Overview
Wedelia rudis subsp. rudis is a perennial plant that is native to Africa and is also found in some parts of Asia. It is a member of the Asteraceae family and is commonly known as the creeping oxeye, trailing wedelia, or yellow dots.
Appearance
The plant has an average height of 30 cm and its leaves are alternate and oblong in shape. Its stem is square-shaped and produces small, bright yellow flowers with black centers. The plant's foliage is an attractive feature as it appears to be a lush green and keeps a similar appearance throughout the year, making it a popular option as a groundcover.
Uses
W. rudis subsp. rudis has a few practical uses. It can serve as a groundcover, and its ability to easily spread makes it an excellent cover for erosion-prone sites. Some gardeners use it as a specimen for hanging baskets or for use in containers. In traditional African medicine, extracts from the plant are used to relieve inflammation and other conditions.
However, it should be noted that the plant can also be invasive and take over other plants in the area. Its ability to invade the space of other plants and its quick growth rate make it difficult to manage.
Growth Conditions for Wedelia rudis (Oliv. & Hiern) Isawumi subsp. rudis
Wedelia rudis (Oliv. & Hiern) Isawumi subsp. rudis is a perennial plant that prefers warm and humid climates. It is native to West Africa and is commonly found in the savanna regions of Nigeria.
Light Requirements
Wedelia rudis requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can result in leggy growth and reduced flowering.
Temperature Requirements
Wedelia rudis thrives in warm temperatures ranging from 20-35°C (68-95°F). It can tolerate cooler temperatures but cannot withstand frost.
Soil Requirements
Wedelia rudis prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH but prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils. It cannot grow in waterlogged or saline soils.
It is important to note that Wedelia rudis can become invasive in some areas, so it should be planted with caution and monitored closely.
Cultivation Methods
Wedelia rudis (Oliv. & Hiern) Isawumi subsp. rudis is a hardy evergreen shrub that grows well in almost any well-draining soil. It prefers full sun, though it can also tolerate partial shade. The plant is highly drought-resistant, but it appreciates occasional deep watering, especially during dry weather. It is easy to cultivate and make it thrive through proper planting, watering, fertilization, and pruning.
Watering Needs
Wedelia rudis is drought-resistant but will need regular watering during times of extreme drought. Watering should be done deeply, at least once a week during the growing season, and only when the topsoil is dry to the touch. Overwatering can cause the plant to rot, so be careful not to water too much, especially in heavy soils where drainage is poor.
Fertilization
Wedelia rudis is not a heavy feeder, so it should be fertilized sparingly. Applying a slow-release fertilizer annually in early spring is adequate. Use only organic or slow-release fertilizers to avoid burning the plant's roots. Alternatively, you can use compost with a balanced NPK ratio of 4-4-4 or 5-5-5 before planting to improve soil fertility.
Pruning
Pruning Wedelia rudis is essential to keep the plant in shape and prevent it from becoming overly leggy. A good time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Prune off any dead, damaged, or diseased branches, and cut back any overgrown branches to promote bushier growth. The plant can also be trimmed lightly throughout the growing season to promote more flowers and maintain a neat appearance. Be sure to use clean, sterile tools to prevent the spread of disease.
Propagation of Wedelia Rudis subsp. Rudis
Wedelia Rudis subsp. Rudis can be propagated through various methods that include:
Seeds
Propagating Wedelia Rudis subsp. Rudis through seeds involve collecting ripe seeds from the flowers and sowing them in a seedbed. It is recommended to use a mixture of compost and sand to create a favorable environment for germination. Seedlings should be watered regularly, and once they have grown enough roots, they can be transplanted into a pot or garden.
Cuttings
Propagation through cuttings involves cutting a stem from the parent plant about 10 cm long and removing all its lower leaves. The stem is then dipped into rooting hormone powder and inserted into a rooting medium such as sand or perlite. The cuttings should be watered and kept in a sheltered area to avoid wilting. Roots will start to grow within a few weeks, and the cuttings can then be transplanted.
Division
Dividing Wedelia Rudis subsp. Rudis involves splitting the parent plant into two or more sections. This is most effective during the early spring season when new growth is starting. Carefully dig up the parent plant, divide the roots, and repot or transplant the sections into new areas. This method is most useful when the parent plant has overgrown and needs rejuvenation.
Disease and Pest Management for Wedelia Rudis (Oliv. & Hiern) Isawumi Subsp. Rudis
Wedelia rudis (Oliv. & Hiern) Isawumi subsp. rudis is a perennial plant of the family Asteraceae that is native to Africa. While it is generally hardy, some diseases and pests may attack it. Here are some common ones and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage anthracnose, remove infected plant debris and avoid watering the plant from above. Applying a fungicide can also be helpful.
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes yellowing and brown spots on the leaves. To manage leaf spot, remove infected plant debris and avoid over-watering the plant. Applying a fungicide can also be helpful.
Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that causes the roots of the plant to rot and turn dark. To manage root rot, ensure that the plant is not over-watered and that the soil has good drainage. Applying a fungicide can also be helpful.
Pests
Spider Mites: Spider mites are small pests that suck the sap from the leaves of the plant, cause them to turn yellow. To manage spider mites, remove infested leaves and apply insecticidal soap. Keeping the plant well-watered can also be helpful.
Whiteflies: Whiteflies are small, winged pests that feed on the sap of leaves, causing them to yellow and wilt. To manage whiteflies, remove infested leaves and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larval stage of moths or butterflies, and can feed on the leaves of the plant, causing holes and damage. To manage caterpillars, remove infested leaves and apply insecticidal soap.
Overall, proper plant care, good cultural practices, and timely intervention with fungicides and insecticides can help with the management of diseases and pests that can affect Wedelia rudis (Oliv. & Hiern) Isawumi subsp. rudis.
