Overview
Baeria chrysostoma Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ssp. hirsutula (Greene) Ferris, also known as hirsute golden asters, is a flowering plant typically found in the western regions of North America. This plant is a subspecies of Baeria chrysostoma, a genus of flowering plants in the daisy family, Asteraceae.Origin and Distribution
The Baeria chrysostoma Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ssp. hirsutula is native to North America, specifically in the western regions of the United States and Canada. The plant grows in open and rocky areas like gravelly slopes, rock crevices, and talus fields. This subspecies is common in the mountains of California, Nevada, Oregon, Idaho, Washington, and British Columbia.Common Names
The common names of Baeria chrysostoma Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ssp. hirsutula include hirsute golden aster, golden baeria, and hairy golden aster.Uses and Benefits
Baeria chrysostoma Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ssp. hirsutula has no known medicinal uses. However, the plant is a popular ornamental plant for rock gardens and xeriscaping, due to its lovely golden flowers and low-growing habit. The plant is also appreciated by pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, that visit the flowers for nectar.Appearance and Characteristics
Baeria chrysostoma Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ssp. hirsutula is a small, perennial plant that grows to approximately 5-20 cm in height. The plant has a woody base that produces a branched stem with densely arranged leaves. The leaves are oblanceolate to spatulate in shape, covered in short, stiff, and hair-like trichomes, and grow up to 3 cm long. The flowers of the plant bloom in mid to late summer in small, bright yellow to golden-yellow heads which are typically around 1.5 cm in diameter. The flower heads are borne singly on a long stem and consist of both ray and disc flowers.Light Requirements
Baeria chrysostoma Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ssp. hirsutula (Greene) Ferris plants require full sun exposure for optimal growth. They need a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Insufficient light can result in the stunted growth of the plant and poor flowering.
Temperature Requirements
Baeria chrysostoma Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ssp. hirsutula (Greene) Ferris plants are adapted to warm and dry climates. The ideal temperature range for their growth is between 65 °F to 85 °F (18 °C to 29 °C). They cannot withstand frost and require protection during the colder months. Low temperatures can lead to the death of the plant.
Soil Requirements
Baeria chrysostoma Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ssp. hirsutula (Greene) Ferris plants prefer well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. They can grow in a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. The ideal soil mix should contain compost or organic matter to improve drainage and enrich the soil. Waterlogged soil should be avoided, as it can cause root rot and affect the growth of the plant.
Cultivation of Baeria chrysostoma Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ssp. hirsutula (Greene) Ferris
Baeria chrysostoma Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ssp. hirsutula (Greene) Ferris is a drought-tolerant perennial herb that is native to California. It is an easy plant to grow in most garden conditions and is an excellent choice for xeriscape or water-wise gardens. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil.
Watering Needs for Baeria chrysostoma Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ssp. hirsutula (Greene) Ferris
Baeria chrysostoma Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ssp. hirsutula (Greene) Ferris has low to moderate water requirements, meaning it needs water, but not too much. Water the plant only when the soil is dry to the touch, and avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. In hot weather, the plant may require more frequent watering, but be careful not to let the soil become waterlogged.
Fertilization of Baeria chrysostoma Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ssp. hirsutula (Greene) Ferris
Baeria chrysostoma Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ssp. hirsutula (Greene) Ferris does not require much fertilization, but it can benefit from a light application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers, as this can cause the plant to produce more leaves than flowers.
Pruning of Baeria chrysostoma Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ssp. hirsutula (Greene) Ferris
Baeria chrysostoma Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ssp. hirsutula (Greene) Ferris does not require much pruning. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased stems as soon as possible to prevent the spread of disease. Prune back the plant by about one-third of its height in mid to late summer to promote bushier growth and more flowers. Cut back the plant to about 2 inches above the ground after the first frost in fall to prepare it for winter dormancy.
Propagation of Baeria Chrysostoma Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ssp. Hirsutula (Greene) Ferris
Baeria chrysostoma Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ssp. hirsutula (Greene) Ferris can be propagated by several methods such as seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation by Seeds
The propagation of Baeria chrysostoma Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ssp. hirsutula (Greene) Ferris through seeds is the most common technique. The seeds of the plant are readily available in the market and can be sown in spring or autumn. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil and should be covered lightly with soil. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. The seeds can germinate in 2-3 weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted into individual pots once the two true leaves have appeared.
Propagation by Cuttings
The propagation of Baeria chrysostoma Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ssp. hirsutula (Greene) Ferris through cuttings is a quick and straightforward technique. The cuttings should be taken from the parent plant in early summer. The cuttings should be at least 6 inches long and should have a few leaves. The lower leaves should be removed, and the stem should be planted in a pot filled with well-draining soil. The soil should be kept moist, and the pot should be placed in a warm, bright location. The cutting can form roots in 3-4 weeks and can be transplanted into a bigger pot or directly into the garden.
Propagation by Division
The propagation of Baeria chrysostoma Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ssp. hirsutula (Greene) Ferris through division is another method. This method is usually used for mature plants that have grown too big for their container or garden space. The plant should be gently removed from the soil and divided into smaller segments. Each segment should have a healthy crown and roots. The segments should be replanted into individual pots or directly into the garden. The soil should be kept moist until the new plants are established.
Disease management
Baeria chrysostoma Fisch. & C.A. Mey. ssp. hirsutula (Greene) Ferris is generally a healthy plant but can be susceptible to certain diseases. Here are some common ones and ways to manage them:
Root rot
Root rot is a fungal disease that attacks the plant at its roots. It thrives in wet and poorly drained soil conditions. To manage root rot, avoid overwatering the plant and ensure that soil is well-drained. If the plant shows signs of yellowing, wilting, or drooping, it may be necessary to treat the roots directly with an appropriate fungicide.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of many plants, including Baeria chrysostoma. The disease initially shows as a white-ashen coating on the leaves and quickly spreads if not treated. To manage powdery mildew, remove infected plant parts, maintain proper humidity and good air circulation, and treat the plant with an appropriate fungicide.
Pest management
Baeria chrysostoma is also susceptible to certain pests. Here are some common ones and ways to manage them:
Spider Mites
Spider mites are common pests that can infest Baeria chrysostoma. They are tiny and difficult to spot. Spider mites suck on plant sap, which can weaken or kill the plant. To manage spider mites, use a strong jet of water to wash them off the plant. You can also use insecticidal soap or an appropriate pesticide to kill the pests.
Aphids
Aphids are another common pest that can infest Baeria chrysostoma. They are small insects that feed on plant sap and reproduce quickly. Like spider mites, aphids can weaken or kill the plant. To manage aphids, use a strong jet of water to wash them off the plant. You can also use insecticidal soap or an appropriate pesticide to kill the pests.
