Chrysanthemum lasiopodum Hutch.: Overview
Chrysanthemum lasiopodum Hutch. is a species of perennial plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is commonly known by the names, woolly-leaf chrysanthemum, and daisy chrysanthemum. The plant is endemic to the highlands of Ethiopia, East Africa, and typically grows in high altitude grasslands and rocky hillsides.
Chrysanthemum lasiopodum Hutch.: Appearance
The Chrysanthemum lasiopodum Hutch. plant is easily recognizable by its woolly leaves and daisy-like flower-heads with yellow petals and a dark purplish-brown center. The leaves of the plant are oval in shape, approximately 2-3 cm long, and covered with dense white hairs on the upper surface and the edges. The stem of the plant can reach up to 50 cm in height and is woody at the base.
Chrysanthemum lasiopodum Hutch.: Uses
The Chrysanthemum lasiopodum Hutch. plant has various uses in traditional medicine as well as for ornamental purposes. The plant has been used to treat fevers, coughs, and headaches by making a decoction of the leaves and stems. Studies have shown that the plant contains several bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The plant's woolly leaves and attractive flowers make it a popular ornamental plant in gardens and parks.
Additionally, the Chrysanthemum lasiopodum Hutch. plant can serve as a natural insecticide due to the presence of pyrethrum in its flower heads. Pyrethrum is a natural insecticide that is effective against a broad range of insects such as mosquitoes, flies, and cockroaches.
Light Requirements
Chrysanthemum lasiopodium Hutch requires full sun to grow to its full potential. Planting it in a location where it receives at least 6 to 7 hours of direct sunlight each day is ideal. Insufficient light can cause the plant to become leggy and weaken the stems, making them prone to breakage. It is therefore essential to place this plant where it can receive plenty of sunlight to grow healthy and develop vibrant blooms.
Temperature Requirements
Chrysanthemum lasiopodium Hutch grows well within a temperature range of 15°C to 24°C (60°F to 75°F). The plant can withstand low temperatures up to 4.4°C (40°F) but is not frost resistant. Temperatures below 4.4°C (40°F) can kill the plant. On the other hand, high temperatures above 24°C (75°F) can cause the plant to wilt. Therefore, maintaining a moderate temperature is essential to encourage proper growth, healthy foliage, and vibrant blooms.
Soil Requirements
Chrysanthemum lasiopodum Hutch grows well in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. The optimal soil pH for this plant ranges between 6.0 and 7.0. The soil should be kept moist, but excess water can lead to root rot, which can damage the plant. You can add compost or organic matter to the soil to improve its fertility. Additionally, the plant is sensitive to salt, so avoid planting it in saline conditions.
Cultivation Methods
Chrysanthemum lasiopodum Hutch. is a perennial plant that thrives in well-draining soil. It prefers to grow in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. When planting, ensure adequate spacing to allow good air circulation around the plant.
It is important to dig deep and loosen the soil before planting. Incorporate organic matter to provide the nutrients the plant needs to grow healthy. It is also crucial to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, as it can lead to root rot.
Watering Needs
Chrysanthemum lasiopodum Hutch. requires regular watering during planting and establishment. After that, they only require watering during periods of drought or when the soil is dry. Watering in the morning is preferable because it allows the foliage to dry before nighttime, reducing the chances of disease.
Fertilization
Fertilize Chrysanthemum lasiopodum Hutch. once every month during the growing period using a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Avoid fertilizing after the end of July as it can lead to late-season growth and impact winter hardiness.
Pruning
Pruning Chrysanthemum lasiopodum Hutch. is essential for maintaining bushy growth and preventing it from becoming leggy. Pinch back the tips of the stems when the plant is about six inches tall. Repeat the process when the plant grows another six inches. Stop pinching the plant back no later than fourteen days before the first expected frost to allow flowers to form.
Propagation of Chrysanthemum Lasiopodum Hutch.
Chrysanthemum lasiopodum Hutch. is a perennial plant that is commonly propagated through seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation through Seeds
Seeds of Chrysanthemum lasiopodum Hutch. can be sown directly in the field or in containers. Sowing seeds in containers is preferred for better control over environmental conditions. The seeds are sown on the surface of a sterilized seed starting mix and should be kept moist until germination, which usually takes 10-14 days.
Propagation through Cuttings
Propagation through cuttings is the most common method for Chrysanthemum lasiopodum Hutch. Cuttings should be taken from healthy plants during the active growing season. The cuttings should be 4-6 inches long with at least two nodes, and the bottom node should be stripped of leaves. The cuttings are then dipped in rooting hormones and placed in a well-draining rooting medium such as perlite or sand. The cuttings should be kept moist and out of direct sunlight until roots have formed, which usually takes 4-6 weeks.
Propagation through Division
Propagation through division is another method for Chrysanthemum lasiopodum Hutch. This method involves dividing the parent plant into several smaller plants while ensuring that each smaller plant has roots and shoots attached. This method should be done during the active growing season and when the parent plant is at its healthiest. The smaller plants are then planted in a well-draining soil mixture and kept moist until they are established.
Disease and Pest Management for Chrysanthemum Lasiopodum Hutch.
Chrysanthemum lasiopodum Hutch. is a hardy plant but can still be susceptible to various diseases and pests. Proper management techniques can help control the diseases and pests and maintain the health of the plant.
Common Diseases:
Fungal Leaf Spot: This is a common fungal disease that causes small, circular spots on the leaves. Initially, the spots are yellow, but later turn brown with a yellow halo. To prevent fungal leaf spots, maintain proper plant spacing, water the plants at the base, avoid overhead irrigation, and remove infected leaves to prevent the spread of the disease.
Botrytis Blight: This disease is caused by the fungus Botrytis cinerea and results in flower blight, stem rot, and brown spots on leaves. To manage botrytis blight, maintain proper ventilation, avoid overcrowding, and treat with fungicides.
Rust: This fungal disease causes small, orange pustules on the underside of the leaves. It can be prevented by keeping the leaves dry, providing proper ventilation and removing infected leaves. Fungicides can also be used for prevention and treatment.
Common Pests:
Spider Mites: These are tiny, sap-sucking pests that cause leaves to turn yellow and mottled. To prevent spider mites, maintain proper humidity levels, water the plants adequately, and prune infected leaves. Predatory mites can also be introduced as a biological control method.
Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the new growth of the plant and produce a sticky residue known as honeydew. They can be managed by spraying the plant with a strong stream of water, applying insecticidal soap, introducing beneficial insects, or using chemical insecticides as a last resort.
Caterpillars: These pests chew holes in the leaves and buds of the plant. To manage caterpillars, handpick and destroy them or use biological controls like Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) or spinosad.
By implementing proper disease and pest management techniques, Chrysanthemum lasiopodum Hutch. can thrive and remain healthy.
