Scyphogyne fasciculata Benth. - Overview
Scyphogyne fasciculata Benth. is a plant species that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is commonly known as the 'Brazilian marigold' and 'campo amarelo'.
Origin
Scyphogyne fasciculata Benth. is native to Brazil and can be found in the central and southern regions of the country.
Appearance
The plant can grow up to 50 cm in height and has a bushy growth habit with bright yellow flowers. The leaves are small, narrow, and light green in color. The flowers are arranged in clusters at the top of the stems and have a diameter of approximately 2 cm.
Uses
Scyphogyne fasciculata Benth. is commonly used in traditional medicine in Brazil to treat various ailments such as inflammation, digestive disorders, and respiratory problems. Additionally, the plant is widely used in landscaping due to its bright and attractive flowers.
Light Requirements
Scyphogyne fasciculata Benth. is a plant that requires bright but indirect sunlight for optimal growth. It does not do well in shade or low light environments, so placing it near a window or outside in a lightly shaded area is ideal.
Temperature Requirements
This plant thrives in warm temperatures ranging from 18-27°C (65-80°F). Temperatures below 10°C (50°F) can be damaging to the plant. Temperatures above 30°C (86°F) can also be detrimental to its growth. It is important to maintain a consistent temperature range to avoid stressing the plant.
Soil Requirements
Scyphogyne fasciculata Benth. prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.5-7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter and be able to hold moisture, yet not be waterlogged. The addition of perlite or sand can improve soil drainage. It is important to avoid using heavy soils that can retain too much water, as this can cause root rot and damage the plant.
Cultivation methods
Scyphogyne fasciculata Benth. is best cultivated through seed propagation. The seeds need to be kept warm and moist before they begin to germinate which can take up to three weeks. It also thrives in moist soils and tolerates a range of light conditions from partial sun to shade. The ideal temperatures for this plant to grow in are between 18 - 25°C.
Watering needs
Scyphogyne fasciculata Benth. requires regular watering as it thrives in moist soils. Ensure that the soil is always humid but not drenched and reduce watering during the winter season to prevent any waterlogging problems.
Fertilization
Scyphogyne fasciculata Benth. requires regular fertilization as it is a heavy feeder. The ideal fertilizer would be one that contains both macronutrients and micronutrients. Organic fertilizers are also recommended for this plant to reduce the risk of toxic buildup in the soil. Fertilize the plant every 4-6 weeks during the active growing season.
Pruning
Scyphogyne fasciculata Benth. requires regular pruning to maintain its shape and improve its overall appearance. Prune away any dead, diseased, or damaged leaves to prevent any further spread. Pruning should be done in the spring before the active growing season begins. Be cautious when pruning, as excessive pruning may cause damage to the plant.
Propagation for Scyphogyne fasciculata Benth.
Scyphogyne fasciculata Benth. is propagated mainly through seeds. The seeds need to be collected from the plant's mature fruit.
Seed propagation
The collected seeds are planted in pots or seedling trays with well-drained soil. The soil needs to be kept moist, and the pots or trays must be placed in a warm, sunny location. The germination process takes around 2 to 3 weeks.
Once the seedlings are big enough, they can be transplanted into larger pots or to an outdoor location with well-drained, fertile soil.
Cutting propagation
Scyphogyne fasciculata Benth. can also be propagated through stem cuttings. The cuttings need to be taken from healthy plants and should be around 10-15 cm in length.
The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a pot with well-drained soil. The soil should be kept moist, and the pot should be placed in a warm, well-lit location. Rooting usually takes around 2-3 weeks.
Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted into larger pots or to an outdoor location with well-drained, fertile soil.
Disease and Pest Management for Scyphogyne fasciculata Benth.
Scyphogyne fasciculata Benth. is generally a low-maintenance plant that is relatively resistant to many pests and diseases. However, it is still susceptible to a few problems that can affect its overall health and appearance.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that can affect Scyphogyne fasciculata Benth. is leaf spot. This is typically caused by a fungal infection, and can cause brown or black spots to appear on the leaves of the plant. In severe cases, this can lead to defoliation and a weakened plant.
To manage leaf spot, it is important to provide good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides can also be used to control the spread of the infection, and infected leaves should be pruned and removed from the area to prevent the disease from spreading.
Common Pests
Whiteflies are one of the most common pests that can affect Scyphogyne fasciculata Benth. These small, winged insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause yellowing, wilting, and stunted growth.
To manage whiteflies, it is important to regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation. Insecticidal soaps or oils can be used to kill the insects, and yellow sticky traps can be used to catch adult whiteflies.
Spider mites are another potential pest that can cause damage to Scyphogyne fasciculata Benth. These tiny, spider-like creatures feed on the plant's sap and can cause yellowing, stunted growth, and visible webbing.
To manage spider mites, it is important to provide good air circulation and regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation. Insecticidal soaps or oils can be used to control the spread of the infestation, and infected leaves should be pruned and removed from the area to prevent the mites from spreading.
