Overview
Volutaria muricata, commonly known as the 'Thistle of the Sahara,' belongs to the family of Asteraceae. It is a herbaceous plant mostly found in the regions of North Africa, the Canary Islands, and southern Europe.
Description
Volutaria muricata is a greyish-green plant with a woody lower stem and a height of up to 60 cm. It has a round, dense, and woody base with thin, long, and upright branches covered in woolly hairs. The leaves of the plant are greyish green, rough, and pointed, with a toothed margin. The stems are covered with sharp spikes, and during the flowering season, the plant produces yellow flowers in groups of three to five heads.
Uses
The 'Thistle of the Sahara' has traditionally been used in North African and Mediterranean regions for medicinal purposes, specifically in treating skin diseases, tuberculosis, and respiratory problems. The plant is rich in antioxidants, flavonoids, and saponins, which make it beneficial for a range of health problems.
Additionally, Volutaria muricata is used in the restoration of arid soils and helps prevent soil erosion. It is also a useful plant in gardens to attract pollinators and hummingbirds in the flowering season.
Common Names
Volutaria muricata is commonly known as 'Thistle of the Sahara,' 'Gundelia tournefortii,' 'Spiny Golden Star,' 'Gundelia,' and 'Gundelion.'
Light Requirements
Volutaria muricata is a sun-loving plant and requires full sunlight to thrive. It can tolerate partial shade, but the plant grows best in areas that receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
Volutaria muricata is a plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It can grow in areas with temperatures as low as -5°C, making it a hardy plant. However, it grows best in temperatures between 15°C and 25°C. Extreme temperatures can cause stress or damage to the plant and must be avoided.
Soil Requirements
Volutaria muricata thrives in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant can grow in a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, the ideal soil pH for this plant is between 5.5 and 7.5.
The soil must be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged, for optimal growth. Waterlogging can lead to root rot and other diseases that can cause the plant to wither and die.
Cultivation methods
Volutaria muricata is an easy-to-grow plant that thrives in various soil types, including sandy, loamy, clay, and chalky soils. However, it prefers well-drained and fertile soils. The plant grows well in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is also tolerant of drought and heat, making it suitable for cultivation in arid and warm regions.
Watering needs
Volutaria muricata is a drought-tolerant plant, so it requires minimal watering. However, it would be best to water it regularly during the dry season to keep the soil moist. Irrigate the plant deeply once a week, and avoid overwatering, as this may cause root rot.
Fertilization
Although Volutaria muricata does not have significant fertilization needs, regular feeding can boost its growth and flowering. Apply a balanced fertilizer such as a 10-10-10 NPK fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer) at a rate of 1 tablespoon per square foot. Alternatively, incorporate compost or well-rotted manure into the soil before planting.
Pruning
Volutaria muricata does not require pruning, but you can trim it lightly after the flowering season to maintain tidy growth and promote bushiness. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged stems and leaves, and shape the plant to maintain its desired form. Avoid heavy pruning, as it may discourage flowering.
Propagation of Volutaria muricata (L.) Maire
Volutaria muricata (L.) Maire, commonly known as Thorny Golden-aster, is a hardy plant that can be propagated through several methods. Propagation is the process of multiplying plants to increase their number. Successful propagation of Volutaria muricata requires an understanding of the plant's growth habits, reproductive mechanisms, and environmental requirements.
Propagation Methods
There are three common methods of propagating Volutaria muricata: seed, stem cuttings, and division.
1. Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common and easiest method of propagating Volutaria muricata. The plant produces numerous seeds, which are hairy, oblong, and light brown. The seeds should be planted in well-draining soil, and lightly covered with soil. The seeds require adequate moisture and should be kept in a warm environment until they germinate, which occurs within two to four weeks.
2. Stem Cuttings Propagation
Propagation of Volutaria muricata through stem cuttings is another effective method. Cuttings should be taken from healthy plants and should be about 10 cm long. Remove the lower leaves, and dip the cut end into rooting hormone. Insert the cutting into well-drained soil and maintain adequate moisture and warmth. The roots will grow within two to four weeks, and the new plant can be transplanted after about six months.
3. Division Propagation
Propagation through division involves separating the plant into smaller sections, each with its root system. This method can be used for mature plants that have grown too large or crowded. The process involves digging out the plant, dividing it into smaller sections, and planting each section into well-drained soil. The new plants should be watered regularly until they establish themselves. Division propagation should be done in the early spring or fall when the plants are not actively growing.
In conclusion, propagation is an essential process for multiplying plants, and Volutaria muricata can be propagated through seed sowing, stem cuttings, and division. The key to successful propagation is selecting healthy plants, following appropriate environmental conditions, and providing adequate care.
Disease Management
Volutaria muricata is generally a hardy plant, but it can be susceptible to some diseases under certain conditions. Here are some common diseases that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Leaf Spot
If the leaves of the plant develop dark spots and eventually fall off, it might be affected by leaf spot. This is a fungal disease that is spread by water. To manage this disease, remove and destroy the infected leaves or stems. You can also apply a fungicide to prevent further spread.
Rust
Rust is a fungal disease that causes yellow or orange pustules to appear on the leaves. It is spread by wind and water. To manage this disease, remove and destroy the infected leaves or stems. You can also apply a fungicide to prevent further spread.
Pest Management
Volutaria muricata is generally resistant to most pests, but sometimes, it might be affected by some pests like:
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to yellow and dry out. To manage spider mites, you can spray the plant with water to dislodge them or apply an insecticidal soap or oil. You can also remove and destroy severely infested leaves or stems.
Slugs and Snails
Slugs and snails can cause damage to the leaves and stems of the plant by feeding on them. To manage these pests, you can handpick them and remove them from the plant. You can also apply a slug and snail bait or use copper tape around the base of the plant to prevent them from climbing up.
