Overview
Helichrysum serpyllifolium (P.J.Bergius) Pers. var. polifolium (Thunb.) DC. is a plant species that belongs to the family of Asteraceae, which is commonly known as the sunflower family. The plant is found in several countries, particularly in South Africa, and possesses various uses.
Appearance
The Helichrysum serpyllifolium plant is a typical herb that grows up to a height of 20–60 cm. The leaves are about 10–20 mm in length and are needle-shaped. The plant has pretty flowers that vary from white to pink, and the flower heads are approximately 2-5 mm in length. The yellow center of the flower contains numerous small flowers, and the plant overall has an attractive and colorful appearance.
Common Names
The Helichrysum serpyllifolium plant is known by several common names depending on the region and language. Some of the names are:
- Rooi tee bossie (Afrikaans)
- Langblaar-sewejaartjie (Afrikaans)
- Umavumbuka (isiNdebele)
- Isihlahla-samabiza-sihlaha (isiZulu)
- Summer gold (English)
Uses
Helichrysum serpyllifolium has several uses in traditional medicine, such as in South African, where the plant is commonly used to treat several ailments, including respiratory and digestive issues. The flowers and leaves of the plant contain essential oils and flavonoids, which have antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. The plant is also used as a spice or tea ingredient that gives a refreshing taste and aroma. In ornamental gardening, the plant is used in flower beds, borders and containers as a colorful and attractive addition to the garden.
Typical Growth Conditions for Helichrysum serpyllifolium (P.J.Bergius) Pers. var. polifolium (Thunb.) DC.
Light: Helichrysum serpyllifolium var. polifolium grows best in full sunlight or partially shaded areas. The plant requires a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth.
Temperature: The ideal temperature range for the growth and development of Helichrysum serpyllifolium var. polifolium is between 15°C to 25°C. The plant can grow in higher temperatures as well, provided they are not too extreme.
Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soils, rich in organic matter. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including loam, sand, or clay soils, but it requires good drainage. The soil pH should be between 6.0 to 7.5.
Water: Helichrysum serpyllifolium var. polifolium requires moderate watering. The plant should be watered only when the soil is dry to the touch, and excess water should be drained promptly.
Fertilizer: The plant requires regular fertilization during the growing season. A balanced liquid fertilizer can be applied every two to three weeks, following the manufacturer's instructions.
Propagation: The plant can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in early spring, directly in the soil or in pots. Cuttings can be taken from young shoots during the growing season and rooted in a mixture of perlite and sand.
Maintenance: Regular pruning is necessary to maintain the plant's shape and promote bushy growth. Deadheading spent flowers will also encourage new growth and blooming. The plant can be affected by pests such as spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. It is essential to monitor the plant and take appropriate measures in case of an infestation.
Cultivation methods:
Helichrysum serpyllifolium (P.J.Bergius) Pers. var. polifolium (Thunb.) DC., commonly known as the creeping everlasting or the creeping strawflower, is a hardy plant that is easy to cultivate. This plant prefers full sun, well-draining soil, and warm temperatures.
To grow this plant, first, select a location that receives full sun. Then, prepare the soil by turning it over and loosening it. Add some organic matter to increase the soil's fertility and water retention. Plant the seedlings at a depth of two inches and ensure that they are spaced at least one foot apart.
Watering needs:
Helichrysum serpyllifolium is drought-resistant and does not require frequent watering. However, for the plant to thrive, it needs adequate moisture during the growing season. Water the plant deeply once every two weeks or whenever the soil is dry.
During the hot summer days, provide additional water to prevent the soil from drying out excessively. To maintain the right soil moisture level, mulch around the plant to help prevent evaporation and weed growth.
Fertilization:
The creeping everlasting plant requires a balanced fertilizer to ensure that it receives all the essential nutrients it needs for growth. Apply a slow-release granular fertilizer or an organic compost at the beginning of the growing season.
After planting, continue to feed the plant monthly with a liquid fertilizer. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations to determine the appropriate amount of fertilizer to use.
