Overview
Phylica excelsa J.C.Wendl. var. excelsa is a species of flowering plant in the family Rhamnaceae. It is an evergreen shrub native to the Western Cape of South Africa.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Bokmakierie, Cape Tallowwood, or Large-leaved Phylica.
Appearance
The Phylica excelsa J.C.Wendl. var. excelsa can grow up to 9 meters tall and has a round shape. Its leaves are simple and alternate, oval-shaped, and can grow up to 10 cm long. The plant produces small, white flowers in the spring and summer. The flowers are followed by small, berry-like fruit that ripen to a dark, reddish-brown color.
Uses
The plant has several uses, including ornamental, medicinal, and cultural. It is commonly used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks due to its attractive foliage and flowers. In traditional medicine, the plant has been used to treat a variety of ailments such as burns, wounds, and respiratory issues. The plant also has cultural significance as it is considered a symbol of fertility and prosperity in some African cultures.
Light Requirements
Phylica excelsa J.C.Wendl. var. excelsa prefers full sunlight or partial shade. It grows best in environments that provide at least six hours of direct sunlight a day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can tolerate moderate temperatures ranging from 60-85°F (16-29°F). However, it can withstand occasional frosts and temperatures as low as 30°F (-1°C). Extreme heat over 110°F (43°C) can be damaging and may cause the plant to wilt.
Soil Requirements
Phylica excelsa J.C.Wendl. var. excelsa grows well in fertile, well-draining soil. It prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 5.5-7.0. The plant can adapt to various soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soil, as long as it provided proper drainage.
Cultivation methods
Phylica excelsa J.C.Wendl. var. excelsa, commonly known as needlebush, is a beautiful ornamental plant that requires specific conditions to grow and thrive. It is native to South Africa and prefers well-draining soil, full sun or partial shade, and strong winds. If you are planning to cultivate Phylica excelsa, it is best to plant it in a large container with a good drainage system or a well-prepared garden bed, ensuring that the soil is sandy and acidic.
The ideal temperature for Phylica excelsa to grow is 20-25°Celsius, and it requires low humidity levels. Additionally, since it is resistant to salt spray and drought, it makes an excellent choice for seaside gardens.
Watering needs
Phylica excelsa requires moderate watering, and the soil should not be allowed to dry out completely. Over-watering can lead to root rot, so it is crucial to ensure the plant has good drainage. During the hot season, it is essential to water the plant frequently to ensure that the soil is moist without getting waterlogged. During the winter season, you can reduce the frequency of watering.
Fertilization
Phylica excelsa requires infrequent fertilizing to promote healthy growth. You can use a balanced fertilizer, like an 8-8-8 or 10-10-10, during the growing season. However, care should be taken to avoid using too much fertilizer as this can damage the plant's roots. If you are unsure about what fertilizer to use or how much to apply, it is best to seek advice from a garden center or nursery.
Pruning
The Phylica excelsa J.C.Wendl. var. excelsa requires very little pruning. However, you can prune or trim the plant lightly to maintain the desired shape and height. Pruning can be done anytime, but the best time is at the end of the winter season. This will encourage healthy new growth in the spring. When pruning, use sharp, clean shears, and make cuts at a 45-degree angle. Remove any dead or diseased branches immediately to prevent the spread of diseases or pests.
Propagation of Phylica excelsa J.C.Wendl. var. excelsa
Phylica excelsa J.C.Wendl. var. excelsa is a popular ornamental plant commonly propagated through seeds, cuttings, and layering.
Seed propagation
Seeds of Phylica excelsa have a hard seed coat which requires either mechanical scarification or chemical treatment with sulfuric acid. After scarification, the seeds should be soaked in warm water overnight. Normally these seeds take about 3 weeks to germinate after sowing.
Cutting propagation
The best period to get cuttings sounds from early September and cuttings are 10 to 15 cm long branch tips with three to five nodes. Cuttings require bottom heat and takes about six weeks for rooting.
Layering propagation
Phylica excelsa J.C.Wendl. var. excelsa can also be propagated through layering. One-year-old shoots are bent down to the ground and covered with a mixture of peat and sand. The shoots are held down firmly until rooted, and they can be separated from the parent plant after 6-12 months.
Disease and Pest Management for Phylica excelsa J.C.Wendl. var. excelsa
Phylica excelsa J.C.Wendl. var. excelsa is a hardy plant, but it is not immune to diseases and pests. Here are some common diseases and pests that can affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Root Rot
Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant. It can be caused by excessive watering or poor drainage. Symptoms include wilting and yellowing of leaves, and the plant may eventually die. To manage root rot, it is important to prevent overwatering and ensure good drainage. If the disease is already present, remove the affected plant and soil and replace it with fresh soil.
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves of the plant. It can be caused by high humidity or poor air circulation. To manage leaf spot, remove affected leaves and avoid overhead watering. You can also treat the plant with a fungicide spray.
Pests
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the leaves and stems of the plant. They can cause stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and the plant may eventually die. To manage aphids, you can wash them off with a steady stream of water or treat the plant with insecticidal soap.
Scale Insects
Scale insects are oval-shaped insects that attach themselves to the leaves and stems of the plant. They can cause yellowing of leaves, stunted growth and a sticky substance on the plant. To manage scale insects, you can scrape them off with a soft brush or treat the plant with an insecticide spray.
By being aware of these common diseases and pests and using appropriate management methods, you can ensure that your Phylica excelsa J.C.Wendl. var. excelsa plant stays healthy and vibrant.
