Origin
Helichrysum newii Oliv. & Hiern var. gunnae Engl. is a plant species belonging to the Asteraceae family. This plant species is endemic to South Africa and can be found growing in rocky outcrops and open grasslands in the Eastern Cape Province.
Common Names
The common names for Helichrysum newii Oliv. & Hiern var. gunnae Engl. are not widely recognized. However, in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, this plant species is commonly referred to as “Gunnae’s Imphepho” or simply “Imphepho”, which means “aromatic plant” in the Xhosa language.
Uses
Helichrysum newii Oliv. & Hiern var. gunnae Engl. is mainly used for medicinal purposes. The essential oil obtained from this plant species has been shown to possess antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, which make it useful for the treatment of various ailments such as respiratory infections, skin infections, and rheumatism.
Additionally, the plant has spiritual and cultural significance among the Xhosa people of South Africa who use it for ceremonial purposes.
General Appearance
Helichrysum newii Oliv. & Hiern var. gunnae Engl. is a perennial subshrub that can grow up to 1 meter tall. The plant typically has a woody base and multiple stems that are covered with fine hairs. The leaves are oblong to elliptical in shape, and the plant produces yellow flowers that bloom in summer.
The plant’s leaves and stems are highly aromatic, releasing a pleasant scent when crushed. The overall appearance of Helichrysum newii Oliv. & Hiern var. gunnae Engl. is quite attractive, which makes it a suitable plant species for ornamental purposes.
Growth Conditions for Helichrysum newii Oliv. & Hiern var. gunnae Engl.
The Helichrysum newii Oliv. & Hiern var. gunnae Engl. is a species of plant native to Kenya, specifically in Gunnae. This type of plant usually grows in rocky areas with poor or degraded soils, where most other plants would not survive. Here are the growth conditions for the plant:
Light Requirements
The Helichrysum newii Oliv. & Hiern var. gunnae Engl. requires a lot of light which makes it perfect for rock crevices that are exposed to the sun for long hours. Excessive shade will cause the plant to become weak and leggy with fewer flowers. Therefore, it is best to position this plant for at least six hours of full sun every day.
Temperature Requirements
The Helichrysum newii Oliv. & Hiern var. gunnae Engl. thrives in warm temperatures. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 68°F-77°F (20-25°C). It does not tolerate frost very well and should be grown in areas where it will not be exposed to such conditions.
Soil Requirements
Since Helichrysum newii Oliv. & Hiern var. gunnae Engl. typically grows in rocky areas with poor soils, it is not a nutrient-hungry plant. In fact, it prefers well-drained soils with moderate fertility. It is important to note that this plant does not like wet soil. Therefore, it should be planted in soil with good drainage. If the soil is too heavy, add sand to improve drainage.
Cultivation Methods
Helichrysum newii Oliv. & Hiern var. gunnae Engl. is a South African plant that requires a warm, dry, and sunny environment to thrive. It grows best in well-draining soil, with a pH range between 6.0 and 7.5. The plant is sensitive to frost, and it's best to grow it in areas with mild winter temperatures.
If you plan to grow Helichrysum newii in a pot, make sure it has ample drainage holes, and use a potting mix that is well-draining and rich in organic matter. A location that receives at least six hours of full sun per day is ideal.
Watering Needs
Helichrysum newii requires infrequent watering, as it is a drought-tolerant plant. Water the plant deeply but only when the soil has become completely dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which may ultimately kill the plant.
Fertilization
Fertilization is not a requirement for Helichrysum newii, but it can help to promote growth and blooming. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 formula, diluted to half strength. Apply the fertilizer every two months during the growing season, which typically spans from spring to fall.
Pruning
To promote bushier and denser growth, prune Helichrysum newii after the first flush of flowers has faded. Use pruning shears to trim the tips of the stems back, by at least half their length. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to prolong the blooming period.
Propagation of Helichrysum newii Oliv. & Hiern var. gunnae Engl.
Helichrysum newii Oliv. & Hiern var. gunnae Engl. is a perennial plant that produces woody stems with waxy, silver-gray leaves. It is commonly found in rocky areas and can be propagated through different methods.
Propagation through seeds
The easiest way to propagate Helichrysum newii Oliv. & Hiern var. gunnae Engl. is through seeds. The seeds can be collected in the fall or winter when they are mature and ready for planting. Once collected, the seeds should be stored in a cool, dry place until they are ready to be planted.
The seeds should be planted in a soil mixture that is well-draining and does not retain too much moisture. The planting depth should be shallow, and the seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil. Water the soil lightly after planting and make sure that it is kept moist but not waterlogged.
The seeds should start to germinate within a few weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted into larger pots or to the garden after they have developed a strong root system.
Propagation through cuttings
Helichrysum newii Oliv. & Hiern var. gunnae Engl. can also be propagated through cuttings. This method is usually done in the spring or early summer when new growth has started to emerge.
The cutting should be taken from the tips of the stems and should be around 4-6 inches long. Remove the lower leaves from the stem and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth.
The cutting should be planted in a well-draining soil mixture and kept under high humidity until it develops roots. Once the roots have formed, the cutting can be transplanted to a larger pot or planted in the garden.
Disease and Pest Management for Helichrysum newii Oliv. & Hiern var. gunnae Engl.
Helichrysum newii Oliv. & Hiern var. gunnae Engl. is a plant that is susceptible to a range of common fungal diseases and pests. Here are some of the most common diseases and pests that affect this plant, as well as some suggested ways to manage them:
Diseases
1. Powdery mildew: This fungal disease is characterized by a white or gray powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. It can inhibit plant growth and reduce flower production. To manage powdery mildew, ensure that the plant is adequately watered, prune any infected areas, and treat with an appropriate fungicide.
2. Rust: Rust is another fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant, usually appearing as small, orange-brown spots. Infected leaves may turn yellow and fall off the plant prematurely. To manage rust, remove any infected leaves and ensure that the plant is well-ventilated. Fungicides can also be used if necessary.
3. Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes sunken, dark lesions on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. It can also cause premature leaf drop. To manage anthracnose, remove any infected plant material and ensure that the plant is well-watered. Fungicides may also be used in severe cases.
Pests
1. Aphids: These tiny insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause stunted growth and deformation. They can also spread plant diseases. To manage aphids, use a strong spray of water to physically remove them from the plant, or treat the plant with an appropriate insecticide.
2. Slugs and Snails: These pests can eat through the leaves and flowers of the plant, causing significant damage. They prefer moist conditions and are often found in shaded areas. To manage slugs and snails, remove any hiding places near the plant, such as debris or weeds, and apply a slug bait or trap. Alternatively, create a barrier around the plant using copper tape or a ring of crushed eggshells.
3. Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling on the leaves of the plant. They are often found in dry conditions and can quickly reproduce. To manage spider mites, ensure that the plant is adequately watered and increase humidity levels. In severe cases, an insecticide may be necessary.
By properly managing the diseases and pests that affect Helichrysum newii Oliv. & Hiern var. gunnae Engl., it is possible to keep this plant healthy and thriving.
