Origin
Aureolaria grandiflora (Benth.) Pennell var. grandiflora, commonly known as Yellow False Foxglove, is a plant species native to the eastern United States. It typically grows in wooded areas, often in moist soils.
Common Names
Yellow False Foxglove is the most commonly used name, but it is also known by other names such as Largeflower Stonecrop, Smooth False Foxglove, and Golden Mantle.
Uses
The plant has been used in traditional Native American medicine for a variety of ailments such as rheumatism, headaches, and eye infections. However, caution should be taken as the plant is toxic if ingested. It is mostly grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive golden-yellow flowers and intriguing leaves.
General Appearance
Aureolaria grandiflora (Benth.) Pennell var. grandiflora grows up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It has lance-shaped, bright green leaves with finely toothed margins and is covered with fine hairs on both sides. The flowers are golden-yellow, trumpet-shaped, and bloom from late summer to fall. The plant goes dormant during winter and the dried foliage remains until the following spring.
Light Requirements
Aureolaria grandiflora typically prefers partial to full shade. It can tolerate some sun exposure, but extended periods of direct sunlight can lead to leaf burning and dehydration. Therefore, it's best to plant Aureolaria grandiflora in areas that receive bright, indirect light for most of the day.
Temperature Requirements
Aureolaria grandiflora can grow in a wide range of temperatures, but it typically thrives in moderate to cool climates. The ideal temperature for this plant ranges from 13 to 21 degrees Celsius. Hot and dry climates can cause the plant to wilt and die, while frost and freezing temperatures can permanently damage it.
Soil Requirements
Aureolaria grandiflora grows best in well-draining, moist soil that's rich in organic matter. A pH range of 5.5 to 7.5 is optimal for this plant. Avoid planting it in heavy or waterlogged soil, as this can cause root rot and other fungal diseases. You can improve the texture and nutrient content of the soil by adding compost or well-rotted manure before planting.
Cultivation methods
Aureolaria grandiflora (Benth.) Pennell var. grandiflora is a perennial plant that is quite easy to grow. It prefers well-drained soils and partial shade, making it a perfect garden plant. However, it can also grow in full sun, but it requires more moisture and frequent watering in such conditions. This plant can grow up to 2-3 feet tall and spreads 2-4 feet wide, which means you should plant it in an area that has enough space for it to grow.
Watering needs
This plant requires moderate watering, and you need to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. This plant is drought-tolerant, but it will grow better and produce more flowers if you water it regularly. Water the plant deeply, and avoid letting the soil dry out. During summer, when the temperature is high, you might need to water the plant more often.
Fertilization
You do not need to fertilize this plant, but if you want to encourage more growth and blooms, you can use a slow-release fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer in the spring before new growth appears, and make sure you follow the instructions on the package. Avoid over-fertilizing the plant since it can result in excessive growth and reduced flowering.
Pruning
Aureolaria grandiflora (Benth.) Pennell var. grandiflora requires minimal pruning, and you only need to remove any dead or damaged branches in the early spring. If you want to control the size of the plant, you can cut back the stems by one-third after the flowering season. This will promote bushier growth and increase the number of flowers.
Propagation of Aureolaria grandiflora var. grandiflora
Aureolaria grandiflora var. grandiflora can be propagated through various methods including seed, stem cuttings, and division.
Propagation by Seed
Seeds of Aureolaria grandiflora var. grandiflora can be collected in fall and sown immediately or stored in a cool, dry place for later use. Prior to sowing, stratification is recommended to break seed dormancy. Seedlings can be transplanted once they have grown to a suitable size.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings can also be used to propagate Aureolaria grandiflora var. grandiflora. Softwood cuttings should be taken in late spring or early summer, while hardwood cuttings can be taken in fall. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and placed in a soilless mix until they have rooted.
Propagation by Division
Aureolaria grandiflora var. grandiflora can be divided in spring or fall. Care should be taken to ensure that each division has a sufficient amount of roots and shoots. The divisions can be replanted immediately in their new location.
Disease management
Aureolaria grandiflora (Benth.) Pennell var. grandiflora is commonly susceptible to leaf spots, powdery mildew, and stem rot. These diseases can be managed by a combination of cultural and chemical practices. Sanitation is an essential cultural practice that involves removing infected plant parts and destroying them to reduce the spread of the disease. Avoid wetting the foliage during watering to prevent the development and spread of powdery mildew. In severe cases, the application of fungicides can be done, following the manufacturer's instructions.
Pest management
The plant is relatively less susceptible to pest infestations. However, some common pests include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests can cause significant damage to the plant when present in large numbers. Natural enemies such as lady beetles and lacewings can be used to control the pests biologically. Neem oil and insecticidal soap can also be used to control pest infestations.
