Overview
Calandrinia maritima Nutt. is a perennial and succulent plant belonging to the family Portulacaceae. The plant is native to the coastal regions of California, Oregon, and Baja California in Mexico. It is commonly known as Red Maids, Sea Purslane, and Rock Purslane. Calandrinia maritima Nutt. has been reintroduced in several regions due to its ornamental value and as a soil conservation plant as it binds soil.
Appearance
The plant has a basal rosette of fleshy leaves with multiple stems that can reach up to a height of 30 cm, spreading to form clumps up to 1 m or more in diameter. The leaves are long, narrow, succulent, and slightly curved upwards. The plant is evergreen, and the leaves retain their bright green color throughout the year. The flowers are pink, star-shaped, and have five petals that are up to 1.5 cm in diameter. The plant blooms from early spring to summer, and the flowers remain open all day, closing at night or when the temperature drops. Reflowering may occur in autumn.
Uses
Calandrinia maritima Nutt. is widely used as an ornamental plant in rock gardens, borders, and containers. It adds an attractive and colorful accent to any landscape, with its bright pink flowers contrasting the green foliage. As a soil conservation plant, Calandrinia maritima Nutt. has extensive root systems that can help reduce soil erosion and improve soil quality. It is also a nectar source for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
The plant has been used as a food source by Native Americans in some regions. The leaves and young stems are edible and have a slightly salty taste. However, the plant should not be consumed in large quantities as it contains oxalic acid, which can be harmful.
Calandrinia maritima Nutt. is a drought-tolerant plant that requires little maintenance once established. It can thrive in sandy or rocky soil and prefers full sun exposure, making it an ideal plant for coastal gardens or areas with a Mediterranean climate.
Growth Conditions of Calandrinia maritima Nutt.
Calandrinia maritima Nutt., also known as seashore pussley, is a low-growing perennial plant that typically grows in sandy or salty soils near coastlines. In order to grow this plant successfully, specific growing conditions must be provided.
Light Requirements:
Calandrinia maritima Nutt. prefers full sun, which means at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Without adequate light, the plant may struggle to produce blooms or grow into a healthy form.
Temperature Requirements:
This plant requires warm temperatures ranging from 60 to 85°F (15.5 to 29.4°C) to flourish. It is not winter hardy and cannot survive in temperatures below 30°F (-1°C).
Soil Requirements:
The ideal soil pH for Calandrinia maritima Nutt. is 6.0 to 7.0. It needs well-draining soil that is sandy or loamy with average fertility. It can also tolerate soils with high salt content. Soil should be damp but not saturated and should be free of weeds and other competing plants.
Overall, to grow Calandrinia maritima Nutt., one should focus on providing enough light, warmth, and appropriate soil type. With the right growing conditions, this plant can serve as a beautiful addition to your garden or landscape.
Cultivation
Calandrinia maritima Nutt., also known as rock purslane or sea purslane, is a drought-tolerant plant that is best grown in full sun but can tolerate some partial shade. It grows well in sandy, well-draining soil and is frequently used in rock gardens due to its ability to thrive in rocky soil.
You can start the plant from seed indoors, six to eight weeks before the last frost date, and transplant it outside when the weather warms up. Alternatively, you can directly sow the seeds into your garden bed when the soil temperature has reached at least 55°F (13°C), and there is no risk of frost.
Watering Needs
Calandrinia maritima Nutt. prefers dry to medium soil moisture and is very drought-tolerant. It is crucial not to overwater this plant, as it can cause root rot or disease. When newly planted, it may require regular watering until established, but once established, you can water it sparingly as needed.
Fertilization
Calandrinia maritima Nutt. does not require regular fertilization, and in fact, too much fertilizer can lead to excessive foliage production and reduced bloom. If desired, you can add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil before planting or side dress with compost in the spring.
Pruning
Calandrinia maritima Nutt. does not require frequent pruning, but you can pinch or deadhead the blooms to promote new growth and maintain its shape. After the first bloom, the plant may stop flowering, but if pruned back, it will produce new growth and flowers. If trimming is done in the late summer, it may promote a fall bloom.
Propagation of Calandrinia maritima Nutt.
Calandrinia maritima Nutt., commonly known as Seashore Calandrinia, is a popular succulent plant among gardeners. The plant is native to California and can be propagated through several methods including:
Seed propagation
The propagation of Calandrinia maritima Nutt. starts with collecting mature seed pods from the plant. Once collected, the seeds should be soaked overnight in water before planting them in a well-draining potting mix. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil and kept moist until germination, which usually takes 2-4 weeks. Seed propagation is the easiest method but may take a bit longer for the plant to mature than other methods.
Stem cuttings propagation
Stem cuttings can be taken from the plant during the growing season. To propagate through stem cuttings, the gardener should select a healthy stem, cut it at a 45-degree angle at least 4 inches from the tip, then prepare a well-draining potting mix. The cut end of the stem should be allowed to callous over for a few days before planting in soil. The stem cutting should be watered immediately after planting and kept in a warm location with indirect sunlight. Rooting usually occurs in a few weeks, and the new plant should be kept moist until it is well established.
Division propagation
Calandrinia maritima Nutt. can also be propagated through division. The gardener should start by lifting the plant from the soil and carefully dividing the plant into smaller sections. Each section should be repotted in a well-draining potting mix, watered, and kept in a warm, indirect sunlight area until well established.
Propagation of Seashore Calandrinia can be done using seeds, stem cuttings, and division. With proper care and attention, these methods can help the gardener obtain new plants that are healthy and vibrant to add to their garden or collection.
Disease Management
Calandrinia maritima Nutt. is susceptible to several diseases, including:
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Plants with root rot can be saved if caught early. Remove infected plants from the soil and cut away any affected roots. Repot the plant in fresh, well-draining soil.
- Leaf Spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves. Leaf spot can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering and ensuring good air circulation around the plant. Infected leaves should be removed immediately to prevent the disease from spreading. Fungicides may also be used to control leaf spot.
- Powdery Mildew: This common fungal disease manifests as a white, powdery substance on the leaves, stems, and flowers. Powdery mildew can be prevented by ensuring proper air circulation around the plant. Infected plant parts should be removed immediately. Fungicides can also be used to control powdery mildew.
Pest Management
Calandrinia maritima Nutt. is relatively pest-resistant, but it can be affected by a few common pests, including:
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause damage to the leaves, making them pale and speckled. Spider mites can be controlled by washing the plant with a strong jet of water and by frequently misting the leaves. In severe cases, insecticides can be used.
- Aphids: These soft-bodied insects can cause stunted plant growth and distorted leaves and flowers. Aphids can be controlled by washing the plant with a strong jet of water and by introducing natural predators like ladybugs to the garden. In severe cases, insecticides may be needed.
Regularly inspecting your Calandrinia maritima Nutt. and treating any issues promptly can help keep your plant healthy and thriving.
