Origin
Bryaspis humularioides Gledhill subsp. falcistipulata Gledhill, also known as the Hairy leaf-cup, is a rare and unusual plant species that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is endemic to the United States and originates specifically from the states of Georgia and Tennessee, where it thrives in the cool and moist environments of high-elevation forests and seeps.
Common Names
Aside from the Hairy leaf-cup, Bryaspis humularioides Gledhill subsp. falcistipulata Gledhill is also referred to by its other common name, the Falcate-stalked leaf-cup. Whether under its scientific or common names, this plant has caught the attention of many plant collectors, enthusiasts, and researchers due to its unique appearance and potential medicinal properties.
Uses
Although there is only little information known about the medicinal uses of Bryaspis humularioides Gledhill subsp. falcistipulata Gledhill, its close relative, the Bryaspis humulus (commonly known as Indian leafcup), has been used in traditional medicine to treat various conditions such as coughs, colds, and indigestion. As such, it is believed that this subspecies of Hairy leaf-cup may have similar medicinal properties as well.
Aside from its potential medicinal properties, Bryaspis humularioides Gledhill subsp. falcistipulata Gledhill has also gained attention as a rare and unique ornamental plant that can be grown in gardens, landscaping, and containers. Its attractive foliage, consisting of prominently veined, toothed, and hairy leaves, can add texture and interest to any garden setting.
General Appearance
Bryaspis humularioides Gledhill subsp. falcistipulata Gledhill is a herbaceous perennial plant that grows up to 1-2 feet tall and wide. It has a rosette-like growth habit, where the leaves radiate near the base of the plant. Its leaves are long-stalked, lance-shaped, and have a grayish-green coloration that is covered in dense, soft hairs. It produces small, yellow flowers that bloom in late spring or early summer and exhibit a daisy-like appearance. The leaves contain glands that release a sticky, sweet sap when damaged.
Light Requirements
Bryaspis humularioides Gledhill subsp. falcistipulata Gledhill prefers partial shade to full sun. It does well in bright but indirect light or under dappled shade.
Temperature Requirements
This plant grows best in warm temperatures, between 18°C (64°F) and 27°C (81°F). It can tolerate lower temperatures for short periods, but prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can damage the plant.
Soil Requirements
Bryaspis humularioides Gledhill subsp. falcistipulata Gledhill thrives in well-draining, acidic soils. It prefers soils rich in organic matter, with a pH between 4.5 and 6.5. The soil should also be moist but not waterlogged. Adding in peat moss or sand can help improve soil drainage for this plant.
Cultivation Methods
Bryaspis humularioides Gledhill subsp. falcistipulata Gledhill is a beautiful plant that needs some attention to grow well. It is optimal to grow this plant in well-drained soil that is high in organic matter. The plant should be positioned in a location with full sun exposure. When planting Bryaspis humularioides Gledhill subsp. falcistipulata Gledhill, make sure to space each plant about 6 to 8 inches apart.
Watering Needs
Bryaspis humularioides Gledhill subsp. falcistipulata Gledhill requires moderate watering. The soil should be kept slightly moist, but not too wet. Overwatering will result in root rot and can cause death to the plant. On the contrary, underwatering can cause wilting and eventual plant death. Hence, it is recommended to water the plant once a week during the growing season and less frequently during the dormant period.
Fertilization
Bryaspis humularioides Gledhill subsp. falcistipulata Gledhill benefits from regular fertilization. Use a slow-release fertilizer formulated for flowering plants. Fertilize the plant every four weeks during the growing season. Over-fertilization, however, can lead to salt build-up in the soil and cause damage to the plant. Hence it is recommended to use the recommended amount of fertilizer only.
Pruning
Bryaspis humularioides Gledhill subsp. falcistipulata Gledhill does not require much pruning. Prune the plant annually to remove any dead or damaged branches. Pruning can also be done to control the size of the plant. To promote bushier growth, pinch back the tips of the stems regularly. Be careful not to over-prune or remove too much growth as it may negatively affect the plant's health.
Propagation of Bryaspis humularioides Gledhill subsp. falcistipulata Gledhill
Bryaspis humularioides Gledhill subsp. falcistipulata Gledhill can be propagated through various methods, including division, cuttings, and seeds.
Division
Division involves separating the plant's root mass into smaller sections and replanting them. This method is best performed in the early spring or fall, and it is suitable for mature plants that have been growing for several years. Care should be taken not to damage the roots during the process, and each section should have a viable growing shoot.
Cuttings
Softwood cuttings taken from the new growth of the plant can be used to propagate Bryaspis humularioides Gledhill subsp. falcistipulata Gledhill. Cuttings should be taken in the spring or late summer, and they should be treated with rooting hormone before being planted. The cuttings should be kept in a humid environment until they have developed roots and can be transplanted.
Seeds
Seeds can be used to propagate Bryaspis humularioides Gledhill subsp. falcistipulata Gledhill, but they can be difficult to obtain due to the plant's relatively rare status. The seeds should be sown in the fall, and they require a period of cold stratification before germination. The young plants should be kept in a protected environment until they are large enough to be transplanted.
Disease Management
The Bryaspis humularioides Gledhill subsp. falcistipulata Gledhill is susceptible to a few pathogenic diseases that can affect the growth and productivity of the plant. The following are some of the common diseases that might affect the plant:
- Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that causes the leaves to develop small, circular water-soaked lesions. The lesions will grow larger, spindle-shaped, and darken to brown or black over time. The infected leaves will start to wither and fall off. To manage this disease, remove all the infected leaves and dispose of them properly. Keep the plant dry and apply a copper-based fungicide to prevent further infection.
- Root rot: This is a disease caused by soil-borne fungi that thrive in waterlogged soils. The infected plant will show signs of wilting and yellowing of leaves. The roots will appear black, slimy and will start to rot. To manage this disease, remove the infected plant and avoid over-watering the new ones. Ensure proper drainage, use sterilized soil mix and apply a fungicide to control the spread of root rot.
Pest Management
The Bryaspis humularioides Gledhill subsp. falcistipulata Gledhill is also susceptible to some pest infestations that can affect the plant's growth and yield. The following are some of the common pests that might affect the plant:
- Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the new growth and leaves of the plant. The infected plant will show signs of wilting, stunted growth, and yellowing of leaves. To manage this pest, spray a mixture of water and mild soap solution on the affected plant frequently, or use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.
- Spider mites: These are tiny pests that feed on the leaves of the plant, causing them to appear mottled. The infected plant will start to have a dusty appearance due to the webbing produced by spider mites. To manage this pest, keep the plant well-hydrated and increase the humidity around it. Prune and remove the heavily-infected leaves and apply miticides or insecticidal soaps to control the spread of spider mites.
