Description:
Bestia breweriana (Lesq.) Grout var. howei (Kindb.) Grout, commonly known as Howe's Bestia Moss, is a species of moss that belongs to the family Pottiaceae. This plant was first described by J. B. Lesquereux and was later reclassified by A. J. Grout.
Origin:
Howe's Bestia Moss is native to North America and can be found in the southeastern United States, specifically in Florida and along the Gulf Coast states.
Common names:
Aside from its scientific name, Howe's Bestia Moss also goes by the common names Brewer's Bestia Moss and Howe's Shaggy Moss.
Appearance:
Howe's Bestia Moss has a somewhat shaggy appearance, with erect stems that typically grow to be 5-8 cm in height. The leaves are narrowly lanceolate and are 1-2 mm long. The upper part of the leaves is often curved, while the base is sheathing. This plant has a reddish-brown color and is commonly found growing on damp soil or rocks near streams, rivers, and seeps.
Uses:
While Howe's Bestia Moss does not have any known medicinal or culinary uses, it is often used by horticulturists and hobbyists to create living walls or other decorative arrangements. Its unique appearance makes it a popular choice for botanical displays.
Growth Conditions for Bestia breweriana (Lesq.) Grout var. howei (Kindb.) Grout
Bestia breweriana (Lesq.) Grout var. howei (Kindb.) Grout is a species of liverwort that typically grows in moist, shaded areas, such as on rocks, logs, and soil.
Light Requirements
Bestia breweriana (Lesq.) Grout var. howei (Kindb.) Grout prefers low to medium light levels. It can tolerate short periods of direct sunlight, but prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can be harmful to the plant.
Temperature Requirements
Bestia breweriana (Lesq.) Grout var. howei (Kindb.) Grout grows best in cool to moderate temperatures, with the optimal temperature range between 10°C to 20°C. It can tolerate temperatures as low as -5°C and as high as 30°C, but extreme temperatures can stunt growth and even cause the plant to die.
Soil Requirements
Bestia breweriana (Lesq.) Grout var. howei (Kindb.) Grout grows well in moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The pH level of the soil should be slightly acidic to neutral, with a range between 6.0 to 7.5. Excessive watering should be avoided, as it can lead to root rot. The plant can also grow on rocks and logs, as long as they are moist and shaded.
Cultivation Methods for Bestia breweriana (Lesq.) Grout var. howei (Kindb.) Grout
Bestia breweriana (Lesq.) Grout var. howei (Kindb.) Grout is a rare and unique plant that requires specific conditions for proper cultivation. Start by selecting an appropriate site that provides well-drained soil, full sunlight, and adequate space for growth. This plant prefers alkaline soils with a pH of 7.5 to 8.5.
Watering Needs
It is crucial to maintain consistent moisture levels throughout the growing season to ensure healthy growth and development. Bestia breweriana (Lesq.) Grout var. howei (Kindb.) Grout needs to be watered moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Overwatering or underwatering can lead to stunted growth or root rot.
Fertilization
Bestia breweriana (Lesq.) Grout var. howei (Kindb.) Grout requires proper fertilization to support healthy growth and development. Apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring and mid-summer, following the manufacturer's instructions. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers as they can lead to excessive foliage growth and reduced flowering.
Pruning
Pruning can help maintain the shape and size of the Bestia breweriana (Lesq.) Grout var. howei (Kindb.) Grout plant. Prune in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches and cut back any overgrown branches to promote new growth. Avoid pruning more than one-third of the plant in a single season as this can stress the plant and reduce flowering.
Propagation of Bestia breweriana (Lesq.) Grout var. howei (Kindb.) Grout
Bestia breweriana (Lesq.) Grout var. howei (Kindb.) Grout, commonly known as Brewer's draba, is a small herbaceous plant found in rocky alpine habitats. The plant can be multiplied through various propagation methods, depending on the resources available and the desired quantity of plants.
Propagation by Seed
Propagation by seed is the most common way to multiply Brewer's draba. The seeds can be collected from the existing plants when they are fully ripe and dry. They should be sown in fall or spring, depending on the climate, in moist and well-drained soil. The seeds need light to germinate, so it is best to sprinkle them on the soil rather than burying them. The seedlings should be transferred to individual pots once they are large enough to handle.
Propagation by Divisions
Propagation by divisions is a method that involves separating the plant into smaller parts that can be individually potted to create new plants. This method is most successful when the plant is mature and has formed clumps of leaves. The clumps should be gently pulled apart, ensuring that each part has a good root system and several leaves. The divisions should be potted in a well-draining soil mix and kept in shade until new growth appears.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is a method that involves taking stem cuttings from the parent plant and rooting them to form new plants. This method is usually used when seed is not available. The cuttings should be taken in early summer when the plant is actively growing. The cuttings should be 3-4 inches long and should be stripped of most of their leaves, leaving only the top two leaves. The cuttings should be inserted into a rooting hormone and then planted in a well-draining soil mix that is kept moist but not wet.
Disease Management
Bestia breweriana (Lesq.) Grout var. howei (Kindb.) Grout is known to be susceptible to several types of fungal diseases, including:
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease appears as small, sunken lesions on the leaves and stems. The spots may also have a pinkish center. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected plant material, avoid overhead watering, and apply a fungicide as needed.
- Rust: Rust appears as yellow, orange, or brown powdery spots on leaves. Infected leaves may drop prematurely. To manage rust, remove and destroy infected plant material, avoid overhead watering, and apply a fungicide as needed.
- Leaf spot: Leaf spot appears as small, often circular, spots on leaves. These spots may have a brown or black center with a yellow edge. To manage leaf spot, remove and destroy infected plant material, avoid overhead watering, and apply a fungicide as needed.
Pest Management
Bestia breweriana (Lesq.) Grout var. howei (Kindb.) Grout may also be susceptible to pests, including:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can cause curling, yellowing, or stunted growth on plant leaves. To manage aphids, prune heavily infested plant material, use insecticidal soap or spray, and release beneficial insects such as ladybugs.
- Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that can cause yellowing, stippling, or browning of leaves. To manage spider mites, there are a few things you can do, such as washing leaves with water to remove mites, introducing predatory mites to feed on spider mites, and applying insecticidal soap or spray.
- Thrips: Thrips are tiny, slender insects that can cause distorted or discolored leaves and flowers. To manage thrips, prune heavily infested plant material, introduce predatory insects such as mites or lacewings, and apply sticky traps.
