Overview
Lasiocorys abyssinica Benth. var. brachycalyx Chiov., also known as Abyssinian woollyheads, is a plant species that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is a perennial, tufted grass that typically grows in high altitudes of East Africa.
Appearance
The Abyssinian woollyheads plant typically grows up to one meter tall, with erect and simple culms. Its leaves are narrow with slightly rolled edges, similar to bamboo leaves, with a hairy texture. The plant also produces distinctive, branched panicles that bear spikelets with awns up to 3 cm long.
Origin
The plant is native to East Africa, particularly in Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. It grows in mountainous areas that are up to 3,000 meters above sea level.
Common Names
The Abyssinian woollyheads plant is commonly known as "Kamakia" in Kenya, "Miriti" in Tanzania, and "Yabrus" in Ethiopia.
Uses
The plant is used for various purposes by local communities in its native range. Its leaves are used for thatching roofs, as they are long-lasting and resistant to rot. The plant also provides high-quality forage for livestock grazing in the mountains. In addition, the Abyssinian woollyheads plant is known for its medicinal properties. The Maasai people in Kenya use an infusion of its roots to treat diarrhea and abdominal pains.
Growth conditions for Lasiocorys abyssinica Benth. var. brachycalyx Chiov.
Lasiocorys abyssinica Benth. var. brachycalyx Chiov. is a herbaceous plant that is native to eastern Africa, specifically Ethiopia, Tanzania, and Kenya. To ensure the optimal growth of this plant, the following growth conditions must be considered:
Light
Lasiocorys abyssinica Benth. var. brachycalyx Chiov. typically grows in open fields or grasslands. As such, it prefers full sun exposure for at least six hours a day. It can survive in partial shade but may not grow to its maximum height if there is insufficient light.
Temperature
For optimal growth, Lasiocorys abyssinica Benth. var. brachycalyx Chiov. requires a warm climate. The plant can thrive in temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. It cannot tolerate frost, and as such, it's best to grow it in a warm climate.
Soil
The plant requires well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. Sandy loam soils are most suitable for this plant. The ideal soil pH for growing Lasiocorys abyssinica Benth. var. brachycalyx Chiov. is between 6.0 to 7.5. The plant is also somewhat drought-tolerant, but adequate watering is crucial, especially during the dry season, to ensure healthy growth.
In conclusion, to grow Lasiocorys abyssinica Benth. var. brachycalyx Chiov. successfully, adequate light exposure, a warm climate, and well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients are essential factors to consider. By providing these growth conditions, you can ensure that this plant thrives and blooms beautifully.
Cultivation Methods for Lasiocorys abyssinica Benth. var. brachycalyx Chiov.
Lasiocorys abyssinica Benth. var. brachycalyx Chiov. is a hardy plant that thrives in well-draining soils. It prefers full sun and can tolerate partial shade but will grow best in a sunny spot. This plant can tolerate drought conditions but will perform better with regular watering.
When cultivating this plant, ensure that the soil is well-draining, has a pH of 6.5 to 7.5, and is rich in organic matter. Sow the seeds in spring or autumn, and cover with a thin layer of soil. Water the soil gently and keep moist until germination occurs.
Watering Needs for Lasiocorys abyssinica Benth. var. brachycalyx Chiov.
Lasiocorys abyssinica Benth. var. brachycalyx Chiov. is a drought tolerant plant, but regular watering will ensure optimal growth. Water the plant deeply, at least once a week, especially during the hot summer months. Ensure that water penetrates the soil to the root level.
Overwatering can lead to root rot, so avoid watering too frequently. Check the soil moisture level regularly to determine the watering needs of your plant. Reduce watering during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
Fertilization for Lasiocorys abyssinica Benth. var. brachycalyx Chiov.
Fertilization is important in promoting healthy growth and flower production in Lasiocorys abyssinica Benth. var. brachycalyx Chiov. Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20, during the growing season.
Follow the label instructions carefully when fertilizing and avoid applying too much fertilizer, as this can cause fertilizer burn, leading to leaf drop and stunted growth. Fertilize your plant every four to six weeks during the growing season.
Pruning for Lasiocorys abyssinica Benth. var. brachycalyx Chiov.
Pruning is not necessary for Lasiocorys abyssinica Benth. var. brachycalyx Chiov.; however, it can help to promote bushier growth and improve the overall appearance of the plant. Prune your plant in early spring before new growth appears.
