Overview of Macledium humile
Macledium humile (Lawalrée) S.Ortíz is a species of plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is a small, herbaceous plant that is commonly found in Chile, Argentina, and Uruguay.
Common Names
Macledium humile is known by several common names in the regions it is prevalent in. In Chile, it is commonly called "Siempre-viva" which translates to "always alive." In Argentina, it is known as "Corpinita" or "Santa Lucía."
Appearance of Macledium humile
The plant is small, growing only up to 15 cm in height. Its leaves are fleshy and form a small rosette. The flowers are small, yellow, and grow in clusters at the end of the stems. The plant blooms in late spring and early summer.
Uses of Macledium humile
The plant has a reputation for its medicinal uses in traditional medicine. The leaves of Macledium humile have been used to treat digestive and respiratory problems. The fleshy leaves of the plant are rich in tannins, flavonoids, and essential oils, which are believed to contribute to these health benefits. Additionally, the plant is utilized as an ornamental plant in gardens due to its attractive appearance and tiny yellow flowers.
Overall, Macledium humile is a small but significant plant that has significant cultural and health importance in the regions where it is present.
Growth Conditions for Macledium Humile
Macledium Humile is an herbaceous plant species that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is found in rocky outcrops, gravelly soils, and in the crevices of cliffs, and is native to Mexico and the southwestern United States.
Light
The plant thrives in areas that receive significant amounts of sunlight. In fact, it requires full sunlight exposure to grow properly. Therefore, it should be planted in a location where it will receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. If planted in a location with inadequate sunlight, it will become leggy, weak, and prone to disease.
Temperature
The plant is well adapted to hot and dry conditions, making it suitable for areas with extreme temperatures. It requires warm temperatures to grow, with average daytime temperatures between 70°F and 90°F. Temperatures below 60°F can be harmful to this plant and should be avoided.
Soil
Macledium Humile thrives in well-draining soil. It is best grown in sandy soils that are slightly acidic, and with low fertility. The soil pH should be between 6 and 7.5, and the soil structure should be loose and friable. Additionally, the plant does not require any special nutrient requirements, making it a low-maintenance plant.
In summary, to grow Macledium Humile successfully, the plant requires full sunlight exposure, warm temperatures, and a well-draining soil. Adequate care and attention must be given to the plant's growth conditions to ensure healthy growth.
Cultivation methods
Macledium humile (Lawalrée) S.Ortíz requires full sun to grow, and it is best to grow them in well-drained soils. When planting, make sure the soil is loose and add compost to the soil as well. To cultivate, sow the seeds during spring or summer and keep them moist until they germinate.
Watering needs
Macledium humile (Lawalrée) S.Ortíz requires moderate watering only. However, it is important not to let the soil remain dry to prevent the plant from dying off. Always check the soil consistently and water the plant as soon as the soil dries up. In general, it is recommended to water them once a week during the growing season.
Fertilization
Fertilization is essential for the growth and development of Macledium humile (Lawalrée) S.Ortíz. Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer once a month during the growing season. When fertilizing, apply lightly around the base of the plant, keeping the fertilizer away from the central stem. Over-fertilization can weaken the plant, so always follow the recommended amount of fertilizer on the package.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for maintaining the shape and health of Macledium humile (Lawalrée) S.Ortíz. You should prune your plant regularly to manage its shape and size. Pruning should be carried out in early spring or late winter before the growing season commences. When pruning, remove any weak or old stems, and cut back any dead or damaged foliage to promote new growth.
Propagation of Macledium humile (Lawalrée) S.Ortíz
Macledium humile (Lawalrée) S.Ortíz is propagated through seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation through Seeds
Seeds of Macledium humile can be sown in seed trays or directly in the ground, preferably in early spring or late autumn. The seeds require light for germination, so they should not be covered with soil. The soil should be kept moist, but not wet, until the seeds germinate, which usually takes 2-3 weeks. Once the plants have developed the first true leaves, they can be transplanted into their permanent location.
Propagation through Cuttings
Stem cuttings can also be used to propagate Macledium humile. The cuttings should be taken in early spring or late summer from healthy, disease-free plants. The cuttings should be about 10 cm long and should include a few leaves. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone. The cuttings should be planted in well-drained soil and kept moist until roots have formed, which usually takes 3-4 weeks.
Propagation through Division
Macledium humile can also be propagated through division of mature plants. The plants should be dug up in early spring or late autumn, and the root mass should be divided into sections. Each section should have a few shoots and roots. The sections should be planted in well-drained soil and kept moist until they are established.
Disease Management
Macledium humile (Lawalrée) S.Ortíz is susceptible to some plant diseases. Here are some common diseases that might affect this plant:
- Botrytis blight- This disease is caused by the fungus Botrytis cinerea that affects the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. The infected parts appear greyish-brown and watery. The disease can be managed by removing the infected parts and keeping the plant dry, and well-ventilated. Application of copper-based fungicides also helps in preventing its spread.
- Mildew- Powdery mildew is caused by the fungus Erysiphe cichoracearum. The affected leaves appear to have white powdery coating or patches on their surface. To manage this disease, prompt removal of infected plant parts is necessary. Spraying of fungicides such as sulfur, potassium bicarbonate, or neem oil can also help in controlling and preventing its spread.
- Bacterial leaf spots- This disease is caused by the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris that causes yellowish-brown spots on leaves. To control bacterial leaf spots, prompt removal and burning of the infected leaves and using pathogen-free planting materials should be observed. Applying copper-based bactericides may also help in preventing the spread of this disease.
Pest Management
Macledium humile (Lawalrée) S.Ortíz is also susceptible to some pests. Here are some common pests that might affect this plant:
- Aphids- These are small pear-shaped insects that suck the sap of the plant. Infected plant parts appear stunted and deformed, and the leaves become yellow and curled. Control aphids using insecticidal sprays like soapy water or neem oil, or by introducing predator insects such as ladybugs and lacewings that feed on aphids.
- Spider mites- These are very small insects that feed on the plant sap and cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. To control spider mites, use insecticidal soap sprays or neem oil sprays. Keeping the plant well-hydrated and increasing humidity levels in the surrounding are also helpful in reducing the population of spider mites.
- Thrips- These are small, slender insects that feed on the sap of plant tissues. The infected leaves appear distorted and discolored with small brownish-black spots. Control thrips by using insecticidal sprays, pruning severely-affected parts, and removing and disposing of plant debris near the plant that may harbor thrips and their eggs.
