Description of Atriplex canescens (Pursh) Nutt. var. garrettii (Rydb.) L. Benson
Atriplex canescens (Pursh) Nutt. var. garrettii (Rydb.) L. Benson, also known as cana susurro, is a species of saltbush native to western North America. It is part of the family Amaranthaceae and can grow up to 6 feet tall with a 6-foot spread. The leaves are green-gray and have a hairy texture.
Origin and Common Names
Atriplex canescens (Pursh) Nutt. var. garrettii (Rydb.) L. Benson is native to arid regions of western North America, including parts of California, Nevada, Arizona, Utah, New Mexico, Colorado, Texas, and Mexico. It is commonly known as fourwing saltbush, chamiso, and hop sagebrush.
Uses
Historically, Native American tribes used Atriplex canescens (Pursh) Nutt. var. garrettii (Rydb.) L. Benson for medicinal purposes, including treating diarrhea, eye infections, and sore throats. The plant is also used for erosion control and as livestock feed due to its high protein content and drought tolerance. Additionally, some people use the plant for landscaping and ornamental purposes.
General Appearance
Atriplex canescens (Pursh) Nutt. var. garrettii (Rydb.) L. Benson has a sprawling growth habit and can be either a shrub or subshrub. Its branches are reddish-brown, and it has small green flowers that bloom in the summer. The plant thrives in dry, alkaline soils and is commonly found in deserts and other arid regions. Overall, Atriplex canescens (Pursh) Nutt. var. garrettii (Rydb.) L. Benson is a hardy and adaptable species that plays an important role in the ecology and culture of the western United States and Mexico.
Light Requirements
Atriplex canescens var. garrettii is a highly adaptable plant that can grow in a variety of light conditions. However, it grows best in full to partial sun exposure. In shaded areas, the plant often becomes leggy and may not produce as many flowers or fruits.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is native to the arid regions of western North America and is well adapted to hot temperatures. It can tolerate temperatures as high as 110°F (43°C) and can survive freezing temperatures as low as -10°F (-23°C). In regions with frost, the plant often experiences die-back during the winter, but it will typically regrow in the spring.
Soil Requirements
Atriplex canescens var. garrettii can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. However, the plant prefers well-draining soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 8.5. It can tolerate soils with low fertility and low moisture levels. In fact, the plant is adapted to grow in dry, arid regions and is highly drought-tolerant.
Cultivation
Atriplex canescens (Pursh) Nutt. var. garrettii (Rydb.) L. Benson is a hardy plant that thrives well in a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. The plant requires full sunlight exposure and can tolerate drought, high temperatures, and harsh weather conditions. It is recommended to plant the Atriplex canescens in well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
Watering Needs
Although Atriplex canescens is a drought-tolerant plant, it still requires adequate watering, especially during the growing and establishment period. Young plants require frequent watering, at least once a week, to ensure that the soil is moist but not saturated. Once the plant is established, it can survive on rainfall alone, although some deep watering during dry periods can help to enhance its overall growth and productivity.
Fertilization
Atriplex canescens is a nitrogen-fixing plant that can enhance soil fertility and productivity. The plant does not require regular fertilization, especially if it is grown in nutrient-rich soil. However, a light application of balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 formula, during the growing period can help to increase plant growth and vigor. It's important to avoid over-fertilizing the plant as this can lead to leaf burn and stunted growth.
Pruning
Atriplex canescens requires little pruning, especially in its natural habitat. However, if necessary, the plant can be pruned lightly to enhance its shape and development. It's important to avoid excessive pruning as this can lead to stress and damage to the plant. Additionally, pruning should be done during the dormant period to prevent excessive sap loss and promote rapid healing of wounds.
Propagation of Atriplex canescens var. garrettii
Atriplex canescens var. garrettii, commonly known as Garrett's saltbush, is a drought-tolerant shrub that is native to the western part of North America. The plant can be propagated by using either seeds or stem cuttings.
Seed Propagation
The ideal time to collect seeds of Atriplex canescens var. garrettii is in the fall, when the seed heads have fully matured and turned brown. To ensure successful germination, the seeds should be scarified or stratified before planting. Scarification involves breaking the tough outer layer of the shell to allow water to penetrate the seed coat. Stratification involves storing seeds at a cool temperature for several months to simulate winter conditions. After stratification or scarification, the seeds can be planted in well-drained soil in early spring. The seedlings will require regular watering and should be spaced 2-3 feet apart to allow for their mature size.
Stem Cutting Propagation
Atriplex canescens var. garrettii can also be propagated by using stem cuttings, which involve taking a section of a stem and encouraging it to develop roots. The best time to take cuttings is in the late spring or early summer when the plant is in an active growth phase. Cuttings should be taken from healthy plants and should be about 4-6 inches long. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development, and then planted in a well-drained, sandy soil mix. Daily watering is necessary to keep the soil moist, and cover the cuttings with a plastic sheet to help maintain water in the soil. In about 4 to 6 weeks, the new roots should have developed to a sufficient length for transplanting into a larger pot or directly into the garden.
Disease Management
Atriplex canescens (Pursh) Nutt. var. garrettii (Rydb.) L. Benson is prone to fungal diseases such as leaf spot, root rot, and powdery mildew. These diseases can be managed by following good cultural practices. It is important to maintain good soil drainage by avoiding overwatering and planting the Atriplex canescens in well-draining soil. Pruning the plant helps in increasing air circulation to the plant, which can help reduce fungal diseases as well.
Applying fungicides is another option to manage fungal diseases. Many fungicides are available in the market that can be used to manage these diseases. However, it is important to follow the instructions provided on the fungicide carefully to avoid any harm to the plant or environment.
Pest Management
Atriplex canescens (Pursh) Nutt. var. garrettii (Rydb.) L. Benson is not known to be affected by many diseases. However, some common pests that can be seen on the plant include mites, aphids, and whiteflies. These pests can be managed by keeping the plant healthy and clean, using natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings, and applying insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Regularly inspecting the plant for signs of pest infestation is essential in managing these pests. Early detection and management can prevent pests from causing severe damage to the plant. If the infestation is severe, it may be best to remove the plant and replace it with a new one to prevent the spread of pests to other plants in the garden.
