Overview of Othonna imbricata Thunb.
Othonna imbricata Thunb. is an herbaceous perennial succulent plant that belongs to the daisy family, Asteraceae. This plant is native to South Africa, but it is now cultivated worldwide for its remarkable ornamental value.
Common Names of Othonna imbricata Thunb.
This plant goes by many common names. It is known as the ruby necklace, little pickles, string of buttons, petty cash, and Senecio rowleyanus lookalike. These common names refer to the attractive appearance of the plant, which features small and bead-like leaves that dangle down like a string of pearls.
Appearance of Othonna imbricata Thunb.
Othonna imbricata Thunb. is a low-growing, creeping plant that typically reaches a height of 10-30 cm and a spread of 30-60 cm. The plant features numerous thin, wiry stems with small, round, fleshy leaves that grow in opposite pairs.
The leaves of the plant are typically green in color, although they may turn reddish-purple in bright sunlight. The plant produces small, yellow, daisy-like flowers in the summer and fall that bloom for about two weeks.
Uses of Othonna imbricata Thunb.
Othonna imbricata Thunb. is primarily grown as an ornamental plant due to its delightful appearance. It is commonly grown in pots, hanging baskets, or as a ground cover. The plant is well suited for hot and dry conditions, making it an ideal choice for xeriscaping.
In addition to its ornamental value, Othonna imbricata Thunb. has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. The leaves of the plant are believed to have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties that make them useful in treating cuts, bruises, and other skin ailments.
Furthermore, the plant is edible and has been used in South African cuisine for its sour and tangy taste. The small leaves and stems of the plant are often pickled and used as a condiment, similar to capers.
Overall, Othonna imbricata Thunb. is a unique and valuable plant that can provide both aesthetic pleasure and medicinal benefits.
Light Requirements
Othonna imbricata Thunb. typically prefers bright and indirect light. While it can survive in partially shaded areas, the plant will grow best when exposed to several hours of direct sunlight each day.
Temperature Requirements
This plant grows naturally in warm regions with temperatures ranging between 20 °C to 35 °C (68 °F to 95 °F) during the day and between 10 °C to 20 °C (50 °F to 68 °F) at night. To replicate these growing conditions, it is advisable to maintain a temperature range of 18°C to 25°C (65°F to 77°F) with moderate humidity. This plant will suffer if subjected to temperatures below 10 °C (50 °F) or above 40 °C (104 °F).
Soil Requirements
The Othonna imbricata Thunb. plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil must have a slightly acidic to a neutral pH between 6.0 to 7.0. The ideal soil mixture will contain a mixture of sand, peat moss, loam, and perlite. It is also crucial to ensure that the soil is kept moist but not waterlogged, with good airflow around the plant.
Cultivation methods for Othonna imbricata Thunb.
Othonna imbricata Thunb. is a drought-tolerant plant that grows well in well-drained soil. You can cultivate this plant indoors or outdoors, depending on your preference.
If you want to grow it indoors, make sure it has access to adequate sunlight and proper ventilation. You can also grow it outdoors in a spot that is well-drained and receives lots of sunlight.
Watering needs for Othonna imbricata Thunb.
Watering this plant is not difficult, however, it can be tricky if you don't monitor it regularly. Overwatering can quickly lead to root rot, so it's essential to let the soil dry out between waterings.
During the growing season, water this plant twice a week, and reduce watering to once a week during the dormant season. When you notice the leaves are wrinkled, it's a sign that the plant needs water.
Fertilization of Othonna imbricata Thunb.
This plant will benefit from occasional fertilization during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer that contains equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Avoid over-fertilizing the plant, as this can cause leggy growth and poor flowering.
Apply the fertilizer once a month during the growing season, following the instructions on the package. Alternatively, you can use organic fertilizers, such as compost or manure, to feed your plant.
Pruning Othonna imbricata Thunb.
Pruning this plant is not necessary, but it can help keep it in good shape. You should remove diseased or damaged leaves regularly to prevent the spread of disease.
You can also pinch back the tips of the stems to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Do this during the growing season, and avoid pruning in the dormant season.
Propagation of Othonna imbricata Thunb.
Othonna imbricata Thunb. is a succulent that can be propagated from seeds, cuttings, or division.
Propagation from Seeds
Seeds of Othonna imbricata Thunb. can be sown in a well-draining soil mix. The seeds require light to germinate, so they should be pressed lightly on the soil surface. The soil should be kept moist, and the seeds should germinate in 1-2 weeks. Once the seedlings have grown to a sufficient size, they can be transplanted to individual pots.
Propagation from Cuttings
Othonna imbricata Thunb. can be propagated from stem cuttings. The cuttings should be taken in the spring or summer to ensure successful rooting. The cuttings should be allowed to dry for a few days, and then they can be planted in a well-draining soil mix. The soil should be kept moist, and the cutting should develop roots in a few weeks. Once the cutting has rooted, it can be transplanted to a larger pot.
Propagation from Division
Othonna imbricata Thunb. can also be propagated by division. This method involves separating an established plant into smaller sections and replanting them. The plant should be gently removed from its pot, and the roots should be carefully separated into sections. Each section should have at least one stem and some roots. The sections can then be planted in individual pots in a well-draining soil mix. The plants should be watered regularly until they are established.
Disease Management
Othonna imbricata Thunb. is prone to several diseases, which need to be managed to prevent plant damage and yield loss. The following are some common diseases that affect this plant:
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes small brown or black spots on the leaves of the plant. The spots may be surrounded by a yellow halo and may merge to cover the entire leaf. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves immediately and dispose of them properly. Use a fungicidal spray to control the spread of the fungus.
Root Rot
Root rot is a disease caused by a fungal infection that attacks the plant's root system and causes it to rot. This disease is often caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Manage root rot by improving soil drainage and reducing watering frequency. Use a fungicidal spray to control the spread of the fungus.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that attacks the leaves of the plant, causing them to develop a white powdery coating. This disease can be managed by increasing air circulation around the plant, reducing humidity levels, and applying a fungicidal spray.
Pest Management
Othonna imbricata Thunb. is also prone to pest infestations that can cause damage to the plant. Here are some common pests that affect this plant and ways to manage them:
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the plant, causing leaves to wilt and turn yellow. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a jet of water to dislodge them or apply an insecticidal soap.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are small, microscopic insects that feed on the underside of the leaves, causing them to become discolored and mottled. To manage spider mites, increase humidity levels around the plant, remove any infected leaves, and apply an insecticidal spray.
Thrips
Thrips are small, winged insects that feed on the leaves of the plant, causing them to become deformed and twisted. To manage thrips, remove any infected leaves, apply an insecticidal spray, or release natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings.
