Origin
Matricaria hirsutifolia S.Moore, also known as the Hairy Chamomile, is native to South Africa and Madagascar.
Common Names
This plant is commonly referred to as the Hairy Chamomile due to the fine white hairs that cover its leaves and stems. It is also known as the Hairy Mayweed and African Chamomile.
Uses
The Hairy Chamomile has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. The plant is known to have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties, making it an effective treatment for a variety of conditions. It is also used as a natural sedative, promoting relaxation and improving sleep. In addition to its medicinal properties, the Hairy Chamomile is also used as a culinary herb, often added to salads and other dishes for its pleasant aroma and taste.
General Appearance
The Hairy Chamomile is a herbaceous perennial plant that can grow up to 60 cm tall. It has finely divided, fern-like leaves that are covered in small white hairs. The plant produces small, white, daisy-like flowers that are arranged in terminal clusters. The fruit of the plant is an achene that is less than 1 mm long. The Hairy Chamomile has a pleasant, sweet aroma that is similar to that of chamomile.
Light Requirements
Matricaria hirsutifolia S.Moore thrives well in areas with direct or partial sun exposure. It adapts well to a wide range of lighting conditions, but it requires a minimum of six hours of sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the plant is between 10 - 30°C. Matricaria hirsutifolia S.Moore does well in areas with high temperatures but may fail to thrive in extremely hot or cold temperatures.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soils with a pH range of 6.5-7.5. It can tolerate various soil types but thrives best in nutrient-rich soils. It requires regular watering during the growing periods but can tolerate dry conditions during dormancy.
Cultivation methods
The Matricaria hirsutifolia, commonly known as Hairy Chamomile, is an annual herb that grows up to 60 centimeters in height. It is mostly grown in full sun in well-drained and fertile soils. The plant can adapt to different soil types but prefers a slightly acidic soil. The ideal planting time for Matricaria hirsutifolia is in the spring or fall, depending on your regional climate.
Sow the seeds directly or start the seeds indoors and transplant the seedlings once they're big enough to handle. For a greater yield, grow the plant in clusters. Hairy Chamomile has good tolerance for drought; however, it is important to keep the soil moist during germination and after planting to promote healthy growth.
Watering needs
After planting, the Matricaria hirsutifolia needs regular watering at frequent intervals to establish a deep and healthy root system. Water the plant daily for the first few weeks, then reduce the frequency to every other day. The plant has moderate tolerance to drought and can go without water for a few days. However, it is important to keep the soil evenly moist throughout the growing period. Overwatering should be avoided as it can cause root rot or weaken the plant.
Fertilization
The Matricaria hirsutifolia requires regular fertilization to increase yield and maintain healthy growth. Use a balanced all-purpose fertilizer during planting and add nitrogen-rich fertilizer once the plant starts to establish. Spread the fertilizer moderately in the soil and do not allow it to touch the leaves or stem as it can burn the plant. Apply a moderate dose of fertilizer every three weeks to promote healthy and vigorous growth.
Pruning
The Matricaria hirsutifolia does not require frequent pruning, but deadheading can help the plant to produce more flowers. Deadheading is the process of removing faded flowers before they develop seeds. This way, the plant redirects its energy towards producing more flowers rather than seed production. You can use pruners or scissors to cut off the faded flowers selectively. In addition, you can prune the plant in late summer, about three weeks before the expected frost date, to give it a more compact and bushy shape.
Propagation of Matricaria hirsutifolia S.Moore
Matricaria hirsutifolia S.Moore is a self-seeding annual herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. Its propagation can be done via seeds or by stem cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
The easiest and most cost-effective way to propagate Matricaria hirsutifolia S.Moore is through its seeds. The plant produces abundant seeds during the growing season. Once the seeds have matured, they will eventually drop to the ground, where they will germinate when the environmental conditions are favorable.
To grow Matricaria hirsutifolia S.Moore from seeds, the dried seeds should be collected and stored in a cool, dry place until they are ready for planting. The ideal time for planting the seeds is in the spring or when the last expected frost has passed. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil and covered with a thin layer of soil. The soil should be kept moist until the seeds germinate, usually within 10 to 14 days.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Propagation of Matricaria hirsutifolia S.Moore can also be done by stem cuttings. This method is useful when the parent plant has grown too large or has become too old to produce viable seeds.
To propagate Matricaria hirsutifolia S.Moore by stem cuttings, select healthy stems without flowers and cut them to a length of about 5-6 inches. Remove the lower leaves from the stem and dip the end of the cutting into rooting hormone powder. Then, insert the cutting into a container filled with a moist soil mix. Place the container in a warm, bright location and keep the soil evenly moist until the cutting roots, usually within 2 to 3 weeks.
Propagation of Matricaria hirsutifolia S.Moore can be a fun and rewarding process. The plant's quick growth and beautiful blooms make it an excellent choice for garden beds, containers, or even as a border plant in a flower garden.
Disease and Pest Management for Matricaria hirsutifolia S.Moore
Matricaria hirsutifolia S.Moore, commonly known as the hairy or rough chamomile, is a herbaceous plant that is susceptible to several diseases and pests. Effective management of these diseases and pests is crucial to maintain the plant’s health and maximize its yield. Here are some common diseases and pests that affect Matricaria hirsutifolia S.Moore and ways to manage them:
Diseases
1. Powdery mildew: This is a fungal disease that appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves and stems of the plant. It can cause the leaves to curl and distort, reducing the plant’s ability to photosynthesize. To manage powdery mildew, it is essential to maintain good air circulation around the plant by proper spacing, avoid overhead watering, and applying fungicides.
2. Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes circular spots on the leaves, which can eventually lead to leaf drop. To manage leaf spot, remove any infected leaves, avoid overhead watering, and apply fungicides.
3. Root rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, leading to stunted growth and eventual death. To manage root rot, avoiding overwatering, ensure adequate soil drainage, and apply fungicides.
Pests
1. Aphids: Aphids are small insects that suck the sap from the leaves and stems of plants, leading to stunted growth and distortions. To manage aphids, introduce beneficial insects such as ladybugs or lacewings, spray the plant with water regularly, use insecticidal soap, or apply neem oil.
2. Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the plant’s sap, causing yellowing and browning of the leaves. To manage spider mites, maintain proper humidity levels, apply insecticidal soap, or use neem oil or horticultural oil.
3. Slugs and snails: Slugs and snails are mollusks that can cause significant damage to the plant by feeding on the leaves and stems. To manage slugs and snails, hand-pick them and dispose of them, apply copper tape around the plant, or use baits containing iron phosphate.
Overall, it is essential to practice good hygiene by removing any infected plant parts, avoid overcrowding, and maintain proper growing conditions to prevent or manage the diseases and pests that affect Matricaria hirsutifolia S.Moore effectively.
