Plant Description
Wedelia acapulcensis Kunth var. hispida auct. non (Kunth) Strother also known as "Zexmenia," is an evergreen perennial shrub that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It grows up to 4 feet tall and 3 feet wide. The leaves are lustrous, dark green, and oblong, measuring up to 4 inches long by 1 inch wide. They are hairy and slightly toothed on the edges. When crushed, the leaves have a pungent odor.
Origin
The plant is native to Mexico and is widely distributed in the states of Oaxaca, Guerrero, and Puebla. It is also found in some parts of Central America and the United States, including Texas and Florida.
Common Names
Zexmenia is known by several common names, including marigold zexmenia, little leaf zexmenia, shrubby goldaster, and shrubby jessamine.
Uses
The plant is commonly used for ornamental purposes as a ground cover or border plant in gardens. It is prized for its attractive yellow, daisy-like flowers that bloom from late summer to fall. The plant is drought tolerant and low maintenance, making it an ideal choice for landscaping. Zexmenia is also used medicinally by the indigenous people of Mexico to treat various ailments such as respiratory problems and skin issues.
The plant contains a chemical compound called wedelolactone, which has anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antioxidant properties. Research has shown that wedelolactone may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which can help prevent chronic diseases like cancer, Alzheimer's disease, and diabetes.
Light Requirements
The Wedelia acapulcensis Kunth var. hispida auct. non (Kunth) Strother plant thrives in full sun to partial shade environments. The plant requires a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight to promote good growth. In full shade conditions, the plant tends to grow taller, with fewer flowers than it would in bright light conditions.
Temperature Requirements
This plant grows well in warm temperatures, with a preferred range of 65-85°F (18-29°C). It is important to note that the Wedelia acapulcensis Kunth var. hispida auct. non (Kunth) Strother plant cannot tolerate freezing temperatures and must be protected from frost when growing in colder areas.
Soil Requirements
The Wedelia acapulcensis Kunth var. hispida auct. non (Kunth) Strother plant can grow in a variety of soils, including sandy, well-draining soils, and loamy soils. However, it prefers soils that are slightly acidic to neutral, with pH levels between 6.0 and 7.0. This plant also thrives in soil that is rich in organic matter and nutrients. It is important to ensure that the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot and other diseases that can damage the plant.
Cultivation Methods for Wedelia Acapulcensis
Wedelia Acapulcensis Kunth var. hispida auct. non (Kunth) Strother plant is an evergreen perennial that is adapted to grow in tropical and subtropical regions. It needs to be planted in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can thrive in full sun or partial shade, but it is important to make sure that the soil remains moist.
Propagation of Wedelia Acapulcensis Kunth var. hispida auct. non (Kunth) Strother can be done through seed or stem cuttings. The stem cuttings can be taken from mature plants, and they should be planted in a pot with well-drained soil and kept in a shaded area until they produce roots.
Watering Needs for Wedelia Acapulcensis
The Wedelia Acapulcensis plant requires adequate moisture to thrive. The soil must be kept evenly moist, and watering should be done regularly throughout the growing season. The plant is susceptible to root rot, so it is important not to overwater. The best time to water is early in the morning or late in the afternoon when temperatures are cooler.
Fertilization of Wedelia Acapulcensis
Fertilization of Wedelia Acapulcensis Kunth var. hispida auct. non (Kunth) Strother should be done during the growing season. The plant requires a balanced fertilizer, rich in nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium. It is recommended to use organic fertilizers that release nutrients slowly, ensuring that the plant gets a steady supply of nutrients.
When using chemical fertilizers, it is important to follow the instructions on the package. Over-fertilizing can cause harm to the plant. Fertilizing should be stopped during winter, as the plant enters a dormant state and requires minimal nutrients.
Pruning of Wedelia Acapulcensis
Pruning of Wedelia Acapulcensis is necessary to keep the plant looking healthy and well-groomed. The best time to prune is in spring when new growth appears. The stems should be cut back to encourage bushier growth and to remove any dead or damaged branches. It is recommended to prune only a third of the plant at a time.
If the plant becomes overgrown and crowded, it is best to rejuvenate it by cutting back all the stems to about 12 inches above the soil line during spring. This will encourage healthy new growth and a more compact plant. Regular pruning ensures that the plant remains vigorous and healthy.
Propagation of Wedelia acapulcensis Kunth var. hispida
Wedelia acapulcensis Kunth var. hispida, also known as the Spiny Mexican-daisy, is a perennial plant that produces stunning, yellow flowers. The plant is commonly found in various parts of Mexico, as well as in the southern United States and Central America. The following are some proven propagation methods for this plant:
Seed Propagation
One of the easiest ways to propagate W. acapulcensis Kunth var. hispida is by using seeds. Ensure that the seeds are fresh as the germination rate of old seeds is low. Sow the seeds in moist soil, and it is essential to keep them in moderate light. It is advisable to cover the seeds with some soil, and they should begin to sprout within a couple of weeks.
Cuttings Propagation
Another common propagation method for W. acapulcensis Kunth var. hispida is through stem cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is during the growing season when the plant is actively growing. The cuttings should be approximately 6 inches in length, and you should remove the leaves from the lower part of the stem. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining, moist potting mix. Cover the pot with clear plastic to retain moisture and keep the soil evenly moist for several weeks until the cutting has rooted and produced new growth.
Division Propagation
Propagating W. acapulcensis Kunth var. hispida through division is best done during the growing season. Lift the plant from the soil, and then gently divide it into multiple clumps, ensuring that each piece has a few roots. Replant the divisions in well-draining soil, water them thoroughly, and ensure that they receive adequate sunlight and moisture to grow successfully.
Disease Management for Wedelia acapulcensis Kunth var. hispida
Wedelia acapulcensis Kunth var. hispida, commonly known as Creeping Daisy, is a hardy plant that is resistant to most diseases. However, there are some diseases that can affect this plant, and it is important to manage them to prevent their spread. These diseases include:
- Leaf spot: This is a common disease that affects many plants, including Wedelia acapulcensis. It is caused by a fungus that thrives in wet and humid conditions. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves and avoid getting water on the foliage.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by fungi that live in the soil. They attack the roots of the plant, making it difficult for the plant to absorb water and nutrients. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering and ensure that the soil is well-draining.
- Powdery mildew: This disease is caused by a fungus that thrives in high humidity and low light conditions. It appears as a white or gray powdery growth on the leaves and stems. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves and improve air circulation around the plant.
Pest Management for Wedelia acapulcensis Kunth var. hispida
Just like diseases, pests can also attack Wedelia acapulcensis Kunth var. hispida. Some common pests that affect this plant include:
- Mealybugs: These are small, white, cottony insects that suck the sap from the plant. They often appear on the undersides of leaves and near the stem. To manage mealybugs, wipe them off with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
- Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that also suck the sap from the plant. They appear in clusters on the leaves and stems. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong stream of water or use insecticidal soap.
- Spider mites: These are tiny, eight-legged creatures that spin webs on the plant. They suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and drop off. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a strong stream of water or use insecticidal soap.
It is important to monitor Wedelia acapulcensis Kunth var. hispida regularly for signs of disease and pest infestation. Early detection and management can prevent the spread of these problems, and ensure that the plant remains healthy and beautiful.
