Overview:
Lessertia distans Burtt Davy, also known as the "bitterbossie," is a small shrub that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is native to Southern Africa and can usually be found in areas with rocky slopes and dry soils. This plant is known for its medicinal properties and has been used traditionally to treat various ailments.
Appearance:
The bitterbossie usually grows up to 30cm in height and is characterized by its spreading or ascending stems that have prominent veins. Its leaves are small, oval-shaped, and greyish-green in color. The plant's flowers are usually pink or whitish, and they bloom from May to July. The fruit of the bitterbossie is a small, smooth, and flattened pod that contains several seeds.
Common Names:
Aside from the bitterbossie, Lessertia distans Burtt Davy is also known by other common names such as:
- Bitter Pea
- Kambroo
- Lessertia
- Bitterhoutbossie
Uses:
The bitterbossie has various medicinal uses, and it is believed to have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-diabetic properties. In traditional medicine, the plant has been used to treat coughs, colds, fever, and flu. It is also used to treat wounds, burns, and skin infections. The bitterbossie is said to have a bitter taste; hence it is used as a natural laxative and appetite stimulant. It is commonly used as an herbal tea, and the leaves and roots can be boiled to make a concoction to treat illness.
Light Requirements
The plant Lessertia distans Burtt Davy prefers to grow in an area with full sunlight exposure. Therefore, it is best to plant them in a location where the sun is unobstructed and directly shining on the plant for most of the day. The plant will still survive in partial shade, but it will not flower as profusely as it would in full sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Lessertia distans Burtt Davy is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It can thrive in temperatures between 12°C and 40°C, although it prefers a temperature range of 20°C to 30°C. The plant will still survive in lower temperatures, but growth will slow down, and it may become stunted.
Soil Requirements
Lessertia distans Burtt Davy is a low maintenance plant that can grow in various soil types. It prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. The plant can withstand drought conditions, but it still needs to receive some water. It would be best if you allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, as overwatering can cause the plant to rot.
Cultivation
Lessertia distans Burtt Davy is a shrub that is native to southern Africa. The plant is well adapted to the region's hot and dry conditions, and it is generally easy to grow. This plant requires well-drained soil and full sun to grow and thrive. The plant is known to tolerate a wide range of soil conditions, but it grows best in sandy loam soils.
Watering Needs
Lessertia distans Burtt Davy requires minimal watering. In fact, it is best to allow the soil to dry out almost completely before watering again. Overwatering the plant can cause root rot, which can kill the plant. Watering should be done in the early morning or late afternoon to prevent excessive evapotranspiration. The plant's water needs may vary depending on the climate and soil condition. During the hot and dry season, the plant may require a bit more water.
Fertilization
Lessertia distans Burtt Davy requires little or no fertilization. The plant is adapted to the poor soils of its natural habitat, and it derives most of its nutrients from decomposing organic matter. Fertilizers can cause lush growth that can make the plant vulnerable to pests and diseases. However, if it is grown in poor soils, a balanced fertilizer may be applied in moderation during the growing season to improve growth.
Pruning
Lessertia distans Burtt Davy requires no special pruning. However, general maintenance pruning may be done to remove dead, diseased, or overcrowded branches. Pruning should be done in the early spring before the onset of new growth. Use clean, sharp pruning tools to make clean cuts and reduce the risk of infection. Minimal pruning will help to maintain the plant's natural form and improve airflow, which can help reduce the risk of disease.
Propagation of Lessertia distans Burtt Davy
Propagation of Lessertia distans Burtt Davy can be achieved through both sexual and asexual methods. However, the major propagation method for this plant is through the use of seeds.
Propagation through seeds
Seeds of Lessertia distans Burtt Davy are small and round, black, and almost as small as mustard seeds. They should be collected from mature pods and allowed to dry for a few days before sowing.
The seeds should then be sown in well-draining soil, at a depth of 2-3 cm, and kept moist. It is advisable to sow them during the rainy season, as this will provide the ideal conditions for germination.
Germination of Lessertia distans Burtt Davy seeds can take between 15 and 20 days. Once the seedlings have emerged, they should be thinned out to prevent overcrowding, and the weaker ones should be removed to give the stronger plants space to grow.
Propagation through cuttings
Propagation of Lessertia distans Burtt Davy can also be achieved through stem cuttings. However, this method is not as successful as the use of seeds.
The cuttings should be taken from mature and healthy plants, and they should have a length of about 10 cm. The bottom end of the cutting should be treated with a rooting hormone, and then inserted into well-draining soil.
Once the cutting has been planted, it should be kept in a shaded area and watered regularly. After a few weeks, the cutting should start producing roots and will be ready for transplanting into a larger pot or the garden.
Disease Management
Lessertia distans Burtt Davy is susceptible to various fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, leaf spots, and root rot. The best way to manage these diseases is to prevent them from occurring in the first place. This can be done by ensuring that the plant is grown in well-draining soil and is not overwatered. Proper sanitation practices such as removing and disposing of infected plant material can also help to prevent the spread of disease. If the plant does become infected, applications of fungicides may be necessary to control the spread of the disease. It is important to carefully follow the instructions on the fungicide label to ensure that the chemical is applied correctly and at the correct dosage.
Pest Management
Lessertia distans Burtt Davy is susceptible to a range of pests including spider mites, mealybugs, and whiteflies. Infestations can cause stunted growth, leaf drop, and reduced plant vigor. One of the most effective ways to manage pests is by using natural enemies such as ladybugs and lacewings. These insects can be purchased and released into the garden to help control pest populations. Other methods include using insecticidal soap, neem oil, or horticultural oil to control pests. These products work by suffocating the insects or disrupting their life cycle. Care should be taken when using these products as overuse can lead to the development of resistance in pest populations. It is important to carefully follow the instructions on the label and avoid using these products during periods of high temperature or drought stress.
