Overview
Picris abyssinica Sch.Bip. is a perennial plant belonging to the family Asteraceae. This herb is native to the African continent and is commonly found in Ethiopia, Eritrea, Sudan, South Sudan, Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. It is also known by a few common names including African ox-tongue, Abyssinian yellowtops, and Ethiopian bitterweed.
Description
The plant is slender and can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. It has a branched-stem that is covered in stiff, coarse hairs. The leaves are dark green, oblong-shaped, and measure up to 30 cm in length. The inflorescences of the Picris abyssinica Sch.Bip. are yellow and bloom in clusters at the end of each branch. The fruits of the plant are achenes with a pappus that helps with dispersal.
Uses
The Picris abyssinica Sch.Bip. plant has been used for centuries in traditional African medicine for various ailments. The leaves, stem, and roots of the plant are used to treat malaria, fever, coughs, intestinal worms, and venereal diseases. The plant has also been used to manage respiratory infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia. The plant is also used as a vegetable in various African cuisines, often boiled or fried and served as a side dish.
In addition, Picris abyssinica Sch.Bip. has been used in the production of organic pesticides to control various pests and diseases. The plant contains bitter compounds that help to repel insects and may have potential use as natural insecticides.
Conclusion
Picris abyssinica Sch.Bip. is an important plant with medicinal and nutritional value that has been used for centuries in traditional African medicine. It is a perineal herb that is common in East and Central Africa. The plant is a source of important bioactive compounds with potential use as natural insecticides. Its popularity in traditional medicine and its possible industrial applications make Picris abyssinica Sch.Bip. an important and promising plant.
Light Requirements
Picris abyssinica Sch.Bip. grows well in a full sun to partial shade environment. It prefers to receive a minimum of 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Without adequate sunlight, the plant may not fully develop and may not produce flowers or seeds.
Temperature Requirements
Picris abyssinica Sch.Bip. thrives in warm temperatures that range between 20-28°C (68-82°F). It is not well-suited to survive in areas with extreme cold conditions or frost.
Soil Requirements
The plant grows well in well-draining soils with a pH range between 6 and 7.5. The ideal soil type for Picris abyssinica Sch.Bip. is sandy loam soil with adequate nutrients and organic matter. The plant is also drought-tolerant, making it suitable for areas with minimal water availability.
Water Requirements
Watering frequency depends on the growing environment of Picris abyssinica Sch.Bip. In areas with high rainfall, the plant may not require regular watering, but in areas with minimal water availability, the plant requires regular watering to thrive.
Cultivation methods
The Picris abyssinica Sch.Bip., commonly termed African daisy, thrives well in warm weather and can survive in infertile soils. The plant grows best in locations with direct sunlight, and it can grow up to three feet tall. Prior to planting, ensure the soil is loose and aerated by tilling six inches deep. The plant requires a soil pH range of 5.0 to 7.0.
Plant the seeds in loose soil, spacing them at least 12 inches apart. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil, and water thoroughly. Within a week or two, the seedlings should emerge from the soil.
Watering needs
The African daisy requires moderate watering with intervals of one to two weeks. The plant is drought-resistant and requires minimal watering in a well-draining soil. During dry conditions, the plant needs consistent watering every week. Overwatering the plant leads to root rot, which causes the leaves to turn yellow and eventually fall off.
Fertilization
It is best to fertilize the African daisy at planting by mixing compost or manure with the soil. The plant requires a well-balanced fertilizer application every two to three months. Use a fertilizer with a balanced N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 or 5-10-5. Over-fertilization can damage the plant, leading to stunted growth, deformed flowers, and an array of health issues.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential activity in growing African daisies. The plant stems are prone to breaking, and pruning helps keep the plant compact and bushy while reducing its susceptibility to breakages. Prune the plant early in the growing season, approximately up to six weeks after planting. You can cut back the stem to its lower leaves, promoting more significant blooms and better air circulation.
Propagation of Picris abyssinica Sch.Bip.
Picris abyssinica Sch.Bip., commonly known as African daisy or Ethiopian bitter herb, is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is native to Ethiopia, Eritrea, and Somalia and grows up to 1 meter tall. The plant is valued for its medicinal properties and has been used traditionally to treat various ailments.
Propagation through Seeds
Propagation of Picris abyssinica Sch.Bip. can be done through seeds. The plant produces small, brownish seeds that can be collected after the flowering period. The seeds should be sown immediately after collection to ensure good germination rates.
To sow the seeds, prepare a well-drained potting mix and sow the seeds on the surface of the soil. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil, water the potting mix, and place the pot in a warm, sunny location. The seeds will germinate within 7-14 days.
Propagation through Cuttings
Propagation of Picris abyssinica Sch.Bip. can also be done through stem cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from mature, healthy plants during the growing season.
To propagate through stem cuttings, take a 10 cm long stem cutting and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cut end of the stem in a rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining potting mix. Water the mix and cover the pot with a plastic bag to maintain humidity. Place the pot in a warm, bright location, and roots will start to form in 4-6 weeks.
Propagation through Division
Propagation of Picris abyssinica Sch.Bip. can also be done through division. The plant forms clumps over time, and these clumps can be divided into smaller sections.
To propagate through division, dig up the plant during the dormant season, and separate the clumps into smaller sections. Replant the new sections in a well-draining potting mix and water the mix. Place the pot in a warm, sunny location, and new growth will appear in a few weeks.
In conclusion, Picris abyssinica Sch.Bip. can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings, and division. With the right growing conditions, the plant will thrive and produce beautiful yellow flowers.
Disease and Pest Management of Picris abyssinica Sch.Bip.
Picris abyssinica Sch.Bip. is a plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is native to Africa and is used for medicinal purposes like treating liver diseases, stomach ailments, fever, and inflammation. The plant is also used as a vegetable and animal fodder. However, the plant is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can adversely affect its growth and yield.
Common diseases that affect Picris abyssinica Sch.Bip.
One of the common diseases that affect Picris abyssinica Sch.Bip. is leaf spot disease. This disease is caused by the fungus Alternaria alternata, and it affects the plant's leaves, causing the development of spots that are circular with brown to black edges.
Another disease that affects this plant is powdery mildew. This disease is caused by the fungus Erysiphe cichoracearum and appears as a white powdery substance on the plant's leaves and stems.
To manage these diseases, it is best to practice crop rotation and maintain good field sanitation. Remove plant debris and infected plants, and avoid overhead irrigation. Additionally, apply fungicides as a preventative measure to protect the plant from fungal infections.
Common pests that affect Picris abyssinica Sch.Bip.
The plant is also prone to insect infestations, and one of the most common pests is aphids. These small insects feed on the plant's sap and cause the leaves to curl and wilt. Other pests that might affect the plant are whiteflies, thrips, and spider mites.
To control the insects, use insecticides with the appropriate active ingredients. However, it is essential to apply the insecticides according to the manufacturer's instructions and adhere to the preharvest interval. Another method to manage pest infestations is introducing beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings that feed on the pests.
In conclusion, managing diseases and pests is crucial to maintaining healthy plants, increasing yield, and protecting the environment. By implementing effective disease and pest control measures, farmers and gardeners can reduce losses and ensure the sustainable production of Picris abyssinica Sch.Bip.
