Description of Pulicaria glutinosa (Boiss.) Jaub. & Spach subsp. somalensis E.Gamal-Eldin
Pulicaria glutinosa (Boiss.) Jaub. & Spach subsp. somalensis E.Gamal-Eldin is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is commonly known as sticky pulicaria or Somali cocoon plant and is native to Somalia and Djibouti.
General Appearance
This plant is a perennial shrub that can grow up to 60 cm tall. It has sticky, glandular leaves that are oblong or elliptic in shape and can grow up to 3 cm long. The stem of the plant is woody and covered in fine hairs.
The flowers of P. glutinosa are small and yellow, and they bloom in clusters that form at the ends of the branches. The plant produces a fruit that is a small, ribbed achene with a pappus of hairs that aids in wind dispersal.
Uses
The Somali people have been using P. glutinosa for medicinal purposes for many years. The plant has been traditionally used to treat various ailments such as fever, malaria, and stomach problems. It is also used as a natural insecticide and is known to repel mosquitoes.
The plant has also been used in Somali cuisine as a spice. The leaves are dried and powdered, and then used to flavor stews and soups.
Overall, Pulicaria glutinosa (Boiss.) Jaub. & Spach subsp. somalensis E.Gamal-Eldin is a plant with a variety of traditional uses, and its unique appearance makes it a valuable addition to any garden or natural environment.
Light Requirements
Pulicaria glutinosa subsp. somalensis prefers full sunlight to partial shade. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is adapted to a hot and dry climate. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it grows best in temperatures between 15-30°C (59-86°F). During the winter months, it can withstand temperatures as low as 5°C (41°F), but it may go dormant or even die if the temperature drops below freezing.
Soil Requirements
Pulicaria glutinosa subsp. somalensis prefers well-draining soil that is sandy or loamy. It can tolerate soils with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 8.0. This plant prefers soils that are not too rich in nutrients, and it can even grow in poor soils with low organic matter content. However, it requires regular watering to maintain its growth in such soils.
Cultivation methods
Pulicaria glutinosa subsp. somalensis is a sun-loving plant that thrives in warm, dry climates. It prefers well-draining sandy or loamy soils and can withstand moderate levels of salinity. The plant grows best in areas with temperatures ranging from 20-30°C and a pH of 6.5 to 7.5. It can be propagated through seeds or cuttings.
Watering needs
Although this plant can tolerate extended periods of drought, it requires watering during the dry season to thrive. Watering should be done once or twice a week, depending on the prevailing temperature and humidity levels. Avoid overwatering the plant as it may cause root rot and other water-related problems.
Fertilization
Pulicaria glutinosa subsp. somalensis requires moderate feeding with fertilizer to maintain optimal growth and production. Appropriate fertilizer can be applied at the beginning of the growing season, and again mid-season. Organic fertilizers like compost and manure are the best options, as they improve soil quality and prevent the accumulation of harmful chemicals.
Pruning
To encourage bushier growth, you can prune Pulicaria glutinosa subsp. somalensis in the early spring to remove any dead or damaged stems. Pruning can be done by using a pair of sharp, clean shears, and cuts should be made at a 45° angle. Be careful not to remove more than one-third of the plant's foliage, as it may cause stunted growth and reduced yield.
Propagation of Pulicaria glutinosa subsp. somalensis
Pulicaria glutinosa subsp. somalensis can be propagated through seeds or cuttings.
Propagation through Seeds
Seeds of Pulicaria glutinosa subsp. somalensis can be collected from mature plants. The seeds are required to be stratified before sowing. Stratification helps in breaking seed dormancy and encourages germination of seeds. The seeds can be soaked in water for 24 hours and then placed in a moist paper towel or sand to stratify for 2-4 weeks at a temperature of 4°C to 10°C. After stratification, the seeds can be sown in a well-drained soil mix. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 1-2 cm. The soil can be kept moist till the seedlings emerge. The seedlings can be transplanted once they have developed 2-3 true leaves.
Propagation through Cuttings
Cuttings can be taken from healthy and mature plants for propagation. The cuttings should be taken in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing and should be 10-15 cm long. The cuttings should be taken from non-flowering shoots. The leaves on the lower half of the cuttings should be removed, and a hormone rooting powder can be applied to the base of the cuttings. The cuttings can be planted in a well-drained soil mix and kept moist. The cuttings should be kept in a shaded area and away from direct sunlight until they have rooted. Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden.
Disease and Pest Management for Pulicaria glutinosa subsp. somalensis
Pulicaria glutinosa subsp. somalensis is a resilient plant that is generally healthy and pest-resistant due to its natural oils that keep away insects and animals. However, certain diseases and pests can still affect the plant.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Pulicaria glutinosa subsp. somalensis is powdery mildew. This fungal disease can be identified by the white, powdery growth on the leaves of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, use a fungicide and avoid overhead watering, as the moisture can exacerbate the disease.
Another disease that can affect the plant is root rot, which is caused by over-watering or poor drainage. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and that the plant is not sitting in water. If root rot is identified, remove the affected roots and repot the plant in fresh soil.
Common Pests
The main pests that can affect Pulicaria glutinosa subsp. somalensis are spider mites and aphids. Both of these pests can be identified by the sticky residue they leave on the leaves of the plant. To manage spider mites and aphids, use an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray, and be sure to thoroughly coat the entire plant, including the underside of the leaves.
Another pest that can affect the plant is scale, which can be identified by the raised, circular bumps on the leaves and stems. To manage scale, use a horticultural oil or insecticidal soap, and be sure to coat the entire plant, paying special attention to the crevices and bumps where the scale insects like to hide.
By being vigilant and regularly checking the plant for signs of disease or pests, you can manage and prevent any problems that arise. With proper care, Pulicaria glutinosa subsp. somalensis can thrive and remain healthy for years to come.
