Introduction
Wedelia fruticosa Jacq. is a species of flowering plant in the sunflower family, Asteraceae. It is a woody shrub indigenous to Central America, Mexico, and the Caribbean. The plant is also known by its common names, such as creeping oxeye, sage-leaf wedelia, and trailing wedelia.
Appearance
Wedelia fruticosa has long, narrow, and dark green leaves that grow up to 5cm in length. The plant features yellow daisy-like flowers that bloom throughout the year and grow up to 2.5cm in diameter. The stems of the plant are greenish-brown and covered in fine hair. The plant can grow up to 2 meters in height.
Uses
Wedelia fruticosa has various medicinal uses as it contains compounds that have pharmacological properties, such as flavonoids, alkaloids, and terpenes. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat inflammation, wounds, and fever. In modern times, the plant is used for multiple pharmacological purposes, such as antidiabetic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory agents.
The plant is also known for its ornamental purposes. With its flowers and green foliage, it can be used as a ground cover or planted in garden beds. It is commonly grown as an indoor plant as it can tolerate low light and dry air.
Conclusion
Wedelia fruticosa Jacq. is a woody shrub known for its yellow daisy-like flowers and medical uses in traditional and modern medicine. It is also cultivated as an ornamental plant. With its unique features, this plant plays an important role in various fields.
Light Requirements
Wedelia fruticosa Jacq. prefers full sunlight to partial shade for optimal growth and flowering. The plant can tolerate a few hours of shade, but too much shade can result in weak and leggy growth.
Temperature Requirements
Wedelia fruticosa Jacq. thrives in warm temperatures and is suited for tropical to subtropical regions. Ideally, the plant requires temperatures ranging from 20°C to 35°C (68°F to 95°F) for optimal growth. It can tolerate brief periods of frost but sustained cold temperatures can damage or kill the plant.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained soils and can grow in various soil types from sandy soils to loamy soils. A neutral pH soil (pH 6.5 to 7.0) is ideal for the plant's growth and development. Wet and waterlogged soils are unsuitable for Wedelia fruticosa Jacq. growth as they can cause root rot. The plant is also tolerant of dry and poor soils but may require supplemental watering during periods of drought.
Cultivation methods
Wedelia fruticosa Jacq. is a shrub that is relatively easy to grow. It thrives in a tropical climate and prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. The plant can tolerate a range of soil types, from sandy to loamy, as long as it is well-drained. It is recommended to plant the shrub in an area that receives full or partial sunlight.
Watering needs
The Wedelia fruticosa Jacq. thrives in moist but not waterlogged soil. It does not require frequent watering, especially during the rainy season. During the dry season, regular watering is necessary to keep the soil moist. The plant should not be allowed to dry out completely, as this can lead to wilting and potential plant death.
Fertilization
Wedelia fruticosa Jacq. benefits from regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and blooming. A balanced fertilizer containing nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is recommended. Fertilization can occur every three months, with a reduced frequency during the rainy season. Care should be taken not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive growth and reduced flowering.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to promote healthy growth and control the shape of the plant. Wedelia fruticosa Jacq. responds well to pruning and should be pruned regularly to maintain its form. Pruning can occur throughout the year, focusing on removing any dead or damaged branches. Once flowering is complete, the plant can be pruned to remove any spent flowers or leggy growth. Avoid excessive pruning, as this can reduce the plant's ability to bloom.
Propagation of Wedelia Fruticosa Jacq.
Wedelia fruticosa Jacq., commonly known as creeping oxeye, is a tough, perennial herb that belongs to the Asteraceae family. Propagation of this plant can be done through various methods such as seeds, cuttings, and division of roots.
Propagation through Seeds
Seeds should be collected from mature plants when the seed pods turn light brown and begin to split open. Care should be taken to ensure that the seeds are fully matured before they are collected. Once collected, the seeds need to be cleaned and dried in the sun
After drying, seeds should be sown in seedling trays filled with well-draining soil. The seeds should be covered lightly with soil, and the trays should be kept in a warm, bright location. The seeds can take up to two weeks to germinate. Once the seedlings reach a height of approximately 10cm, they can be planted outdoors.
Propagation through Cuttings
Wedelia fruticosa Jacq. can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from mature plants with healthy and strong stems. A length of 10cm is usually ideal for cuttings. The cuttings should be planted in soil mixtures that have good drainage.
Depending on the environmental conditions, the cuttings will take anywhere between two to four weeks to root. Once the roots are adequately established, the new plants can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Propagation through Division of Roots
Propagation through root division is an effective way of propagating Wedelia fruticosa Jacq. This method is best used when the plant is matured and has an established root system. The root system should be carefully dug up, and the roots should be separated, keeping in mind that each division should have at least one bud or shoot.
The individual divisions should be planted in a well-draining soil mixture and kept moist. After a few weeks, the new plants can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Overall, Wedelia fruticosa Jacq. is an easy plant to propagate, and with the right conditions and attention, new plants can be established in a matter of weeks.
Disease Management
Wedelia fruticosa Jacq. is susceptible to various types of fungal diseases. Some common fungal diseases that might affect the plant are leaf spot, stem rot, and powdery mildew. To manage these diseases, it is essential to maintain proper plant care practices, such as adequate watering, soil drainage, and air circulation. Also, remove infected plant parts and discard them immediately to prevent the further spread of the disease.
Another effective way of managing fungal diseases is to apply a fungicide. Fungicides containing active ingredients such as copper, mancozeb or chlorothalonil can be used to manage and prevent fungal diseases. Be sure to apply the fungicide as directed on the label.
Pest Management
Wedelia fruticosa Jacq. is prone to various types of pests such as aphids, mealybugs, spider mites and whiteflies. These pests feed on the plant sap, causing damage to the leaves and stems. To manage these pests, it is essential to identify them early and take necessary steps to manage them.
One effective method involves using insecticidal soap or neem oil. These insecticides are natural and safe to use on plants and can help control aphids and mealybugs. For spider mites and whiteflies, apply a pesticide containing active ingredients such as spinosad or pyrethrin.
In conclusion, proper disease and pest management practices are crucial to maintaining healthy Wedelia fruticosa Jacq. plants. By practicing good plant care habits and using appropriate pesticides, it is possible to prevent and manage diseases and pests effectively.
