Origin
Boykinia intermedia (Piper) G.N. Jones is a herbaceous flowering plant belonging to the Saxifrage family. It is native to western North America, particularly found in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States, including Alaska, British Columbia, Oregon, and Washington.
Common Names
Boykinia intermedia is commonly known as early boykinia, intermediate brookfoam, Intermediate bog star, or Piper's boykinia.
Uses
Boykinia intermedia is not known for any significant medicinal or dietary purposes. However, it is a popular ornamental plant and is used to enhance the aesthetic beauty of gardens and landscapes.
General Appearance
Boykinia intermedia typically grows up to 30 centimeters tall and spreads out up to 40 centimeters wide. The plant has smooth green leaves which grow to be about 2-3 centimeters long, oval-shaped, and have a serrated margin. It produces clusters of small pink or white flowers that bloom between May and July. The flowers have five petals and grow up to 6 millimeters in diameter. The plant requires moist soil and partial shade to thrive and produces a good ground cover.
Light Requirements
Boykinia intermedia prefers partial shade to full shade and should not be exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods. Direct sunlight can cause the plant to dry out quickly and reduce its overall growth.
Temperature Requirements
The average optimal temperature for the growth of Boykinia intermedia ranges from 12°C to 18°C. This plant is typically found growing in areas with a cool and moist climate. It can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9.
Soil Requirements
The soil for Boykinia intermedia should be loamy and slightly acidic, typically with a pH ranging from 5.0 to 6.5. The soil should be well-draining and rich in organic matter. This plant prefers consistently moist soil conditions, but not excessively wet or soggy soil.
Cultivation
Boykinia intermedia is an herbaceous perennial that grows well in cool, moist environments. It prefers partial to full shade and well-drained soil. You can either start the plant from seeds or purchase a young plant from a reputable plant nursery. Be sure to plant it as soon as possible if you choose to transplant it.
Watering Needs
It is crucial to keep the soil consistently moist but not saturated. You should water the plant regularly, especially during the hot and dry season. However, avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot, which can be harmful to the plant.
Fertilization
Boykinia intermedia does not require much fertilization. You can feed the plant a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring. Do not overfertilize as it can make the plant more susceptible to pest and disease problems.
Pruning
You should prune Boykinia intermedia in the early spring or after the plant has finished blooming. Remove any dead or damaged leaves to keep the plant healthy and encourage new growth. You can also trim back any overgrown or unruly stems to keep the plant in the desired shape and size.
Propagation of Boykinia intermedia
Boykinia intermedia is a native perennial herb that can be propagated in several ways.
Division
One of the easiest ways to propagate Boykinia intermedia is through division. This method involves separating the plant's rhizomes and replanting them in a different location. The best time to divide Boykinia intermedia is during spring or early fall when the plant is dormant.
Seeds
Boykinia intermedia can also be propagated from seeds. The seeds should be collected in late summer or early fall, when the plant has finished blooming. Once collected, the seeds can be sown directly into the soil in a well-draining location with plenty of sunlight. Boykinia intermedia seeds require stratification, which means they need a period of cold temperatures before they will germinate.
Cuttings
Boykinia intermedia can be propagated from stem cuttings taken from the parent plant. Cuttings should be taken during the plant's dormant period and should be around 4-6 inches in length. The cuttings should be rooted in a well-draining soil mixture that is kept moist until roots have formed.
Rhizomes
Similar to division, Boykinia intermedia can also be propagated by separating its rhizomes and replanting them. It is important to ensure that each new section has a portion of the rhizome and at least one shoot or bud. Rhizomes can be planted directly in the soil and should be kept moist until new growth appears.
Disease Management
Boykinia intermedia typically doesn't suffer from any significant diseases, but fungal and bacterial infections can affect the plant from time to time. The following are some common diseases that might affect the plant:
- Crown Rot: Crown rot is a fungal disease that causes the plant's base and roots to rot, leading to wilting and death. To control it, remove the infected plant and soil and avoid overwatering.
- Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease that leaves a white, powdery substance on the foliage. To control it, spray the plant with a fungicide (containing potassium bicarbonate) or neem oil.
- Bacterial Blight: Bacterial blight causes the leaves to develop black, water-soaked spots and wilt. To control it, remove infected leaves and avoid overhead watering.
Pest Management
Boykinia intermedia can attract typical garden pests and insects. The following are some common pests that can affect the plant and ways to manage them:
- Aphids: Aphids are a common pest that sucks the sap from the plant's leaves and stems, causing stunted and yellowing growth. To control them, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Slugs and Snails: Slugs and snails can eat away at the plant's leaves and damage the foliage. To control them, use baits containing iron phosphate or set beer traps.
- Spider Mites: Spider mites are a tiny insect that feeds on the plant's sap, causing yellow spots and distorted growth. To control them, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
