Overview
Allophyllum glutinosum (Benth.) A.& V. Grant is a member of the sunflower family, Asteraceae. It is a native to the western United States and Mexico and is commonly called sticky false-lover.
General Appearance
Sticky false-lover is a herbaceous annual or biennial plant which can grow up to 30 cm tall. Its branches are sticky and its leaves are alternate, 1-6 cm long, and pinnately divided into several lobes. Its flowers bloom from March to September. The flower heads are yellow, 2-4 mm wide, and arranged in small clusters of 2-5 heads per branch. Its fruits have small brownish-black achenes.
Traditional Uses
Sticky false-lover has a variety of medicinal uses for Native American tribes and Hispanic communities. The plant is used as a poultice to treat burns, skin irritations, and sores. It is also used as an infusion to treat respiratory illnesses, sore throat, and fever. Its leaves can be used as a seasoning in soups and stews. Some also use the plant to make dyes and crafts.
Cultivation
Sticky false-lover grows in sandy, gravelly, or clay soils in open areas, such as sagebrush and pinyon-juniper communities or on rocky slopes and roadside ditches. It grows well in full sun or partial shade and requires low to moderate water during the growing season. The plant is drought-tolerant and can handle temperatures as low as -10 °C. It can be grown easily from seed and does not require additional fertilizers or pesticides.
Conclusion
Overall, Allophyllum glutinosum (Benth.) A.& V. Grant is a hardy and useful plant with a variety of traditional uses and easy cultivation. Its striking appearance, with yellow flowers and sticky branches, make it a unique addition to gardens or natural areas.
Light Requirements
Allophyllum glutinosum typically thrives in full to partial sunlight conditions. The plant can tolerate direct sunlight but partial shade is considered its optimal condition.
Temperature
The plant is native to the southwestern regions of the US where temperature can range from 32°F to 109°F. It can thrive in similar temperature conditions in cultivation as well. However, it cannot survive in regions that experience harsh frost or prolonged freezing conditions as these can significantly damage the plant.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soils with a pH range between 6.0 to 8.0. It can grow in sandy, loamy, and clay soils but prefers sandy or gravelly soils. The plant can also tolerate soils that are dry and low in fertility.
Water Requirements
Allophyllum glutinosum typically thrives in low to moderate levels of moisture. It cannot tolerate waterlogged soils and requires well-draining soils to grow properly. In the absence of rainfall, the plant can survive on occasional watering.
Fertilization
The plant does not require heavy fertilization and can grow in soils that are low in fertility. However, top-dressing the soil with organic compost or fertilizer annually can help boost its growth.
Cultivation of Allophyllum glutinosum
Allophyllum glutinosum, also known as sticky false-gilia, is an herbaceous plant that can be grown in various types of soil. It is recommended to cultivate this plant in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter, with a pH range of 6 – 8. The plant can grow up to six inches in height and 12 inches in width, and it requires a significant amount of space to allow for its spread.
Watering Needs
Sticky false-gilia requires moderate watering when it is planted in the ground but should be watered more often when grown in pots. It is essential to maintain soil moisture, but the plant should never be standing water.
Fertilization
To ensure optimal growth, Allophyllum glutinosum must be fertilized regularly during the growing season. The application of a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks is recommended, taking care not to over-fertilize, which could damage the plant.
Pruning
Pruning helps to stimulate growth and maintain the shape and general appearance of the plant. The ideal time for pruning sticky false-gilia is in the early spring, before it begins to grow actively. When pruning, focus on removing dead or diseased parts of the plant, and shape it as needed.
Propagation of Allophyllum glutinosum (Benth.) A.& V. Grant
Allophyllum glutinosum (Benth.) A.& V. Grant, commonly known as sticky false-gilia, is a hardy perennial that belongs to the Polemoniaceae family. It is native to western North America and is a popular choice in rock gardens, border fronts, and wildflower meadows. There are several methods by which you can propagate Allophyllum glutinosum.
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Allophyllum glutinosum is through seed propagation. The best time to plant the seeds is in the fall or spring. You can start the seeds indoors and transplant them outdoors when the weather warms up. The seeds require sunlight to germinate, so you should not cover them with soil. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged until the seeds sprout, which takes around two weeks. Alternatively, you can directly sow the seeds outdoors in the fall. You can expect germination after the winter season.
Division Propagation
Allophyllum glutinosum can also be propagated by dividing the clumps. Divide the plant in the spring or fall every three to four years to keep it healthy. Carefully dig the plant and separate the clumps. Each clump should have several stems and roots. Replant the clumps at the same depth at which they were growing previously, and water the soil generously. The plant will establish itself in a few weeks and start growing.
Cuttings Propagation
Another method of propagating Allophyllum glutinosum is through cuttings. Take stem cuttings from the plant in the summer. The cuttings should be around four to six inches long and should have several leaves. Remove the lower leaves and dip the ends of the cuttings in rooting hormone powder. Plant the cuttings in a pot filled with a suitable soil mixture. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a warm location that doesn't receive direct sunlight. The cuttings will root and start growing in around six to eight weeks.
By using any of these propagation methods, you can easily grow new Allophyllum glutinosum plants in your garden.
Disease and Pest Management for Allophyllum glutinosum
Allophyllum glutinosum is a hardy species that is generally resistant to diseases and pests. However, like all plants, it is susceptible to certain issues that can affect its growth and health.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affects this plant is leaf spot. This is a fungal disease that causes small, circular spots on the leaves that can eventually lead to defoliation. To manage this disease, it is important to remove any infected leaves and dispose of them properly. The use of fungicides may also be necessary in severe cases.
Another disease that can affect Allophyllum glutinosum is powdery mildew. This is also a fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves. To manage powdery mildew, it is important to maintain good air circulation around the plant and to avoid overhead watering. Fungicides can also be used to prevent and treat this disease.
Common Pests
One of the most damaging pests that can affect Allophyllum glutinosum is the spider mite. These tiny pests suck sap from the leaves and can cause significant damage to the plant if left unchecked. To control spider mites, it is important to regularly monitor the plant and remove any infested leaves. In severe cases, the use of miticides may be necessary.
Another pest that can affect this plant is the aphid. Aphids feed on sap from the leaves and can cause distortion and stunting of growth. To control aphids, it is important to regularly monitor the plant and to remove infested leaves. Natural predators, such as ladybugs, can also be introduced to the area to help control the population of aphids.
Conclusion
Overall, Allophyllum glutinosum is a hardy and relatively disease-resistant species. However, it is important to monitor the plant for any signs of disease or pests and to take prompt action to manage these issues as soon as they are detected. With proper care and attention, this plant can thrive in a variety of growing conditions.
