Overview:
Brickellia microphylla (Nutt.) Gray var. scabra Gray, commonly known as Little-leaved Brickellbush, is a species of flowering shrub that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is native to North America and can be found in various habitats like dry slopes, chaparral, and coniferous forests. It is a drought-resistant plant and can grow up to 3 feet tall and 4 feet wide.
Description:
The Little-leaved Brickellbush has small, alternate, and hairy leaves that are about 1/4 inch long. The branches of the shrub are slender and stiff, and they grow upright in an open pattern. The flowers are clustered in heads that are approximately 1/8 inch wide and have eight or more white or pinkish disk flowers. The shrub blooms from July to September.
Common Names:
Brickellia microphylla is commonly known as Little-leaved Brickellbush, Small-leaved Brickellia, Scabrous Brickellbush, and Little-leaved Brickellia.
Uses:
Little-leaved Brickellbush is often used for revegetation projects because it tolerates poor soils and drought conditions. The plant also provides a valuable source of nectar and pollen to pollinators such as butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds. Native American tribes like the Navajo and Hopi used the plant for medicinal purposes like treating cough, sore throat, and stomach problems. Some communities also use its roots for making tea to ease menstrual cramps in women.
Light Requirements
Brickellia microphylla (Nutt.) Gray var. scabra Gray is a sun-loving plant that requires direct sunlight to thrive. This plant needs at least six hours of direct sunlight daily, making it suitable for planting in full sun conditions.
Temperature Requirements
This plant thrives in warm temperatures, and it's native to regions with hot summers. It prefers temperatures between 70-85°F. Cold temperatures may result in frost damage and may negatively impact growth and development. Therefore, this plant is best grown in regions with mild winters to ensure optimal growth.
Soil Requirements
Brickellia microphylla (Nutt.) Gray var. scabra Gray grows best in well-draining soils that have moderate fertility. The soil pH should range between 6.0-7.0, and the soil should be able to hold moisture without becoming waterlogged. This plant can grow in a variety of soils, such as rocky soils, gravelly soils, and clay soils.
Cultivation
Brickellia microphylla (Nutt.) Gray var. scabra Gray can be grown in both containers and in the ground. The plant thrives best in well-drained soil, with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5.
If planting in a container, ensure you use a good quality potting mix and a container with drainage holes. For planting in the ground, loosen the soil to improve drainage and mix in compost to improve soil quality.
Brickellia microphylla (Nutt.) Gray var. scabra Gray thrives in full sun to partial shade and is drought-tolerant once established.
Watering Needs
For proper growth and development, Brickellia microphylla (Nutt.) Gray var. scabra Gray requires adequate watering. Water the plant regularly in the first year of planting to ensure deep rooting.
After the plant has established itself, it is necessary to water once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions. During dry or hot periods, water more frequently to boost plant growth.
Fertilization
Brickellia microphylla (Nutt.) Gray var. scabra Gray requires nutrient-rich soil for proper growth and development. Apply a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 when planting and repeat once a month during the growing season.
Avoid over-fertilizing, as it could lead to excessive growth, making the plant weak and susceptible to pests and diseases.
Pruning
Pruning Brickellia microphylla (Nutt.) Gray var. scabra Gray improves the plant's appearance, maintains its shape, and promotes healthy growth. Prune in late winter or early spring, before the new growth appears.
Trim back the plant to promote branching, encourage new growth and remove old and dead growth. Alternatively, with regular dead-heading, remove faded flowers to prolong blooming and maintain the plant's health.
Propagation of Brickellia microphylla (Nutt.) Gray var. scabra Gray
Brickellia microphylla (Nutt.) Gray var. scabra Gray can be propagated through seeds and cuttings. Here are the details of each propagation method:
Propagation by Seeds
The seeds of Brickellia microphylla (Nutt.) Gray var. scabra Gray can be collected when the plant has finished flowering and the seed heads have turned brown. The seeds should be stored in a cool and dry place until planting time. They can be sown in pots or directly in the ground. The ideal time to sow the seeds is in spring, after the last frost has passed. Before sowing, the soil should be prepared by adding compost or other organic matter. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 1/8 inch and watered well. They will germinate in 1-2 weeks.
Propagation by Cuttings
Cuttings of Brickellia microphylla (Nutt.) Gray var. scabra Gray can be taken from young, green shoots. The cuttings should be about 4-6 inches long and include a few leaves. They should be taken in spring or summer and planted in well-draining soil that has been amended with compost. The lower two-thirds of the cutting should be buried in the soil and watered well. The cuttings should be kept in a shaded area until they have rooted, which usually takes 4-6 weeks. Once they have rooted, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Disease and Pest Management for Brickellia Microphylla
Brickellia Microphylla (Nutt.) Gray var. Scabra Gray is a hardy plant but, like any other plant, it may still encounter disease and pest problems.
Common Diseases
One common disease that may affect Brickellia Microphylla is powdery mildew. This is a fungal disease that appears as a greyish-white film on the leaves. To manage powdery mildew, remove affected leaves as soon as they appear and apply a fungicide. Ensure to keep the plant dry by not over-watering or watering from above.
Another disease that Brickellia Microphylla may encounter is root rot. This occurs due to over-watering or water-logged soil. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-drained and that the plant is not over-watered.
Common Pests
Brickellia Microphylla may encounter pests such as aphids and spider mites. Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the plant, causing it to wilt and yellow. To manage aphids, reduce their numbers by hosing them off the plant with a strong jet of water. You can also use insecticidal soap.
Spider mites are small mites that weave webs on the leaves of the plant. They cause damage by piercing the leaves and sucking out the sap. You can manage spider mites by ensuring that the plant is well-hydrated and by using insecticidal soap.
Brickellia Microphylla may also encounter caterpillars that feed on the leaves. Remove them by hand as soon as you spot them or use a suitable pesticide.
It is recommended to regularly inspect Brickellia Microphylla for any signs of disease or pests. Early detection and management can help prevent the spread of disease and serious pest infestations.
