Origin
Helichrysum fulgidum (L.f.) Willd. var. heterotrichum DC. is a member of the sunflower family and is native to southern Africa, particularly found in South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known as the Orange Everlasting or the Golden Orange Everlasting, due to its vibrant orange-yellow flowers that retain their color even after drying.
Uses
The Helichrysum fulgidum (L.f.) Willd. var. heterotrichum DC. plant has several uses. Traditionally, the leaves are used in African folk medicine to treat various ailments such as colds, flu, and coughs. The sap is also used as a remedy for snakebites and other venomous insect bites. The dried flowers are used in floral arrangements and potpourri. The plant is also known to attract butterflies and bees, making it an ideal plant for gardens and landscapes.
General Appearance
The Helichrysum fulgidum (L.f.) Willd. var. heterotrichum DC. plant is a perennial shrub that can grow up to 1 meter in height with a spread of 0.5 meters. The leaves are lance-like, up to 4 cm long, and grayish-green in color, covered with white woolly hairs. The flowers are clustered at the ends of the branches, each measuring about 2 cm in diameter, and have a bright orange-yellow color with a brown center. The flowers bloom from late summer to early fall and can last for several weeks.
Light Requirements
Helichrysum fulgidum (L.f.) Willd. var. heterotrichum DC. is typically a sun-loving plant and requires full to partial sunlight for healthy growth. It can grow in areas with high luminosity levels but cannot withstand full sun exposure during overly hot hours of the day. Therefore, it is recommended that this plant be grown in areas exposed to at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
Helichrysum fulgidum (L.f.) Willd. var. heterotrichum DC. is an adaptable plant that fares well in a range of temperature conditions. This plant can thrive in cool temperatures of about 15°C/59°F and can withstand high temperatures of up to 35°C/95°F. However, to ensure healthy growth, a temperature range of 18-24°C/64-75°F is ideal. It is essential to note that this plant does not tolerate frost; hence, it should be grown in areas without frost or be protected from it.
Soil Requirements
The growth of Helichrysum fulgidum (L.f.) Willd. var. heterotrichum DC. is dependent on soil moistness and composition. This plant thrives in well-draining soils with good aeration and a pH range of 6.0-7.5. Although this plant can tolerate most soil types, it thrives in sandy loam soils that are rich in organic matter. Therefore, it is best to add compost to the soil to improve nutrient levels. Additionally, it is important to note that this plant does not tolerate waterlogged soils, and it is advisable to avoid such areas during planting.
Cultivation
Helichrysum fulgidum (L.f.) Willd. var. heterotrichum DC. requires a warm, arid climate for proper growth. The plant can grow in various types of soils, including sand, loam, and clay, as long as the drainage is good. It is also important to ensure that the soil has a pH of 7.0 or less.
The plant should be planted during the spring when the temperature starts to rise. It is best to plant the seedlings at a distance of about 30 cm apart, to allow them to grow to their full potential. The seeds should be sown at a depth of about 2 cm in the soil. It is important to water the young plants frequently to ensure that the soil remains moist.
Watering needs
The Helichrysum fulgidum (L.f.) Willd. var. heterotrichum DC. plant requires moderate watering. The plant has a shallow root system, which makes it susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. The soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between watering to prevent this issue. The plant will require more frequent watering during hot, dry weather.
It is recommended that the plant be watered from the base instead of from above, as this can lead to damage to the flowers. The plant should not be left to stand in water, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Helichrysum fulgidum (L.f.) Willd. var. heterotrichum DC. is not a heavy feeder, and excessive fertilization can lead to weak growth. It is recommended to fertilize the plant every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. The fertilizer should be applied to wet soil to prevent damage to the roots. Organic fertilizers, such as compost or manure, can also be used to improve soil fertility.
Pruning
Helichrysum fulgidum (L.f.) Willd. var. heterotrichum DC. requires minimal pruning. The plant has a bushy habit, and the stems can be pinched back to encourage branching and a more compact growth habit. Deadheading should also be done regularly to remove spent flowers. The plant can be pruned back in the early spring to promote new growth.
It is important to use clean, sharp pruning tools to prevent damage to the plant. Any damaged or diseased branches should be removed immediately to prevent the spread of disease.
Overall, these cultivation methods, watering needs, fertilization, and pruning will ensure healthy growth of your Helichrysum fulgidum (L.f.) Willd. var. heterotrichum DC. plant.Propagation of Helichrysum fulgidum (L.f.) Willd. var. heterotrichum DC.
Helichrysum fulgidum (L.f.) Willd. var. heterotrichum DC. can be propagated through various methods. The most common ones are by seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation by seeds
Seeds of Helichrysum fulgidum (L.f.) Willd. var. heterotrichum DC. can be sown directly into the soil or in containers filled with seed starting mix. The optimal temperature for germination is around 18-22°C, and it takes about two to three weeks for the seeds to germinate. It is best to sow the seeds in spring, and they should be sown at a depth of about twice the diameter of the seed.
Propagation by cuttings
Helichrysum fulgidum (L.f.) Willd. var. heterotrichum DC. can be propagated by taking cuttings of stem tips. The best time to take cuttings is in spring or early summer. The cuttings should be around 10 cm long, and the bottom leaves should be removed. Once the cuttings are ready, they should be planted in a container filled with well-draining soil mix. The container should be kept in a warm and bright location, and the soil should be kept moist. Roots should develop in about four to six weeks.
Propagation by division
Dividing the clumps of Helichrysum fulgidum (L.f.) Willd. var. heterotrichum DC. is another way to propagate the plant. This method is suitable for mature plants that have become overcrowded. The best time to divide the plant is in early spring when new growth appears. First, the entire clump should be dug up. Then, the clump should be separated into smaller pieces, making sure that each piece has a healthy root system. Finally, each piece should be replanted in a new location with well-draining soil mix.
Disease and Pest Management for Helichrysum fulgidum (L.f.) Willd. var. heterotrichum DC.
Helichrysum fulgidum (L.f.) Willd. var. heterotrichum DC. is generally a hardy plant that does not suffer much from diseases or pests. However, some common diseases and pests that can affect the plant are:
Diseases
1. Root Rot: Root rot is caused by waterlogging or overwatering the plant. The disease causes the roots to rot, leading to wilting, stunted growth, and death of the plant. To manage root rot, it is important to ensure that the soil is well-draining and not watered too frequently.
2. Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is caused by a fungal infection. The disease causes brown or black spots on the leaves, which may eventually lead to the leaves falling off the plant. To manage leaf spot, it is important to remove infected leaves and avoid overhead watering, which can spread the disease. Fungicides can also be used for severe infections.
Pests
1. Aphids: Aphids are small insects that suck the sap from the leaves and stems of the plant. They can cause stunted growth, curling of leaves, and yellowing of the plant. To manage aphids, they can be physically removed by spraying the plant with a strong stream of water. Insecticidal soaps and oils can also be used to control aphids.
2. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the leaves of the plant, causing yellowing and poor growth. To manage spider mites, the plant can be sprayed with water or insecticidal soap. Acaricides can also be used to control severe infestations.
Overall, it is important to monitor the plant regularly for signs of diseases or pests. Early detection can help prevent the spread of the disease or pest and increase the chances of successfully managing it. Additionally, maintaining good cultural practices such as providing the plant with adequate sunlight and water can help keep the plant healthy and less susceptible to diseases and pests.
