Origin
The Rutidea smithii Hiern subsp. submontana (K.Krause) Bridson plant is native to the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, specifically in the Amatola Mountains. It can also be found in some areas of KwaZulu-Natal, Free State, and Lesotho.
Common Names
This plant is commonly referred to as the Amatola Pincushion or Montane Pincushion. Its scientific name, Rutidea smithii subsp. submontana, is derived from the Greek word "rhutides" which means wrinkled, and "smithii" in honor of John Smith, a famous South African botanist.
Uses
The Amatola Pincushion is mainly used as an ornamental plant because of its striking appearance. It has attractive orange-red flowerheads that are 2 to 3 cm in diameter, and a woolly stem that can reach up to 50 cm in height. Its blooming period usually occurs during the spring and summer months, making it an ideal plant to add to any garden or landscape.
Aside from its ornamental uses, the Amatola Pincushion plant can also be used for medicinal purposes. Its woolly stem and leaves can be used as an antiseptic and are known to have anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, its flowerheads and roots are used to treat various ailments, including asthma and colds.
General Appearance
The Rutidea smithii Hiern subsp. submontana (K.Krause) Bridson plant has a unique appearance that makes it stand out. Its woolly stem grows upright and is covered in fine hairs. Its leaves are thin and needle-like, and are arranged spirally around the stem.
Its orange-red flowerheads are attractive and bloom in groups at the top of the stem. Each flowerhead has multiple small flowers within it and is surrounded by a rosette of brightly colored bracts. The plant's bloom period usually occurs during the spring and summer months, making it an ideal plant to add to any garden or landscape.
Light Conditions
Rutidea smithii Hiern subsp. submontana (K.Krause) Bridson plants need bright light, but not direct sunlight. They can thrive in partial shade or full sun exposure, but too much exposure to the sun can cause scorching of the leaves and damage the plant.
Temperature Conditions
The ideal temperature range for Rutidea smithii Hiern subsp. submontana (K.Krause) Bridson is between 16°C - 26°C. This plant can tolerate high temperatures, but low temperatures should be avoided. If the temperature falls below 10°C, it can cause damage to the plant and even lead to its death.
Soil Conditions
Rutidea smithii Hiern subsp. submontana (K.Krause) Bridson plants require well-drained soil with good fertility. They prefer a slightly acidic or neutral soil pH and can thrive in sandy loam or loamy soil. The soil should be moist, but not waterlogged as waterlogging can cause root rot and damage the plant.
Cultivation Methods
Rutidea smithii Hiern subsp. submontana (K.Krause) Bridson thrives in well-drained soil that's nutrient-rich and moderately dry. It is a low-growing plant that prefers a well-sheltered position, preferably in light shade. It grows best in a frost-free, semi-arid to temperate climate. In colder areas, it's best to grow the plant indoors in pots or containers.
Watering Needs
The plant prefers moderate watering, and it is important to avoid overwatering, especially during the winter months. It's best to water the plant during the early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler and the sun is not at its peak. The plant does not tolerate waterlogging, and overwatering can make it susceptible to root rot.
Fertilization
Rutidea smithii Hiern subsp. submontana (K.Krause) Bridson does not require heavy feeding. Balanced liquid fertilizer should be applied sparingly during the growing season. Overfertilizing the plant can cause rapid growth, which will make it more susceptible to diseases and pests.
Pruning
Pruning should be done to remove diseased, damaged, or old leaves and stems. This promotes new growth, maintains the plant's shape, and prevents the plant from becoming too leggy. Regular pruning will also promote flowering. The best time to prune the plant is during the early spring before the flowering season starts. However, if the plant gets too leggy, it's best to pinch back any new growth to keep its shape.
Propagation Methods of Rutidea smithii Hiern subsp. submontana (K.Krause) Bridson
Rutidea smithii Hiern subsp. submontana (K.Krause) Bridson, commonly known as "Bulbinella," is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the family Asphodelaceae. It grows up to 70cm tall and produces striking orange-yellow flowers. Propagation of Rutidea smithii Hiern subsp. submontana can be done by seed or by division.
Propagation by Seed
Propagation of Rutidea smithii by seed is relatively easy. The seeds should be sown during the spring season in a well-draining potting mix. The potting mix should remain moist but not waterlogged, and the seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil. The pot should be kept in partial shade until the seedlings emerge. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the ground.
Propagation by Division
Propagation of Rutidea smithii by division can be done during the early spring or autumn season. Using a sharp, sterilized knife, the plant should be divided into sections, making sure that each section has at least one dormant bud and some roots. The sections should be planted in a well-draining potting mix, and the soil should remain moist but not waterlogged. In about four to six weeks, new growth will emerge from the dormant bud, and the plant will establish itself in the new pot or soil.
Disease management
Root rot caused by Phytophthora is a common disease that affects Rutidea smithii Hiern subsp. submontana (K.Krause) Bridson. It is caused by overly damp or waterlogged soil, which hinders the roots' ability to function properly. To manage this disease, ensure that the soil drains well, and do not overwater the plant. If you notice symptoms such as yellowing leaves, wilting, and stunted growth, consider using fungicides, such as Copper oxychloride and Mancozeb, as a treatment option.
Another disease that might affect Rutidea smithii Hiern subsp. submontana (K.Krause) Bridson is powdery mildew. It is characterized by the appearance of white powdery spots on the leaves and stems. This disease usually occurs in humid conditions. To prevent this disease, avoid overhead watering, provide proper air circulation, and plant the shrub in a location that receives adequate sunlight. If you notice symptoms of powdery mildew, prune off the infected parts and use fungicides such as sulfur and neem oil to manage the disease.
Pest management
Rutidea smithii Hiern subsp. submontana (K.Krause) Bridson is susceptible to insect pests, such as aphids and spider mites. Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can cause yellow, distorted leaves, and stunted growth in plants. Spider mites, on the other hand, cause yellowing leaves and webbing on the shrub. To manage these pests, use insecticides such as neem oil, insecticidal soap, and pyrethrin. Regularly inspect the plant for any signs of infestation, and prune off the affected parts to contain the pests' spread.
Caterpillars are another common pest that might affect Rutidea smithii Hiern subsp. submontana (K.Krause) Bridson. These pests consume the leaves of the shrub, causing defoliation and stunted growth. To manage caterpillars, handpick them off the plant when you notice their presence. You may also use Bacillus thuringiensis, a biological control agent that primarily targets caterpillars. Avoid using broad-spectrum insecticides as they may kill beneficial insects alongside the pests.