To prune, trim back the stems to the desired length, cutting just above a leaf node. This will encourage new growth from the remaining stem. Remove any dead or damaged leaves, stems, or branches.
Regular pruning will help to keep your Lasiocorys abyssinica Benth. var. brachycalyx Chiov. looking its best and ensure optimal growth and flowering.
Propagation of Lasiocorys abyssinica Benth. var. brachycalyx Chiov.
Lasiocorys abyssinica Benth. var. brachycalyx Chiov. can be propagated either from seeds or by vegetative methods such as cuttings.
Seed propagation
The seeds of Lasiocorys abyssinica Benth. var. brachycalyx Chiov. can be sowed directly into the soil after the last frost of the spring season. Before sowing the seeds, the soil must be well-drained and moistened. It is recommended to sow the seeds 1cm deep into the soil and at a distance of 10-15 cm from each other. The soil must be kept moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes around two to three weeks.
Vegetative propagation (stem cuttings)
Stem cuttings can also be used to propagate Lasiocorys abyssinica Benth. var. brachycalyx Chiov. Cuttings of 5-10 cm length can be taken from the tips of the plant’s stems and inserted into well-drained soil. It is recommended to dip the cuttings in a rooting hormone before planting them to aid the rooting process. The cuttings should be kept in a moist environment with partial shade until the roots have developed. Rooted cuttings can then be transplanted into their final locations during the next growing season.
Disease and Pest Management for Lasiocorys abyssinica Benth. var. brachycalyx Chiov.
Lasiocorys abyssinica Benth. var. brachycalyx Chiov. is an ornamental plant that requires proper disease and pest management for maximum productivity. Its beauty is affected by many pests and diseases that limit its full potential. It is important to identify the common diseases and pests that affect the plant and understand how to manage them.
Common Diseases
Lasiocorys abyssinica Benth. var. brachycalyx Chiov. is vulnerable to different diseases, such as:
- Fungal Diseases: The plant can be affected by fungal diseases such as, leaf spot, powdery mildew, and rust. The fungal infections are caused by unfavorable environmental conditions, such as high humidity and poor air circulation.
- Bacterial Wilt: This bacterial disease is caused by the bacterium Ralstonia solanacearum. It causes the wilting of the plant, and the leaves turn yellow and drop eventually. This disease is spread through soil, contaminated tools, or infected plants that were not destroyed properly.
- Viral Diseases: Lasiocorys abyssinica Benth. var. brachycalyx Chiov. can contract viral infections such as leaf curl, mosaic, and yellowing. Viruses are transferred from plant to plant through pests such as aphids.
Pest Management
Lasiocorys abyssinica Benth. var. brachycalyx Chiov. is also under attack from many pests that can damage or destroy the plant. Common pests include:
- Aphids: These small insects feed on the plant's sap and breed rapidly. They cause the curling of leaves and the formation of a sticky substance called honeydew on the leaves.
- Spider Mites: These tiny arachnids are not visible to the naked eye, but they cause damage by piercing the plant's leaves and sucking out the sap. They cause yellow spots on the leaves and webbing on the plant.
- Thrips: These small insects can be easily identified by their long, thin bodies. They suck the sap from the leaves, flowers, and fruits of the plant causing white patches and discoloration.
- Caterpillars: The plant is also vulnerable to caterpillars that feed on the leaves and stems. Caterpillar infestation causes holes and notches on the plant's foliage.
Methods of Control
To control diseases and pests in Lasiocorys abyssinica Benth. var. brachycalyx Chiov., one needs to adopt an integrated approach, which includes the following:
- Prevention: Ensure to transplant healthy plants and maintain them properly. Regular inspection of the plants can help identify pests and diseases early, which helps in their control.
- Natural Methods: Use natural methods such as neem oil, garlic, and soap sprays to control insect pests. Introducing beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings can also help control pest populations.
- Biochemical Methods: Oils, microbes, and other environmentally friendly substances can also be used to control pests and fungal infections.
- Chemical Control: Chemicals such as pesticides and fungicides can be used as a last resort when other methods have failed. It is important to follow instructions and ensure that they are applied correctly.
By applying the above control measures, the beauty and productivity of Lasiocorys abyssinica Benth. var. brachycalyx Chiov. can be preserved, and pests and diseases can be controlled more effectively.
