Origin
Reseda carmensylvae Volkens & Schweinf., also known as Carmelite broom, is a plant species belonging to the Resedaceae family. It is endemic to Ethiopia, specifically in the Bale Mountains National Park.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Carmelite broom, named after the Carmelite order of nuns, who used its aromatic flowers for perfumes and medicinal purposes. It is also called Bale reseda, in reference to its native location in the Bale Mountains.
Uses
The Carmelite broom has long been recognized for its aromatic and medicinal properties. The nuns of the Carmelite order used its sweet-smelling flowers to create fragrant perfumes and sachets. Its extracts have also been used in the production of herbal remedies for various respiratory ailments. In addition, it contains compounds that exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it a useful ingredient in cosmetic products.
General Appearance
The Carmelite broom is a perennial plant with a woody base that grows up to 50 centimeters tall. It has alternate leaves that are narrow and lance-shaped, with a shiny green surface. The plant blooms during the summer season, producing numerous small flowers that are deep violet to blue-purple in color. The flowers contain a sweet scent that attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The fruits of the plant are small, oval-shaped capsules that contain numerous seeds.
Light Requirements
Reseda carmensylvae Volkens & Schweinf. prefers to grow in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but the plant will bloom more profusely in full sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Reseda carmensylvae Volkens & Schweinf. thrives in temperate to warm climates. The ideal temperature range for the plant is between 15 to 25°C (59-77°F). The plant can withstand brief periods of cold weather and light frost, but it cannot tolerate prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Reseda carmensylvae Volkens & Schweinf. prefers well-draining and nutrient-rich soil. The plant can grow in a wide range of soil types, including clay, sand, and loam, but it prefers slightly alkaline soil with a pH between 7 and 8.5. The plant can tolerate some drought, but it prefers regular watering to keep the soil moist.
Cultivation methods of Reseda carmensylvae
Reseda carmensylvae is a hardy plant and can grow in various soil types, including loamy, sandy, and clay. It can tolerate drought and can grow in full sun to partial shade. However, it is recommended to plant in well-draining soil with a pH range of 6 to 7.5.
One can propagate the Reseda carmensylvae through seeds during early spring or late summer. Before planting, soak the seeds in warm water for 24 hours to aid in germination. Sow the seeds about 1 cm deep in the prepared soil, and ensure to water gently. Thin the plants to the recommended spacing of 25 cm apart.
Watering needs of Reseda carmensylvae
Reseda carmensylvae is drought-tolerant, but it still needs consistent watering to establish. Water the young plants immediately after planting and keep the soil moist until they establish. Once established, the plant needs watering once a week, especially in the hot season or during prolonged dry periods.
Water deeply to encourage deep roots and avoid frequent shallow watering to minimize the risk of fungal diseases. It is also essential to water the plants directly to the roots to prevents moisture from remaining on leaves or flowers, which can cause fungal growth.
Fertilization of Reseda carmensylvae
Reseda carmensylvae is a low maintenance plant and does not require much fertilization. However, adding fertilizer can improve overall growth and flowering. Use a balanced organic fertilizer with NPK ratio of 5-5-5 during planting or early growth stages.
Avoid adding too much fertilizer, which can cause excessive foliage growth instead of flowering. Over-fertilization can also cause leaf burn and reduce the plant's overall health.
Pruning of Reseda carmensylvae
Pruning Reseda carmensylvae is necessary in maintaining the plant's shape and size, encouraging bushier growth, and promoting better flowering. It is best to prune the plant after the flowering period or in early spring before the new growth appears.
Use a sharp and clean pruning shear to cut back the old stems and dead flowers. Cut back the stems to the nearest healthy buds or side shoots to encourage bushy growth. Remove any thin or weak stems to promote healthier and stronger growth. Regular pruning will ensure the plant remains healthy and vibrant for a long time.
Propagation of Reseda carmensylvae Volkens & Schweinf.
Reseda carmensylvae Volkens & Schweinf., commonly known as Carmen's mignonette, is a perennial herbaceous plant with small, fragrant, yellow flowers. It is native to Ethiopia and Somalia and is commonly found in rocky areas and savannas. Propagation of Reseda carmensylvae can be done through seeds, cuttings, and division.
Seed propagation
Seeds are the most common way to propagate Reseda carmensylvae. The plant produces small, black, round seeds that can be collected from the dried flower spikes that remain after blooming. The seeds can be sown in a well-draining potting mix or directly in the ground after the last frost. The seeds need to be placed just below the soil surface and watered regularly. Germination should occur within 10-14 days, and the seedlings can be transplanted once they have developed their first true leaves.
Cutting propagation
Softwood cuttings can also be taken from Reseda carmensylvae during the growing season, usually in late spring or early summer. The cuttings should be 4-6 inches long, taken from healthy, non-flowering shoots, and dipped in rooting hormone powder before planting in a well-draining potting mix. The cuttings should be kept moist and in a shaded area until they have developed roots, which usually takes 4-6 weeks. Once rooted, the cuttings can be transplanted into individual pots.
Division propagation
Division is another way to propagate Reseda carmensylvae. This method is best done in early spring before new growth appears or right after blooming. The plant can be dug up and gently pulled apart into smaller sections, making sure each section has roots attached. The divided sections can then be replanted in a new location, making sure to keep the soil moist until the plants have become established.
Overall, Reseda carmensylvae is an easy-to-propagate plant that can be a great addition to a garden or as a container plant. Whether through seed, cuttings, or division, gardeners can enjoy the delightful fragrance of its tiny yellow flowers for many years to come.
Disease Management
Reseda carmensylvae is generally a disease-resistant plant. However, it is susceptible to some fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. Powdery mildew causes white powdery spots on the leaves, while leaf spot causes dark brown or black irregular lesions on the leaves.
To manage powdery mildew, remove affected plant parts and destroy them. Also, ensure good air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering. Fungicide treatment may be applied to manage severe cases.
To manage leaf spot, remove diseased leaves and ensure good sanitation practices such as cleaning tools and equipment between use. Fungicide treatment is also recommended to manage severe cases.
Pest Management
Reseda carmensylvae is relatively pest-resistant. However, some common pests may attack the plant, including aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies.
To manage aphids, introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings. Alternatively, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
To manage spider mites, ensure good air circulation around the plant, and avoid overwatering. Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to control severe cases.
To manage whiteflies, introduce natural predators such as parasitic wasps or use yellow sticky traps to trap them. Insecticidal soap or neem oil may also be effective in managing severe cases.
