Origin and Common Names
Boisduvalia glabella (Nutt.) Walp. var. campestris (Jepson) Jepson, commonly known as field boisduvalia, is a species of flowering plant in the violin family (Violaceae). It is native to California, specifically the western parts of the United States. The plant is named after French entomologist Jean Baptiste Boisduval.
General Appearance
The Field Boisduvalia is a low-growing perennial herb that typically grows up to 2-8 cm tall and spreads up to 10-30 cm wide. The plant generally has a fine, soft texture with a mat-forming habit. The leaves are evergreen, small, and elongated. They are typically bluish-green in color and have a waxy shiny appearance. The stems are delicate and thin, and the flowers can range in color from pale lavender-blue to violet. The flowers bloom in the spring and summer and are about 1 cm wide. The plant has small dark fruits that split open when ripe.
Uses
The field Boisduvalia is not typically used for medicinal or culinary purposes. However, as an ornamental plant, it is excellent for use in rock gardens, container gardens, or as ground cover in the landscape. It is also a favorite among gardeners due to its low maintenance requirements and ability to grow in different soil textures. As the plant is well adapted to dry conditions, it is also an excellent plant for water-wise gardening.
Growth Conditions for Boisduvalia glabella (Nutt.) Walp. var. campestris (Jepson) Jepson
Light: Boisduvalia glabella var. campestris requires full sun or partial shade for optimal growth. While it can withstand some shade, too much shade can lead to decreased growth and flowering.
Temperature: This plant is native to the western United States and prefers temperate climates. It can withstand moderate heat but prefers cooler temperatures ranging from 50-75°F. Frost can damage the foliage, so protecting the plant in frost-prone areas is recommended.
Soil: Boisduvalia glabella var. campestris prefers well-draining soils and can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay and sandy soils. However, it grows best in soils with a neutral to slightly acidic pH between 6.0-7.2. The addition of organic matter can improve soil fertility and structure, leading to better growth and flowering.
Water: This plant has moderate water needs and prefers consistent moisture, but can also tolerate short periods of drought. It is important not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. In general, watering once a week is sufficient, but this can vary based on local climate and soil conditions.
Fertilizer: Boisduvalia glabella var. campestris does not require regular fertilization, but the addition of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote growth and flowering. It is important not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowering.
Cultivation methods
Boisduvalia glabella (Nutt.) Walp. var. campestris (Jepson) Jepson is a drought-tolerant plant which makes it perfect for cultivation in dry regions. The plant prefers well-drained soil and ample sunlight. It can be grown in containers or beds and is ideal for xeriscapes, rock gardens and border gardens.
Watering needs
Boisduvalia glabella (Nutt.) Walp. var. campestris (Jepson) Jepson requires very little water once established, about once a week. It is essential not to overwater the plant, as too much water can lead to root rot. To check moisture levels, poke your finger into the soil up to the knuckle. If it is dry, water the plant. If it is still moist, check again in a few days.
Fertilization
Boisduvalia glabella (Nutt.) Walp. var. campestris (Jepson) Jepson is not a heavy feeder. Too much fertilization can lead to excessive foliage growth, which can make the plant vulnerable to pests and disease. It is recommended to fertilize the plant once every six months, either with an all-purpose slow-release fertilizer or a well-balanced liquid fertilizer.
Pruning
Boisduvalia glabella (Nutt.) Walp. var. campestris (Jepson) Jeps on does not require pruning, but it is always a good idea to remove dead or diseased foliage. Prune back any stems which may have grown out of bounds. Regular trimming promotes bushiness and encourages new growth. The best time to prune is after flowering, allowing the plant to focus its energy on new growth.
Propagation of Boisduvalia glabella (Nutt.) Walp. var. campestris (Jepson) Jepson
Boisduvalia glabella (Nutt.) Walp. var. campestris (Jepson) Jepson, commonly known as the wild pansy, is a herbaceous perennial plant. This plant typically grows in sandy or rocky soils in the western parts of North America. The easiest and most effective way to propagate the wild pansy is by seed, but it can also be propagated through division.
Propagation by Seed
The wild pansy produces small, oblong, dark-colored seeds that can be collected in the fall or early spring. Sowing the seeds in the early spring will give them a good amount of time to germinate and establish roots before the hot summer temperatures hit. When sowing, avoid burying the seeds too deeply as they need light to germinate. It is recommended to scatter the seeds on the soil surface and then lightly press them into the soil.
The germination process can take anywhere from 10 days to two months. Once the seedlings have developed their second set of true leaves, they can be transplanted into their permanent location. It is best to plant them in well-draining soil and in an area that receives partial shade, especially during hot summer days.
Propagation by Division
Wild pansies can also be propagated through division. This method is best done in the fall or early spring when the plant is not blooming. Dig up the entire plant and gently separate the roots into clumps. Each clump should have a few healthy stems and a good root system. Replant the clumps in well-draining soil and water thoroughly.
Division should not be done too often as wild pansies prefer not to be disturbed. It's recommended to wait at least two years between each division to allow the plant to fully recover.
Disease Management
Boisduvalia glabella (Nutt.) Walp. var. campestris (Jepson) Jepson can be affected by various diseases, including:
- Leaf spot: This is caused by fungi and can lead to small, circular, brown or black spots on the leaves.
- Powdery mildew: This is a fungal infection that leads to a white or gray powdery growth on the leaves.
- Rust: Rust is caused by a fungus which mainly affects the plants in the spring season. It causes yellow or orange spots on the leaves and can lead to leaf defoliation.
To manage these diseases, it is important to practice good sanitation, such as removing and destroying infected leaves and debris. Fungicides are also commonly used to prevent the spread of diseases. It is important to follow the instructions on the label and apply them at the recommended intervals. In addition, maintaining good plant health through proper watering, nutrition, and pruning can help prevent many diseases from occurring.
Pest Management
Common pests that may affect Boisduvalia glabella (Nutt.) Walp. var. campestris (Jepson) Jepson include:
- Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant and can cause yellowing of leaves and stunted growth.
- Spider mites: These are tiny, difficult-to-see mites that spin webs and suck the sap from leaves. They can cause leaf discoloration, wilting, and dropping.
- Thrips: Thrips are tiny insects that feed on the sap of the plant and can cause silvering of leaves and deformed growth. .
To manage pest infestations, it is important to monitor plants regularly for signs of damage and to identify the pest properly to apply the correct treatment. Natural predators such as ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps can be used to control pest populations. Insecticidal soaps and oils can also be used to control some pests. When using pesticides, follow the recommended rates and application procedures to prevent damage to the plant and the environment.
