Origin and Common Names
Buchnera lastii Engl. subsp. lastii is a plant species belonging to the family Orobanchaceae. Its natural distribution is in the Alps, in France, Switzerland, and Italy. The plant is commonly known as Last's Buchnera or Alpine Buchnera.
Appearance
The Alpine Buchnera is a small plant, growing to a height of about 8-15 centimeters. The plant has hairy, oval-shaped, and opposite leaves that grow up to 8 millimeters long and 4 millimeters wide. Its flowers are salver-shaped, bell-shaped, or tubular, growing up to 10 millimeters in length. They are a pale blue, lavender, or violet color with white spots and grow in racemes at the tips of the stems.
Uses
Buchnera lastii Engl. subsp. lastii is not commonly used for medicinal or culinary purposes, but it is grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and rockeries. The alpine species adapts well to well-drained soils and sunny locations. The plant is also known to attract beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies to the garden owing to its colorful flowers.
Growth Conditions for Buchnera lastii Engl. subsp. lastii
Buchnera lastii Engl. subsp. lastii is a shrub commonly found in the scrublands and rocky areas of the Mediterranean basin. To ensure optimal growth and development, the plant requires specific growth conditions including light, temperature, and soil requirements.
Light
This plant requires full sunlight exposure to grow and thrive so it is important to plant it in a location where it will receive 6-8 hours of sunlight each day. Lack of adequate sunlight can lead to leaf discoloration and poor growth of the plant.
Temperature
Buchnera lastii is a hardy plant that can survive in various temperatures, but it grows best in warm to hot climates with temperatures ranging from 65°F to 85°F. The plant can tolerate drought but must have adequate water supply to perform optimally.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-draining sandy soil with a pH ranging from 6-7.5. The soil for the plant should be fertile and rich in organic matter. After planting, it is important to water the plant to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Overwatering and waterlogging of the soil can stunt the growth of the plant.
With proper care and attention to growth conditions, Buchnera lastii Engl. subsp. lastii can be a vibrant and healthy addition to any garden or landscape.
Cultivation Methods for Buchnera lastii Engl. subsp. lastii
Buchnera lastii Engl. subsp. lastii is a hardy plant that can adapt to different conditions and soil types. It grows best in well-drained soils, under full sun to partial shade. The plant requires a warm and humid climate to thrive.
Propagation by seeds and cuttings is possible. If you opt for planting from seeds, sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix. Cover the seeds with a light layer of soil and keep the soil lightly moist. The seeds should germinate within two weeks. Once the seedlings are large enough, transplant them into larger containers or to the outdoors.
Watering Needs for Buchnera lastii Engl. subsp. lastii
Buchnera lastii Engl. subsp. lastii requires moderate watering. Overwatering the plant can result in plant death due to rot. The best approach is to water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch. Watering once or twice a week, depending on the climate, is adequate. The plant's water requirement decreases during the winter season.
Fertilization for Buchnera lastii Engl. subsp. lastii
Buchnera lastii Engl. subsp. lastii does not require frequent fertilization. Over-fertilizing the plant can do more harm than good. Fertilize the plant once a month, preferably during the growing season, using a balanced fertilizer. A light dressing of compost can also benefit the plant's growth and development.
Pruning Buchnera lastii Engl. subsp. lastii
Buchnera lastii Engl. subsp. lastii does not require frequent pruning. However, regular pruning of the plant can help maintain its shape and size and promote bushier growth. Pruning the plant becomes necessary if it is overgrown or becomes leggy. Use clean and sterilized pruning shears to cut off the dead, old, or diseased leaves and branches. Prune the plant during the spring or fall seasons.
Propagation of Buchnera lastii Engl. subsp. lastii
The plant Buchnera lastii Engl. subsp. lastii, commonly known as Buchnera, can be propagated through various methods. Here are some of the most common propagation techniques:
Seeds
Buchnera lastii produces seeds that can be used to propagate the plant. The seeds can be sown in a pot or directly in the ground in spring or fall. Before sowing, the seeds should be stratified for 2-4 weeks in the refrigerator to improve germination rates. Once sown, the seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil and watered regularly until they germinate.
Cuttings
Buchnera lastii can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Take cuttings from a healthy, mature plant in the summer when the plant is actively growing. Cuttings should be around 4-6 inches long and taken from the top of the plant. Remove the bottom leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Place the cutting in a pot filled with a mixture of sand and peat moss and keep it moist. Roots should develop in about 3-4 weeks, at which point the cutting can be potted up or planted directly in the ground.
Division
Buchnera lastii can also be propagated through division. This method works best for older plants that have become large and crowded. Dig up the plant and gently separate the clumps into smaller sections, making sure each section has roots and foliage. Replant the sections in a suitable location and keep them well-watered until they establish.
Disease Management
Buchnera lastii Engl. subsp. lastii may be susceptible to foliar diseases such as leaf spot, powdery mildew, and rust. These diseases can cause leaf drop, stunted growth, and even death of the plant. To manage foliar diseases, it is important to maintain good sanitation practices and to avoid overhead watering which can promote the spread of fungal spores. Additionally, applying fungicides may be necessary to prevent and control the diseases.
Root rot caused by fungal infection is another common disease that affects Buchnera lastii Engl. subsp. lastii. This disease can cause the foliage to wilt and eventually lead to plant death. To prevent root rot, it is important to ensure proper drainage, avoid overwatering, and use well-draining soil. Additionally, using fungicides may help to control the disease.
Pest Management
Aphids are common pests for Buchnera lastii Engl. subsp. lastii and can cause significant damage by feeding on the plant's sap. To manage aphids, it is important to monitor the plant regularly and remove any infested plant parts. Additionally, introducing natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings can help to control aphid populations.
Spider mites are another pest that may affect Buchnera lastii Engl. subsp. lastii. These small pests can cause discoloration and damage to the leaves. To manage spider mites, it is important to the plant's foliage regularly. Additionally, introducing natural predators such as predatory mites or using insecticidal soaps may help control the pest population.
Finally, mealybugs are another common pest that may affect the plant. These pests can cause stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and even death. To manage mealybugs, it is important to remove any infested plant parts and to introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or parasitic wasps. Additionally, using insecticidal soaps or neem oil may help to control the pest population.
