Origin and Common Names
Wedelia rudis (Oliv. & Hiern) Isawumi subsp. fontinaloides (C.D.Adams) Isawumi, commonly known as Marsh wedelia, is a species of plant belonging to the family Asteraceae. It is native to regions of tropical and subtropical Africa and found growing naturally in swampy or wet areas. The plant is also found in parts of Asia, Australia, and the Americas where it has become invasive and is considered a noxious weed.
General Appearance
Marsh wedelia is a fast-growing evergreen shrub with a sprawling habit that can reach a height of up to 2 meters. The stem is woody, fragile, and covered with velvety hairs. The leaf blade is a simple leaf that is green, lanceolate in shape and up to 10 cm long. It has serrated leaf margins, giving it a stiff appearance. The flowers are yellow and produced in clusters at the end of stems and branches. The fruits are achenes, about 1.5 cm long, containing a tuft of silky hairs that serve as a means of dispersal for the plant's seeds.
Uses
Marsh wedelia has been used in traditional medicine for its antibacterial and antifungal properties. It is also used in landscaping and gardening to provide ground cover and as a decorative plant in water features due to its tolerance to wet soil. Additionally, it is used as a fodder plant for animals and can be used as an insect repellent.
Light Requirements
Wedelia rudis subsp. fontinaloides prefers full sunlight for optimum growth. It can also tolerate partial sunlight, but too much shade may hinder its growth and flowering. In areas with extremely hot climates, it is best to provide some shade during the hottest part of the day to prevent wilting.
Temperature Requirements
This plant thrives in warm temperatures. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°C (50°F) and as high as 40°C (104°F). However, it is best to keep the temperature range between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F) for optimal growth. In areas with extreme temperature variations, it is best to provide some shade during the hottest part of the day to prevent wilting.
Soil Requirements
Wedelia rudis subsp. fontinaloides prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy soils and clay soils. However, it grows best in neutral to slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It does not tolerate waterlogged soil and requires good drainage.
Cultivation of Wedelia Rudis (Oliv. & Hiern) Isawumi Subsp. Fontinaloides (C.D.Adams) Isawumi
Wedelia Rudis (Oliv. & Hiern) Isawumi Subsp. Fontinaloides (C.D.Adams) Isawumi is an attractive plant that can be cultivated in different types of soils as long as they are well-drained. This plant does well in both partial shade and full sun, making it an ideal option for both indoor and outdoor cultivation.
Watering Needs
Wedelia Rudis (Oliv. & Hiern) Isawumi Subsp. Fontinaloides (C.D.Adams) Isawumi requires regular watering, especially during the hot summer months. Water the plant thoroughly, allowing the soil to dry between watering sessions. Overwatering or underwatering can cause the plant to wilt or die.
Fertilization
Wedelia Rudis (Oliv. & Hiern) Isawumi Subsp. Fontinaloides (C.D.Adams) Isawumi requires regular fertilization to ensure healthy growth and vibrant blooms. Use a balanced fertilizer, and apply it every two weeks during the growing season. Stop fertilization during the winter months to allow the plant to rest.
Pruning
Wedelia Rudis (Oliv. & Hiern) Isawumi Subsp. Fontinaloides (C.D.Adams) Isawumi requires regular pruning to maintain its shape. Prune the plant after flowering, removing any dead or damaged branches and shaping it to your desired height and width. Regular pruning encourages new growth and promotes dense foliage.
Propagation of Wedelia rudis (Oliv. & Hiern) Isawumi subsp. fontinaloides (C.D.Adams) Isawumi
The Wedelia rudis subsp. fontinaloides plant can be propagated through two methods which are:
1. Seed propagation:
The seeds of this plant can be sown in a seedbed or directly in the ground. The best time for sowing the seeds is during the rainy season. The seeds will germinate within 2-3 weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted after 4-6 weeks. The soil should be well-drained and rich in organic matter for best results.
2. Vegetative propagation:
The vegetative parts of the plant such as stem cuttings, root cuttings, and suckers can be used for propagation. Stem cuttings are the easiest and most commonly used method. Take stem cuttings of around 10-15 cm length and 0.5-1 cm thickness and plant them in a rooting medium such as a mixture of sand and peat moss. Keep the medium moist, and the cuttings will root in 2-3 weeks. Transplant the rooted cuttings in a pot or directly in the ground.
Disease and Pest Management for Wedelia rudis subsp. fontinaloides
Wedelia rudis subsp. fontinaloides is generally considered a low-maintenance plant. However, like all plants, it can fall prey to pests and diseases that can cause significant damage if not properly managed.
Common diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Wedelia rudis subsp. fontinaloides is leaf spot disease. It appears as small, dark spots that may eventually grow and merge together, forming larger discolored patches on the leaves. To manage this disease, it is essential to keep the plant clean and dry, removing infected leaves and debris as soon as possible. Applying a fungicide can also help manage the spread of the disease.
Another disease that can affect Wedelia rudis subsp. fontinaloides is powdery mildew. It appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems. To manage this disease, it is essential to keep the plant dry with good air circulation. You can also apply a fungicide to prevent the spread of the disease.
Common pests
The most common pests that can attack Wedelia rudis subsp. fontinaloides are spider mites and aphids. Spider mites thrive in hot and dry conditions, so it is best to keep the plant well-watered during hot weather. Applying insecticidal soap or neem oil can also help manage these pests. Aphids can be controlled by spraying the plant with a strong stream of water or applying insecticidal soap.
Caterpillars and snails can also feed on the leaves of Wedelia rudis subsp. fontinaloides. You can manage these pests by handpicking them or by applying a pesticide specifically labeled for their control. However, it is important to be careful when using pesticides and follow label instructions carefully.
Overall, Wedelia rudis subsp. fontinaloides is a hardy plant, and with regular care and management, it can thrive in most conditions.
