Wedelia calycina L.C. Rich. var. parviflora (L.C. Rich.) Alain
Wedelia calycina L.C. Rich. var. parviflora (L.C. Rich.) Alain is a flowering plant species that belongs to the family Asteraceae. This plant is also commonly known as creeping oxeye or trailing wedelia. Its native range includes parts of Central and South America, including Brazil, Colombia, and Venezuela.
Appearance
Wedelia calycina is a low-growing, perennial herb. It has a trailing or creeping habit and can grow up to 1-2 meters long. The leaves are small, glossy, and elliptical, with a smooth margin. The flowers are small and yellow, with a diameter of approximately 1.5-2 cm. The plant's stem and leaves are covered with fine hairs, which give it a soft texture.
Uses
Wedelia calycina var. parviflora is primarily used for its medicinal properties. The plant has been used traditionally in South America for the treatment of various ailments such as respiratory problems, fever, digestive issues, and wounds. Additionally, the plant contains compounds that have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. As an ornamental plant, wedelia calycina is often used in landscaping to create a creeping ground cover that can add a pop of yellow color to a garden.
However, it should be noted that Wedelia calycina var. parviflora can also be considered invasive in certain areas where it has been introduced and can threaten the local ecosystem. Therefore, it is important to be cautious when planting this species and make sure that it is not causing any negative effects on the environment.
Light Requirements
The Wedelia calycina L.C. Rich. var. parviflora (L.C. Rich.) Alain typically grows well in full sun locations, receiving at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. However, they can also tolerate partial shade in areas with very hot and dry conditions.
Temperature Requirements
Wedelia calycina L.C. Rich. var. parviflora (L.C. Rich.) Alain can grow in a range of temperatures from 10°C to 38°C (50°F to 100°F). They can even tolerate very high temperatures in summer if they are well watered. This plant variety prefers warmer temperatures and cannot tolerate frost.
Soil Requirements
The ideal soil conditions for Wedelia calycina L.C. Rich. var. parviflora (L.C. Rich.) Alain are well-draining loamy soils with pH levels ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. These plants can grow in both slightly acidic and slightly alkaline soils. However, they do not grow well in poorly-drained soils and areas with standing water.
The plant requires moderate watering. It is essential to avoid overwatering as the roots can begin to rot and weaken. Providing adequate moisture is critical for its proper growth and blooming.
Cultivation Methods
Wedelia calycina L.C. Rich. var. parviflora (L.C. Rich.) Alain thrives in well-draining soil and prefers a sunny location. The ideal soil pH for this plant is slightly acidic, between 5.5 to 6.5. It can withstand some drought conditions, but it is recommended to keep the soil moist during the growing season.
The plant can be propagated through cuttings, which should be taken during the growing season and planted in well-draining soil. The cuttings should be kept in a warm, humid environment until they root.
Watering Needs
Wedelia calycina L.C. Rich. var. parviflora (L.C. Rich.) Alain requires regular watering during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, as the plant may develop root rot. During the dormant season, the plant requires less water and can withstand some drought conditions.
Fertilization
Wedelia calycina L.C. Rich. var. parviflora (L.C. Rich.) Alain benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 can be used every four to six weeks. It is important not to over-fertilize the plant, as this can lead to excessive growth and reduced flowering.
Pruning
Wedelia calycina L.C. Rich. var. parviflora (L.C. Rich.) Alain benefits from regular pruning to maintain shape and promote flowering. Pruning should be done during the growing season, and any dead or damaged stems should be removed. It is also recommended to cut back any leggy or overgrown stems to encourage bushier growth. Pruning should be done with clean, sharp tools to avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation of Wedelia calycina L.C. Rich. var. parviflora (L.C. Rich.) Alain
Wedelia calycina L.C. Rich. var. parviflora (L.C. Rich.) Alain can be propagated using various methods. These include:
Seed propagation
Propagation using seeds is possible but may not be successful since the seeds can be slow to germinate. The seeds need to be collected when ripe and sown in well-prepared seedbeds containing a mix of sand and organic matter. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil, and regular watering should be done to keep the soil moist. Germination will take several weeks, and the seedlings may take even longer to establish.
Cuttings
Cuttings are a more reliable method of propagation for Wedelia calycina. Using a sharp, sterile knife or pruners, take a cutting from the parent plant. The cutting should be at least 3-4 inches long, and it's recommended that you take cuttings from the softwood growth on the parent plant. Make sure to remove any lower leaves and dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone. Stick the cutting into a pot filled with well-draining soil and water it thoroughly. Keep the cutting in a shaded area and moisten the soil regularly. The cutting should start forming roots within a few weeks.
Division
Division of already established plants is another method of propagating Wedelia calycina. Dig up the parent plant and carefully separate the root system, making sure there is enough root to sustain each new plant. Replant the new plants into separate pots filled with well-draining soil and water thoroughly. Keep the newly divided plants in a shaded area and moisten the soil regularly until they become established.
Overall, Wedelia calycina L.C. Rich. var. parviflora (L.C. Rich.) Alain can be propagated using seeds, cuttings or division. Of these methods, cuttings and division are more reliable and faster than seed propagation.
Disease Management
Wedelia calycina L.C. Rich. var. parviflora (L.C. Rich.) Alain might be affected by a number of common diseases which include:
- Leaf spot: This is a fungal disease that causes small spots on leaves and can cause defoliation if left untreated. It can be managed by removing infected leaves and applying a fungicide.
- Rust: This is another fungal disease that can cause yellow or brown spots on leaves and can lead to premature leaf drop. It can be prevented by applying a fungicide before the rainy season starts.
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease can cause leaf drop, stem cankers, and dieback. It can also be managed by removing infected plant parts and applying fungicide.
To manage the common diseases that might affect Wedelia calycina, it is recommended to prune out and destroy the infected plant parts, practice good sanitation and avoid overhead watering to prevent the spread of fungal spores. Applying fungicides in a timely manner can also help to prevent the spread of common fungal diseases.
Pest Management
Wedelia calycina L.C. Rich. var. parviflora (L.C. Rich.) Alain may be vulnerable to a number of pests. Here are some of the most common:
- Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap out of plants, resulting in curled leaves and stunted growth. They can be managed by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: These are tiny pests that can cause yellowing leaves and visible webbing on the plant. They can be managed by spraying the plant with water and using a miticide.
- Whiteflies: These are small, winged insects that feed on the underside of leaves and can cause yellowing and stunted growth of the plant. They can be managed by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
To manage the pests that might affect Wedelia calycina, it is recommended to inspect the plant regularly and remove any visible pests by hand. Natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings can also be introduced to help control pest populations. Additionally, using insecticidal soap or neem oil can help to manage infestations in a less invasive manner.
