Contents
Description
Dicoma Incana, commonly known as silverleaf, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant is native to South Africa but is also found in Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Malawi. Silverleaf is widely grown for its medicinal properties and is used to treat various ailments such as fever, headache, and stomach ache.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Dicoma |
Appearance
Silverleaf has an erect stem that can grow up to 2 meters tall. The leaves are lance-shaped, grayish-green, and covered with fine hairs. The flowers are small, yellow, and arranged in clusters at the top of the stem. The fruit is a small, brown, and hairy achene.
Care Guide
Silverleaf is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure. Watering should be done regularly, but the soil should not be waterlogged. Fertilization can be done once a month during the growing season. Silverleaf can tolerate a wide range of hardiness zones, from 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Silverleaf is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled using insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Root rot and powdery mildew can also occur, especially in humid conditions. These diseases can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage and good air circulation.
Habitat
Silverleaf is commonly found in grasslands, savannas, and rocky areas. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure. Silverleaf is native to South Africa but is also found in Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Malawi.
Question and Answer
Q: What are the medicinal properties of silverleaf?
A: Silverleaf is used to treat various ailments such as fever, headache, and stomach ache.
Q: What type of soil does silverleaf prefer?
A: Silverleaf prefers well-draining soil.
Q: What pests can affect silverleaf?
A: Aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies can affect silverleaf.
Q: What is the hardiness zone range for silverleaf?
A: Silverleaf can tolerate a wide range of hardiness zones, from 8 to 11.
Related Plants
- Dicoma anomala
- Dicoma tomentosa
- Dicoma picta
References
- Van Wyk, B., & Van Oudtshoorn, B. (1999). Medicinal Plants of South Africa. Briza Publications.
- Palmer, E., Pitman, N., & Brown, M. (2013). Trees of Southern Africa. Struik Nature.
- https://www.sanbi.org/
