Origin and Common Names
Argentina egedii (Wormsk.) Rydb. ssp. groenlandica (Tratt.) A. Löve, commonly known as Greenland pussytoes, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to North America and Greenland. It belongs to the Asteraceae family, which comprises numerous species of flowering plants that are widely distributed across the world.
Uses
The Greenland pussytoes have been traditionally used as a medicinal plant, with a variety of therapeutic properties attributed to it. The plant is believed to possess anti-inflammatory, diuretic, and antispasmodic effects. The leaves of the plant have been used to make tea, which has been consumed to treat digestive disorders, respiratory problems, and urinary tract infections.
The plant is also valued for its ornamental purposes and is cultivated as an attractive garden plant in many regions. The fluffy white hairs of the plant give it a soft, delicate appearance that makes it a popular choice for edging borders, rock gardens, and as a ground-covering plant.
General Appearance
The Greenland pussytoes plant is a low-growing perennial plant that grows up to 15 cm in height. The stems of the plant are erect, and the leaves are small, lance-shaped, and covered with long, silky hairs. The flowers of the plant are small, with a yellowish-green color, and are arranged in a compact, rounded inflorescence that is enclosed by woolly bracts. The plant blooms in the summer months from late June to September, and the flowers are replaced by small, dark-colored achenes.
The roots of the plant are shallow, fibrous, and spread out widely in the soil. Overall, the Greenland pussytoes plant has a soft, fuzzy appearance and gives off a beautiful, natural feel in any garden or environment.
Light requirements
Argentina egedii ssp. groenlandica requires full sunlight in order to grow and thrive. This species prefers to grow in areas with little to no shade, and may suffer from stunted growth or disease if it is not exposed to adequate sunlight.
Temperature requirements
Argentina egedii ssp. groenlandica is a cold-hardy plant that is adapted to grow in cool temperatures. In fact, this species is often found in areas with harsh winters and short growing seasons. It can tolerate temperatures as low as -40 degrees Celsius, and is able to survive in areas with a short growing season.
Soil requirements
Argentina egedii ssp. groenlandica is adapted to grow in a wide range of soil types, but performs best in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. This species prefers soils that are neutral to slightly acidic, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. It is important to ensure that the soil is not waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot and other issues. Additionally, this species is tolerant of drought conditions, but will not grow as well in overly dry soils.
Cultivation
Argentina egedii (Wormsk.) Rydb. ssp. groenlandica (Tratt.) A. Löve can be grown indoors or outdoors, depending on the climate and growing conditions available. It is best to grow this plant in well-draining soil with good air circulation. The plant thrives in full sun or partial shade.
Watering Needs
Water the plant moderately, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot diseases in the plant. On the other hand, underwatering can cause drying out of the leaves, leading to wilting and stunted growth. Check the moisture level of the soil regularly to ensure that it remains balanced.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant regularly during the growing season- from spring to late summer- with a balanced fertilizer. This will facilitate the growth of healthy foliage and flowers. Avoid overfertilizing, as it can lead to the accumulation of salts in the soil, which can harm the plant.
Pruning
The Argentina egedii (Wormsk.) Rydb. ssp. groenlandica (Tratt.) A. Löve plant does not require heavy pruning. However, it is essential to remove any dead or diseased stems, branches or leaves to keep the plant healthy. Prune the plant selectively to shape it, promote bushier growth, and remove any damaged or fading flowers.
Propagation of Argentina egedii (Wormsk.) Rydb. ssp. groenlandica (Tratt.) A. Löve
There are several methods for propagating Argentina egedii (Wormsk.) Rydb. ssp. groenlandica (Tratt.) A. Löve, including:
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Argentina egedii (Wormsk.) Rydb. ssp. groenlandica (Tratt.) A. Löve is through seed propagation. The seeds can be sown directly into the soil or started indoors in pots. The ideal time for planting is in the early spring or late fall when the soil is moist and cool. The seeds should be planted about 1/8 inch deep and spaced about 2 inches apart. Germination usually occurs within 2-3 weeks.
Cutting Propagation
Argentina egedii (Wormsk.) Rydb. ssp. groenlandica (Tratt.) A. Löve can also be propagated through cutting propagation. Take a 3-4 inch cutting from the stem of a healthy plant and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix. Place the pot in a warm, bright location and keep the soil moist. Within a few weeks, roots should begin to form.
Division Propagation
Another method of propagating Argentina egedii (Wormsk.) Rydb. ssp. groenlandica (Tratt.) A. Löve is through division propagation. As the plant matures, it will form clumps of roots and stems. These clumps can be carefully dug up and separated into smaller sections, each with its own set of roots and stems. These divisions can be planted in a new location and will grow into new plants.
Disease Management
The Argentina egedii (Wormsk.) Rydb. ssp. groenlandica (Tratt.) A. Löve plant is relatively resistant to diseases. However, it can be affected by foliar fungal infections such as leaf spot, powdery mildew, and rust diseases. These diseases can result in the yellowing, wilting, and eventual death of affected leaves and branches.
To manage these fungal diseases, it's crucial to maintain adequate plant spacing and good air circulation around the plant. Avoid overhead watering, which can lead to high humidity levels and increased fungal growth. Remove any infected or dead plant material and dispose of it properly to minimize the spread of disease. Fungicide applications can also help to manage severe infections.
Pest Management
The Argentina egedii (Wormsk.) Rydb. ssp. groenlandica (Tratt.) A. Löve plant is relatively resistant to pests. However, some common pests like aphids, mites, and thrips can attack the plant and cause significant damage if left uncontrolled. These pests feed on the plant sap, leading to yellowing and curling of leaves and stunted plant growth.
To manage these pests, it's essential to regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation and apply appropriate control measures promptly. Physical methods like handpicking and pruning infested branches can be effective in managing small infestations. Additionally, horticultural oils and insecticidal soaps can be used to manage moderate infestations while chemical insecticides can be used for severe infestations.
