Overview of Nauplius graveolens (Forssk.) Wiklund subsp. odorus (Schousb.) Wiklund
Nauplius graveolens (Forssk.) Wiklund subsp. odorus (Schousb.) Wiklund, also known as the Stinking Chamomile or the Stinking Mayweed, is a type of plant that belongs to the Asteraceae or Compositae family. It is an annual herb that is native to the Mediterranean region and can be found in countries such as Egypt, Greece, Italy, and Spain. The plant is known for its strong odor that resembles that of a skunk, hence its common name - Stinking Chamomile.
Appearance of Nauplius graveolens (Forssk.) Wiklund subsp. odorus (Schousb.) Wiklund
The Stinking Chamomile is typically a small plant that grows up to 30-40cm tall. It has thin and hairy stems that branch out into many small branches, and its leaves are finely divided into narrow segments. The leaves emit a pungent, unpleasant odor when crushed. The plant produces flowers with white petals and yellow centers, which bloom from May to August. The fruit of the plant is an achene, a dry, one-seeded fruit that does not open.
Uses of Nauplius graveolens (Forssk.) Wiklund subsp. odorus (Schousb.) Wiklund
Nauplius graveolens (Forssk.) Wiklund subsp. odorus (Schousb.) Wiklund has been used for its medicinal properties for centuries. The plant contains essential oils, including chamazulene, which has anti-inflammatory properties and is used to treat skin conditions such as dermatitis and eczema. The plant has also been used as a sedative and as a treatment for digestive issues such as colic, diarrhea, and indigestion. The Stinking Chamomile is also known to repel insects and is used as a natural insecticide in some regions.
However, it should be noted that the Stinking Chamomile has also been found to have allelopathic effects, which means that it can release chemicals that inhibit the growth of other plants. This can make it difficult to cultivate other crops in the same area as the Stinking Chamomile.
Growth Conditions for Nauplius graveolens subsp. odorus
Nauplius graveolens subsp. odorus is a flowering plant that is native to the Mediterranean region and is commonly known as "Sweet-Smelling Nauplius." The plant thrives in a range of environments but requires certain conditions for optimal growth.
Light
The plant requires a lot of sunlight, and it should be grown in an area that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day. If grown indoors, it should be placed near a south-facing window or under grow lights that provide enough light for the plant to photosynthesize efficiently.
Temperature
The plant thrives in warm to moderately hot temperatures, typically ranging between 20-30 degrees Celsius. If the temperature drops below 10 degrees Celsius, it can severely damage the plant. If exposed to excessive heat, the plant's leaves may shrivel or yellow. Therefore, it's essential to take care of the plant's temperature.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires fertile, well-draining, and loamy soil that is rich in nutrients. When planting the Nauplius graveolens subsp. odorus, make sure to amend the soil with organic matter like compost, manure, or a mixture of both. If the soil is heavy, coarse sand or perlite could be added to better aid drainage. In addition, the soil pH should range between 6.0 and 7.5. This will provide an ideal environment for the Nauplius graveolens subsp. odorus to thrive.
Overall, the Nauplius graveolens subsp. odorus requires ample sunlight, moderate temperature, and well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. As long as it's given these conditions, the plant should grow strong and healthy, providing beautiful and fragrant blooms in the summer months.
Cultivation methods
Nauplius graveolens subsp. odorus is a hardy plant that grows well in a range of soil types. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and slightly acidic with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. The plant can tolerate both partial shade and full sun, but the latter is preferred for optimal growth and flowering.
This plant is typically propagated from seeds. The seeds are best sown in spring or early summer when the soil temperature is warm. The seeds should be sown 1-2 inches deep in the soil and spaced 12-18 inches apart. Germination typically occurs within 7-14 days.
Watering needs
Nauplius graveolens subsp. odorus requires moderate water and can tolerate brief dry spells. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is best to allow the soil to dry slightly between watering. Irrigation can be done once a week during the growing season and less often during the dormant months, from late fall to early spring.
Fertilization
It is recommended to fertilize Nauplius graveolens subsp. odorus once in the spring and once in the summer using a balanced, slow-release granular fertilizer. The fertilizer should be applied at the base of the plant in a circular pattern, following the recommended application rates. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant months.
Pruning
Pruning can help maintain the shape of the plant and promote new growth. Deadheading can also encourage more blooms. Pruning should be done in late fall or early spring when the plant is dormant. Remove dead or diseased branches and trim the plant to the desired shape. Avoid over-pruning as it can lead to reduced flowering in the following season.
Propagation of Nauplius graveolens subsp. odorus
Nauplius graveolens subsp. odorus, also known as Arabian Jasmine, is a popular ornamental plant that can be propagated through various methods including:
Seeds
The most common method of propagating Nauplius graveolens subsp. odorus is by using seeds. Seeds should be collected from mature fruits and cleaned before sowing. The seeds can be sown directly in pots or seed trays filled with well-draining potting mix. The seeds need to be kept moist and warm until germination, which usually takes about 2-3 weeks. Once the seedlings have developed two sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
Cuttings
Nauplius graveolens subsp. odorus can also be propagated through stem cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is during the growing season, which is typically in spring or summer. Choose healthy stems and cut them below a node. Remove any lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a pot filled with well-draining potting mix and keep it in a warm and moist environment until roots develop, which can take about 4-6 weeks.
Air layering
Another method of propagating Nauplius graveolens subsp. odorus is through air layering. This involves making a small incision on a healthy stem and wrapping it in moist sphagnum moss. The area is then covered with plastic wrap to keep it moist. Roots will develop from the incision in a few weeks, and once they have developed sufficiently, the new plant can be separated from the mother plant and planted in a pot filled with well-draining potting mix.
Division
Nauplius graveolens subsp. odorus can also be propagated through division. This involves dividing the plant into smaller sections, each with its own roots and shoots. Carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently separate the sections. Each section can then be planted in its own pot filled with well-draining potting mix.
Disease Management
Nauplius graveolens subsp. odorus is relatively resistant to diseases, but it is not entirely immune. Some common diseases that can affect the plant include:
- Leaf spot: This disease is caused by various fungi and bacteria. Symptoms include yellow or brown spots on the leaves, which can grow and merge over time. To manage leaf spot, remove and destroy infected leaves, avoid overhead watering, and apply a fungicide if necessary.
- Crown rot: This disease is caused by soil-borne fungi and bacteria. Symptoms include wilting, yellowing, and rotting of the plant's crown. To manage crown rot, remove and destroy infected plants, improve soil drainage, and apply a fungicide if necessary.
Pest Management
Nauplius graveolens subsp. odorus can also be attacked by various pests. Some common pests include:
- Thrips: These small, slender insects feed on the plant's leaves and flowers, causing damage and deformity. To manage thrips, remove and destroy heavily infested plant parts, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil, and introduce natural predators such as lacewings or lady beetles.
- Spider mites: These tiny, eight-legged pests suck the sap from the plant's leaves, causing them to turn yellow and dry out. To manage spider mites, remove and destroy heavily infested plant parts, wash the plant with a strong stream of water, and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Mealybugs: These soft-bodied insects feed on the plant's sap and secrete a white, waxy substance that can attract ants and cause mold growth. To manage mealybugs, remove and destroy heavily infested plant parts, wash the plant with a solution of water and dish soap, and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
