Origin:
Wedelia affinis De Wild. is a plant species within the family Asteraceae, commonly known as the Wedelia or Creeping Ox-eye. This plant is native to tropical and subtropical Africa, and specifically, it is found in Central Africa including Cameroon, Nigeria, and Gabon.
Common Names:
Wedelia affinis De Wild. has numerous common names in different parts of the world. Some of the most popular names include creeping daisy, yellow dots, trailing daisy, creeping ox-eye, sitafal, karegumbala chettu, and wedelia.
Uses:
Wedelia affinis De Wild. is a versatile plant with several uses. It is widely used in traditional medicine in Africa to treat different illnesses such as toothaches, headaches, menstrual pain, and other ailments. The leaves and roots of the plant are used to prepare tea that has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
The plant is also used in landscaping to cover the ground, prevent erosion, and control weeds. Additionally, the plant is an excellent source of nectar and pollen for bees and other pollinators, making it an essential plant in beekeeping.
Appearance:
Wedelia affinis De Wild. is an evergreen, perennial plant that has a sprawling growth habit. The plant can attain a height of up to 1 meter, spreading up to a meter or more. It is a fast-growing plant that produces dense and tangled growth with green foliage.
The leaves of the plant are simple, alternate, and have a smooth texture. They are bright green and lancet-shaped with pointed tips. The flowers of the plant are yellow and have a daisy-like appearance. They bloom in clusters at the end of long stems from summer through fall, and they attract bees and butterflies to the garden.
Growth Conditions of Wedelia affinis De Wild.
Wedelia affinis De Wild. is a tropical perennial plant that is commonly found in Africa, especially in the central and eastern portions of the continent. It grows well in open areas, along roadsides, and in disturbed habitats.
Light
Wedelia affinis De Wild. requires full sunlight to grow properly. It is a sun-loving plant and grows best when exposed to at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight every day.
Temperature
The ideal temperature range for Wedelia affinis De Wild. is between 20 and 30°C (68-86°F). It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but cannot survive frost or freezing temperatures. High humidity is also beneficial for the growth of this plant.
Soil
Wedelia affinis De Wild. prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, the pH of the soil should be between 5.5 and 7.5 to support optimal growth. Additionally, it is important to avoid waterlogged soils as the plant cannot tolerate wet conditions.
Cultivation
Wedelia affinis De Wild. is an excellent plant to grow for ground cover, borders, or hanging baskets. The plant is a fast grower and easy to manage. The best time to grow the plant is during the spring and summer months.
The plant prefers well-drained soil, and it can grow in most soils, including sandy and loamy soils. It can tolerate a pH range of 5.0 to 6.8. The plant can grow in full sun to partial shade.
Watering needs
Wedelia affinis De Wild. requires moderate watering. Ensure that the soil remains moist but well-drained. Overwatering the plant may cause root rot, and the plant may die as a result. During hot weather conditions, the plant may require more frequent watering.
Fertilization
Fertilize Wedelia affinis De Wild. with balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Alternatively, you can use a slow-release fertilizer once every three months.
Do not over-fertilize the plant as this may lead to excessive growth and reduced flowering. If you notice that the plant's leaves are turning yellow, it may be due to a lack of nutrients. In this case, provide the plant with a water-soluble fertilizer to supplement the soil's nutrients.
Pruning
Pruning Wedelia affinis De Wild. is not essential to its growth. However, you can prune the plant to maintain its shape and remove dead or diseased parts.
Prune the plant during the dormant season or early spring before new growth appears. Ensure you use a clean and sharp pair of pruning shears to avoid damaging the stems. Cut the stems back to just above a healthy leaf or bud. After pruning, dispose of the pruned parts appropriately to eliminate any spread of disease.
Propagation of Wedelia affinis De Wild.
There are several methods to propagate Wedelia affinis De Wild.:
Seed propagation
The plant can be propagated by seeds, but it requires a little bit of patience. The seeds need to be collected from mature plants and sown during the rainy season. They should be planted in well-drained soil and covered lightly with soil. Germination usually occurs within two to three weeks, and the seedlings should be transplanted to their permanent location after they have developed two to three true leaves.
Cuttings propagation
Another effective way to propagate Wedelia affinis De Wild. is by cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from the young shoots of healthy mother plants, preferably during the rainy season. The cuttings should be approximately six inches long and stripped of their lower leaves. They should be dipped in rooting hormone and placed in a pot filled with a mixture of sand and compost. The cuttings should be misted regularly, and roots should develop within six to eight weeks. The rooted cuttings can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Division propagation
Wedelia affinis De Wild. can also be propagated by division. This method can be used for mature plants that have formed clumps. The plant should be lifted from the ground, and the roots should be carefully separated. The divided plants can be planted in their new locations, and they should be watered regularly until they establish themselves.
Propagation of Wedelia affinis De Wild. is not difficult, and it can be achieved using any of the above methods. However, cuttings propagation is the most common method used by growers because it is the easiest and quickest way to propagate the plant.
