Origin and Common Names
Lasiospermum bipinnatum (Thunb.) Druce, commonly known as the African woolly-heads, is a species of plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is native to southern Africa, particularly in the Cape Province.Appearance
This plant is a perennial herb that typically grows to a height of about 60 cm. It produces woolly stems and leaves that are grayish-green in color and shaped like feathers. The leaves are bipinnate, which means they are divided into smaller leaflets on either side of the main stem. The flowers are bright yellow and quite small, grouped in clusters at the top of the stem. The plant blooms from late spring to early autumn.Uses
Lasiospermum bipinnatum is mainly used for ornamental purposes due to its attractive appearance and showy yellow flowers. It is a popular plant in gardens and landscapes and can be grown either in borders or in containers. The plant is also used traditionally for medicinal purposes. It has been used to treat a variety of ailments such as coughs, colds, and sore throats. Additionally, this plant has been used to treat inflammation and has been described as effective against pain.Light Requirements
Lasiospermum bipinnatum is a plant that requires full sunlight. It grows best in areas where it is exposed to 6 or more hours of direct sunlight each day. The plant may tolerate partial shade, but it will not thrive as well as when it is exposed to full sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Lasiospermum bipinnatum grows best in warm temperatures ranging from 65°F to 75°F. It is a drought-tolerant plant, but it can only withstand short periods of freezing temperatures. When the temperature falls below 25°F, the plant will experience damage or die. It is, therefore, important to grow the plant in areas with mild winters.
Soil Requirements
Lasiospermum bipinnatum grows best in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 6.5 and 7. The plant requires moderate water throughout its growing period, but it can withstand short periods of drought. Avoid planting the plant in waterlogged soils as it may cause root rot and other diseases. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once per month.
Cultivation methods for Lasiospermum bipinnatum (Thunb.) Druce
Lasiospermum bipinnatum (Thunb.) Druce, commonly known as Double Gold, is a hardy plant native to South Africa. To cultivate this plant, start by choosing a well-draining soil mixture, preferably one with some sand and perlite. Double Gold also grows well in full sun, but it can tolerate partial shade.
Sow the seeds directly into the prepared soil or start the seeds indoors, 4-6 weeks before the last frost. Once the seedlings have 2-3 true leaves, move them to individual containers and then to their permanent position in the garden in late spring or early summer.
Watering needs of Lasiospermum bipinnatum
Lasiospermum bipinnatum prefers well-drained soils and thrives in drier soil conditions. Avoid overwatering the plant to prevent root rot. Allow the soil to dry slightly between watering, and then water deeply.
During the first two growing seasons, the plant will require some careful watering as it becomes established. Water weekly, or more frequently during hot, dry spells. Once established, the Double Gold should survive on natural rainfall alone.
Fertilizing Lasiospermum bipinnatum
Lasiospermum bipinnatum does not require heavy fertilizer feeding. Feed the plant sparingly, using either a slow-release or balanced fertilizer in early spring. Do not fertilize the plant in fall or winter, as it may promote excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowering.
Pruning Lasiospermum bipinnatum
Lasiospermum bipinnatum needs minimal pruning. However, you can pinch back the tips of young plants to promote bushiness. Deadhead the faded flowers regularly to keep the plant looking tidy. In fall, after the plant has finished blooming, remove any dead or weak growth to prepare for the next growing season.
Propagation of Lasiospermum bipinnatum (Thunb.) Druce
Lasiospermum bipinnatum (Thunb.) Druce, commonly known as African Aster, is a perennial herbaceous plant with beautiful daisy-like purple flowers. The plant is native to Southern Africa but has become popular in other parts of the world too because of its attractive appearance. It is an easy plant to propagate, and gardeners can use various methods to increase its population.
Propagation by Seeds
One of the easiest ways to propagate Lasiospermum bipinnatum is by seeds. The seeds are readily available in the market, or gardeners can collect them from mature plants. The plants produce numerous seeds that can be collected when they turn brown and start to fall off. The seeds can be sown directly into the soil or started in pots and transplanted later. The ideal time to sow the seeds is in the spring, or when the danger of frost has passed. The seeds need to be sown just below the surface and kept moist until they germinate, which usually takes 2 to 3 weeks.
Propagation by Division
Another way to propagate Lasiospermum bipinnatum is through division. This method involves dividing the root ball of an established plant into several sections and replanting them in different areas. The best time to divide the plant is in the spring or fall before new growth begins. First, the gardener needs to dig up the plant and remove the outer soil to expose the root system. Then, gently shake the roots to remove excess soil and divide the root ball into smaller sections. Each section should have at least one stem and a sufficient root system. Then, replant the sections in well-draining soil and water them thoroughly.
Propagation by Cuttings
Lasiospermum bipinnatum can also be propagated by stem cuttings. This method involves taking a cutting from an established plant and planting it in soil or water until it develops roots. The best time to take cuttings is in the spring or summer when the plant is actively growing. Choose a healthy stem with several leaves and cut it just below a node. Remove the lower leaves and plant the cutting in well-draining soil, ensuring that the node is buried. Keep the soil moist, and the cutting will root in about 3 to 4 weeks.
Overall, Lasiospermum bipinnatum is an easy plant to propagate using seeds, division, or cuttings. Gardeners can use any of these methods to increase the plant's population, but they need to ensure that the plant receives adequate sunlight, water, and nutrients to thrive.
Disease and Pest Management for Lasiospermum bipinnatum (Thunb.) Druce
Lasiospermum bipinnatum (Thunb.) Druce, commonly known as Cape daisy, is a herbaceous perennial plant native to southern Africa. This plant is relatively disease and pest-resistant, but it is not entirely immune to various diseases and pest infestations. Here are some common diseases and pests that can affect Lasiospermum bipinnatum and the ways to manage them effectively.
Common Diseases
There are several diseases that Lasiospermum bipinnatum can be susceptible to, such as root rot, powdery mildew, and rust.
Root Rot - Root rot is caused by a fungus that thrives in wet soil conditions. To prevent root rot in Lasiospermum bipinnatum, make sure that the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering the plant.
Powdery Mildew - Powdery mildew is a fungal infection that appears as a white or gray powdery substance on the plant's leaves, stem, and flowers. To control powdery mildew, remove infected plant parts and apply a fungicide according to the product label instructions.
Rust - Rust is a fungal disease that causes brownish-orange spots on the plant's leaves. Rust can weaken Lasiospermum bipinnatum and affect its overall health. To control rust, remove infected plant parts and apply a fungicide.
Common Pests
There are a few common pests that Lasiospermum bipinnatum may attract, including aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies.
Aphids - Aphids are small insects that suck sap from the plant's leaves and flowers, causing stunted growth and deformed plant parts. To control aphids, use an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray.
Spider Mites - Spider mites are tiny arachnids that can make webs on the plant's leaves and cause yellowing, bronzing, and drying of the leaves. To control spider mites, spray the plant with water or use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Whiteflies - Whiteflies are small flying insects that suck sap from the plant's leaves, causing them to wilt and turn yellow. To control whiteflies, use an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray, and remove any heavily infested plant parts.
Overall, disease and pest management for Lasiospermum bipinnatum involve proper cultural practices, such as sanitation, watering, and fertilization. Regular monitoring of the plant's health can also help prevent or catch any disease or pest infestation early before it becomes a severe problem.
