Overview
Synurus excelsus is a plant species that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is commonly known as Kogoma in Japan and Dong Chong Xia Cao in China. This plant is widespread in Asia, ranging from Japan to China, Taiwan, and Korea.
Appearance
Synurus excelsus is an herbaceous plant that grows up to 50 centimeters tall. The leaves are broad and lanceolate, with serrated margins and purple color, ranging from 6 to 14 cm long and 2.5 to 5 cm wide. The plant produces yellow flowers, which bloom from July to August. The fruit is a modified achene that contains a single seed.
Uses
Synurus excelsus has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. The roots and leaves of the plant are used to treat various health conditions, including cough, fever, asthma, and bronchitis. According to traditional Chinese medicine, this plant has cooling and detoxifying properties that help to clear heat and toxins from the body.
Besides its medicinal uses, Synurus excelsus is also used as a vegetable in some Asian countries. The young leaves and stems are harvested and cooked, usually in soups or stir-fries. The plant is a rich source of vitamins and antioxidants, making it a healthy addition to the diet. Additionally, the plant is sometimes used as a natural dye, providing a dark purple color to textiles and foods.
In summary, Synurus excelsus is a plant species native to Asia, with medicinal and culinary uses. It has lanceolate purple leaves, yellow flowers, and produces a single-seeded achene. The plant has cooling and detoxifying properties, making it useful for treating cough, fever, asthma, and bronchitis. The young leaves and stems are also consumed as a vegetable and used as a natural dye.Light Conditions
Synurus excelsus, commonly known as tall or giant goldenrod, is a sun-loving plant that requires full to partial sun exposure to grow and thrive. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can affect its growth and development.
Temperature Conditions
Synurus excelsus is a hardy perennial plant that can withstand a wide range of temperatures. It is native to regions with a temperate climate with an average temperature range of 15-21°C (59-70°F). The ideal temperature range for the plant's growth and development is between 18-24°C (65-75°F). Extremely hot temperatures above 30°C (86°F) or freezing temperatures below -15°C (5°F) can harm or kill the plant.
Soil Requirements
The soil where Synurus excelsus grows must have good drainage, be well aerated, and rich in organic matter. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5. The plant can tolerate different soil types, but it grows best in well-drained loamy soil. Avoid planting it in clay soils or heavy compacted soils that retain too much moisture.
Cultivation methods for Synurus excelsus
Synurus excelsus, also known as tall ageratum, is a perennial plant that is native to the Andes mountains in South America. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and can reach up to five feet in height. To cultivate Synurus excelsus, you should:
- Select an area that is partially shaded and has well-draining soil.
- Plant the tall ageratum in the early spring when the soil has reached 60°F.
- Space the plants 18 to 24 inches apart, depending on the size of the mature plant.
- Plant the seeds at a depth of 1/8 inch and water regularly until the seeds germinate, which takes around two weeks.
- Once the seedlings sprout, thin them out so that each plant is 18 to 24 inches away from its neighboring plant.
Watering needs for Synurus excelsus
Water is important for the growth of any plant. Synurus excelsus requires regular watering for healthy growth and optimum flower production. Here are some watering tips:
- Water the plants deeply and infrequently, rather than shallowly and often.
- In the heat of summer, water the tall ageratum twice a week.
- During cooler months, water the plant once a week.
- Make sure that the soil is always moist, but not waterlogged. This helps to prevent root rot.
Fertilization for Synurus excelsus
Like many other plants, Synurus excelsus requires adequate nutrients to thrive. Here are some tips on fertilizing your tall ageratum:
- Fertilize the plants at the beginning of the growing season using a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, according to the package directions.
- After the first fertilization, apply a nitrogen-rich fertilizer, such as blood meal or fish emulsion, approximately every six weeks.
- Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can result in spindly growth and fewer flowers.
