Origin
Rollandia lanceolata Gaud. var. tomentella (Wawra) F. Wimmer, also known as the hairy-leaved Rollandia, is a plant species that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is native to South America, specifically found in Bolivia, Peru, and Argentina.
Common Names
The Rollandia lanceolata Gaud. var. tomentella has various common names in different regions where it grows. In Bolivia, it is known as "Yareta"; in Peru, it is called "Lechuza" or "Sisca"; and in Argentina, it is referred to as "Yareta de Chicoana" or "Siempre Verde".
Uses
The Rollandia lanceolata Gaud. var. tomentella has medicinal, ornamental, and ecological uses. In traditional medicine, it is used to treat rheumatism, fever, and respiratory ailments. It is also believed to have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antiseptic properties. As an ornamental plant, it adds aesthetic value to gardens and landscapes. The hairy leaves and shrub-like appearance make it an attractive addition to rock gardens, borders, and containers. Ecologically, it is an important plant in its native habitat, providing shelter and food to various animal species, including birds and small mammals.
General Appearance
The Rollandia lanceolata Gaud. var. tomentella is a low-growing, evergreen shrub that can reach up to 30 cm in height and 60 cm in width. It has small, lance-shaped leaves that are covered in dense, silky, white hairs, giving it a distinctively velvety appearance. The plant has small, yellow flowers that bloom in clusters at the ends of the branches. The flowers are followed by tiny, hairy fruits that contain the plant's seeds. The overall appearance of the Rollandia lanceolata Gaud. var. tomentella is compact and bushy, forming a dense mat on the ground.
Growth Conditions for Rollandia lanceolata Gaud. var. tomentella (Wawra) F. Wimmer
Rollandia lanceolata Gaud. var. tomentella (Wawra) F. Wimmer, commonly known as Andean Daisy, is a flowering plant that requires specific growth conditions to thrive. Below are some detailed growth conditions necessary for optimum growth and development.
Light Requirements
Andean Daisy requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. In the wild, these plants grow under the canopy of shrubs and in meadows exposed to the sun. In cultivation, they should be grown in areas that receive at least six hours of direct sunlight every day.
Temperature Requirements
The plants thrive in areas with a cool to moderate climate. Temperature variations between day and night are crucial for optimum growth. The ideal temperature range for Andean Daisies is between 10°C and 25°C.
Soil Requirements
Andean Daisies require well-draining soils that are slightly acidic. They perform best in fertile, loamy soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. It is important to ensure that the soil is rich in organic matter and not waterlogged as excess moisture can lead to root rot.
Fertilizer Requirements
Andean Daisy is a light feeder and requires only light fertilization. A balanced fertilizer application at a rate of one teaspoon per square foot of soil once every two weeks is sufficient for optimal growth.
Water Requirements
The Andean Daisy prefers moderate watering. It is important to keep the soil uniformly moist. However, the plant cannot tolerate waterlogged conditions. Over watering should be avoided.
Providing the ideal growth conditions is essential for ensuring the flourishing of the Andean Daisy. With the right conditions, these plants can produce beautiful blooms for an extended period.
Cultivation Methods
Rollandia lanceolata Gaud. var. tomentella (Wawra) F. Wimmer, also known as the silver crassula, is a succulent plant that is native to South Africa. It is suitable for growing both indoors and outdoors. If growing indoors, be sure to place them in a sunny spot. If growing outdoors, ensure that it is planted in well-draining soil in a spot that receives full sun.
Watering Needs
Silver crassula is a drought-tolerant plant, and it does not like to sit in water for extended periods. Watering should be done only when the soil has completely dried out. Overwatering can lead to rot, which can kill the plant. When watering, ensure that you water at the base of the plant so that the leaves do not get wet. Too much water on the leaves can cause fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Silver crassula does not require much fertilization. During its growing season, which is typically during the summer months, fertilize once a month with a 10-10-10 fertilizer. Do not fertilize during the winter months as the plant becomes dormant.
