Origin and Common Names
Scaevola chamissoniana Gaud. var. cylindrocarpa (Hbd.) Krause is a species of flowering plant in the Goodenia family (Goodeniaceae) that is native to Australia, specifically found in Western Australia's Coastal Plain. Common names for the plant include Cylindrical-fruited Fan-flower, Native Fan Flower, and Scaevola Chamissoniana.
Uses
The Scaevola chamissoniana Gaud. var. cylindrocarpa is used in the horticulture industry for its decorative potential, with an attractive blue-purple fan-shaped flower. The plant is commonly grown in hanging baskets or in garden borders as an edging plant. Additionally, the species is also used in traditional medicine. Aboriginal communities in Western Australia used the roots of the plant as an antiseptic for wounds and to ease pain.
General Appearance
The Scaevola chamissoniana Gaud. var. cylindrocarpa is a woody shrub that reaches a height of up to 1.5 metres. The plant has elliptic or ovate leaves, with serrated margins, and covered in tiny hairs on both sides. The stems are woolly and grow to be strong enough to withstand the strong sea breezes. From late spring to mid-fall, the plant produces clusters of blue-purple flowers that resemble a fan in shape. The fruit produced by the plant is cylindrical and up to 3cm long.
Light Conditions
The Scaevola chamissoniana Gaud. var. cylindrocarpa (Hbd.) Krause prefers bright and indirect light. In natural conditions, the plant thrives in thoroughly lit areas, such as the edges of forests, but is also known to tolerate partial shade.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is native to regions with warm climates, and as such, it requires high temperatures to grow properly. The ideal temperature range for the Scaevola chamissoniana Gaud. var. cylindrocarpa is between 20°C to 30°C. The plant does not tolerate frost, and it's recommended to keep it in an environment that ranges above 0°C.
Soil Conditions
The plant grows best in well-drained soil with high moisture retention capacity. It prefers an acidic soil pH ranging from 5.5 to 6.5. The soil should be enriched with organic matter such as compost or peat moss, and the addition of slow-release fertilizer is advised for maintaining plant growth.
Cultivation
The Scaevola chamissoniana Gaud. var. cylindrocarpa (Hbd.) Krause plant grows well in full sun to partial shade. It prefers well-draining soil that is not too acidic or alkaline. This plant can be propagated by cuttings or from seeds.
Watering Needs
While Scaevola chamissoniana Gaud. var. cylindrocarpa (Hbd.) Krause plants can tolerate drought conditions, they still require regular watering, especially during extremely dry and hot weather. Water the plant deeply but infrequently to avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot.
Fertilization
It is recommended to fertilize Scaevola chamissoniana Gaud. var. cylindrocarpa (Hbd.) Krause plants once a month during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer for optimal growth and development. Be careful not to over-fertilize, which can cause leaf burn and other damage to the plant.
Pruning
Regular pruning of Scaevola chamissoniana Gaud. var. cylindrocarpa (Hbd.) Krause helps to promote bushy growth and prolongs the flowering season. Deadheading or removing spent flowers can also encourage new blooms. Avoid cutting back more than a third of the plant's growth at any one time.
Propagation of Scaevola chamissoniana Gaud. var. cylindrocarpa (Hbd.) Krause
Scaevola chamissoniana Gaud. var. cylindrocarpa (Hbd.) Krause, also known as S. cylindrocarpa, is a perennial herb that is commonly found in rocky or gravelly areas in coastal regions of South Australia and Western Australia. Propagation of this plant can be achieved through various methods, including seeds, cuttings, division, and layering.
Propagation by seeds
Propagation through seeds is the most common method for S. chamissoniana var. cylindrocarpa. The seeds can be collected from mature plants during the autumn season, although they can also be purchased from reputable seed suppliers. Prior to sowing, the seeds need to be scarified, which involves nicking or scratching the surface of the seed coat to improve germination rates. After scarification, the seeds can be sown in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until germination.
Propagation by cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is another common method for S. chamissoniana var. cylindrocarpa. Softwood stem cuttings can be taken during the spring or summer months and rooted in a well-draining soil mix. The cuttings should be dipped in a rooting hormone prior to planting, and the soil mix should be kept moist until the cuttings have developed roots.
Propagation by division
Propagation by division involves separating the mature plant into smaller sections, each with their own roots and shoots. This method is typically done during the spring or autumn seasons. The separated sections can be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until they have become established.
Propagation by layering
Propagation by layering is a method that involves bending a low branch or stem of the plant down to the soil surface and pinning it in place. Over time, roots will develop from the buried portion of the stem, and a new plant will form. Once the new plant has developed, it can be separated from the parent plant and planted in its own container or in the ground.
Disease Management
Scaevola chamissoniana Gaud. var. cylindrocarpa (Hbd.) Krause can be affected by various diseases that can harm its growth and development. Here are some common diseases that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Anthracnose:
This fungal disease is caused by Colletotrichum spp. and appears as small, circular spots on the leaves. Over time, the spots become larger, turn brown, and may develop a yellow halo. Infected leaves may eventually fall off the plant. To manage anthracnose, remove infected plant parts and dispose of them away from the plant. Avoid overhead watering, and water at the base of the plant instead. Use a fungicide if necessary.
Cercospora Leaf Spot:
This is a fungal disease that appears as brown, circular spots on the leaves. The spots can grow up to 1/4 inch in diameter and spread quickly. To manage Cercospora leaf spot, remove infected plant parts and dispose of them away from the plant. Water at the base of the plant to prevent leaves from getting wet, and improve air circulation around the plant. Use a fungicide if necessary.
Pest Management
Aside from diseases, Scaevola chamissoniana Gaud. var. cylindrocarpa (Hbd.) Krause can be affected by pests that can weaken or damage the plant. Here are some common pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Whiteflies:
These small, winged insects suck sap from the underside of the leaves, causing yellowing and wilting. Whiteflies also excrete a sugary substance called honeydew, which can attract ants and other insects. To manage whiteflies, use a sticky trap to attract and capture them. You can also use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to suffocate and repel them.
Spider Mites:
These tiny, eight-legged pests can be difficult to see with the naked eye. They suck sap from the leaves, causing yellowing and drying. Spider mites also produce fine webbing on the leaves and stem. To manage spider mites, use a forceful jet of water to dislodge them from the plant. You can also use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to suppress them.
By properly managing diseases and pests, Scaevola chamissoniana Gaud. var. cylindrocarpa (Hbd.) Krause can thrive, producing beautiful and healthy blooms.
