Overview
Phylica axillaris Lam. var. hirsuta Sond. is a species of small shrub native to South Africa. It belongs to the family Rhamnaceae and is commonly known by its Afrikaans name, bokbas.
Description
The plant is a small, woody shrub that usually grows to a height of 1-2 meters. The leaves are small and grey-green in color, with a rough, hairy texture. The plant blooms year-round, producing tiny white or cream-colored flowers that are arranged in clusters at the base of the leaves. The fruit is a small, brownish capsule that contains several seeds.
Habitat and Distribution
Phylica axillaris Lam. var. hirsuta Sond. is known to occur in a wide range of habitats, from fynbos to renosterveld, on sandy and stony soils. It is widely distributed across the Western and Eastern Cape provinces of South Africa.
Uses
The plant has a variety of uses in traditional medicine, where it is used to treat a number of illnesses such as colds, flu, and intestinal diseases. The roots and leaves are also used in the preparation of a tea which is believed to have a calming effect on the nervous system. The plant is also used as a floral decoration in the floriculture industry.
Conclusion
Phylica axillaris Lam. var. hirsuta Sond. is a small, hardy shrub that is native to South Africa. It has a distinctive appearance, with small grey-green leaves and tiny white or cream flowers. While it is primarily used in traditional medicine, it is also enjoyed as a floral decoration. The plant is an important part of the South African flora, and is widely distributed across the country.
Light Requirements
Phylica axillaris prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but excessive shade may hinder its growth and flowering. It is best to plant it in a location where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
Phylica axillaris is native to Mediterranean climates, so it thrives in warm and mild conditions. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F (-6°C) but may suffer damage if exposed to frost. The optimum temperature range for its growth is between 60°F-80°F (15°C-27°C).
Soil Requirements
Phylica axillaris grows best in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter, with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0). It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and rocky soils. However, it does not do well in waterlogged or heavy clay soils. Adding compost or other organic amendments to the soil can improve its fertility and structure.
Cultivation Methods
Phylica axillaris Lam. var. hirsuta Sond. prefers sandy to gravelly soils and needs good drainage. It can tolerate drought and dry conditions, making it an ideal plant for gardens in arid regions. It thrives in full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade. Propagation is from seed or cuttings.
Watering Needs
Watering should be done sparingly. It can tolerate dry conditions but will benefit from occasional watering during extreme heat or drought conditions. Overwatering can cause root rot, so ensure that the soil is well-drained.
Fertilization
Fertilizers should be applied sparingly during the growing season, usually in spring and summer. A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 or 5-10-5 is ideal. Too much nitrogen can cause excessive growth of foliage and may, therefore, reduce flowering and lead to weak stems.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential practice for Phylica axillaris Lam. var. hirsuta Sond. to keep it in its natural shape. Regular pruning should be done to remove dead or diseased leaves to help maintain its attractive shape. It is also advisable to cut back the older wood to promote fresh growth and improve the plant's appearance. Pruning should be done early spring before the growing season begins.
Propagation of Phylica axillaris Lam. var. hirsuta Sond.
Phylica axillaris Lam. var. hirsuta Sond can be propagated through both sexual and asexual means. Some of the commonly employed propagation methods for Phylica axillaris Lam. var. hirsuta Sond. are discussed below:
Seed Propagation
Phylica axillaris Lam. var. hirsuta Sond can be propagated through seeds, which are readily available. The seeds of the plant are collected, dried, and stored under proper conditions. The seeds are then sown in a seed bed or in pots filled with a suitable seedling mix. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil and kept moist at all times. The seedlings usually emerge in two to three weeks, and after four to six months, they are ready for transplanting to their permanent location.
Cuttings Propagation
Phylica axillaris Lam. var. hirsuta Sond can also be propagated through cuttings. Softwood cuttings, semi- hardwood cuttings, and hardwood cuttings can be used for propagation. Softwood cuttings are taken in spring or early summer, semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer or early fall, and hardwood cuttings in winter. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-drained rooting medium. They should be kept moist at all times and covered with a clear plastic dome to maintain humidity. Once the cuttings develop roots, which usually takes four to six weeks, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Division Propagation
Phylica axillaris Lam. var. hirsuta Sond can also be propagated through division. In this method, the plant is carefully dug out of the ground, and the clumps are separated into smaller sections while ensuring that each section has roots and shoots. The sections are then transplanted to their permanent location. Division should be done during spring or fall when the plant is dormant.
Disease and Pest Management for Phylica axillaris Lam. var. hirsuta Sond.
Phylica axillaris Lam. var. hirsuta Sond. is a shrub native to South Africa that is commonly grown as a garden ornamental. To ensure the plant grows healthy, it is essential to understand disease and pest management.
Common Diseases
One commonly known disease that kills Phylica axillaris Lam. var. hirsuta Sond. is root rot, which is caused by overwatering or poor soil drainage. You can control this disease by watering the plants moderately and adequately, ensuring proper soil drainage, and using sterilized soil when repotting.
Another disease Phylica axillaris is prone to is the Phytophthora root disease, which causes decay of the lower stem. It can be controlled by avoiding the use of infected soil, removing infected plants, and applying fungicides.
Common Pests
Phylica axillaris Lam. var. hirsuta Sond. can attract pests such as mites, scales, and whiteflies, which can damage foliage, reduce the plant's vigor, and stunt its growth. To manage these pests, consider using natural predators, such as lady beetles or parasitic wasps. Yellow sticky traps and insecticidal soaps can also be useful in controlling pests infestation.
Caterpillars and aphids can also infest the plant. One way to control them is by removing them manually and applying insecticides, especially during early infestations. Ensure that you follow product instructions to prevent phytotoxicity.
Tips for Prevention
Good plant maintenance as well as frequent checks for pests and diseases can help prevent infestations. Ensure that you always use sterile soil and clean garden tools before using them. Also, avoid overcrowding plants as it can lead to an increase in pest infestations.
Moreover, using resistant cultivars, pruning affected parts of the plant, and applying controlled-release fertilizers can also help prevent diseases and pests in Phylica axillaris Lam. var. hirsuta Sond.