Pruning
Silver crassula does not require much pruning. However, if it becomes too leggy or straggly, it is best to prune it back. Pruning should be done during spring when the plant is starting to become active again. Pruning the plant will encourage new growth, which will result in a fuller plant. When pruning, be sure to use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears, and cut just above a node or leaf. Avoid cutting the stem too close to the soil as it can lead to root rot.
Propagation of Rollandia lanceolata Gaud. var. tomentella (Wawra) F. Wimmer
Rollandia lanceolata Gaud. var. tomentella (Wawra) F. Wimmer, commonly known as "pájaro bobo" or "quebracho blanco," is a perennial shrub that belongs to the Asteraceae family. Propagation of Rollandia lanceolata Gaud. var. tomentella can be carried out through various methods, including seed propagation and vegetative propagation. The method to be used depends on the resources and the availability of materials.
Propagation by seed
Propagation by seed is the easiest and most commonly used method for Rollandia lanceolata Gaud. var. tomentella propagation. Seeds should be collected during the plant's flowering and fruiting period, which usually occurs from November to December. The collected seeds should be cleaned, dry and stored in a cool, dry place for later use. To germinate the seeds, a suitable potting mix or substrate needs to be prepared, which should be a mixture of perlite, peat, and sand. Sow the seeds to a depth of approximately 1 cm and keep the substrate moist. Seeds germinate within 7 to 21 days, depending on the temperature and humidity of the environment.
Propagation by cuttings
Propagation by cuttings can also be used to propagate Rollandia lanceolata Gaud. var. tomentella. Cuttings should be taken from the plant's new growth, preferably in the early summer. The cuttings should be approximately 15 cm long. Remove leaves from the lower end of the cutting and dip it in rooting hormone. Insert the cutting in a substrate of perlite, peat, and sand, and keep the substrate moist. Cover the pot with a plastic bag to maintain high humidity and place it in a bright, warm location. After 3 to 4 weeks, the cuttings will have developed roots and can be transplanted to a larger container.
Propagation by layering
Propagation by layering is another method for propagating Rollandia lanceolata Gaud. var. tomentella. This method involves bending a low-growing stem to the ground, making a small cut in the bark, and burying the cut portion under the soil, ensuring that the bud remains above ground level. The buried portion of the stem will develop new roots, and after a few weeks, can be separated from the mother plant and transplanted to a new location.
Disease Management
The Rollandia lanceolata Gaud. var. tomentella (Wawra) F. Wimmer plant is generally healthy and resistant to most diseases. However, in some instances, the plant may be affected by fungal infections, such as root rot, which can eventually lead to the death of the plant. The most common type of root rot that can affect the plant is caused by Phytophthora, a water-borne fungus that proliferates in poorly drained soils and wet conditions. To prevent root rot, avoid overwatering the plant, ensure proper drainage, and maintain soil moisture at a moderate level.
Powdery mildew is another fungal infection that can affect the Rollandia lanceolata Gaud. var. tomentella (Wawra) F. Wimmer plant. It is characterized by a white powdery coating on the leaves and stems of the plant. To prevent powdery mildew, avoid overcrowding the plants, maintain good air circulation, and remove any affected leaves or stems immediately to prevent the spread of the infection.
Pest Management
The Rollandia lanceolata Gaud. var. tomentella (Wawra) F. Wimmer plant can be affected by various pests, including spider mites and whiteflies. Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the sap of the plant and can cause significant damage if not controlled. They are often found in hot and dry conditions and can be controlled by spraying the plant with water regularly. Alternatively, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control their population.
Whiteflies are another common pest that can affect the Rollandia lanceolata Gaud. var. tomentella (Wawra) F. Wimmer plant. They are small, white insects that suck sap from the leaves of the plant, causing yellowing and wilting. To control whiteflies, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil sprayed onto the plant. Alternatively, you can introduce natural predators of whiteflies, such as ladybugs and lacewings, to the area to control their population.
Regularly inspecting the plant for signs of pest or disease infestation and proper cultural practices, such as proper irrigation and fertilization, are key to keeping the Rollandia lanceolata Gaud. var. tomentella (Wawra) F. Wimmer plant healthy and thriving.
