Overview
Helipterum canescens (L.) DC. var. tricolor DC., also known as Helipterum tricolour or everlasting daisy, is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is widely cultivated as a garden plant for its colorful blooms and long vase life.
Origin
The plant is native to South Africa and can be found growing wild in sandy soils in the Western Cape and Eastern Cape provinces.
Common Names
Aside from everlasting daisy, the plant is also commonly known as tricolour strawflower, cape strawflower, and paper daisy.
Appearance
Helipterum canescens (L.) DC. var. tricolor DC. is a low-growing perennial that typically reaches up to 30 cm in height. It has narrow, silvery leaves that appear clustered at the base of the plant. Its flowers are small, yellow, and sit atop long stems that can vary in length from 10-40 cm. The petal-like bracts surrounding the flowers come in shades of white, pink, and red, giving the plant its tricolour name.
Uses
Helipterum canescens (L.) DC. var. tricolor DC. is a popular cut flower, often used in floral arrangements and bouquets due to its long vase life. Its dried flowers are also used in crafting and floral displays. In traditional medicine, the plant has been used for its anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties, while in cosmetics, it is used as an ingredient in beauty products such as skin creams and lotions.
Light Requirements
Helipterum canescens var. tricolor is a plant that requires full sun exposure. It needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight to thrive and produce a profusion of flowers. Lack of sunlight or shade can cause the plant to have poor growth and reduced flowering.
Temperature Requirements
The Helipterum canescens var. tricolor prefers a warm climate with an average temperature range of 15°C to 25°C. It can tolerate a temperature range of 5°C to 35°C. During the cooler months, the plant will become dormant and growth will slow down. Freezing temperatures will cause damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
This plant grows best in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be in the range of 6.0 to 7.5. It can tolerate slightly acidic or alkaline soils. The plant does not do well in heavy clay soils or waterlogged soils. A soil that is too wet can lead to root rot. Frequent fertilization is not necessary for this plant, as it can survive in nutrient-poor soils.
Cultivation Methods
Helipterum canescens var. tricolor is a drought-tolerant plant that prefers direct sunlight and well-draining soil. The ideal soil pH level for growing this plant is between 6.0 to 7.5 pH. It is best to plant the seeds during spring or early summer in areas with warm climates. The seeds should be sown into the soil at a depth of approximately 3 to 4 millimeters.
To promote optimal growth, it is suggested to thin out the seedlings to at least 10-15 centimeters apart to avoid overcrowding. This process may improve the plant's overall growth and health. Also, it is recommended to utilize a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to maintain soil moisture and keep weeds at bay.
Watering Needs
Helipterum canescens var. tricolor is a drought-tolerant plant, which means it does not require frequent watering. It is best to water the plant deeply yet less frequently to prevent over-saturation that can lead to root rot. We suggest the frequency of watering can be reduced further during the winter months to avoid waterlogging, which causes plant death.
A general rule of thumb is that the plant should only be watered when the topsoil feels dry to the touch. A thorough watering should be done rather than frequent light watering, creating a robust root system.
Fertilization
Helipterum canescens var. tricolor can grow in nutrient-deficient soil, and therefore, it does not need frequent fertilization. However, if the soil is lacking in nutrients, a light application of an all-purpose organic fertilizer in the early spring could benefit. Nonetheless, the excess fertilization should be avoided as it causes leaf burn or stem damage to the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Helipterum canescens var. tricolor, but a light cut back after blooming can promote new growth, bushiness and an additional flush of flowers. To rejuvenate the plant, trim back the leggy stems to approximately half their length before new growth begins in the spring.
It is best to utilize sharp pruning shears to prevent the tearing or bruising of the plant's stem. Any damaged, diseased or dead part of the plant should be removed regularly, promoting overall plant health.
Propagation of Helipterum canescens (L.) DC. var. tricolor DC.
Helipterum canescens (L.) DC. var. tricolor DC. is commonly known as the Everlasting Daisy. It is a perennial herb that belongs to the Asteraceae family. The propagation of this plant can be done using various methods.
Seed Propagation
The most straightforward method of propagating Helipterum canescens (L.) DC. var. tricolor DC. is through seed propagation. This plant produces numerous seeds that can be harvested once they have matured and turned brown. Once harvested, the seeds can be stored in a cool and dry place until sowing time arrives. The seeds can be sowed outdoors in the fall for spring germination, or indoors, eight to ten weeks before the last frost in spring. The seeds should be planted in well-draining, sandy soils, with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5, and kept moist until germination.
Division Propagation
Division propagation is another effective way of propagating Helipterum canescens (L.) DC. var. tricolor DC. This method of propagation involves dividing the mother plant into two or more sections, each with its own root system. The best time to divide the plant is in the early spring or late summer when the plant is dormant. Care should be taken while dividing the plant to ensure that each section has sufficient roots and shoots to survive.
Cuttings Propagation
Helipterum canescens (L.) DC. var. tricolor DC. can be propagated using cuttings as well. This method involves taking stem cuttings from the mother plant and then planting them in a suitable rooting medium. The cuttings should be taken from healthy stems and should be four to five inches long. The leaves from the bottom half of the cutting should be removed, and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone powder. The cuttings should be planted in a well-draining, sandy soil mix, and kept moist until they take root.
Propagation of Helipterum canescens (L.) DC. var. tricolor DC. can be accomplished using any of these methods, depending on the resources available. However, proper care should be taken to ensure the success of the propagation method used.
Disease and Pest Management for Helipterum canescens (L.) DC. var. tricolor DC.
Helipterum canescens (L.) DC. var. tricolor DC., commonly known as strawflower, is a popular ornamental plant with a wide distribution. While it is relatively resistant to many pests and diseases, there are still some common issues that growers should be aware of and take steps to manage.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affects Helipterum canescens var. tricolor is powdery mildew. This fungal disease is characterized by a white or gray powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, growers should ensure the plant has proper air circulation and avoid overhead watering. They may also apply a fungicide if necessary.
Another disease that can affect strawflowers is stem rot, caused by the fungus Sclerotinia sclerotiorum. Symptoms include wilting and rotting of stems and leaves. To prevent stem rot, growers should avoid overwatering and ensure proper drainage. Fungicides may also be necessary to manage severe cases.
Common Pests
The most common pests that can affect Helipterum canescens var. tricolor are aphids and spider mites. Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that feed on the plant sap, leading to distorted growth and yellowing leaves. Spider mites are small, reddish-brown pests that also feed on plant sap, causing yellowing and stippling of the leaves.
To manage aphids and spider mites, growers may introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings. They may also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the pests. Regularly inspecting the plant for signs of infestation can help catch and manage pest problems early before they become severe.
In summary, managing pests and diseases for Helipterum canescens (L.) DC. var. tricolor DC. involves preventative measures such as proper maintenance and regular inspection, as well as the use of appropriate management strategies. With proper care, growers can enjoy healthy and beautiful strawflowers.
