Plant Description:
Cakile lanceolata (Willd.) O.E. Schulz ssp. fusiformis (Greene) Rodman, also known as the American scurveygrass or sea rocket, is a perennial plant belonging to the Brassicaceae or mustard family. This salt-tolerant species grows along the sandy shores or coastal dunes.
General Appearance:
The American scurveygrass grows up to 8 to 16 inches tall, forming an erect stem with spreading branches. The leaves are oblong or lanceolate, hairless, fleshy, and have toothed margins. The plant blooms from May to October, producing tiny, four-petaled white or pinkish flowers in clusters at the tips of the branches. The fruit is a distinctive, long, narrow, spindle-shaped silique containing two rows of seeds.
Origin:
The American scurveygrass is native to the coasts of North America, from Newfoundland to Florida, and westward to Texas and California. It thrives in the saline spray zone, where it can withstand strong winds, saltwater, and shifting sands. It can also grow in disturbed areas, such as roadsides, parking lots, and abandoned fields.
Uses:
Cakile lanceolata ssp. fusiformis has several uses, including erosion control, dune stabilization, and habitat restoration. Its extensive root system can bind the soil and prevent erosion caused by storms or human activities. Its vegetation can also provide shelter to birds, mammals, and insects. In addition, the plant has been traditionally used as a medicinal herb by indigenous people to treat scurvy, which is caused by vitamin C deficiency. Nevertheless, the plant should not be consumed in large quantities as it contains toxic compounds and can cause gastrointestinal distress in humans and livestock.
Light Requirements
Cakile lanceolata ssp. fusiformis thrives in full sun exposure. It is well-adapted to the drier portions of beaches and sand dunes where it is exposed to direct sunlight. It requires at least 6 hours of sunlight per day for adequate growth and development. Insufficient light can lead to stunted growth, reduced flowering, and increased susceptibility to diseases.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is tolerant of a wide range of temperatures. It can survive in hot, dry conditions as well as cooler, damp environments. However, it prefers warm conditions with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C. In colder regions, the plant goes dormant to withstand the harsh winter conditions. Extreme temperature fluctuations can stress the plant and lead to reduced growth and development.
Soil Requirements
Cakile lanceolata ssp. fusiformis prefers sand-rich coastal soils that are well-drained. The plants can adapt to a range of soil pH from acidic to slightly alkaline, between 5.0 and 8.5. The plant has a shallow root system that can extend up to 50 cm deep but primarily spreads horizontally up to 2 meters. Soil that is too compact or waterlogged can lead to root rot and inhibit plant growth. The plant is adapted to harsh conditions, making it an ideal candidate for erosion control projects on sandy soils.
Cultivation Methods
Cakile lanceolata (Willd.) O.E. Schulz ssp. fusiformis (Greene) Rodman, commonly known as southern searocket, requires a bright and sunny environment to grow healthily. This plant species grows best in sandy and well-drained soil conditions. Therefore, it is crucial to plant them in an area with good air circulation and proper drainage to prevent waterlogging. One should use a soil mix that contains sand, gravel, and peat moss for a perfect growing medium for Cakile lanceolata.
Watering Needs
Cakile lanceolata requires a moderate amount of water to grow successfully. Overwatering can harm the plant and lead to root rot. One should water the plant once a week, depending on the weather conditions and the humidity level of the soil. The plants should receive a significant amount of water during the growth period. However, one should avoid watering the plant heavily during winter to prevent waterlogging in the soil.
Fertilization
Cakile lanceolata requires regular fertilization to ensure healthy growth. One should use a balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus to provide essential nutrients to the plant. Fertilization should be conducted in the early growing season until the blooming stage of the plant. Over-fertilization can damage the plant and cause yellowing of the leaves. One should also avoid using fertilizers that contain a high level of chlorine.
Pruning
Pruning is a crucial aspect of Cakile lanceolata's care routine. It helps to maintain the plant's shape while promoting healthy growth and preventing the plant from getting leggy. One should prune the plant's spent flowers regularly to encourage new growth and blooms. The best time to prune Cakile lanceolata is at the end of the blooming period or during the dormant season. One can also trim off any damaged or dead leaves to keep the plant healthy and beautiful.
Propagation of Cakile lanceolata (Willd.) O.E. Schulz ssp. fusiformis (Greene) Rodman
Cakile lanceolata (Willd.) O.E. Schulz ssp. fusiformis (Greene) Rodman is a robust herbaceous plant that is native to North America and is commonly found in coastal areas. The plant has a high tolerance for salt, making it an appropriate species for growing in shoreline gardens. It is easy to propagate through its seeds and cuttings.
Propagation via Seeds
The plant produces elongated fruits that contain small black seeds. The seeds can be harvested from the plant when the pods start to dry out. It is best to remove the pods gently to prevent the seeds from falling out and scatter. The seeds can then be cleaned by removing any debris and then storing them in a dry, cool place until ready to plant.
If direct sowing, plant the seeds in early spring in well-draining soil at a depth of 1/4 inch and keep the soil consistently moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes about 7-10 days. If starting indoors, sow the seeds in pots with well-draining soil and a temperature of 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit. Transplant outside after the last frost.
Propagation via Cuttings
Cakile lanceolata can also be propagated via cuttings, which is a quick and easy way to grow new plants. Take cuttings approximately four inches in length and remove the leaves from the lower half of the stem. Using a rooting hormone, dip the cut end into the powder and then plant the cutting in well-draining soil. Keep the soil consistently moist and the plant in a well-lit area but out of direct sunlight until new growth appears, which usually takes about 2-3 weeks.
Overall, Cakile lanceolata is a hardy plant that is easy to propagate through seed or cuttings, making it an excellent choice for those looking to add a beautiful and salt-tolerant species to their gardens.
Disease Management
Cakile lanceolata (Willd.) O.E. Schulz ssp. fusiformis (Greene) Rodman is a hardy plant that is relatively resistant to diseases. However, there are a few diseases that may affect the plant, such as:
- Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that appears as small, yellowish-orange spots on the leaves. In severe cases, the disease can cause defoliation. To manage rust, remove and destroy all infected plant parts, and apply a fungicide to the plant.
- Root Rot: Root rot is caused by a fungus that attacks the roots of the plant, causing them to become mushy and brown. To prevent root rot, avoid overwatering the plant and ensure that the soil has good drainage. If root rot does occur, remove the diseased plant and treat the soil with a fungicide.
Pest Management
Cakile lanceolata (Willd.) O.E. Schulz ssp. fusiformis (Greene) Rodman is also relatively resistant to pests. However, there are a few pests that may affect the plant, such as:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the plant, causing the plant to wilt and distort. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to knock them off, or apply an insecticidal soap or oil.
- Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the sap of the plant, causing discoloration and damage to the leaves. To manage spider mites, apply a miticide to the plant, and ensure that the plant is well-watered and not under stress.
