Calendula aspera Thunb.
Calendula aspera Thunb., commonly known as the rough calendula or kalmoesfontein, belongs to the family Asteraceae. This plant originated in Southern Africa and can be found in countries such as Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and South Africa.
Common Names
Aside from being known as the rough calendula or kalmoesfontein, Calendula aspera Thunb. is also called bokbaai-kalossie, umjahanjana, and makgadipalokgolo. These names may vary depending on the region the plant is found in.
Uses
The rough calendula is known for its medicinal uses. Its leaves and flowers are used to treat various ailments such as stomach ulcers, wounds, and respiratory problems. The plant's roots, on the other hand, are used to relieve toothaches.
Calendula aspera Thunb. is also used in traditional African medicine to treat infertility in women. The plant has also been found to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties.
General Appearance
The rough calendula plant is a perennial shrub that can grow up to 2 meters high. Its stems and leaves are covered in small hairs that give the plant its rough texture. The leaves are dark green and have a lanceolate shape with serrated edges. The flowers are bright yellow and have a daisy-like appearance with a prominent, dark brown center.
The plant typically blooms from June to October and prefers well-drained soil and areas with full sun exposure. Calendula aspera Thunb. is a hardy plant that requires minimal maintenance and can be grown in both gardens and pots.
Growth conditions for Calendula aspera Thunb.
Calendula aspera Thunb., commonly known as the rough calendula, is a herbaceous perennial plant species that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is a wildflower that is native to the Mediterranean region as well as the Canary Islands.
Light requirements
Calendula aspera Thunb. requires full sunlight to grow and flourish. It thrives in areas that receive ample amounts of direct sunlight, generally at least 6 hours per day. Lack of adequate sunlight may result in stunted growth, decreased flowering, and an increased susceptibility to diseases.
Temperature requirements
Calendula aspera Thunb. grows best in warm temperatures, typically between 68°F to 75°F (20°C to 24°C). However, the plant can tolerate temperatures ranging from 50°F to 85°F (10°C to 30°C). Extreme temperatures can harm the plant and result in poor growth and flowering.
Soil requirements
Calendula aspera Thunb. requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The pH level of the soil should be neutral to slightly acidic, within the range of 6.0 to 7.0. The plant does not tolerate waterlogged soil and may develop root rot if left in overly moist soil. Adding organic compost to the soil can help improve soil quality, promote growth, and enhance flowering.
Cultivation Methods
Calendula aspera Thunb. plant thrives well in well-draining soil rich in organic matter. The plant also needs proper sunlight exposure to grow well. Start by preparing your garden bed by loosening the soil to improve aeration and drainage.
You can start grown from both seeds and cuttings. However, seeds are the most reliable propagation method. Sow the seeds about ¼ inch deep in well-draining soil. The best time to plant the seeds is during early summer and spring.
Watering Needs
Calendula aspera Thunb. requires consistent watering, especially during hot summer months. Soil should be kept moist and well-drained, and the plant should be watered at least twice a week. However, be careful not to overwater the plant to avoid root rot or other water-related diseases.
Fertilization
Calendula aspera Thunb. benefits from regular feeding. You should fertilize the plant every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer during the growing period. The best fertilizer should have a higher concentration of phosphorus and potassium than nitrogen, which encourages blooms and root growth.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for Calendula aspera Thunb. to promote abundant blooming. The plant should be pruned regularly, especially when the flowers start to wilt. Deadhead the dead flowers to encourage new bud development. You should cut the stem a few inches below the dead flower head. You can also trim the entire bush by about 1/3 to encourage new growth.
Propagation of Calendula Aspera Thunb.
Calendula aspera Thunb., also known as rough calendula, is a beautiful plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. Propagating this plant can be done through various methods, including:
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Calendula aspera Thunb. is through seed. The seeds can be obtained from mature flowers that have been allowed to dry on the plant. Alternatively, the seed can be purchased from a reputable seed supplier. Before planting, the seed should be stratified, a process of exposing the seeds to low temperatures to break their dormancy. After stratification, the seed can be sown in a well-draining soil mix at a depth of 1/4 inch. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged until germination, which usually occurs within one to two weeks. Thin the seedlings to about 12 inches apart once they have grown their first set of true leaves.
Division Propagation
Another method of propagating Calendula aspera Thunb. is through division. This method involves separating the plant into smaller sections and replanting them. Division should be done in the spring before new growth appears. First, dig up the entire plant, being careful not to damage the roots. Then, gently separate the plant into sections, making sure each section has a healthy portion of roots and shoots. Replant the sections in a well-draining soil mix and keep the soil moist until new growth appears.
Cuttings Propagation
Calendula aspera Thunb. can also be propagated through cuttings. This method involves taking a cutting of the plant and encouraging it to grow roots and shoots. To do this, take a cutting that is 3-4 inches long from the top of the plant, making sure it has at least two sets of leaves. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix, water it thoroughly, and cover it with a plastic bag. Place the cutting in an area with bright, indirect light and keep the soil moist. After a few weeks, the cutting should grow roots and new shoots. Once the new growth appears, remove the plastic bag and care for the new plant as you would any other Calendula aspera Thunb. plant.
Common Diseases of Calendula aspera Thunb.
Calendula aspera Thunb. is generally a hardy and disease-resistant plant, but it is not immune to certain diseases. Some of the common diseases affecting this plant include:
- Powdery mildew: This is a fungal disease that appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves. It can be managed by removing the affected leaves, improving air circulation around the plant, and applying fungicides.
- Leaf spot: This is a fungal disease that causes brown or black spots to appear on the leaves. It can be managed by removing the affected leaves, improving air circulation around the plant, and applying fungicides.
- Root rot: This is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, leading to wilting and stunted growth. It can be managed by avoiding overwatering, improving drainage, and applying fungicides.
Common Pests of Calendula aspera Thunb.
Calendula aspera Thunb. is also susceptible to several pests. Some of the common pests affecting this plant include:
- Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the leaves and stems of the plant, causing them to wilt and deform. They can be managed by removing them manually or applying insecticidal soap.
- Spider mites: These are tiny, spider-like insects that feed on the undersides of the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and eventually fall off. They can be managed by improving humidity levels around the plant and applying insecticidal soap.
- Whiteflies: These are small, white insects that feed on the plant sap, causing the leaves to yellow and wilt. They can be managed by removing them manually or applying insecticidal soap.
