Overview of Buxella brachycera (Michx.) Small
Buxella brachycera (Michx.) Small, commonly known as short-pedicled beechdrops, is a parasitic plant that can be found in the eastern and central parts of North America. It belongs to the Orobanchaceae family and can grow up to a height of 40 cm.
Appearance
Short-pedicled beechdrops are herbaceous plants with no chlorophyll and depend on the roots of beech trees for survival. The plant has a reddish-brown stem, which is densely covered with scales. The flowers are bell-shaped and grow in a raceme inflorescence with a length of 15-25 cm. The plant's triangular bracts are 2-4 cm long and have a sharp point at the edge, differentiating it from other parasitic plants such as striped coralroot.
Uses
Although there are no significant economic uses for Buxella brachycera, it has been used in traditional medicine by some Native American tribes to treat heart ailments, lung diseases, and skin infections. Its stems and leaves contain various chemical compounds like iridoids and phenylethanoid glycosides, which may be responsible for its medicinal properties. The plant is also a significant source of food for insects, particularly for bees and butterflies.
Cultural Significance
Several Native American tribes consider Buxella brachycera to have cultural importance as it grows in association with beech trees, which are believed to have strong spiritual properties. The beech tree is regarded as a symbol of knowledge, guidance, and unity and has been used in various tribal rituals and ceremonies.
In conclusion, Buxella brachycera is an interesting parasitic plant that plays a significant role in the ecosystem, providing food for insects and having cultural significance.Light Requirements
Buxella brachycera (Michx.) Small requires full sunlight in order to grow properly. It is not suitable for growing in areas that receive partial shade. It is recommended to place the plant in a location where it can receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives in warm conditions with an average daytime temperature ranging from 70°F - 85°F. It can survive in temperatures as low as 50°F, but growth may be stunted in such conditions. Buxella brachycera (Michx.) Small prefers warm weather and cannot tolerate frosty conditions.
Soil Requirements
Growing Buxella brachycera (Michx.) Small requires a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers soils that are slightly acidic with a pH range of 5.5 - 6.5. Additionally, the soil should be fertile, moist but not waterlogged, and light-textured, as good drainage is crucial to the plant's growth.
Cultivation
Buxella brachycera or Box Huckleberry typically grows best in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 7. It thrives in moist, acidic soil that is rich in organic matter and well-draining. Full sun to partial shade is optimal for its growth. It can be planted directly in the ground or in containers. A spacing of three to four feet is recommended when planting in the ground to allow the plants to spread.
Watering needs
Box Huckleberry requires moderate watering during the growing season. It's essential to note that the soil's moisture level should not reach waterlogging. Water the plants whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Saturate the soil until water runs out of the bottom of the container or until the soil is adequately moist.
Fertilization
Box Huckleberry doesn't require much fertilizing; however, it can benefit from an annual application of a slow-release fertilizer. Apply a balanced granular fertilizer with an analysis of 10-10-10 once in spring. Avoid over-fertilization, which can cause more harm than good.
Pruning
The Box Huckleberry is considered a low maintenance plant, requiring little to no pruning. However, pruning can be done to shape the plant or remove any dead or weakened stems and foliage. It is best to prune in late winter or early spring before new growth. It may also need pruning to maintain its shape or size, depending on your preference.
Propagation of Buxella brachycera
Buxella brachycera (Michx.) Small, commonly known as "short-spurred wood mint", is a native herbaceous perennial plant found in the eastern United States. It is known for its fragrant leaves and spikes of white to lavender flowers that bloom in the summer months. If you wish to propagate this plant, several methods can be used:
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating B. brachycera is through seed propagation. The seeds can be collected from flower spikes that have turned brown. It is crucial to ensure that the seeds are completely dry before planting. Once collected, the seeds can either be directly sowed into the ground or started indoors in seed trays. The recommended time for planting the seeds is in the fall or early spring for outdoor planting and six to eight weeks before the last frost for indoor planting.
Vegetative Propagation
Another method of propagating B. brachycera is through vegetative propagation. This method involves taking cuttings from the parent plant and rooting them to form a new plant. The best time for taking cuttings is in early summer when the plant is actively growing. Use sterilized pruning shears to take cuttings from the non-flowering stems that are approximately 3-4 inches long. Afterward, the cuttings can be planted into a pot with moist soil and covered with a plastic bag to ensure high humidity. This will prevent the cuttings from wilting until new roots form.
Division
Division is another method of propagating B. brachycera, which involves separating a clump of the parent plant into smaller sections. This method can be done in the spring or fall. The process involves digging the entire plant out of the ground and then using a sterile knife or spade to separate the root ball into new sections. Each new section should have its root system, and it's advised to remove any damaged or unhealthy portions of the parent plant before dividing to ensure the health of the new plants. The new sections can then be replanted in their desired location with well-draining soil and adequate sunlight.
Overall, B. brachycera is an easy-to-propagate plant that can be grown from seed, cuttings, or division of its parent plant. Select the propagation method that works best for you and follow the recommended guidelines to ensure a successful outcome.
Disease and Pest Management for Buxella brachycera (Michx.) Small
Buxella brachycera (Michx.) Small is a native plant in eastern North America. While it is generally a hardy species, it is still vulnerable to various diseases and pests that can cause damage to the plant. Here are some of the most common problems and ways to manage them:
Common Diseases
Canker - Canker is a fungal disease that causes sunken lesions to appear on the trunk and branches. This can eventually lead to the death of the plant. To manage canker, infected branches should be pruned and disposed of, and fungicides can be applied to prevent further spread of the disease.
Leaf spot - Leaf spot is caused by various fungi and bacteria and appears as small, dark spots on the leaves. In severe cases, the leaves may turn yellow and drop prematurely. To manage leaf spot, infected leaves should be removed and destroyed, and fungicides can be applied to prevent further spread.
Root rot - Root rot is a soil-borne disease that is caused by various fungi and bacteria. Symptoms include yellowing and wilting of the leaves, stunted growth, and eventual death of the plant. To manage root rot, affected plants should be removed and destroyed, and the soil should be treated with fungicides.
Common Pests
Aphids - Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To manage aphids, the use of insecticidal soap or neem oil can be effective.
Spider mites - Spider mites are tiny insects that feed on the leaves of the plant, causing yellowing and stippling. To manage spider mites, the use of insecticidal soap or neem oil can be effective, and ensuring adequate watering and humidity levels can prevent infestations.
Scale insects - Scale insects are small insects that appear as bumps on the leaves and stems. They feed on sap, causing the leaves to yellow and drop prematurely. To manage scale insects, the use of horticultural oils or insecticidal soaps can be effective, and removing infected branches can prevent further spread of the infestation.
By keeping an eye out for these common diseases and pests and taking appropriate steps for management, Buxella brachycera can thrive in your garden or landscape.