Pruning:
Pruning the creeping everlasting plant is essential to help maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. It is best to prune the plant in the early spring or late fall after the growing season is over.
To prune, remove any yellow or dead leaves and trim back any overly long stems to prevent the plant from becoming too leggy. You can also deadhead the flowers to encourage new growth and additional blooming.
Pruning will help increase the plant's overall health and promote bushier growth. Make sure to use sharp, clean pruning shears to avoid injuring the plant unnecessarily.
Propagation of Helichrysum serpyllifolium (P.J.Bergius) Pers. var. polifolium (Thunb.) DC.
Helichrysum serpyllifolium (P.J.Bergius) Pers. var. polifolium (Thunb.) DC. can be propagated by both seed and vegetative methods.
Propagation by Seed
Seeds of Helichrysum serpyllifolium (P.J.Bergius) Pers. var. polifolium (Thunb.) DC. can be sown directly in the ground in the fall or early spring when the soil has warmed up. The seeds should be sown thinly and covered with a thin layer of soil. Germination typically occurs within two to three weeks. Once the seedlings have grown large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden.
Propagation by Vegetative Methods
Helichrysum serpyllifolium (P.J.Bergius) Pers. var. polifolium (Thunb.) DC. can also be propagated by various vegetative methods such as stem cuttings, division, and layering.
Stem cuttings can be taken from new growth in the spring or early summer. The cuttings should be taken from healthy and disease-free plants and should be about 4-6 inches long. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone before inserting it into a pot filled with moist potting soil. Keep the soil moist and the cutting in a warm, bright location until roots develop.
Division is another method of propagating Helichrysum serpyllifolium (P.J.Bergius) Pers. var. polifolium (Thunb.) DC.. It involves separating the plant into individual sections and replanting them. This is typically done in the spring or early fall when the plant is dormant. Carefully dig up the plant and divide the root ball into sections, making sure that each section has enough roots and foliage to survive. Replant the sections in well-draining soil and keep them moist until they establish new roots.
Layering is a propagation method in which a stem of the plant is encouraged to root while still attached to the parent plant. This can be done by bending a low-growing stem down towards the ground, wounding the stem by removing a ring of bark, and covering it with soil. After roots have developed, the stem can be cut from the parent plant and replanted.
Disease and pest management for Helichrysum serpyllifolium var. polifolium
Helichrysum serpyllifolium var. polifolium is a hardy perennial plant that is generally resistant to diseases and pests. However, certain environmental conditions can lead to the occurrence of diseases and pests, and timely management is important to prevent their spread and minimize damage.
Common diseases
Leaf spot and powdery mildew are two of the most common diseases that can affect Helichrysum serpyllifolium var. polifolium. Leaf spot is caused by the fungus Mycosphaerella helichrysi and presents as brown to black spots on the leaves. Powdery mildew is caused by various fungi and presents as a white powdery coating on the leaves and stems.
Disease management
To manage leaf spot and powdery mildew, it is important to maintain good plant hygiene by removing any infected leaves and stems. Avoid overhead watering as this can promote fungal growth. Fungicides containing copper or neem oil may be used as a preventative measure. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully when applying fungicides.
Common pests
Two-spotted spider mites and aphids are the most common pests that can affect Helichrysum serpyllifolium var. polifolium. Two-spotted spider mites are tiny insects that feed on the undersides of leaves, causing yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing leaf curling and distortion.
Pest management
To manage two-spotted spider mites and aphids, it is important to monitor the plants for the presence of these pests. Regularly inspect the undersides of leaves for mites and pay attention to curled and distorted leaves for signs of aphids. Natural enemies such as ladybugs and lacewings can be introduced to the garden to help control aphid populations. Insecticides such as neem oil or insecticidal soap can be used to manage infestations, but it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
Overall, good cultural practices such as proper watering and fertilization, along with regular inspections, can go a long way in preventing the occurrence of diseases and pests in Helichrysum serpyllifolium var. polifolium.
