Overview
Lapsanastrum apogonoides (Maxim.) J.H. Pak & K. Bremer, also known as shishi-ban-gusa, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the aster family. It is native to eastern Asia, particularly in Japan, Korea, and China, and is found growing in moist habitats such as streambanks, wet meadows, and woodland edges.
General Appearance
The plant has a typical height of about 60 cm, and its slender stems are tetragonous in shape and are branching near the top. The alternate leaves are ovate to oblong-lanceolate with serrulate margins, and they have a length of about 8 cm and a width of about 4 cm. The plant produces yellow, daisy-like flowers that are about 2 cm in diameter and are arranged in corymbose inflorescences. The plant's fruit is a cypsela, a type of achene that is oblong in shape and has a length of about 3 mm.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as shishi-ban-gusa in Japanese, which roughly translates to "lion's mane herb." It is also called haetae-cho in Korean, which means "winged vehicle herb."
Uses
In traditional East Asian medicine, Lapsanastrum apogonoides has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, coughs, sore throats, and bronchitis. The plant is also used as a diuretic and has been used to treat urinary tract infections. In addition to its medicinal properties, the plant has also been used for culinary purposes in Japan, where the young leaves and stems are used as a green vegetable in salads and soups.
Light requirements
Lapsanastrum apogonoides requires full sun to partial shade. It grows best in areas with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day, but can also tolerate some shade. In the wild, this plant can be found growing on forest edges and meadows where it receives some shade in the afternoon. Therefore, it can be grown in both sunny and semi-shady gardens.
Temperature requirements
This plant is native to Asia and can tolerate a range of temperatures. It grows best in areas with a cool temperate climate and can tolerate temperatures between -25°C to 40°C (-13°F to 104°F). It is important to note that this plant is sensitive to extreme temperatures, particularly frost and extreme heat.
Soil requirements
Lapsanastrum apogonoides thrives in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. It prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged as excessive moisture can lead to root rot. Adding a layer of mulch around the plant can help keep the soil moist and protect the roots from extreme temperature changes.
Cultivation Methods
Lapsanastrum apogonoides grows best in well-drained soil with a pH range of 6-7.5. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate light shade. It is important to provide the plant with sufficient space, as it can grow up to 3 feet tall and spread up to 2 feet wide.
Propagation of Lapsanastrum apogonoides can be done through seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in the spring after the last frost or in the fall. Cuttings can be taken in the summer and rooted in a mixture of sand and peat moss.
Watering Needs
Lapsanastrum apogonoides requires regular watering to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Depending on the climate, the plant may need to be watered daily during the hot summer months. It is important to avoid getting water on the foliage, as this can promote disease and fungal growth.
Fertilization
Lapsanastrum apogonoides benefits from regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and flowering. A balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be applied every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Alternatively, organic fertilizers such as compost or manure can be applied in the spring and fall.
Pruning
Pruning of Lapsanastrum apogonoides can be done in the spring or fall to remove any dead or diseased growth. To encourage bushier growth and more flowers, pinch back the stems in the spring when new growth appears. This will also help to prevent the plant from becoming too tall and leggy.
Propagation Methods of Lapsanastrum apogonoides (Maxim.) J.H. Pak & K. Bremer
Lapsanastrum apogonoides (Maxim.) J.H. Pak & K. Bremer, commonly known as Asian nipplewort or common nipplewort, is a plant species that belongs to the family Asteraceae. This plant is native to East Asia and has become a weed in some areas of North America. It is an annual or biennial herb that reaches up to 80 cm in height and produces yellow flowers that bloom from July to September. Lapsanastrum apogonoides can be propagated by various methods.
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagation for Lapsanastrum apogonoides is through seed. The plant produces large quantities of small seeds that can be easily collected from dried flower heads. The seeds should be planted in the fertile soil in spring or autumn. Cover the seeds lightly with soil and water gently. The seeds usually germinate within two weeks. The seedlings should be thinned to prevent overcrowding and promote healthy growth.
Cuttings Propagation
Lapsanastrum apogonoides can also be propagated from cuttings. Take softwood or semi-hardwood stem cuttings from a healthy plant and remove the leaves from the bottom. The cuttings can then be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining potting mix. Cover the pot with polythene to maintain humidity, and place it in a bright area. Ensure that the soil remains moist, and remove the polythene once the cutting has rooted and new growth has emerged.
Division Propagation
Division is another method of propagation that can be used for Lapsanastrum apogonoides. This method involves splitting the root clumps of an established plant and replanting them at a new location. Carefully dig up the plant and use a sharp knife to divide the roots into sections. Each section should have enough roots and shoots to support new growth. The divided sections can be replanted in a new location and watered thoroughly.
Overall, Lapsanastrum apogonoides is a plant that can be easily propagated by seed, cuttings, or division. By using the appropriate propagation method, the gardener can easily propagate and spread this beautiful plant both in pots and in outdoor gardens.
Disease Management
Lapsanastrum apogonoides is generally a hardy plant, but it can still be susceptible to certain diseases. Some common plant diseases that can affect Lapsanastrum apogonoides include:
- Leaf spot: Leaf spot can be caused by various fungal pathogens and can cause small spots on the leaves. Pruning of infected leaves and appropriate disposal can help prevent further infection. Fungicides can also provide control.
- Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white or gray powdery coating on the leaves. This can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering and providing good air flow. Fungicides can also help control the disease.
- Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that appears as small, yellow-orange spots on the leaves. Infected leaves should be pruned and disposed of properly. Fungicides can help control the disease.
Pest Management
Lapsanastrum apogonoides is also susceptible to certain insect pests. Some common pests that can affect Lapsanastrum apogonoides include:
- Aphids: Aphids can cause leaves to curl and become distorted. They can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: Spider mites can cause yellowing and webbing on the leaves. They can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Slugs and snails: Slugs and snails can eat away at the leaves and stems. They can be controlled with beer traps or by handpicking them in the evening when they are most active.
Regular monitoring of the plant for signs of disease or pest infestations is critical for early detection and management. Proper sanitation practices such as removing dead, damaged, or diseased plant material can also contribute to a healthy, disease-free plant.
