Overview
Othonna pinnatilobata Sch.Bip. is a flowering perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant is native to southern Africa but has also been introduced to other parts of the world.
Common Names
Othonna pinnatilobata is commonly known as the "Silver Leaved Othonna," "Lilac Sun Daisy," or "Chirping Sparrow."
Appearance
The Silver Leaved Othonna is a trailing or bushy plant that can grow up to 30-60cm tall and 60-90cm wide. The plant has silver-green leaves that are leathery, fleshy, and egg-shaped with lobed (pinnatilobed) margins. In the summer, this plant produces small yellow and purple flowers that resemble a sunflower, and each flower is about 2 cm in diameter.
Uses
The Silver Leaved Othonna is a low-maintenance and drought-tolerant plant that is perfect for xeriscaping. Xeriscaping is a type of landscaping that requires minimal or sometimes no irrigation. This plant can also be grown in containers or as a ground cover. Othonna pinnatilobata is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and is used for medicinal purposes in traditional African medicine.
Light Requirements
Othonna pinnatilobata Sch.Bip. is a sun-loving plant that requires direct sunlight for at least six hours daily. The plant grows optimally in full sun, although it can tolerate a partial shade environment. If grown indoors, place the plant near a south-facing window to ensure it receives adequate sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is best grown in a warm environment, and it thrives in temperatures ranging between 18°C to 27°C. Temperatures below 15°C can harm the plant, and it may not grow well in such conditions. Therefore, the plant must be grown in regions with warm temperatures throughout the year.
Soil Requirements
Othonna pinnatilobata Sch.Bip. prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant can grow in a range of soils but thrives in sandy or loamy soils. The soil pH should be slightly acidic, ranging from 6.0 to 6.5. It is essential to keep the soil moist while avoiding waterlogging, which can cause root rot.
Cultivation Methods
The Othonna pinnatilobata Sch.Bip. plant is best grown in well-draining, sandy soil and under full sunlight. Ideal temperatures for growth range from 60-80°F, so it's best to grow them in warmer climate zones. The plants can either be grown directly from their seeds or propagated through stem cuttings.
Watering Needs
Although the Othonna pinnatilobata Sch.Bip. plant is drought-tolerant, regular and consistent watering is essential to maintain healthy growth and a lush appearance. The plants should be watered thoroughly but gradually, providing adequate time between watering sessions to allow the soil to dry out. Ensure that the soil is not saturated as it may lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Applying fertilizer sparingly is enough to support the growth and development of Othonna pinnatilobata Sch.Bip. plants. The best time to fertilize is during the growing season, from late spring to early fall. A balanced, all-purpose fertilizer with essential macronutrients and micronutrients can be used, but it's important not to over-fertilize as this may cause the leaves to yellow and deteriorate.
Pruning
Othonna pinnatilobata Sch.Bip. plants are low-maintenance and do not require frequent pruning. However, it's advisable to prune any diseased, damaged, or dead branches to promote healthy growth and shape the plant's form. Always use sterilized pruning tools to prevent the transmission of diseases or pests. Pinching back stem tips helps control the plant's size and promotes bushier growth if desired.
Propagation of Othonna pinnatilobata Sch.Bip.
Othonna pinnatilobata Sch.Bip. can be propagated through both seeds and stem cuttings.
Seed Propagation
Seeds for propagation can be collected once the seed head has dried. It is essential to ensure that the seeds are of good quality since low-quality seeds may not produce the desired plant characteristics. After collecting the seeds, they should be planted in well-draining soil mixed with organic matter such as compost or peat moss.
The seeds should be planted about 2-3 times their size deep in the soil, and the soil should be kept moist. Germination of the seeds can take up to two weeks, and once the seedlings have grown two sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted to separate pots.
Stem cutting propagation
Another way to propagate Othonna pinnatilobata Sch.Bip. is through stem cuttings. The best time to take stem cuttings is during the growing season when the plant is actively producing new growth. A healthy stem approximately five inches long should be selected, and any leaves on the bottom half should be removed.
The cutting should be dipped into a rooting hormone, and then placed into a well-draining soil mix. The soil should be kept moist while the cutting develops roots. Once new growth appears, the cutting can be transplanted into individual pots.
Propagation of Othonna pinnatilobata Sch.Bip. through stem cuttings can take around four weeks before the new plant is fully established.
Disease and Pest Management for Othonna pinnatilobata Sch.Bip.
Othonna pinnatilobata Sch.Bip., commonly known as Cape-ivy, is a hardy plant that is tolerant of drought and poor soil, making it a popular choice for gardeners in hot and dry climates. However, like all plants, it is susceptible to a range of diseases and pests that can harm its growth and appearance. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect Othonna pinnatilobata Sch.Bip., and some suggestions for managing them.
Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Othonna pinnatilobata Sch.Bip. is powdery mildew. This fungal disease appears as a white or gray coating on the leaves, and can cause them to become distorted and discolored. To manage powdery mildew, it's important to keep the plant dry, as the disease thrives in moist conditions. Avoid overhead watering, as this can promote the spread of the disease, and instead water the plant at its base. You can also treat powdery mildew with a fungicide, following the manufacturer's instructions. In severe cases, it may be necessary to remove and dispose of heavily infected leaves or the entire plant.
Another disease that can affect Othonna pinnatilobata Sch.Bip. is leaf spot. This fungal disease causes circular spots on the leaves, which can be surrounded by a yellow halo. In severe cases, the spots can merge and cause the leaves to die. To manage leaf spot, remove and dispose of infected leaves as soon as possible, and avoid overhead watering. You can also treat leaf spot with a fungicide, following the manufacturer's instructions.
Pests
Othonna pinnatilobata Sch.Bip. can also be affected by pests, including aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. These insects feed on the leaves, causing them to become distorted and discolored, and can also spread disease. To manage these pests, you can wash the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge them, or treat the plant with an insecticidal soap or oil, following the manufacturer's instructions. You can also introduce natural predators, such as ladybugs or lacewings, to help control the pest population.
In summary, disease and pest management is an important part of maintaining the health and appearance of Othonna pinnatilobata Sch.Bip. To manage diseases, it's important to keep the plant dry, remove infected leaves, and treat with fungicides if necessary. To manage pests, wash the plant with water, treat with insecticidal soap or oil, or introduce natural predators. By following these steps, you can help ensure that your Othonna pinnatilobata Sch.Bip. stays healthy and vibrant.
