Overview
Besseya rubra, also known as Rocky Mountain bluebells or mountain harebells, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the family Campanulaceae. It is native to western North America and is commonly found in subalpine meadows and open coniferous forests.
Appearance
The plant typically grows to a height of 10-50 cm and has slender stems that are hairy. The leaves are basal and are oval to lance-shaped, measuring 2-10 cm long and 1-3 cm wide. The notable feature of the plant is its bell-shaped flowers that bloom from June to August. The flowers are red or pink and are about 1.5 cm long. The plant produces capsules with tiny seeds that are dispersed by wind or water.
Uses
Besseya rubra is a popular garden plant due to its attractive flowers that bloom in late spring and summer. It is easy to grow and requires little maintenance. The plant is also used as a medicinal herb by some indigenous tribes of North America. It is believed to have astringent and antidiarrheal properties and has been used to treat stomach disorders, cough, and sore throat. However, its medicinal uses have not been scientifically proven, and it should be used with caution.
In addition, the plant is used as a food source by some wildlife, including deer and rodents.
Cultivation
Besseya rubra can be grown from seed or propagated by division. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun. The plant is not drought-tolerant and requires regular watering during dry periods. It is hardy and can withstand cold temperatures, making it suitable for growing in mountainous or sub-alpine regions.
If you are interested in growing this plant, do some research and make sure it is suitable for your climate and soil conditions.
Light Requirements
The Besseya rubra requires partial to full sun in order to grow and maintain its optimal health. It can tolerate a bit of shade but should not be kept in total darkness as it will not grow properly.
Temperature Requirements
The Besseya rubra prefers to grow in cooler climates and can withstand temperatures as low as -20 degrees Celsius. In the summer months, it prefers temperatures between 15-22 degrees Celsius and in the winter months, it can handle temperatures as low as -10 degrees Celsius. Temperatures that are too hot or too cold can drastically hinder its growth.
Soil Requirements
The soil requirements for the Besseya rubra are very specific. It needs well-draining, moist soil that is rich in organic matter. It thrives in acidic soils (pH 5.0-6.5) and can be grown in sandy or loamy soils. It should not be planted in heavy clay soils as it will not be able to grow properly.
Cultivation
Besseya rubra, also known as the red-violet catchfly, is a hardy perennial that thrives in full sun to partial shade. It prefers well-draining, loamy soil, but can tolerate a range of soils.
For best results, plant Besseya rubra in late spring or early fall when the temperatures are cool. Transplant seedlings to their permanent location when the plant has grown at least 2 sets of true leaves. It is also helpful to add a layer of mulch around the plant to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Watering Needs
Besseya rubra requires consistent moisture, but too much water can lead to root rot. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more frequently during periods of drought. Monitor the soil moisture level, and only water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization
Apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in the spring to stimulate growth and blooming. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package to avoid overfertilization, which can lead to excessive foliage growth and decreased flowering.
Pruning
Besseya rubra does not require pruning, but you can pinch back the tips of the plant in the early spring to encourage bushier growth and more flowers. Remove any dead or damaged foliage throughout the growing season to promote overall plant health. After the plant has finished flowering in the late summer, you can deadhead the spent blooms to encourage a second bloom later in the season.
Propagation of Besseya rubra (Dougl. ex Hook.) Rydb.
Besseya rubra (Dougl. ex Hook.) Rydb. is a herbaceous perennial plant that is native to North America. It belongs to the Campanulaceae family and is commonly known as Rocky Mountain bluebells, Coral bells, or Rock bells. Propagation of Besseya rubra can be done in various ways including:
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of growing Besseya rubra. The seeds are usually collected from the plants during the summer months when they start to ripen. Once collected, they can be dried and stored until the following spring when they can be sown in a prepared seedbed. The seedbed should be situated in a shaded location and the soil should be well-draining and moist. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil and kept moist until they germinate, which can take up to three weeks.
Division
Another method of propagating Besseya rubra is by division. This can be done in the spring or fall when the plant is dormant. The plant should be carefully lifted from the ground and the roots should be gently separated into smaller sections. Each section should have a healthy shoot and a portion of the root system. Once separated, each section can be planted in a well-draining soil and kept moist until new growth appears.
Cuttings
Propagation of Besseya rubra can also be done using cuttings. Softwood cuttings can be taken in the spring or early summer and should be a few inches long with a healthy leaf. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil. They should be kept moist and in a shaded location until roots develop, which can take up to six weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Besseya rubra
Besseya rubra, commonly known as the Rocky Mountain bluebell or Mountain trumpet, is a hardy perennial plant native to North America. Although it is generally a low maintenance plant, it can still be susceptible to a few common diseases and pests, which can affect its vitality and overall health. Proper disease and pest management can help prevent or mitigate these issues. Here are some of the most common diseases and pests that affect Besseya rubra and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Anthracnose: This fungal disease appears as small, circular spots on the leaves, which eventually spread and turn brown. To manage it, remove all infected plant material and dispose of it far from the garden area. You should also avoid overhead watering and promote good air circulation to prevent the spread of the spores.
Mildew: Mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage mildew, remove all infected plant material and dispose of it far from the garden area. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Additionally, applying a fungicide can help manage the spread of mildew.
Pests
Spider mites: These small pests are barely visible but can cause significant damage to the plant by sucking sap from the leaves. To manage spider mites, you can use an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray. Additionally, pruning off heavily infested branches and disposing of them can help manage the spread of the pests.
Slugs and snails: These pests are common and often attack young shoots and leaves of the plant. To manage slugs and snails, you can handpick them and dispose of them or use a slug bait to attract and kill them.
Implementing proper disease and pest management techniques can help ensure the health and vitality of Besseya rubra. Consistent monitoring and early intervention can prevent or mitigate the damage that these pests and diseases can cause.
