Plant Description:
Manulea pusilla auct. is a small, annual herb that belongs to the Asteraceae (daisy) family. It is also commonly known as Little Mustard, Little Tarweed, and Dwarf Gilia. The plant grows up to a height of 10-20 cm and has a slender and wiry stem.
Origin:
Manulea pusilla auct. is native to California in the United States, Mexico, and Baja California. It is widely distributed in the coastal sage scrub and chaparral of Southern California and northern Baja California
Common Uses:
The plant has various therapeutic and commercial uses. The Cahuilla Native Americans have been using Manulea pusilla auct. for the treatment of skin infections, wounds, and respiratory conditions. The plant is also utilized as an expectorant, a diuretic, and for treating diarrhea.
In addition, the herb has high commercial significance, especially in the production of perfumes and colognes. The plant's leaves emit a strong aromatic and pleasant scent, making it a popular choice in fragrance production.
Appearance:
The leaves of Manulea pusilla auct. are narrow, linear, and arranged alternately along the stem. The plant bears tiny white or yellow flowers that are arranged into clusters. The flowers have five petals and a central disk. The plant's fruit is an achene that is narrowly oblong and slightly curved. Manulea pusilla auct. has a short life cycle and germinates quickly, making it an opportunistic species.
Light Requirements
Manulea pusilla is a shade-loving plant that tolerates low light levels. It thrives in partial shade and filtered light, making it ideal for indoor gardening or outdoor landscaping in areas with a lot of trees or buildings. However, direct sunlight can cause leaf scorching, and it is best to avoid placing it in direct sunlight for long periods of time.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for the growth of Manulea pusilla is between 18°C to 26°C (64°F to 79°F). It cannot withstand frost or extremely cold temperatures, and therefore, growers must ensure that the plant is kept in a warm spot away from cold air currents. Additionally, sudden fluctuations in temperature can cause leaf drop, so it is essential to keep the plant in a relatively stable environment.
Soil Requirements
Manulea pusilla grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It requires a slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range between 5.5 to 7.0. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged, and it is essential to avoid letting the soil dry out completely. Overwatering can also cause root rot and other bacterial and fungal diseases.
Cultivation Methods
Manulea pusilla auct. is a warm-season plant that grows well in full sunlight. It is best grown in tropical and subtropical climates. The ideal soil for its growth is well-drained and fertile, with a slightly acidic pH of 6-7.
The plant can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. The seeds should be sown in spring, while cuttings should be taken in late winter or early spring.
Watering Needs
Manulea pusilla auct. requires regular watering, especially during the dry season when rainfall is scarce. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, as this could lead to root rot.
It is advisable to water the plant in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid scorching in the hot sun.
Fertilization
Fertilization is essential to promote healthy growth and flowering of Manulea pusilla auct. A balanced fertilizer with equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is recommended.
The plant should be fertilized every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Over-fertilization should be avoided, as it could lead to excessive foliage growth and reduce the number of flowers.
Pruning
Pruning helps to maintain the shape and size of Manulea pusilla auct. It also promotes fuller growth and increased flower production.
The best time to prune the plant is in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Dead and diseased branches should be removed, and any crossing branches should be pruned to prevent rubbing and damage.
Manulea pusilla auct. is a unique and beautiful plant that can be grown with ease with proper cultivation methods and care. By following the above guidelines, gardeners can enjoy healthy and vibrant plants that will add beauty to their outdoor spaces.
Propagation of Manulea Pusilla Auct.
Manulea pusilla auct., also known as little benson, can be propagated by various methods which include:
Seed Propagation
Seeds are the easiest method of propagating Manulea pusilla auct. The seeds should be sown indoors or in a greenhouse prior to the growing season. The seeds are tiny and should only be covered lightly with compost. The ideal germination temperature is 60-68°F (15-20°C). The seeds will germinate in 2-3 weeks after which the plants should be transplanted outside.
Cutting Propagation
Manulea pusilla auct. can be propagated by softwood stem cuttings taken in the early summer and propagated in soil or water. The cuttings should be about 10 cm long, stripped of lower foliage, and should be rooted in a well-draining soil mix containing sand or perlite. Cuttings will root in about 3-6 weeks. Covering the cuttings with a plastic bag will increase the chances of success.
Division Propagation
Division is another method of propagating Manulea pusilla auct. The plant should be lifted out of the ground and the root ball should be carefully divided into several portions. Each portion should have enough roots and foliage to support the plant. The divided portions should be replanted as soon as possible. It's best to do this in the spring when the plant is just beginning to grow.
Disease Management
One of the common diseases that affect Manulea pusilla plants is powdery mildew. Powdery mildew appears as a white or gray powdery growth on the leaves. It is caused by a fungal infection that thrives in warm, humid conditions. To manage this disease, it is recommended that you avoid overhead watering. Instead, water at the base of the plant, and make sure the soil is well-drained. You can also prune affected leaves and ensure proper air circulation around the plant. Additionally, using neem oil or a fungicide labeled for powdery mildew control can help manage the disease.
Another common disease that affects Manulea pusilla plants is leaf spot. This disease is caused by several species of fungi and appears as dark spots on the leaves. To manage leaf spot, it is recommended that you remove infected leaves and debris from around the plant. Avoid overhead watering, and make sure the soil is well-drained. A fungicide labeled for leaf spot can also be used to manage the disease.
Pest Management
One of the common pests that affect Manulea pusilla is spider mites. Spider mites are tiny insects that suck the sap from the leaves, causing the leaves to appear stippled or yellowed. To manage spider mites, you can use a strong jet of water to wash them off the leaves. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage the infestation.
Another common pest that affects Manulea pusilla is aphids. Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the leaves. They reproduce quickly and can quickly infest a plant. To manage aphids, you can use a strong jet of water to wash them off the leaves. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage the infestation. Ladybugs and lacewings are natural predators of aphids and introducing them to the garden can help manage an infestation.
