Origin
Manulea gariepina Benth. subsp. campestris (Hiern) Roessler is a plant species that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is native to southern Africa and can be found in countries such as South Africa, Botswana, and Namibia.
Common Names
The plant is known by several common names such as African Daisy, Cape Daisy, and Blue Daisy.
Uses
Manulea gariepina Benth. subsp. campestris (Hiern) Roessler is a popular ornamental plant and is commonly grown in gardens and landscapes. The plant is well adapted to a wide range of growing conditions and can tolerate drought, heat, and poor soils. African Daisy is known for producing large and showy flowers that bloom in a wide range of colors such as white, pink, orange, and blue. The plant attracts bees and other pollinators which make it ideal for pollinator gardens.
General Appearance
Manulea gariepina Benth. subsp. campestris (Hiern) Roessler is a herbaceous perennial that grows up to 60cm tall. The plant produces deep green leaves that are lobed and toothed. The flowers are large and daisy-like, with a dark center disk and brightly colored petals that can range in diameter from 4 to 10cm. African Daisy blooms from spring to fall, peaking in midsummer.
Light Requirements
The Manulea gariepina Benth. subsp. campestris (Hiern) Roessler can grow well under both full sunlight and partial shade. However, partial shade is the ideal condition for the plant.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows well in a wide range of temperatures, but the optimal temperature for growth is between 15°C to 25°C. The plant can tolerate both high and low temperatures but cannot withstand frost.
Soil Requirements
The Manulea gariepina Benth. subsp. campestris (Hiern) Roessler prefers well-drained soils with a neutral pH of 6.5 to 7.5. The soil must be rich in organic matter and have good water holding capacity. The presence of clay in the soil improves water retention and soil structure, which aids the growth of the plant.
Cultivation methods
Manulea gariepina Benth. subsp. campestris (Hiern) Roessler, also known as Karoo Manulea, is a perennial plant that prefers dry and well-draining soil. It can tolerate extreme conditions such as high temperatures and low water availability. It is advisable to plant the seeds directly in the soil during the fall in the regions with a dry, warm climate. For regions with a colder climate, it is best to start the seeds indoors in late winter and transplant them outside after the last frost.
Watering needs
Karoo Manulea requires minimal watering. It is best to water it immediately after planting and then avoid watering unless it is planted in extremely dry conditions. Overwatering may lead to root rot, which can kill the plant. The plant is tolerant of drought and can survive lengthy periods without water.
Fertilization
Karoo Manulea does not require much fertilizer. Avoid using fertilizers that are high in nitrogen since this can lead to excess leaf growth and lower flower production. Adding an organic, low-nitrogen fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season is beneficial. After that, there is no need to add more fertilizer.
Pruning
Pruning Manulea gariepina Benth. subsp. campestris (Hiern) Roessler is not essential, but it can improve the plant's appearance if necessary. It is recommended to prune only after the flowering season is over. Cut the plant's stems to half their original height to encourage new leaves and flowers to grow. However, do not cut the stem too low since this can damage the plant's roots.
Propagation of Manulea Gariepina Benth. subsp. Campestris (Hiern) Roessler
Manulea Gariepina Benth. subsp. Campestris (Hiern) Roessler can be propagated through various methods, including seed propagation, stem cuttings, and division.
Seed Propagation
The easiest and most common method of propagation for Manulea Gariepina Benth. subsp. Campestris (Hiern) Roessler is through seed propagation. The plant produces small, dark seeds that can be collected and sown directly into the soil. It is best to sow the seeds in spring or early summer. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged, and the seeds should be sown at a depth of about 2 cm. Germination usually occurs within two to three weeks. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
Stem Cuttings
Another method of propagating Manulea Gariepina Benth. subsp. Campestris (Hiern) Roessler is through stem cuttings. This method is best done during the plant's growing season, which is from spring to early summer. Take stem cuttings about 10-12 cm long and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone and plant it in a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix. Place the pot in a warm, bright spot and keep the soil moist. Roots should develop in about four to six weeks. Once the cutting has rooted, it can be transplanted into an individual pot.
Division
Manulea Gariepina Benth. subsp. Campestris (Hiern) Roessler can also be propagated through division. This method is ideal for mature plants that have become too large or overcrowded. Dig up the plant and carefully separate the clumps into smaller sections, making sure that each section has a good root system. Replant the sections in individual pots or a new location in the garden.
Disease Management
Manulea gariepina Benth. subsp. campestris (Hiern) Roessler is susceptible to various diseases. Here are some common diseases and their management strategies:
Crown rot
Crown rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots, stems, and leaves of the plant, which can eventually lead to the death of the entire plant. To manage crown rot, remove and destroy infected plants immediately. Avoid planting in soils that have previously hosted crown rot, and practice crop rotation. Fungicides can also be used as a preventative measure.
Root rot
Root rot is caused by soil-borne fungi and bacteria that infect the roots of the plant and cause them to rot. The infected roots become soft and brown, and the leaves of the plant start to wilt. To manage root rot, remove infected plants and improve soil drainage. Fungicides can also be used as a preventive measure.
Pest Management
Manulea gariepina Benth. subsp. campestris (Hiern) Roessler is mainly affected by insect pests. Some of the common insect pests that affect this plant and their management strategies are mentioned below:
Whiteflies
Whiteflies suck the sap of the plant, causing yellowing and wilting of the leaves. They also excrete a sticky substance called honeydew which attracts sooty mold, further damaging the plant. To manage whiteflies, use sticky traps, prune heavily-infested leaves, and use insecticidal soap or neem oil as a preventive measure.
Aphids
Aphids feed on the sap of the plant, resulting in the deformation of leaves and stunted plant growth. To manage aphids, use a strong jet of water to knock them off the plant, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, and release beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings.
Thrips
Thrips are tiny insects that suck the sap from the leaves, causing discoloration and distortion of young growth. To manage thrips, use yellow or blue sticky traps, prune heavily-infested leaves, and use insecticidal soap or neem oil as a preventive measure.
