Origin and Common Names
Amsinckia calycina (Moris) Chater is commonly known as Fiddlenecks, rice-weed, or bristly fiddleneck. It is a species of annual plant belonging to the Boraginaceae family that is native to North America, where it can be found in various habitats, including grasslands, chaparral, and moist or dry slopes. It is widely distributed in the western United States.Uses
Historically, the Native Americans valued Amsinckia calycina for its medicinal properties. The plant was traditionally used as a poultice for skin irritations and wounds because of its anti-inflammatory properties. The seeds were also collected by indigenous communities and used as a source of food. In modern times, Amsinckia calycina is commonly planted as an ornamental plant, providing a beautiful display of yellow or orange-colored flowers that bloom in spring and summer. However, it is important to note that the plant is toxic to livestock and can cause liver damage if ingested in large quantities.General Appearance
Amsinckia calycina is an annual plant that typically grows up to 30-60 cm tall and 10-30 cm wide. It has a branched stem covered with stiff hairs and pointed, lanceolate leaves that grow alternately on the stem. The flowers bloom in small clusters at the end of each stem and are trumpet-shaped with five petals that are fused together. They are usually yellow or orange in color and measure 6-8 mm in diameter. The fruit of the plant is a pointed capsule that contains several small, black, and shiny seeds.Growth conditions for Amsinckia calycina
Amsinckia calycina, commonly known as Red Root, is a small annual herbaceous plant that grows up to a height of 20-50cm. It is typically found in the western parts of North America, where it grows in dry, open areas, including rocky slopes, fields, and disturbed areas. Understanding the plant's ideal growth conditions is critical to its success in cultivation.
Light requirements
Amsinckia calycina prefers full exposure to sunlight and requires a minimum of 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. As such, it thrives in open areas where it is not shaded by other taller plants. When grown indoors, the plant requires bright natural light or artificial sunlight from fluorescent bulbs.
Soil requirements
Red Root requires well-drained soil that is fertile, moist, and rich in organic matter. It thrives best in sandy, loamy soils that are slightly acidic with a pH range of 6.0-7.5.
Temperature requirements
Amsinckia calycina is adapted to dry, hot summers and can tolerate occasional fluctuations in temperature. The plant has low tolerance to frost and is likely to die if exposed to temperatures below 25°F. Ideal temperatures for growth range between 60°F to 90°F.
Water requirements
Red Root is relatively drought tolerant, and excessive watering may result in root rot. It only requires moderate watering during the growing season and can survive for weeks without receiving water. It is essential to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilizer requirements
The plant has low to medium fertilizer requirements and may only require light fertilization before planting. It responds well to slow-release and organic fertilizers rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Care should be taken not to over-fertilize the plant, which can damage the roots and trigger the production of excess foliage.
Cultivation
Amsinckia calycina is best grown in well-draining soil. It can tolerate moderately fertile soils that are alkaline, neutral, or acidic in pH. It is recommended to grow this plant in a location that receives full sun exposure, though it can also grow in partially shaded sites. Follow the planting instructions on the seed packet or pot tag to ensure the correct planting depth and spacing.
Watering Needs
Amsinckia calycina requires regular watering to maintain its growth. The frequency and amount of watering may vary depending on the soil type, weather, and other factors. It is best to keep the soil evenly moist during the growing season, but avoid waterlogging the soil. In winter, reduce watering to prevent rotting of the roots.
Fertilization
This plant does not require frequent fertilization. However, a light application of balanced fertilizer can be applied during the growing season to encourage healthy growth. Use a slow-release granular or liquid fertilizer as per the manufacturer's instructions. Over-fertilization may lead to issues like burning of the leaves and stunted growth.
Pruning
Amsinckia calycina does not require regular pruning. However, spent flowers and seed heads can be removed to prevent self-seeding and encourage prolonged blooming. The plant can be allowed to self-seed if desired. Remove any damaged, yellowing or dead leaves regularly to maintain plant health. In case of any diseased or damaged stems, prune them back to healthy growth.
Propagation of Amsinckia calycina (Moris) Chater
Amsinckia calycina (Moris) Chater, commonly known as bristly fiddleneck or yellow burweed, is an annual plant that belongs to the Boraginaceae family. This plant is native to California, United States, and is commonly found in open fields, meadows, and disturbed areas.
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Amsinckia calycina is through seeds. The seeds of this plant are easily collected when the plant has dried up and the capsules have turned brown. The seeds should be harvested before they start to fall off on their own.
Before sowing the seeds, it is recommended to scarify them. Scarification involves breaking the seed coat, which allows water and oxygen to penetrate the seed. This can be achieved by rubbing the seeds on a sandpaper or by soaking them in hot water for a few hours before sowing.
The seeds can be sown directly into the garden bed in early spring, after the danger of frost has passed. The soil should be well-draining, and the seeds should be sown at a depth of ¼ to ½ inches. They should be kept moist until they germinate, which usually takes 7 to 14 days.
Vegetative Propagation
Amsinckia calycina can also be propagated vegetatively through cuttings. However, this method is not commonly used as the plant does not root easily from cuttings.
If you choose to propagate through cuttings, select healthy stems of the plant and cut them at a 45-degree angle, below a node. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the stem and dip it in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in well-draining soil and maintain moist soil until the cuttings take roots.
Propagation through division is not possible with Amsinckia calycina as it is an annual plant that dies after producing seeds.
Disease Management
Amsinckia calycina is generally a resilient plant, but it can still be affected by various diseases that can cause significant damage to the plant.
Root Rot: One of the most significant diseases that can affect Amsinckia calycina is root rot, which is caused by soil-borne fungi such as Pythium and Phytophthora. The disease causes the roots to rot, leading to stunted growth, wilting, and decay of the plant. To manage root rot, ensure that the soil is well-drained and avoid over-watering the plant. If root rot occurs, remove the affected plants and amend the soil with compost or other organic matter before replanting.
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that can cause leaf blight, stem cankers, and fruit rot. Symptoms include dark spots on leaves, yellowing, wilting, and defoliation. To manage anthracnose, ensure that there is good air circulation around the plants to reduce humidity, remove infected plant parts, and apply a fungicide if necessary.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that can affect Amsinckia calycina, causing a white, powdery coating on leaves, stems, and flowers. The disease can cause leaf distortion and reduce plant growth and vigor. To manage powdery mildew, increase air circulation around the plants, avoid overhead watering, and apply a fungicide if necessary.
Pest Management
Apart from diseases, Amsinckia calycina can also be affected by pests that can cause significant damage to the plant.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that can damage leaves, causing them to turn yellow and drop prematurely. The pests thrive in hot, dry conditions and can quickly spread from plant to plant. To manage spider mite infestations, regularly hose down the plants to dislodge the pests, apply a miticide, and maintain a high level of humidity around the plants.
Slugs and Snails: Slugs and snails are common pests that can damage Amsinckia calycina by eating holes in leaves and stems. To manage slugs and snails, remove any debris or weeds from around the plants, apply a slug bait, and use physical barriers such as copper tape or eggshells to protect the plant.
Aphids: Aphids are tiny, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of plants, causing leaves to curl and distort. They can also spread plant diseases. To manage aphids, blast the plants with a strong spray of water to dislodge the pests, apply neem oil or insecticidal soap, and encourage the presence of natural predators such as ladybugs.
