Overview:
Ogastemma pusillum (Coss. & Durieu ex Bonnet & Barratte) Brummitt, also known as Tartary Boneset, is a small, annual herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is native to countries that fall within the Boreal Kingdom such as Russia, Mongolia, Kazakhstan, and China.
Common Names:
The plant is commonly known by several names in different languages. In Russia, it is called ??????? (malanka), while in Kazakhstan, it is known as ???????? (bulyzhnik). In Mongolia, it is named ????? (agshin), and in China, it is called ??? (D?ngb?i cài) which means "Northeast vegetable". In English, it is commonly referred to as Tartary Boneset.
Uses:
The herb has traditionally been used for medicinal purposes in many of the countries where it is native. For instance, in Russia, a decoction prepared from the plant is used to treat fever, headaches, and joint pains. The decoction is also said to help alleviate digestive problems. In Kazakhstan, a poultice made from the plant is applied topically to treat skin problems such as boils and abscesses.
Appearance:
Ogastemma pusillum grows to an average height of 20-30cm. It has branched stems that are covered with small, glandular hairs. The leaves are small, lanceolate, and alternate along the stem. They are usually no more than 2cm long and 0.5cm wide. The flowers are tiny, white, and arranged in small clusters at the end of the branches. The plant blooms from late spring to early summer. The small fruits are achenes that are covered with small spines.
Light Requirements
Ogastemma pusillum thrives in areas with full sunlight exposure. Therefore, it requires at least six hours of direct sunlight daily to grow and develop appropriately. Lack of enough sunlight significantly affects the plant's growth, causing stunted growth.
Temperature
The plant requires optimum temperature conditions to grow correctly. It thrives in areas with temperatures ranging from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius. In hotter regions, it requires shading to prevent overheating that may kill the plant.
Soil Requirements
Ogastemma pusillum requires well-draining, moist soil filled with organic matter. The pH of the soil should range from 6.0 to 7.0 for optimal growth. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including loamy soils, sandy soils, and rocky soils. The root system of the plant is shallow, making it sensitive to water stagnation in the soil, and may lead to diseases or root rot.
Cultivation Methods for Ogastemma pusillum
Ogastemma pusillum is a small herbaceous plant that grows well in well-drained soils with good moisture retention capacity. It can be grown either in pots or in the ground. The ideal soil pH range for growing Ogastemma pusillum is between 6.0 to 7.0. It prefers full sunlight but can also grow in partially shaded areas.
Watering Needs of Ogastemma pusillum
Ogastemma pusillum requires regular watering, especially during its growing season, which is in the spring and summer. The soil must be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Overwatering can result in the development of root rot, which can be detrimental to the plant. It is recommended to water the plant deeply once a week or whenever the soil surface feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization of Ogastemma pusillum
Ogastemma pusillum can be fertilized once a month during its growing season, using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging for appropriate dosages. Too much fertilizer can cause damage to the plant, so it is essential not to over-fertilize.
Pruning Ogastemma pusillum
Ogastemma pusillum requires little pruning, but it can benefit from periodic grooming, especially during its growing season. Any dead, diseased, or damaged parts of the plant should be removed immediately. To encourage a bushier growth, it can also be pruned back by trimming its stems with sharp, sterile pruning shears.
Propagation of Ogastemma Pusillum
Ogastemma pusillum is a small, perennial plant that is propagated through both sexual and asexual methods. It is native to the Mediterranean region and is commonly found in rocky and sandy areas.
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagation for Ogastemma pusillum is through seeds. The seeds can be sown in pots or directly in the ground during the spring or fall. To increase the germination rate, it is recommended to scarify the seeds before sowing by rubbing them with sandpaper or soaking them in warm water. The germination process can take up to two weeks and the young plants should be transplanted into larger pots or permanent locations after they develop their true leaves.
Division
Ogastemma pusillum can also be propagated through division. This method involves dividing the mother plant into smaller sections and replanting them in individual pots or directly in the ground. This can be done during the spring or fall, and it is important to make sure each section has roots and shoots before transplanting.
Cuttings
Another propagation method for Ogastemma pusillum is through stem cuttings. This method requires taking cuttings from the mother plant during the summer and rooting them in a rooting hormone. The cuttings should be placed in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until they develop roots, which can take up to a month. Once the cuttings have developed roots, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly in the ground.
Disease Management
Ogastemma pusillum is relatively resistant to most pest and disease issues. However, the plant may be susceptible to fungal diseases, such as leaf spot and powdery mildew, if the conditions are suitable to their growth.
To manage fungal diseases of Ogastemma pusillum, it is crucial to maintain dry and well-ventilated conditions around the plant. Proper watering techniques, such as watering from the base of the plant, can help prevent leaf spot and powdery mildew from developing. If necessary, a fungicidal spray may be applied to the affected plant.
Pest Management
While Ogastemma pusillum is not usually prone to pest infestations, it can still face issues related to mites and scale insects that can feed on the sap of the plant, causing damage and deformities.
To manage these pests, it is essential to maintain a healthy growing environment, free from stresses that may weaken the plant's immune system. Additionally, regular inspection of the plant can help detect pest infestations early before they escalate. If necessary, a horticultural oil spray or insecticidal soap may be used to control the pests.
