Origin and Common Names
Berlandiera lyrata Benth. var. macrophylla Gray, also known as large-leaved chocolate flower, is a plant species that is native to southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It belongs to the family Asteraceae and is a close relative of sunflowers and daisies.
Other common names for Berlandiera lyrata Benth. var. macrophylla Gray include chocolate daisy, lyreleaf greeneyes, and chocolate flower.
Appearance
Berlandiera lyrata Benth. var. macrophylla Gray is a herbaceous perennial plant that typically grows up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It has broad, gray-green leaves that are shaped like a lyre or harp, giving the plant its common name "lyreleaf greeneyes." The leaves are covered in short hairs that give them a fuzzy texture.
The plant produces clusters of yellow-orange daisy-like flowers with dark centers that resemble chocolate drops. The flowers are about 2 inches in diameter and bloom from late spring through the summer. They have a sweet, chocolate-like fragrance that attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Uses
Berlandiera lyrata Benth. var. macrophylla Gray has several uses. Firstly, it is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes due to its attractive appearance and fragrant flowers. Secondly, it has medicinal properties and has been traditionally used by some Native American tribes to treat coughs, colds, and other respiratory ailments. The plant's roots and leaves are boiled to make a tea, which is ingested or used as a throat wash. Lastly, the plant is also used in some culinary dishes as a flavoring or garnish due to its chocolate-like scent.
Light Requirements
Berlandiera lyrata Benth. var. macrophylla Gray thrives in full sunlight, and it is best to plant it in areas where it will receive direct sunlight for at least 6 hours a day. The plant may still grow in shaded areas, but it may not produce as many flowers as it would in full sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers relatively warm climates and is best suited to zones 9 through 11. Berlandiera lyrata Benth. var. macrophylla Gray can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F (-6°C), but it can only handle a light frost. The plant does well in heat and drought conditions and can withstand high temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Berlandiera lyrata Benth. var. macrophylla Gray prefers well-draining soils, such as sandy loam, and it can grow in soils with a wide pH range. The plant will not tolerate soils that are consistently waterlogged, and waterlogged roots can lead to root rot and plant death. Adding organic matter to the soil can help improve its structure and fertility.
Cultivation Methods
Berlandiera lyrata Benth. var. macrophylla Gray, also known as chocolate flower, thrives in well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter. It prefers full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade. Sow the seeds in the fall or early winter when the temperature drops, about 50 F or below, as they require cold stratification. Alternatively, you can sow them in the spring by scarifying the seed coat or rubbing them gently on sandpaper. Plant the seeds 1/4 inch deep, keeping them evenly moist until germination, which can happen in about two weeks.
Watering Needs
The chocolate flower is drought-tolerant, but it needs regular watering during its establishment phase. After that, you can reduce the water and let it go through periods of dryness between watering. Water deeply, but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry at least an inch deep before rewatering. Ensure that the soil is draining adequately, as waterlogging can cause root rot.
Fertilization
Berlandiera lyrata Benth. var. macrophylla Gray does not require much fertilization. If you want to fertilize, use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 before the growing season. Alternatively, amend the soil with some compost or well-rotted manure to enrich it with organic matter. Avoid fertilizing during the flowering season, as it can cause weak flowering.
Pruning
The chocolate flower is a low-maintenance plant that doesn't require much pruning. Deadheading spent flowers can extend the flowering period and keep the plant looking neat. In the fall, you can cut back the plant to about half its height to tidy it up and reduce the risk of foliar diseases. If it becomes too leggy or tall, you can pinch it back to promote bushier growth.
Propagation methods of Berlandiera Lyrata Benth. var. Macrophylla Gray
Berlandiera Lyrata Benth. var. Macrophylla Gray, commonly known as Chocolate Flower, can be propagated through various means. Some of the popular methods of propagating this plant are:
Seed propagation
The most common method of propagating Chocolate Flower is through seed. The seeds can be easily collected from the plant during the blooming season. The collected seeds can be directly sown in the soil during the fall or early spring season. The soil must be well-drained and rich in organic matter. Watering must be done regularly to keep the soil moist. Germination occurs within 2-4 weeks, and the seedlings start to grow.
Cutting propagation
Chocolate Flower can also be propagated through cuttings. The stem cuttings of the plant must be taken during the spring or early summer season. The cuttings must be approximately 4-6 inches in length and must have at least 2-3 leaf nodes. The leaves must be removed from the lower end of the cutting, and the cutting must be dipped in rooting hormone. The cutting can be planted in a well-drained soil mix, and watered regularly to keep the soil moist. The cutting develops roots in 3-4 weeks, and new growth appears.
Division propagation
Another method of propagating Chocolate Flower is by division. This is best done during the early spring season. The plant must be dug out carefully, and the root ball must be divided into smaller sections. Each section must contain some roots and shoots. These smaller sections can be planted in a well-drained soil mix, and watered regularly until the plants get established.
Disease Management
Berlandiera lyrata Benth. var. macrophylla Gray is relatively resistant to most diseases, but there are a few that can pose a problem.
Gray Mold (Botrytis cinerea): This is a fungal disease that causes wilting, leaf yellowing and browning, or a grey powdery coating on the leaves. It typically develops in wet and humid conditions. To manage this disease, remove the infected plant parts and improve airflow around the plant.
Root Rot: This is a common problem for plants grown in poorly drained soil. Symptoms include wilting leaves, stunted growth, and the plant appearing to be drought-stressed even when the soil is moist. To manage this, ensure that the plant is not overwatered, and soil is well-drained. In severe cases, a fungicide may be necessary.
Pest Management
Berlandiera lyrata Benth. var. macrophylla Gray is relatively pest-resistant, but there are a few pests that can cause damage.
Leaf Miner: This insect burrows into the leaves leaving pale or silvery trails. The trails can lead to the death of the leaves. To manage this pest, remove and destroy any infected leaves and apply an insecticide.
Spider Mites: These pests suck the sap from leaves causing yellowing and browning of leaves. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with water to dislodge them. Use an insecticidal soap or neem oil if their population is still high.
Slugs and Snails: These pests chew irregular holes in leaves and flowers. To manage them, remove any hiding places they may have, such as fallen leaves or weedy areas. Handpick them in the evening when they are most active. Alternatively, you can use slug bait or copper strips to repel them.
