Overview
Blepharizonia plumosa (Kellogg) Greene ssp. viscida Keck is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the sunflower family (Asteraceae). It is commonly referred to as "Viscid False Yarrow".
Origin and Distribution
Blepharizonia plumosa (Kellogg) Greene ssp. viscida Keck is native to the southwestern region of North America, including Arizona, New Mexico, and California. It is typically found growing in open areas such as hillsides, savannas, and woodlands, in elevations ranging from 1,000 to 9,000 feet.
Common Names
Blepharizonia plumosa (Kellogg) Greene ssp. viscida Keck is known by a variety of common names, including Viscid false yarrow, White yarrow, and Sticky false yarrow.
Appearance
The plant has a bushy growth habit and can grow up to 2 feet in height. It has feathery leaves that are pinnately divided into narrow segments, giving it a delicate appearance. The flowers are small and white, clustered on the ends of slender stems that arise from the leaf axils. The flowers are surrounded by a ring of bracts that are covered in sticky glandular hairs, giving them a slightly shiny appearance. The plant's stem and leaves are also covered in these sticky hairs.
Uses
Blepharizonia plumosa (Kellogg) Greene ssp. viscida Keck has a variety of traditional medicinal uses, including wound healing, pain relief, and gastrointestinal issues. It is also a popular ornamental plant in xeriscaping gardens due to its drought-tolerance and attractive appearance. Additionally, the plant is known to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, making it a beneficial addition to any garden or natural habitat.
Growth Conditions for Blepharizonia Plumosa
Blepharizonia plumosa (Kellogg) Greene ssp. viscida Keck, commonly known as San Francisco tidy tips, is a flowering herbaceous plant native to California, Arizona, and Nevada. It is a small, short-lived annual plant that typically grows up to 10-12 inches in height. In order for the plant to grow healthily, it requires specific growing conditions that must be maintained.
Light Requirements
Blepharizonia plumosa requires full sun exposure to grow and bloom. It needs at least six hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. If planted in the shade, the plant will become spindly and produce fewer flowers.
Temperature Requirements
The San Francisco tidy tips tolerates a wide range of temperatures, but it grows best in a mild to cool climate, with temperatures between 50°F and 70°F. The plant struggles in hot and dry conditions with temperatures above 75°F, which can cause wilting and leaf drop. Nevertheless, it will do fine in cooler temperatures but will take longer to bloom and produce fewer flowers.
Soil Requirements
The soil in which Blepharizonia plumosa is planted should be well-drained and fertile. The plant requires a soil pH of 6 to 7, which is slightly acidic. A soil mixture that is high in organic matter works well for the plant because it retains water and nutrients. However, the soil must not be too heavy or compact. A sandy or loamy soil that doesn't retain too much moisture is ideal for the plant.
By taking care of these growth conditions, you can enjoy a beautiful display of tidy tips in your garden in no time.
Cultivation Methods
Blepharizonia plumosa is best grown in sandy or rocky soils that are well-draining. It can also tolerate clay soils as long as they are not heavy. The plant requires full sun exposure for proper growth, but it may also grow in partial shade. It is recommended to plant the seeds or seedlings in the early spring when temperatures start to warm up.
Watering Needs
Blepharizonia plumosa is a drought-tolerant plant and can survive in dry conditions. However, it requires regular watering during the first few weeks of growth to establish a good root system. After that, deep watering at least once a month during the growing season is sufficient.
Fertilization
Blepharizonia plumosa does not require heavy fertilization. It can thrive in poor soils with low nutrient content. However, the plant will benefit from an application of a balanced fertilizer in the early spring. A slow-release organic fertilizer is recommended, as it will provide nutrients to the plant gradually over time.
Pruning
Blepharizonia plumosa requires very little pruning. However, if you want to shape the plant or remove dead or damaged growth, prune it in the late fall. Be careful not to remove too much of the plant, as it may cause it to become stressed and weaken.
Propagation of Blepharizonia Plumosa (Kellogg) Greene ssp. Viscida Keck
Blepharizonia Plumosa (Kellogg) Greene ssp. Viscida Keck, commonly known as hairy eyelashweed, is a drought-tolerant perennial subshrub. Propagation of the plant can be done easily through either the seed or cutting method.
Propagation through Seeds
The best time to propagate Blepharizonia plumosa through seeds is during fall or winter. The first step of propagation through seeds is to collect mature seed heads and allow them to dry out completely. Once they are dry, remove the seeds from the seed heads and store them in airtight containers until the next planting season.
When planting the seeds, follow these steps:
- Choose a spot with well-drained soil and ample sunlight.
- Scatter the seeds on the soil surface and lightly press them into the soil.
- Optionally, cover the area with a thin layer of soil to protect the seeds from being eaten by birds.
- Water the area gently, being careful not to wash away the seeds.
- Keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes around two weeks.
- Once the seedlings have established themselves, thin them out to be about 2-3 feet apart to give them ample space to grow.
Propagation through Cuttings
The best time to propagate Blepharizonia plumosa through cuttings is during spring or early summer when the plant is in its vegetative stage. Follow these steps to propagate through cuttings:
- Take cuttings of approximately 4-6 inches from the parent plant, making sure to use sharp and sterile cutting tools.
- Remove the bottom leaves of the cutting, leaving only the top two leaves.
- Dip the base of the cutting into rooting hormone powder, ensuring that it is evenly coated.
- Plant the cutting into a well-draining soil mixture and water it thoroughly.
- Keep the soil moist until roots start to develop, which typically takes 2-3 weeks.
- Once the cutting has developed roots, transplant it into its desired location.
Disease Management for Blepharizonia plumosa
Like any other plant, Blepharizonia plumosa is susceptible to various diseases that can affect its growth and overall health. Here are some common diseases to watch out for and tips on how to manage them:
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white or gray powdery growth on the plant's leaves and stems. It can stunt growth and reduce the plant's ability to photosynthesize. To manage powdery mildew, prune infected areas and remove any plant debris around the plant. Using fungicides like copper sprays can also help control the spread of the disease.
Crown Rot
Crown rot is another common fungal disease that can affect Blepharizonia plumosa. It is characterized by a black, mushy rot at the plant's base that can cause the plant to wilt or die. To manage crown rot, remove all infected areas of the plant, including the roots, and dispose of them. Avoid overwatering the plant and ensure proper drainage to prevent future infections.
Pest Management for Blepharizonia plumosa
Blepharizonia plumosa is also susceptible to several pests that can cause damage to the plant. Here are some of the common pests to watch out for and tips on how to manage them:
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that appear as dots on the plant's leaves and can cause discoloration or yellowing. They suck sap from the plant, which can weaken it and make it susceptible to infections. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with water or insecticidal soap. You can also introduce natural predators like ladybugs to control their population.
Aphids
Aphids are another common pest that can cause damage to Blepharizonia plumosa. They are small, green insects that suck sap from the plant, causing distortion and yellowing. To manage aphids, prune infected areas and use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control their population. You can also introduce natural predators like lacewings or ladybugs to control their population.
By being vigilant and following these disease and pest management tips, you can help ensure the health and longevity of your Blepharizonia plumosa plant.
