Contents
Description
Blumea Balsamifera, also known as Ngai camphor or Sambong, is a perennial herb that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant is native to Southeast Asia and is commonly found in countries such as the Philippines, Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. It has been widely used in traditional medicine for its various health benefits.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Blumea |
Appearance
Blumea Balsamifera can grow up to 2 meters in height and has a woody stem with many branches. The leaves are green and have a serrated edge, and they can grow up to 20 cm long. The flowers are small and yellow, and they bloom in clusters at the end of the branches.
Care Guide
Blumea Balsamifera is an easy plant to care for. It can grow in a variety of soils and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade. It is also relatively drought-tolerant and can survive with minimal watering. However, to ensure optimal growth, it is recommended to water the plant regularly and fertilize it with a balanced fertilizer once every two weeks during the growing season.
The plant can grow in hardiness zones 10-11, which are regions with a minimum temperature of 30°F (-1°C) and 40°F (4°C), respectively. Therefore, it is best to grow Blumea Balsamifera in tropical or subtropical regions.
Common Pests & Diseases
Blumea Balsamifera is generally a hardy plant and is not susceptible to many pests and diseases. However, it can occasionally be attacked by aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Blumea Balsamifera is native to Southeast Asia and can be found in countries such as the Philippines, Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and disturbed areas.
Question and Answer
Q: What are the health benefits of Blumea Balsamifera?
A: Blumea Balsamifera has been traditionally used in Southeast Asia for its various health benefits, including its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and diuretic properties. It has also been used to treat respiratory infections, fever, and hypertension.
Q: Can Blumea Balsamifera be grown indoors?
A: Blumea Balsamifera is typically grown outdoors in tropical or subtropical regions. However, it can be grown in a greenhouse or indoors if provided with sufficient light and warmth.
Q: How often should I fertilize Blumea Balsamifera?
A: Blumea Balsamifera should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer once every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: Is Blumea Balsamifera a good plant for landscaping?
A: Blumea Balsamifera can be used for landscaping as it is a hardy plant that requires minimal maintenance. It can be used as a border plant, in rock gardens, or as a background plant.
Related Plants
- Blumea Balsamifera var. Camphorata
- Blumea Balsamifera var. Balsamifera
- Blumea Hieraciifolia
- Blumea Lacera
References
- “Blumea Balsamifera.” Useful Tropical Plants. Accessed 22 February 2022. https://tropical.theferns.info/viewtropical.php?id=Blumea+balsamifera
- “Blumea Balsamifera.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families. Accessed 22 February 2022. http://wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=187879
- “Blumea Balsamifera.” Flora of China. Accessed 22 February 2022. http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=242349086
