Overview
Matricaria schlechteri Bolus ex Schltr. is a flowering plant in the daisy family (Asteraceae). It is commonly known as the Pineapple Chamomile due to its distinct pineapple fragrance.
Origin
Matricaria schlechteri is native to Southern Africa, specifically in the highlands of Lesotho and South Africa.
Appearance
The Pineapple Chamomile is a low growing annual or biennial herb that produces a rosette of leaves at the base of the plant. It grows up to a height of 15-30 cm and has small, daisy-like flowers that are yellow in the center and white on the margins. The leaves of this plant are finely divided, feathery, and have a strong pineapple aroma.
Uses
Matricaria schlechteri has a long history of medicinal use in traditional African medicine. It is known for its calming and sedative properties, making it useful in the treatment of anxiety, insomnia, and other stress-related disorders. The plant is also used externally as a poultice or lotion to treat skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and sunburn. In addition, it is used as a flavoring agent in food and beverages due to its sweet, fruity taste.
Light Requirements
Matricaria schlechteri Bolus ex Schltr. requires full sun to grow properly. It requires an adequate amount of sunlight that should be around 6 to 8 hours daily. This plant can also survive in partial shade, but it is not preferable. The more light this plant receives, the better it will grow.
Temperature Requirements
Matricaria schlechteri Bolus ex Schltr. needs a moderate to warm temperature for its growth, ranging from 15 to 25°C (59 to 77°F). This plant grows well in places with a temperature range from 20 to 22°C (68 to 72°F), but it can also tolerate occasional temperature fluctuations. Frost and extreme heat could be challenging for the survival of this plant.
Soil Requirements
Matricaria schlechteri Bolus ex Schltr. grows best in well-draining soil with a pH range of neutral to slightly alkaline (6.0-7.5). It thrives in loamy, sandy, or gravelly soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged, and it should be able to retain water for a reasonable time. Adding organic matter such as compost or manure increases the soil's fertility and improves water retention.
Cultivation Methods
Matricaria schlechteri Bolus ex Schltr., commonly referred to as "pineappleweed," is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of soil types and conditions. It is primarily propagated from seed, although it can also be divided. The optimal time to plant the seeds is in the fall when the soil is still warm but the weather is cooler. The seeds should be sown directly into the soil at a depth of about 1/4 inch.
Watering Needs
Pineappleweed is drought-tolerant and does not require much watering. However, it is important to water it regularly during periods of intense heat or drought. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged as that can lead to root rot. A good rule of thumb is to water when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.
Fertilization
Matricaria schlechteri does not need much fertilization. In fact, too much fertilizer can lead to an overgrowth of foliage and a decrease in the production of flowers. If you do want to fertilize, use a slow-release, low-nitrogen fertilizer and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Fertilize in the early spring when the plant is still dormant.
Pruning
Pineappleweed does not require much pruning. However, deadheading spent blooms can help encourage the plant to produce more flowers. Prune back the entire plant in the fall after it has finished flowering. This will help keep the plant compact and prevent it from becoming too leggy.
Propagation of Matricaria Schlechteri Bolus ex Schltr.
Matricaria schlechteri Bolus ex Schltr. is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is commonly known as Cape Chamomile and is indigenous to South Africa. It is a popular garden plant and is used for its aromatic leaves, flowers, and essential oils. Propagating Matricaria schlechteri Bolus ex Schltr. can be easily done by using one of the following methods:
Seed Propagation
Matricaria schlechteri Bolus ex Schltr. can be propagated through seeds. Sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix and ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Cover the pot with a plastic sheet or a clear polythene bag to maintain high humidity levels. Place the pot in a bright, warm, and well-ventilated area and keep the soil moist. Germination usually occurs within 2-4 weeks. Once the seedlings have emerged, remove the plastic sheet and place the pot under direct sunlight. Regularly water the seedlings and transplant them into individual pots when they have outgrown their containers.
Cuttings Propagation
Matricaria schlechteri Bolus ex Schltr. can also be propagated through cuttings. Take 10-15cm stem cuttings from a mature plant and remove the lower leaves. Dip the end of the cutting in rooting hormone and place it in a well-draining potting mix. Water the soil thoroughly and cover the pot with a plastic sheet or a clear polythene bag to maintain high levels of humidity. Place the pot in a bright, warm, and well-ventilated area. Within a few weeks, the cutting will start to root. Once the cutting has established roots, remove the plastic sheet and place the pot under direct sunlight. Water the cutting regularly and transplant it into an individual pot when it has outgrown its container.
Division Propagation
Matricaria schlechteri Bolus ex Schltr. can also be propagated through division. Dig up a mature plant and divide it into different sections. Each section should have a healthy root system and enough leaves. Plant each section in a well-draining potting mix and water the soil thoroughly. Cover the pot with a plastic sheet or a clear polythene bag to maintain high levels of humidity. Place the pot in a bright, warm, and well-ventilated area. Within a few weeks, the divided sections will start to grow. Once the divisions have established roots, remove the plastic sheet and place the pot under direct sunlight. Water the plants regularly and transplant them into individual pots when they have outgrown their containers.
Disease and Pest Management for Matricaria schlechteri Bolus ex Schltr.
As with any plant, Matricaria schlechteri Bolus ex Schltr. is susceptible to various diseases and pests. Proper management is essential to prevent or minimize damage. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggestions to manage them:
Diseases
1. Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a powdery white coating on leaves and stems. It can cause stunted growth and reduce yield. To manage powdery mildew, remove and destroy infected plant parts, avoid overhead watering, and improve air circulation. Fungicides such as sulfur and copper can be effective at controlling powdery mildew.
2. Rust
Rust is a fungal disease that appears as small pustules on leaves and stems, turning brownish-red to black over time. It can cause reduced growth and yield. To manage rust, remove and destroy infected plant parts, avoid overhead watering, and promote good air circulation. Fungicides such as copper can be effective at controlling rust.
3. Root Rot
Root rot is a fungal disease that causes the plant to wilt and die. It occurs in waterlogged or poorly-drained soils. To manage root rot, ensure good soil drainage, avoid overwatering, and remove infected plants. Fungicides are not effective against root rot.
Pests
1. Aphids
Aphids are small soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the leaves and stems, leading to distorted growth and reduced yield. To manage aphids, remove them by hand or spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
2. Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny arachnids that feed on the undersides of leaves, causing yellowing and bronzing of leaves. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge them, or apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
3. Whiteflies
Whiteflies are small white insects that suck sap from leaves, leading to yellowing and reduced growth. They also excrete honeydew, which can attract ants and cause sooty mold. To manage whiteflies, remove them by hand or spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
By following these management practices, you can help ensure the health and productivity of your Matricaria schlechteri Bolus ex Schltr. plant.
