transplant the cutting into a bigger pot or directly into the ground.
Disease Management
Helichrysum brownei S.Moore var. glandulosum Hedberg is generally resistant to many diseases, but some fungal and bacterial diseases can affect the plant. One of the most common fungal diseases is powdery mildew that can cause a whitish-gray coating on the leaves. To manage powdery mildew, you can remove infected leaves and spray the plant with a fungicide that contains neem oil or copper-based compounds.
Another fungal disease that can affect the plant is gray mold that can cause the leaves to turn grayish-brown and develop black spots. To manage gray mold, avoid overwatering the plant and make sure it has proper air circulation. You can also remove infected leaves and spray the plant with a fungicide.
Bacterial leaf spot can also affect the plant, causing brownish-black spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves and avoid getting water on the leaves when watering the plant.
Pest Management
Helichrysum brownei S.Moore var. glandulosum Hedberg is generally pest-resistant, but some pests can still affect the plant. One of the most common pests is spider mites that can cause yellowing leaves and webbing on the plant. To manage spider mites, you can spray the plant with water to wash off the mites or use a miticide spray.
Aphids can also affect the plant, causing curling and distortion of the leaves. To manage aphids, you can use an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray.
Thrips are another pest that can affect the plant, causing discoloration and distortion of the leaves. To manage thrips, you can use a systemic insecticide or sticky traps.
Regular monitoring of the plant for any pests or diseases can ensure timely management and prevent any serious damage to the plant.
