Overview
Ambrosia artemisiifolia L. var. elatior (L.) Descourtils is a plant species that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant is commonly known as the tall ragweed, which grows 2 to 4 meters tall. It is native to North America and was introduced to Europe in the 19th century, where it is now considered an invasive species.
Description
The plant has leaves that are deeply lobed and covered with a light green color. The flowering season of this plant is from July to October, with small yellow-green flowers. The stem is silky, vertically grooved, and dark green-tinged with red or purple. The flowers and seeds are grouped in terminal spikes.
Uses
Despite being an invasive species, Ambrosia artemisiifolia L. var. elatior has some medicinal uses. The plant has been used to treat respiratory problems, flu, and fever. The root infusion is used to treat colic and stomach problems. The plant also has a stimulant effect, which is used in the treatment of mild depression.
The plant has also been used as an ornamental plant due to its height and attractive appearance. However, this use is discouraged due to the plant's invasive nature and the resulting negative impact on native vegetation.
Impact
Ambrosia artemisiifolia L. var. elatior is an invasive plant species and has a negative impact on the local ecosystems of the invading area. The plant produces a large amount of pollen, which is a source of allergy symptoms for many people. The plant also reduces crop yields, which negatively impacts agriculture production. The plant is difficult to control, and its ability to reproduce rapidly makes it a challenge to eradicate.
Overall, Ambrosia artemisiifolia L. var. elatior is a plant species with both positive and negative attributes. Its medicinal uses can benefit humans, but its invasive character and impact on the ecosystem make it an undesirable plant species.
Light Requirements
Ambrosia artemisiifolia L. var. elatior (L.) Descourtils requires full sunlight for optimal growth and development. The plant cannot grow or reach its full potential in shaded areas. It is tolerant of high light intensity and can survive under direct sunlight in hot and dry conditions
Temperature Requirements
The plant tolerates a wide range of temperature. It is an annual plant and can cope with cold temperatures during the early growth stage, but it requires warm temperatures for optimal growth and development. The optimal temperature range is between 20°C and 35°C. Additionally, the plant will not tolerate a frost and will die off if exposed to freezing temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Ambrosia artemisiifolia L. var. elatior (L.) Descourtils grows well in a range of soil types, including sandy loam, clay loam, and loamy soils. However, the plant prefers well-drained soil but can withstand occasional bouts of flooding. The plant can tolerate a range of soil pH, including acidic to neutral soils with a pH of between 5.0 and 7.5. Nutrient-wise, the plant is not particularly demanding, but it responds well to the addition of fertilizers and compost.
Cultivation Methods
Ambrosia artemisiifolia L. var. elatior (L.) Descourtils typically grows well in full sun and is commonly found in disturbed areas, such as roadsides and fields. It can tolerate a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, and sand, but prefers well-drained soil. It is also drought-tolerant and can withstand periods of dry weather.
Watering Needs
While Ambrosia artemisiifolia L. var. elatior (L.) Descourtils is drought-tolerant, consistent watering can help promote healthier growth. It is best to water deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. In general, this plant requires about 1 inch of water per week, but this can vary depending on local climate conditions.
Fertilization
Ambrosia artemisiifolia L. var. elatior (L.) Descourtils generally does not require much fertilization. If the soil is poor in nutrients, it may benefit from a balanced fertilizer application in the spring. However, too much fertilizer can cause excessive growth or even harm the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is generally not necessary for Ambrosia artemisiifolia L. var. elatior (L.) Descourtils. However, if the plant has become too large or is growing in an unwanted area, it can be pruned back in the fall after the blooming season has ended. It is important to wear gloves while pruning, as the plant's sap can cause skin irritation.
Propagation of Ambrosia artemisiifolia L. var. elatior (L.) Descourtils
Ambrosia artemisiifolia L. var. elatior (L.) Descourtils is commonly known as tall ragweed and it belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is a perennial plant that can grow up to 2-4 meters tall. Propagation of this plant can be done through various methods.
Seeds
One of the most common ways to propagate Ambrosia artemisiifolia L. var. elatior (L.) Descourtils is through seeds. The seeds can be sown directly into the soil after the last frost or indoor 6-8 weeks earlier. The seeds must be sown at a depth of 1/4 inch in well-drained, moist soil. Seeds should be watered regularly and kept in a warm, sunny location. The germination process can take around 2-3 weeks.
Cuttings
Ambrosia artemisiifolia L. var. elatior (L.) Descourtils can also be propagated through cuttings. Cuttings should be taken in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. The cuttings should be approximately 4-6 inches long and taken from the stem of the plant. The cuttings should be planted in well-drained soil mixed with sand for better drainage. The cuttings should be watered regularly and kept in a location that is warm and gets some sunlight. The cutting should root within a few weeks.
Division
Division is another propagation method for Ambrosia artemisiifolia L. var. elatior (L.) Descourtils. This method is done in the spring or early fall, when the plant is not actively growing. The plant must be lifted carefully, and the roots should be divided into several sections. Each section should have some leaves and a good root system. The separated sections should be planted in well-drained soil and watered regularly. The plant should continue to grow and develop.
Note
Propagation of Ambrosia artemisiifolia L. var. elatior (L.) Descourtils should be done carefully and under proper conditions to ensure the plant grows well and remains healthy.
Disease Management
One of the most common diseases that affects Ambrosia artemisiifolia L. var. elatior (L.) Descourtils is powdery mildew. This fungal disease appears as a white or grayish powder on the leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage powdery mildew, it is essential to keep the plant's foliage dry by avoiding overhead watering and planting the plant in an area with good air circulation. Fungicides containing sulfur or potassium bicarbonate can be used to control powdery mildew, but it is crucial to follow the product's instructions carefully.
Another disease that can affect Ambrosia artemisiifolia L. var. elatior (L.) Descourtils is rust. Rust appears as small orange or brown spots on the leaves, and it can cause the leaves to turn yellow and drop prematurely. To manage rust, it is essential to remove and destroy the infected leaves as soon as possible. Fungicides containing copper can also be used to control rust.
Pest Management
One of the most common pests that can affect Ambrosia artemisiifolia L. var. elatior (L.) Descourtils is aphids. These tiny insects feed on the plant's sap and can cause distorted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To manage aphids, it is essential to wash the plant with a strong stream of water and to introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings. Insecticidal soaps or neem oil can also be used to control aphids.
Another pest that can affect Ambrosia artemisiifolia L. var. elatior (L.) Descourtils is spider mites. These tiny pests can cause discoloration of the leaves and a fine webbing on the plant's surface. Managing spider mites involves keeping the plant's foliage moist by misting it regularly and introducing natural predators such as predatory mites or ladybugs. Insecticidal soaps or neem oil can also be used to control spider mites.
