Overview
Scabiosa buekiana Eckl. & Zeyh. var. angustiloba Sond. is a species of flowering plant in the family Caprifoliaceae. It is commonly known as Narrow-lobed Scabious or Blue Pincushion because of its blue-colored flowers that resemble pincushions. This plant is native to the central and southern parts of Africa and is found in countries like Namibia, Botswana, and South Africa.
Appearance
The Narrow-lobed Scabious is a perennial plant that can grow up to a height of 60 cm. It has narrow, elongated, and lobed leaves that are green in color. The flowers of this plant are small and arranged in globular heads on top of long stems. The petals of the flowers are blue-violet in color, and the center of the flowerhead is dark. The flowers bloom from spring to early fall, attracting various pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Uses
Scabiosa buekiana Eckl. & Zeyh. var. angustiloba Sond. has many uses. It is commonly used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes because of its attractive flowers. This plant is also used in traditional African medicine to treat various ailments such as stomach disorders, headaches, and infections. The roots of this plant have been found to contain anti-inflammatory and antidiabetic properties that make it useful in treating such conditions. Additionally, the Narrow-lobed Scabious is used as a food plant by various butterfly species.
Light Requirements
The Scabiosa buekiana Eckl. & Zeyh. var. angustiloba Sond. plant prefers full sunlight for its growth and development. It requires a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight exposure daily to complete the process of photosynthesis and produce energy for its growth.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows best in temperate climates with moderate temperatures. The ideal daytime temperature for the Scabiosa buekiana Eckl. & Zeyh. var. angustiloba Sond. plant is between 20 to 25 degrees Celsius (68 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit). At night, the temperature can drop to 15 to 20 degrees Celsius (59 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit)
Soil Requirements
The Scabiosa buekiana Eckl. & Zeyh. var. angustiloba Sond. plant prefers well-drained soil with a pH level of 6.0 to 7.5. The soil should have moderate fertility, rich in organic matter, and be able to retain moisture. The plant can tolerate slightly alkaline or acidic soil within its pH preference range.
Cultivation
Scabiosa buekiana Eckl. & Zeyh. var. angustiloba Sond. is a perennial plant that grows best in well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It can be propagated by seeds or division of established plants. The ideal planting time is in early spring or fall, and the plant should be placed in a location that receives full sun to partial shade.
Watering Needs
Scabiosa buekiana Eckl. & Zeyh. var. angustiloba Sond. requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. It is recommended to water the plant deeply once a week, rather than frequent shallow watering. However, it is essential to avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Scabiosa buekiana Eckl. & Zeyh. var. angustiloba Sond. benefits from a well-balanced fertilizer applied in spring and early summer. A top dressing of compost or well-rotted manure can also be added to the soil in the fall. It is important not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to lush growth that is susceptible to disease.
Pruning
Scabiosa buekiana Eckl. & Zeyh. var. angustiloba Sond. requires minimal pruning. Deadheading spent flowers is essential to promote continuous blooming throughout the growing season. Annual division of the plant also helps to encourage healthy growth and prevent overcrowding.
Propagation of Scabiosa buekiana Eckl. & Zeyh. var. angustiloba Sond.
Scabiosa buekiana Eckl. & Zeyh. var. angustiloba Sond. is a relatively easy plant to propagate. Some commonly used propagation methods include:
1. Seeds:
Seeds are easily available and can be sown directly in the soil during spring. The soil must be well-drained and mixed with compost or manure. Seeds take about 7-14 days to germinate and mature plants can be expected within 3-4 months.
2. Cuttings:
Cuttings are another reliable and efficient method of propagation for Scabiosa buekiana Eckl. & Zeyh. var. angustiloba Sond. Cuttings are taken in spring from new growth shoots. They should be about 5-10 cm long and must be taken from healthy plants. The cuttings must be dipped in a rooting hormone and then planted in moist soil. Cuttings take around 2-4 weeks to root and become established.
3. Division:
The division is a method used for large and mature plants. It involves digging up the mother plant and separating it into smaller clumps, each with their roots and shoots. These clumps can then be replanted in a new location, in well-drained soil mixed compost or manure. Plants should be watered adequately, and it will take around 2-3 weeks to establish.
Disease and Pest Management for Scabiosa buekiana Eckl. & Zeyh. var. angustiloba Sond.
Scabiosa buekiana Eckl. & Zeyh. var. angustiloba Sond., also known as the narrow-lobed pincushion, is a lovely perennial herb that produces attractive purple flowers. However, like other plants, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can cause serious damage.
Diseases
One common disease that affects Scabiosa buekiana is powdery mildew. This fungal infection appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves, stems, and flowers, causing them to wilt and turn yellow. To manage powdery mildew, it is advisable to prune infected areas, provide adequate air circulation, and apply fungicides. Other potential diseases that affect this plant include crown rot and leaf spot diseases.
Pests
Scabiosa buekiana is also susceptible to pest infestations. One common pest that affects it is the aphid. These tiny insects suck the sap from the plant, causing it to wilt and yellow. To get rid of aphids, it is advisable to use insecticides or spray the plant with a mixture of soap and water. Other pests that affect this plant include spider mites and thrips.
To prevent diseases and pests from infesting Scabiosa buekiana, it is crucial to maintain good plant hygiene by removing any dead or diseased plant materials, and regularly checking for any signs of infestation. Additionally, it is essential to provide good growing conditions such as adequate water and fertilization to ensure the plant remains healthy and can resist pests and diseases.
