Origin and Common Names
Wedelia linearifolia (Oliv. & Hiern) Isawumi is a flowering plant species that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is commonly known as "yellow creeping oxeye" due to the yellow color of its flowers and its low growing habit. The plant is native to Africa, specifically in countries such as Nigeria, Cameroon, and Ethiopia.General Appearance
Wedelia linearifolia is a prostrate perennial herb that grows up to 20-40 cm tall. It has a creeping stem that grows horizontally along the ground and forms roots at the nodes. The leaves are lanceolate, serrate, and arranged oppositely on the stem. The inflorescence is a solitary terminal head with a diameter of 2-4 cm and consists of yellow disc flowers. The fruit is a small achene that is oblong in shape.Uses
Wedelia linearifolia has both medicinal and ornamental uses. In traditional African medicine, the plant is used to treat ailments such as diarrhea, fever, and stomachache. The leaves and stems of the plant are dried, powdered, and used as a tonic. In addition, the plant is used for its antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. In landscaping, Wedelia linearifolia is often used as a groundcover plant due to its low growing habit and the attractive yellow flowers it produces. It is also used in erosion control due to its ability to form dense mats that stabilize the soil. Overall, Wedelia linearifolia is a versatile plant that serves various functions in different contexts.Growth Conditions for Wedelia linearifolia
Wedelia linearifolia is a flowering plant species that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to tropical Africa and grows well in a variety of different conditions.
Light Requirements
Wedelia linearifolia requires full sunlight in order to thrive. It cannot tolerate shade or partial shade, so it should be planted in an area that receives plenty of direct sunlight throughout the day. If grown indoors, it should be placed near a window that receives ample sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Wedelia linearifolia is between 20-35°C (68-95°F). It can tolerate high temperatures, but not frost or freezing temperatures. During cooler months, it is important to keep the plant indoors or in a warm environment to prevent damage from cold temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Wedelia linearifolia can grow in a variety of different soil types, but it prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil with a pH range of 5.5-7.5. Soil that is too wet or waterlogged can lead to root rot and other issues, so it is important to ensure that the plant is not overwatered.
Other Requirements
Wedelia linearifolia requires regular watering, especially during dry spells or hot weather. It is recommended to water the plant deeply once a week, rather than shallowly more frequently. Fertilization can also benefit the plant, but it should be done sparingly with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer. Pruning can help to encourage bushy growth and promote flowering.
Overall, Wedelia linearifolia is a hardy and adaptable plant species that can grow in a variety of different conditions. By providing it with proper lighting, temperature, and soil conditions, it can thrive and add beauty to any landscape or indoor environment.
Cultivation Methods for Wedelia linearifolia
Wedelia linearifolia is a hardy plant that can thrive in a variety of growing conditions. It can be grown in full sun or partial shade and prefers moist, well-draining soil. This plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including loamy, sandy, and clay soil. Wedelia linearifolia can also tolerate occasional drought and mildly saline conditions.
Watering Needs for Wedelia linearifolia
Wedelia linearifolia requires regular watering to thrive. This plant prefers soil that is constantly moist but not waterlogged. It is important to avoid over-watering, as this can lead to root rot. Wedelia linearifolia also benefits from mulching to help retain moisture in the soil.
Fertilization of Wedelia linearifolia
Wedelia linearifolia benefits from regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and blooming. A balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 fertilizer, can be applied every 2-3 months during the growing season. It is important to follow the dosing instructions on the fertilizer packaging to avoid over-fertilizing, which can harm the plant.
Pruning Wedelia linearifolia
Wedelia linearifolia can benefit from regular pruning to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. Dead or damaged branches should be removed promptly to prevent the spread of disease. The plant can also be pruned to control its size and shape. Pruning should be done in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Propagation of Wedelia linearifolia (Oliv. & Hiern) Isawumi
Wedelia linearifolia (Oliv. & Hiern) Isawumi can be propagated by seeds, stem cuttings, and root cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
To propagate Wedelia linearifolia through seeds, one should begin by collecting the seeds. The best time to collect the seeds is when they turn brown. Clean the seeds and soak them in water for 24 hours. This will soften the seed coat and allow for better germination. After soaking, plant the seeds in a well-draining soil mix, either in a seed tray or directly in the ground.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are another viable method of propagating Wedelia linearifolia. Take cuttings from the parent plant using sterilized pruning shears. Cut several inches of healthy stem, and remove the leaves from the bottom two-thirds of the stem. Dip the cut end into rooting hormone, and then plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and in a warm, bright location until the new plant has established roots.
Propagation by Root Cuttings
Root cuttings are a method of propagation that involves cutting the roots of a parent plant. Choose a healthy plant and carefully dig it up. Cut several sections of the roots, each about 2 inches long, and make sure that each section has two or three leaf buds. After cutting, dip the cuttings in rooting hormone, and then plant them in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and in a warm, bright location until the new plant has established roots.
Disease and Pest Management for Wedelia linearifolia
Wedelia linearifolia is a robust perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is essential to know some of the common diseases and pests that might affect this plant to take necessary preventive and management measures.
Common Pests
1. Whiteflies: Wedelia linearifolia is prone to whitefly attacks. Whiteflies feed on the sap of the plant, leading to dehydration, yellowing, and ultimately death. Natural enemies like ladybugs and lacewings can be released to control whitefly populations. Also, spraying horticultural oil and using insecticidal soaps can reduce their numbers.
2. Aphids: Aphids are common pests that affect Wedelia linearifolia, and they sprea quickly to other plants. They feed on the plant's sap and excrete honeydew, favoring sooty mold growth that can make the plant look unsightly. Natural predators such as ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps can be introduced to control aphids. Additionally, insecticidal soap and neem oil are effective insecticides for aphids.
Common Diseases
1. Leaf Spots: Numerous fungi cause leaf spots in Wedelia linearifolia, with symptoms being tiny red to black spots on leaves. Proper sanitation practices, including removing the infected leaves and debris from around the plants, can prevent the spread of the disease. Applying fungicides, such as copper-based fungicides, can also prevent leaf spot outbreaks.
2. Root Rot: It's caused by the water-borne fungus Phytophthora. Overwatering, poor drainage, or a combination of these two factors leads to root rot disease. It can lead to Wilting, yellowing, and poor growth or death in severe cases. Minimizing irrigation, providing proper drainage, and planting in well-draining soil can prevent this condition. Additionally, using fungicides that contain metalaxyl and mancozeb can be effective in managing root rot.
