Overview
Pachycarpus grandiflorus (L.f.) E.Mey. var. chrysanthus N.E.Br. is a plant species that belongs to the family Asclepiadaceae. This succulent plant is native to South Africa and is also known by the common names of Golden Pincushion, Golden Crown, and Golden Domes.
Appearance
Pachycarpus grandiflorus (L.f.) E.Mey. var. chrysanthus N.E.Br. is a small, compact shrub that typically grows up to 60 cm in height. The plant has thick, succulent stems that are covered in woolly hairs and small white tufts. The leaves of this plant are simple, alternate and are up to 20 cm long. The flowers of Pachycarpus grandiflorus (L.f.) E.Mey. var. chrysanthus N.E.Br. are showy and are bright yellow or golden. The flowers are produced in clusters at the end of the stems and are up to 5 cm in diameter. The blooming period of this plant typically occurs from late winter to early spring.
Uses
Pachycarpus grandiflorus (L.f.) E.Mey. var. chrysanthus N.E.Br. is primarily used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes. Due to its unique and attractive appearance, this plant is commonly used in rock gardens, succulent gardens, and as a container plant. It is also used for medicinal purposes in traditional African medicine to treat a variety of ailments including respiratory infections, fever, and digestive problems. The milk of the plant has been used in the treatment of snakebites and scorpion stings.
Cultivation
Pachycarpus grandiflorus (L.f.) E.Mey. var. chrysanthus N.E.Br. is a relatively easy plant to cultivate and can be grown in a variety of soil types as long as they are well-draining. This plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate drought conditions. It is also suitable for xeriscaping and can be propagated by seed or cuttings.
Light requirements:
Pachycarpus grandiflorus (L.f.) E.Mey. var. chrysanthus N.E.Br. is a plant that thrives in full sun. In nature, it is often found growing in savannas and rocky places, where it receives intense sunlight for several hours each day. Therefore, it is essential to provide ample sunlight for this plant to grow optimally. If grown in partial shade, the plant may produce fewer flowers and appear less healthy than those grown in full sun.
Temperature requirements:
Pachycarpus grandiflorus (L.f.) E.Mey. var. chrysanthus N.E.Br. is a plant that prefers warm temperatures. It can grow well in temperatures ranging from 18°C to 35°C. The plant may not tolerate temperatures below 13°C, which can lead to stunted growth or even death. Therefore, it's important to grow this plant in an environment where the temperature is warm and consistent throughout the year.
Soil requirements:
The Pachycarpus grandiflorus (L.f.) E.Mey. var. chrysanthus N.E.Br. requires well-draining soil. The plant can thrive in sandy or rocky soils as it allows water to drain out quickly. Soil moisture is a crucial factor in the growth of this plant, and overwatering can lead to root rot and disease. It's also important to note that this plant grows well in soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0 to 7.0).
Cultivation methods
The Pachycarpus grandiflorus (L.f.) E.Mey. var. chrysanthus N.E.Br., commonly known as the Golden Butterfly Milkweed, thrives in full sunlight and well-draining soil. It can be cultivated either outdoors or indoors in a container as long as the container has adequate drainage holes.
When planting the milkweed outdoors, the soil must be loosened and free of debris, and a hole should be dug large enough to accommodate the plant's root ball. The plant should be positioned in the hole at the same depth as it was in the nursery container. The soil should be gently pressed down around the plant, and watered well.
If cultivating indoors, choose a container that is at least 6-8 inches in diameter and a potting mix that is well-draining and full of organic matter. The plant should be watered thoroughly after planting and always kept in a place where it can receive sunlight for several hours a day.
Watering needs
Golden Butterfly Milkweed prefers consistent moisture but cannot tolerate soggy soils, which can cause root rot. In the early stages, the plant should be watered regularly, at least once a week, allowing the soil to dry slightly between watering. Once the plant is established, watering can be reduced to biweekly, but again, ensuring that the soil is not sodden.
It is crucial to avoid overwatering as this can lead to stunted growth, foliage yellowing and wilting. Drainage holes at the bottom of the container must not be overly clogged and must be checked regularly.
Fertilization
The best time to fertilize Pachycarpus grandiflorus is late winter or early spring when the plant resumes active growth after its dormancy period. A low nitrogen, high-phosphorus fertilizer is ideal as it promotes blooming, and it can be incorporated into the soil around the base of the plant. This fertilizer can be reapplied after two months to ensure continuous blooming throughout the season.
Over-fertilizing can lead to a deficiency of nutrients resulting in foliage shedding and delayed blooming of flowers. Hence, it is necessary to avoid applying too much fertilizer and following instructions on usage carefully.
Pruning
Golden butterfly milkweed requires pruning just once a year after blooming, which is usually in the fall or early winter. The aim is to remove any dead, damaged, or yellow leaves and excess growth, keeping the plant looking neat and tidy before the dormant phase.
It is also essential to remove the spent flower clusters to encourage the development of fresh blooms and avoid them becoming unattractive. Cutting off the spent flowers will also promote growth, making the plant bushier and helping it produce more flowers.
Propagation of Pachycarpus grandiflorus var. chrysanthus
Pachycarpus grandiflorus var. chrysanthus can be propagated through different methods, including seed propagation, root division, and stem cuttings.
Seed propagation
The easiest and most common way to propagate Pachycarpus grandiflorus var. chrysanthus is through seeds. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil in a warm and sunny area. The germination rate can be increased by soaking the seeds in water for 24-48 hours before planting. Seedlings may take several months to emerge, but once they do, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the ground.
Root division
Pachycarpus grandiflorus var. chrysanthus can also be propagated through root division. This method is best done in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. To propagate through root division, the plant should be carefully dug up and the roots should be separated into smaller sections. Each section should have at least one healthy root and one growing point. The divided plants can then be replanted in well-draining soil and watered thoroughly.
Stem cuttings
Stem cuttings can be used to propagate Pachycarpus grandiflorus var. chrysanthus as well. The best time to take cuttings is in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Cuttings should be taken from the tips of healthy, non-flowering shoots and should be about 6 inches long. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cutting should be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist until new growth emerges.
Disease Management
Pachycarpus grandiflorus (L.f.) E.Mey. var. chrysanthus N.E.Br is prone to several diseases, and preventive measures should be taken to avoid the occurrence of these diseases. One of the common diseases that affect this plant is Leaf spot disease. This disease causes discoloration, and spotting of leaves leading to death. Fungal diseases also affect this plant, causing root rot and damping-off. A fungal disease like Powdery mildew also causes white powdery substances on the leaves of the plant.
Ensure that the plant is well-ventilated and avoid flooding the plant. Avoid planting it in shaded or humid areas and ensure proper plant spacing to allow proper circulation of air. In case of fungal diseases, use a fungicide to control the spread of the disease. Removing the affected leaves and following proper watering practices can prevent the occurrence of leaf spot diseases.
Pest Management
Pachycarpus grandiflorus (L.f.) E.Mey. var. chrysanthus N.E.Br is also prone to several pests, and preventive measures should be taken to avoid the occurrence of these pests. One of the common pests that infect this plant is the Aphids, which feed on the sap of the plant, leading to weakening and the death of the plant. Spider mites, mealybugs, and whiteflies are also pests that can cause damage to the plant.
To manage pests, plant companion plants that attract predators like ladybugs, lacewings, or parasitic wasps that feed on the pests. Keep the plant clean by clearing any fallen leaves around the plant to avoid pests and diseases infestation. Use a natural pesticide or insecticidal soap to control the spread of pests and avoid using insecticides that are harmful to beneficial insects.
