Overview
Aphanes occidentalis (Nutt.) Rydb., commonly known as Western Parsley-piert, is a delicate annual herb that belongs to the rose family Rosaceae. This plant is found in western North America and is often found growing in disturbed areas, sandy washes, dry slopes, and meadows. It can be identified by its small, intricately divided leaves and tiny flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer.
Appearance
Aphanes occidentalis is a small plant that typically grows up to 10 cm in height. The stem and leaves of the plant are hairy and glandular. The stem has a reddish tint and is slender while the leaves are small, finely dissected, and arranged alternately along the stem. Its tiny flowers are five-petaled and are arranged in clusters at the end of the stems. The petals are white to pale pink, and the fruiting heads have a hooked bristle that attaches to clothing, animals, or human hair, aiding in the plant's dispersal.
Common names
Western Parsley-piert is also known by other common names such as Nuttall's Aphanes, Crinklemat, and Parsley-piert.
Uses
Aphanes occidentalis is not commonly used in traditional medicine but is used as a forage plant for wildlife such as rodents and deer. It is also considered a soil stabilizer in disturbed areas, helping to prevent erosion and soil loss. In some cases, the plant may be used as a ground cover in gardens and landscapes, and it has been used to manage weeds in agricultural areas.
Typical Growth Conditions of Aphanes occidentalis (Nutt.) Rydb.
Aphanes occidentalis (Nutt.) Rydb., commonly known as western parsley-piert, is a small, herbaceous plant that belongs to the rose family (Rosaceae). It is widely distributed across western North America and grows in a variety of habitats.
Light Requirements
Aphanes occidentalis is a shade-tolerant plant that prefers partial to full shade. It can grow in areas with direct sunlight but thrives best in shaded conditions. The plant can tolerate moderate shade levels, which is beneficial for its growth, but too much shade can result in elongation of stems and weak growth.
Temperature Requirements
Aphanes occidentalis is adapted to a range of temperature conditions and can grow in regions with a cool to warm climate. The plant is highly tolerant of cold temperatures and can survive freezing conditions. However, it grows optimally in warm temperatures between 20°C and 25°C. High temperatures, especially those above 30°C, can be stressful for the plant, leading to wilting and reduced growth.
Soil Requirements
Aphanes occidentalis thrives in well-drained soils with high organic matter content. The plant can grow in a range of soil textures, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, provided they are well-drained. The plant can tolerate slightly acidic to alkaline soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0. However, highly acidic or saline soils are not suitable for Aphanes occidentalis growth.
The addition of organic matter, such as compost or well-decomposed manure, can improve soil fertility and water retention, thus benefitting the plant's growth. Regular watering is essential during the plant's establishment phase, after which the plant can tolerate periods of drought.
Cultivation Methods
Aphanes occidentalis (Nutt.) Rydb., commonly known as western lady's mantle, is a perennial herb that grows best in well-drained soils with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. It prefers full sun to partial shade and requires protection from hot afternoon sun.
Seeds of Aphanes occidentalis can be sown directly in the garden during spring or fall. The soil should be moist at the time of planting, and the seeds should be covered lightly with soil. Alternatively, young plants can be purchased from nurseries and transplanted into well-prepared beds in the garden.
Watering Needs
Aphanes occidentalis is drought-tolerant once established, but it requires regular watering during its initial growth period. The soil should be kept moist in the growing season, but not waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot. After the first year of growth, the plant can be watered deeply once a week instead of frequent surface watering.
Fertilization
Aphanes occidentalis is a low maintenance plant and does not require much fertilization. However, the addition of organic matter to the soil helps promote growth and flowering. Compost or well-rotted manure can be worked into the soil at the time of planting or during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing with high-nitrogen fertilizers as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowering.
Pruning
Deadheading spent flowers can help prolong the flowering period of Aphanes occidentalis. However, this is not necessary as the plant will continue to produce flowers throughout the growing season. In the fall, after the plant has finished flowering, it can be cut back to the ground to help promote vigorous growth the following year. Divide the plant every few years in spring to prevent overcrowding and promote healthy growth.
Propagation of Aphanes occidentalis
Aphanes occidentalis (Nutt.) Rydb., also known as western lady's-mantle, can be propagated in several ways:
Seed propagation
The plant produces tiny, greenish-yellow flowers that develop into small, achene fruits containing one seed each. Collect the seeds in the fall after the flowers have faded and the fruits have turned brown. Store the seeds in a cool, dry place until spring planting. Sow the seeds directly in the garden bed or container, or in trays filled with well-draining soil. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil, water gently, and keep moist until germination, which usually takes one to two weeks. Thin out the seedlings to their final spacing once they have a few true leaves.
Vegetative propagation
Aphanes occidentalis can also be propagated vegetatively by taking stem cuttings in early summer. Select healthy, non-flowering stems and cut them to a length of 3-4 inches. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cuttings in a container filled with moist, well-draining soil and cover with plastic to retain moisture. Place the container in a bright, indirect light location and keep the soil moist. Once the cuttings have developed roots and new growth, they can be transplanted to the garden or individual pots.
Division
If the plant has become large and established, it can be divided to create new plants. Dig up the entire plant and separate the clumps into sections, making sure each section has a healthy root system. Replant the sections in the garden or in individual containers, providing plenty of water and keeping them in a shaded area for a few days until they have recovered from the shock of division.
Disease Management
One of the most common diseases that can affect Aphanes occidentalis is powdery mildew. It appears as a white powdery growth on the leaves and stems of the plant. To prevent this disease from spreading, remove any affected parts and keep the plant dry by avoiding overhead watering. In case of a severe infection, use a fungicide following the product label's recommendations.
Fungal leaf spots are also a potential threat to the Aphanes occidentalis. These appear as yellow to brown spots on the leaves, which may lead to defoliation. To manage this disease, remove and destroy any affected leaves and avoid overhead watering. In severe cases, use a fungicide following the product label's instructions.
Root rot, caused by waterlogging and poor drainage, can lead to wilting, yellowing, and death of the plant. To prevent it, avoid over-watering and ensure that the soil has good drainage. If the plant is already infected, remove it and replace it with a healthy one, ensuring that the new plant's soil is not infected.
Pest Management
A common pest that can damage Aphanes occidentalis is the spider mite. These tiny arachnids can cause discoloration, stippling, and leaf drop. To control spider mites, use insecticidal soap or neem oil following the label's instructions and avoid the use of broad-spectrum insecticides that can harm beneficial insects that help control spider mites.
The western flower thrips can also affect the plant, causing distorted, streaked leaves and premature flower drop. To manage them, introduce natural predators like Orius insidiosus or use sticky traps. Avoid using insecticides, as they can harm natural predators and cause thrips to develop resistance.
Aphanes occidentalis can also suffer from aphids, which suck sap from the leaves and stems and excrete a sticky honeydew that attracts ants and promotes fungal growth. To control aphids, use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or introduce natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings. Regularly scout for aphids early in the season and remove them by hand or with a strong spray of water.