Pruning Synurus excelsus
Pruning is integral during the growing season to promote healthy and robust growth of Synurus excelsus. Here are some pruning tips:
- Prune tall ageratum when it has finished blooming. This is typically in the late summer or early fall.
- Using clean and sharp pruning shears, remove the spent flower heads and stem ends, but be sure to leave some new growth on the plant.
- Pruning encourages the plant to branch out and produce more flowers.
- Do not prune Synurus excelsus too late in the growing season, as this can result in fewer flowers the following year.
Propagation of Synurus excelsus
Synurus excelsus, commonly known as tall cottonweed or tall rabbitbrush, is a perennial shrub that is native to western North America. The plant is commonly grown in gardens for its attractive yellow flowers that bloom in late summer and fall. The plant can be propagated using several methods, including seeds, stem cuttings, and layering.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds are the easiest and most common method of propagating Synurus excelsus. The plant produces a large number of seeds that can be collected from the mature seed heads in the fall. The seeds can then be stored in a cool, dry place until the following spring. When ready to plant, the seeds should be surface sown in a well-draining soil mix and watered lightly. The seeds should be kept moist until germination, which usually takes 2-3 weeks. Once established, the seedlings can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the ground.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are another method of propagating Synurus excelsus. The cuttings should be taken from mature plants in the spring or early summer. The cutting should be approximately 6 inches long and taken from a stem that is not flowering. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone before being planted in a well-draining soil mix. The cutting should be kept moist and covered with a plastic bag to maintain humidity until roots have formed, which usually takes 3-4 weeks. Once rooted, the cutting can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the ground.
Propagation by Layering
Layering is a less common but effective method of propagating Synurus excelsus. This method involves bending a low-growing stem to the ground and covering it with soil. The stem should be secured in place with a wire or stake. The stem will begin to produce roots, and once these roots are well established, the stem can be cut from the parent plant and transplanted into individual pots or directly into the ground. Layering is typically done in the spring or early summer.
Disease and Pest Management for Synurus excelsus Plants
Synurus excelsus, commonly known as the Large-leafed Aster, is a flowering plant species that is popularly cultivated for its large and showy blooms. However, like any other plant, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can affect its health and growth. Here is a brief guide on how to manage these problems and keep your Synurus excelsus plants healthy:
Common Diseases that Affect Synurus excelsus Plants
Some of the most common diseases that affect Synurus excelsus plants include:
- Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that causes yellow or brownish spots on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. It can weaken the plant by interfering with its ability to photosynthesize. You can manage rust by removing affected plant parts and spraying a fungicide on the remaining plant to prevent further spreading.
- Downy Mildew: Downy mildew is a fungal disease that causes the leaves of the plant to curl and turn yellow or brownish. It thrives in wet and humid conditions, so make sure to avoid overwatering your plants. To prevent the spread of the disease, remove affected plant parts, and spray with a fungicide.
- Verticillium Wilt: Verticillium wilt is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, causing them to turn brown and wither. It can also cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. There is no cure for this disease, so remove affected plants to avoid spreading it to other healthy plants.
Common Pests that Affect Synurus excelsus Plants
Synurus excelsus plants are also prone to attack by several pests. Some of the most common pests that attack these plants include:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing it to weaken and become discoloured. You can manage aphids by washing them off the plant with soapy water or spraying them with insecticidal soap.
- Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larvae or young of moths and butterflies that can cause damage to the leaves of the plant by chewing on them. You can control caterpillars by handpicking and removing them from the plant or spraying with insecticides labelled for use on the plant.
- Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the leaves of the plant, causing yellowing and bronzing of the leaves. They thrive in dry, warm conditions, so keep your plants well-watered and mist them regularly to provide humidity. You can manage spider mites by spraying infested plants with insecticidal soap, neem oil, or horticultural oil.
By being vigilant and taking the necessary precautions such as providing adequate watering, occasional misting and timely removal of affected plants, diseases and pests can be managed effectively. With proper care, your Synurus excelsus plants can thrive and be a beautiful addition to your garden.
