Origin of Lachnopylis angolensis (Gilg) Philipson
Lachnopylis angolensis (Gilg) Philipson is a species of plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is native to Angola, a country located in Southern Africa.
Common Names of Lachnopylis angolensis (Gilg) Philipson
Lachnopylis angolensis (Gilg) Philipson is commonly referred to as the Angola Lachnopylis or Angola Pincushion Daisy.
Uses of Lachnopylis angolensis (Gilg) Philipson
Lachnopylis angolensis (Gilg) Philipson is primarily used for ornamental purposes. The plant is known for its beautiful yellow flowers that bloom in clusters. The flowers are a source of nectar and pollen for bees and other insects. The plant is also used in traditional medicine in Angola to treat various ailments such as coughs, fever, and bronchitis.
General Appearance of Lachnopylis angolensis (Gilg) Philipson
Lachnopylis angolensis (Gilg) Philipson is a small shrub that typically grows up to 1 meter in height. The leaves are small, narrow, and covered in fine hairs. The flowers are borne on long stalks and are yellow in color. The plant blooms in late summer and autumn, and the flowers are followed by small, dry fruits containing seeds.
Light Requirements
Lachnopylis angolensis (Gilg) Philipson is a sun-loving plant that thrives in bright sunlight. To achieve optimal growth, it should be exposed to sunlight for at least six hours every day. However, they can survive in partially shaded areas, but it would negatively impact the plant's overall growth and flowering capability.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives in a warm climate with consistent temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. While it can also survive in cooler temperatures, it's essential to mention that lower temperatures would significantly affect the plant's growth rate, flowers, and fruit set.
Soil Requirements
Lachnopylis angolensis (Gilg) Philipson can tolerate different soil types, as long as the soil is well-draining. The soil should also be of a suitable pH level ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. For best results, it's advisable to amend the soil with rich organic matter such as compost to enhance water retention and nutrient uptake.
Cultivation Methods
Lachnopylis angolensis is an easy-to-grow plant that thrives in a variety of soil types, including sandy soils and loamy soils. It can be grown in both full sun and partial shade and can tolerate a range of temperatures. As a shrub, it can be propagated from cuttings, which should be taken in the spring or early summer.
Watering Needs
While Lachnopylis angolensis is tolerant of drought, it performs best when provided with regular irrigation. During the growing season, it is recommended to water the plant deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. In winter, watering should be reduced to once every two weeks.
Fertilization
Applying a balanced fertilizer in spring and summer can improve the growth and flowering of Lachnopylis angolensis. Use a slow-release granular fertilizer, or a liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength, every six to eight weeks. Be careful not to overfertilize, as this can lead to excessive vegetative growth at the expense of flowering.
Pruning
Maintaining a compact and bushy shape is important for Lachnopylis angolensis. To achieve this, prune the plant after flowering in late summer or early fall. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches and cut back any leggy growth. Avoid heavy pruning, as this can reduce the number of flowers in the following season.
Propagation of Lachnopylis angolensis (Gilg) Philipson
Lachnopylis angolensis (Gilg) Philipson is a perennial plant that belongs to the family Lamiaceae. This plant is native to Angola and is commonly known as "Ngongo" in the Chokwe language. Propagation of Lachnopylis angolensis can be done through various methods:
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Lachnopylis angolensis can be done from seeds. The seedlings can be grown in a nursery before being transplanted to the field. The seeds should be sown in well-drained soil and lightly covered with topsoil. The germination process takes 2-3 weeks, and the seedlings should be watered regularly to prevent drying out. When the seedlings are 4-6 inches tall, they can be transplanted to the field.
Cuttings Propagation
The stem cuttings can be propagated during the rainy season. The stem cutting should be taken from an established plant and cut into 10-20cm lengths. The cuttings should be treated with rooting hormone and planted in a moist environment. The cuttings should be watered regularly until new growth appears.
Division Propagation
The Lachnopylis angolensis plant can also be propagated through division. The plant should be dug up, and the rhizome should be divided into pieces. Each piece should have at least two buds. The plant should be replanted in a well-drained soil and watered regularly until new growth appears.
Disease Management of Lachnopylis angolensis
Lachnopylis angolensis is a hardy plant that can withstand a variety of environmental conditions. However, it is still susceptible to several diseases caused by fungi, bacteria, and viruses.
One of the most common diseases affecting this plant is leaf spot. It is characterized by circular or irregular brown spots on the leaves, which may eventually cause the leaves to drop prematurely. To manage this disease, it is essential to remove and destroy all infected plant parts regularly.
Another disease that affects Lachnopylis angolensis is powdery mildew. It is easy to identify by the powdery white or gray patches that cover the leaves. Managing this disease involves using fungicides and ensuring adequate air circulation around the plant.
Lachnopylis angolensis is also prone to root rot caused by overwatering or poorly drained soils. To prevent this disease, it is essential to water the plant appropriately and improve soil drainage. The application of a fungicide may also be necessary to manage the disease.
Pest Management of Lachnopylis angolensis
Lachnopylis angolensis is known to attract several pests, including aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests can cause significant damage to the plant if not managed immediately.
A common pest affecting Lachnopylis angolensis is aphids. They suck the sap from the leaves, causing stunted growth, distorted leaves, and yellowing. Managing aphids involves using insecticidal soap or neem oil and encouraging natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings.
Another pest that can affect the plant is spider mites. They pierce through the leaves, causing the plant to shed leaves and turn yellow. To manage this pest, it is important to rinse the plant with water and use insecticides to eliminate them.
Whiteflies can also be a problem, especially when the infestation is severe. They damage the plant by sucking the sap from the leaves and excreting honeydew, causing fungal diseases. Managing this pest involves using insecticidal soap or neem oil and encouraging natural predators.
Regular inspection of the plant and prompt action when pests or diseases are detected is crucial in maintaining the health of Lachnopylis angolensis.