Overview
Balsamorhiza careyana Gray var. intermedia Cronq. is a native perennial plant in North America. It belongs to the family Asteraceae which is commonly known as the sunflower family. This plant is found in the western parts of Canada and the United States, specifically in the prairies, plains, and mountainous regions. It is a hardy plant and can tolerate different environmental conditions making it an ideal choice for landscaping.
Common Names
Balsamorhiza careyana Gray var. intermedia Cronq. is commonly known as Carey's Balsamroot, Carey's Sunflower, and Showy Balsamroot. The name "Balsamroot" refers to the balsam-like sap that exudes from the plant's roots when they are cut or broken.
Appearance
Balsamorhiza careyana Gray var. intermedia Cronq. is a large perennial plant that can grow up to 3 feet tall and 4 feet wide. It has a deep taproot that can extend up to 6 feet into the ground. The leaves are large and can be up to 10 inches long. They are oval-shaped, dark green, and have a fuzzy texture. The flowers are large and showy, with yellow petals that can be up to 3 inches long. They bloom in late spring to early summer. The plant produces a fluffy seed head which is dispersed by the wind.
Uses
Balsamorhiza careyana Gray var. intermedia Cronq. has several uses, both medicinal and culinary. The Native Americans used the root of the plant as a medicine for various ailments such as sore throats, coughs, and fever. The root was also used as a poultice for wounds and burns. In modern times, the root is used as an herbal supplement to boost the immune system and relieve inflammation.
In terms of culinary uses, the young leaves and flowers of the plant can be consumed raw or cooked. They have a slightly bitter taste and can be added to salads and stir-fries. The root can also be roasted and consumed as a coffee substitute.
In landscaping, Balsamorhiza careyana Gray var. intermedia Cronq. is used as an ornamental plant, thanks to its large yellow flowers and attractive leaves. It is ideal for naturalized landscapes, meadows, and prairies. It requires minimal maintenance once established, making it an ideal choice for low-water and low-maintenance landscapes.
Light Requirements
The Balsamorhiza careyana Gray var. intermedia Cronq. typically requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth and development.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows well in a range of temperatures from 5°C to 30°C. The ideal temperature is around 15°C to 25°C. Extreme temperatures can damage the plant.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soil with good organic matter and a slightly acidic pH. The ideal soil pH for the plant is between 5.5 and 7.5. Additionally, the soil should be rich in nutrients, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils.
Cultivation Methods
The Balsamorhiza careyana Gray var. intermedia Cronq. is a hardy plant that is tolerant of cold, dry weather. It grows well in well-drained soil, but it can also thrive in heavy soils as long as they are not waterlogged. The best time to plant these plants is in spring, after the last frost, or in fall, before the first frost. When planting in spring, make sure the soil has warmed up enough to promote growth; when planting in fall, give the plant enough time to establish roots before winter.
Watering Needs
Balsamorhiza careyana Gray var. intermedia Cronq. is a drought-tolerant plant but requires moderate watering until it establishes roots. Once the plant has established, it does not need regular watering but prefers occasional deep watering in prolonged periods without rainfall. Ensure that the soil drains water correctly to prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot.
Fertilization
If the soil is nutrient-deficient, you can fertilize the plant, but these plants don't require additional fertilization. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can damage the plant's roots. Use a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) sparingly, once a month, during the growing season.
Pruning
Balsamorhiza careyana Gray var. intermedia Cronq. does not require significant pruning, but it may become too leggy, especially if grown in shady conditions. If the plant attracts wildlife, you can deadhead the plant to encourage more blooms. When deadheading the plant, cut off the spent blooms and flower stems just above the foliage. Prune leggy growth at the base of the plant to encourage bushy growth.
Propagation of Balsamorhiza careyana Gray var. intermedia Cronq.
Balsamorhiza careyana Gray var. intermedia Cronq. can be propagated through both seeds and vegetative propagation methods such as root cuttings, rhizome division, and stem cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds of the plant can be collected in late summer when they are fully developed but still green. Sow the seeds in the fall in a well-draining soil mix. Cover the seeds with 1/8 inch of soil and keep the soil moist. The seeds will germinate the following spring.
Propagation by Root Cuttings
Root cuttings can be taken in the fall and overwintered indoors in a moist potting mix. Plant the rooted cuttings in the spring in a well-draining soil mix and keep the soil moist until the plants are established.
Propagation by Rhizome Division
Rhizomes can be divided in the fall or early spring. Select a healthy clump of the plant and carefully dig it up. Use a sharp knife to divide the rhizome into sections. Plant the sections in a well-draining soil mix and keep the soil moist until the plants are established.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings can be taken in the summer when the plant is actively growing. Select a healthy stem and cut it to 4-6 inches in length. Remove any leaves, except for a few at the top, and place the cutting in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist until the cutting roots and begins to grow.
Disease Management
Plant diseases can have a significant impact on the growth and health of Balsamorhiza careyana Gray var. intermedia Cronq. It is important to keep an eye out for potential issues and take steps to prevent and manage them.
One common disease that affects many plants, including Balsamorhiza, is powdery mildew. This fungal disease creates a white, powdery substance on the leaves, which can eventually cause them to curl and fall off. To prevent powdery mildew, be sure to avoid overhead watering, provide good air circulation, and remove any infected plant material immediately. If powdery mildew does appear, treat with a fungicide according to the label instructions.
Another potential disease that can affect Balsamorhiza is root rot. This fungal disease attacks the roots of the plant, and symptoms may include yellowing leaves, wilting, and stunted growth. To prevent root rot, ensure that the plant is not overwatered and that the soil has good drainage. If root rot is suspected, reduce watering and consider treating with a fungicide.
Pest Management
Along with diseases, Balsamorhiza careyana Gray var. intermedia Cronq. can also be affected by pests. It is important to monitor the plant and take steps to prevent and manage any pest problems.
One common pest that can affect Balsamorhiza is aphids. These small insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. To prevent aphids, remove any weeds from around the plant, as these can harbor the pests. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids if they become a problem.
Another potential pest problem for Balsamorhiza is spider mites. These tiny insects can cause yellowing or bronzing leaves and fine webbing on the plant. To prevent spider mites, avoid overhead watering, as they thrive in humid conditions. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control spider mites if needed.
Overall, by monitoring your Balsamorhiza careyana Gray var. intermedia Cronq. for potential disease and pest problems and taking steps to prevent and manage them as needed, you can help ensure that your plant stays healthy and vibrant.
