Origin
Pulicaria migiurtinorum Chiov. is a species of flowering plant in the Asteraceae family. It is native to Ethiopia, specifically in the highlands of the Migiurtinia and Kafa regions.
Common names
This plant is commonly known as "Alemaya" in the Amharic language, which means "the one that cures."
Uses
Pulicaria migiurtinorum Chiov. has medicinal properties that have been used by the local Ethiopian communities for centuries. It is commonly used to treat various illnesses, including diarrhea, respiratory problems, and fever. The plant is also believed to have anti-inflammatory properties and is used as a traditional medicine for arthritis and joint pain.
Aside from its medicinal properties, Pulicaria migiurtinorum Chiov. is also used for soil conservation, erosion control, and reforestation programs in Ethiopia. It is a hardy plant that can grow in harsh conditions, making it an ideal candidate for planting in degraded lands.
General appearance
Pulicaria migiurtinorum Chiov. is a small, perennial shrub that can grow up to 1 meter in height. It has hairy, lance-shaped leaves that are around 1-4 cm long and 0.2-1.2 cm wide. The plant produces small yellow flowers that bloom in clusters at the top of the stems. The flowers are about 8mm in diameter and are usually found in groups of 2-3. The stem and leaves of Pulicaria migiurtinorum Chiov. are covered in a dense layer of hairs, giving the plant a velvety appearance.
Growth Conditions for Pulicaria migiurtinorum Chiov. Plant
Light: Pulicaria migiurtinorum Chiov. plant requires full sunlight to grow and thrive. They should be placed in a location where they receive at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight every day.
Temperature: The plant prefers warm temperature and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. The best temperature range for Pulicaria migiurtinorum Chiov. plant is between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius. They can tolerate low temperatures, but they cannot survive in frost or freezing temperatures.
Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. A slightly alkaline to neutral pH (6.0-7.5) soil is suitable for the growth of Pulicaria migiurtinorum Chiov. plant. The soil should also be able to retain moisture and not become waterlogged as it can lead to root rot which can kill the plant.
Water: Pulicaria migiurtinorum Chiov. plant requires moderate watering during its growing seasons (spring and summer). The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. During winters, watering should be reduced to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
Fertilizer: Pulicaria migiurtinorum Chiov. plant does not require a lot of fertilization. However, adding a slow-release fertilizer once a year (during growing seasons) can help promote healthy growth. The fertilizer should be added to the soil around the base of the plant and be watered in immediately.
Cultivation methods
Pulicaria migiurtinorum Chiov. is a hardy perennial herb that is adapted to thrive in areas with full sun exposure. It is also tolerant to partial shade. The plant prefers well-drained soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. During planting, it is essential to incorporate organic matter into the soil to improve its fertility and structure. You can propagate the plant through seedlings or stem cuttings. The cuttings should be taken in early spring, dipped in hormone rooting powder and planted in a potting mix. After rooting, transfer the plants to individual pots before transplanting to the garden.
Watering needs
Pulicaria migiurtinorum Chiov. requires moderate watering during the growing season. The plant is drought tolerant and can survive long periods of dry conditions. However, it is crucial to water the plant regularly during the flowering season to encourage the production of more blooms. Water the plant at the base in the morning or late afternoon to avoid wetting the leaves, which can promote disease development.
Fertilization
The plant doesn't require much fertilization. However, applying a balanced fertilizer once or twice a year, preferably in early spring and late fall, can help boost its growth and productivity. You can also incorporate organic matter, such as compost and well-rotted manure, into the soil to provide essential nutrients and improve soil fertility.
Pruning
Pulicaria migiurtinorum Chiov. can grow up to 40cm tall and spread up to 50cm wide. The plant requires minimal pruning, but you can trim it back in late autumn after flowering to maintain its shape. Remove dead flowers and stems to promote new growth and prevent the plant from becoming too woody. Additionally, you can pinch back the tips of the stems to encourage bushier growth and a more compact shape.
Propagation of Pulicaria migiurtinorum Chiov.
Pulicaria migiurtinorum Chiov. can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. However, seeds are the most commonly used propagation method.
Seed propagation
The following steps can be taken to propagate Pulicaria migiurtinorum Chiov. through seeds:
- Collect ripe seeds from the plant.
- Store the seeds in a cool and dry place until sowing time.
- In early spring, sow the seeds in a seedbed or small pots filled with well-drained soil mix. The seeds should be lightly covered with soil.
- Water the soil immediately after sowing to keep it moist.
- Place the seedbed or pots in a sunny location, but protect them from harsh direct sunlight and strong winds.
- Germination should occur within 2 to 4 weeks. Keep the soil moist during this period.
- When the seedlings have developed 2 to 3 true leaves, they can be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the garden.
- Water the seedlings regularly until they are well-established.
Propagation through cuttings
Cuttings can also be taken from Pulicaria migiurtinorum Chiov. to propagate new plants. Here are the steps:
- Take cuttings from healthy and mature plants during the growing season. Use a sharp and sterilized pruner.
- Make cuttings that are approximately 10 to 15 cm long and have a few leaves on them.
- Remove the lower leaves and dip the cuttings into rooting hormone powder.
- Plant the cuttings in well-drained soil mix and water the soil immediately.
- Place the pots or seedbed in a shaded area where the cuttings can receive indirect light.
- Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged, until roots develop.
- After 4 to 6 weeks, the cuttings should have developed roots and be ready for transplanting.
Disease Management
Pulicaria migiurtinorum Chiov. is generally resistant to many plant diseases. However, under certain conditions, diseases such as leaf spot, powdery mildew, and rust can affect the plant.
Leaf spot: Leaf spot is caused by fungi and is characterized by yellow or brown spots on the leaves. To manage leaf spot, you can remove infected leaves and avoid watering the plant from the top. Also, ensure that the plant is well-spaced to allow good air circulation.
Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves and stems of the plant. It is characterized by a white, powdery substance on the plant's surface. To control powdery mildew, you can apply fungicides regularly and remove infected plant parts.
Rust: Rust is caused by a fungus and is characterized by orange or brown spots on the leaves. To manage rust, you can remove infected leaves and ensure that the plant is well-spaced to allow good air circulation. You can also apply fungicides regularly to control the disease.
Pest Management
Pulicaria migiurtinorum Chiov. is generally resistant to many plant pests. However, under certain conditions, pests such as spider mites and aphids can be problematic.
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the sap from the leaves, causing yellow spots and eventually leading to leaf loss. To manage spider mites, you can apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to the plant regularly. You can also remove infected leaves and ensure that the plant is well-watered to prevent drought stress.
Aphids: Aphids are small insects that feed on the plant's sap and excrete a sticky substance that attracts ants. They can cause wilting and deformities on the plant. To manage aphids, you can spray the plant with a strong stream of water to remove them. You can also apply insecticides or introduce predators such as ladybugs to the plant.
