Origin
Selago hispida L.f. var. major Choisy is a plant species that belongs to the family Scrophulariaceae. This species is native to South Africa and commonly found in the Western, Northern and Eastern Cape provinces.
Common Names
Selago hispida L.f. var. major Choisy is known by several common names including hairy mountain heath, hispid selago and dune selago.
Uses
The plant has medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine to treat several health issues such as stomach problems, wounds, and respiratory ailments. The plant extract is used to make ointments, creams, and lotions for topical applications.
General Appearance
Selago hispida L.f. var. major Choisy is a low-growing evergreen shrub that can grow up to 40cm in height. The plant has a woody stem and produces numerous branches. The leaves are narrow and elongated, about 1-2 cm long and dotted with numerous small hairs. The flowers have a distinctive white or pinkish color and appear in clusters at the tips of the branches. The fruit is a capsule that contains small seeds.
Growth Conditions for Selago hispida L.f. var. Major Choisy
Selago hispida L.f. var. major Choisy is a flowering shrub that is native to South Africa. It is commonly grown as an ornamental plant due to its beautiful flowers and attractive foliage. The plant grows in a variety of habitats, ranging from grasslands to woodlands, and it can also grow in nutrient-deprived soils.
Light Requirements
The Selago hispida L.f. var. major Choisy plant prefers full sun to partial shade, and it can also tolerate some shade. It is important to note that excessive shade can result in weak stems and sparse foliage.
Temperature Requirements
The Selago hispida L.f. var. major Choisy plant is a tropical plant that requires warm temperatures to thrive. It prefers temperatures between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit and cannot tolerate frost. It is important to protect the plant from harsh weather conditions such as extreme heat or cold.
Soil Requirements
The Selago hispida L.f. var. major Choisy plant grows well in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should have a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5 and should be kept moist but not waterlogged. It is important to note that the plant does not tolerate salty soils.
Fertilizing Requirements
To promote healthy growth, it is recommended to fertilize the Selago hispida L.f. var. major Choisy plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Use a slow-release fertilizer and ensure that it is applied evenly around the plant's root zone.
Watering Requirements
The Selago hispida L.f. var. major Choisy plant requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. However, it is important not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot. Water the plant deeply, making sure the water reaches the root zone, and allow the soil to dry out between watering.
Pruning Requirements
The Selago hispida L.f. var. major Choisy plant requires minimal pruning, but it is important to remove any dead or damaged stems as soon as possible. Pruning can also be done to shape the plant and encourage bushy growth.
Pest and Disease control
The Selago hispida L.f. var. major Choisy plant is susceptible to pests and diseases such as mealybugs, spider mites, and fungal infections. It is important to monitor the plant regularly and take action if any signs of pests or diseases are present. The use of organic pest control methods such as neem oil can help control pest infestations.
Cultivation Methods
Selago hispida L.f. var. major Choisy can be grown in containers or directly in the ground. When planting in containers, make sure they are deep enough to accommodate the plant's root system. Use well-draining soil mixed with perlite or sand to promote good drainage. If planting in the ground, choose an area with well-draining soil and good sunlight exposure. Selago hispida L.f. var. major Choisy grows well in acidic soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5.
Watering Needs
Selago hispida L.f. var. major Choisy prefers consistent moisture but not waterlogged conditions. Water the plant deeply only when the soil feels dry, but avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. During the growing season, water the plant regularly to keep the soil consistently moist. During the dormant season, reduce watering to once or twice a month to prevent the soil from drying out completely.
Fertilization
Selago hispida L.f. var. major Choisy benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. During the growing season, fertilize the plant once a month with a dilute solution of a balanced fertilizer. Alternatively, use a slow-release fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season.
Pruning
Selago hispida L.f. var. major Choisy does not require heavy pruning but can benefit from occasional pruning to shape the plant and encourage bushier growth. Prune the plant in early spring before new growth emerges, cutting back any dead or damaged stems. You can also pinch back the tips of the stems to encourage branching and bushier growth.
Propagation of Selago hispida L.f. var. major Choisy
Selago hispida L.f. var. major Choisy, commonly known as hairy willow herb, is a member of the Scrophulariaceae family. It is an herbaceous perennial plant that is found in the grasslands and meadows of South Africa.
The plant can be propagated by seed or division. Both methods are relatively easy and can be done at any time of the year.
Propagation by Seed
Propagation by seed is the most common method of propagating Selago hispida L.f. var. major Choisy. The seeds should be collected as soon as they are ripe and sown immediately. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mixture and covered with a layer of soil that is no more than twice the thickness of the seed.
The seeds should be kept moist but not waterlogged. They will usually germinate within 3-4 weeks of being sown. Once they have germinated, they should be transplanted into individual pots until they are big enough to be planted in their final location.
Propagation by Division
Propagation by division can be done in the spring or autumn. The plant should be dug up and the clump carefully separated into smaller sections. Each section should have a few stems and a good root system.
The sections should be replanted immediately into well-draining soil that has been prepared with compost or other organic matter. The plants should be watered and kept moist until they have established themselves in their new location.
Overall, Selago hispida L.f. var. major Choisy is an easy plant to propagate and grow. With a little care and attention, it can make a great addition to any garden or landscape.
Disease and Pest Management for Selago hispida L.f. var. major Choisy
Selago hispida L.f. var. major Choisy, also known as hairy Selago, is a delicate plant that can be affected by a few pests and diseases. Here are some common issues and their management techniques:
Pests
Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from leaves and flowers, leading to stunted growth and deformities. They can be controlled by applying insecticidal soap or neem oil. Introducing natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings can also help.
Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause leaves to turn yellow and fall off. They are often found on the undersides of leaves and can be controlled by spraying the plant with water and keeping the humidity high. Neem oil or insecticidal soap can also be used.
Diseases
Fungal diseases: Hairy Selago can be susceptible to fungal diseases like powdery mildew and botrytis. These can cause leaves and flowers to wilt and die. Fungal diseases can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plant and not overwatering it. If the plant is already affected, it can be treated with a fungicide.
Bacterial diseases: Hairy Selago can also be affected by bacterial diseases like bacterial leaf spot. This can cause dark spots on leaves, which can eventually lead to the death of the plant. Bacterial diseases cannot be treated, so it is important to ensure good sanitation practices and avoid overcrowding plants.
By following good management practices, it is possible to prevent and manage pests and diseases on Selago hispida L.f. var. major Choisy.
