Description of Calandrinia tweedyi Gray
Calandrinia tweedyi Gray is a perennial plant that belongs to the family of Portulacaceae and is native to the United States. Commonly known as desert rock purslane, it can be found growing in the desert ranges of southeastern California, southwestern Nevada, and northwestern Arizona.
General Appearance of Calandrinia tweedyi Gray
This plant typically grows up to 6 inches in height and spreads out up to 1-2 feet wide. The low-growing succulent is an attractive ground cover. It forms rosettes of rounded, fleshy leaves. The leaves are about 1 inch long, and 0.5 inches wide, and have a contrasting red center on a blue-green background.
The unique aspect of desert rock purslane is its striking pink-magenta flowers, which bloom in late spring to early summer. The flowers have five delicate petals that are crinkled and have a diameter of about 1 inch. The flowers only bloom once; hence, the plant needs to be sowed regularly to keep it blooming each season.
Uses of Calandrinia tweedyi Gray
Desert rock purslane is used mainly as an ornamental plant in landscaping gardens, rock gardens, xeriscapes, and container pots. Its drought-resistant qualities make it an excellent choice in arid landscape design as it requires occasional watering. It can be grown on sloped ground to control erosion.
Native American tribes have been known to use the plant for various medicinal purposes, including its anti-inflammatory properties for treating swollen joints, skin rashes, and blisters.
The plant is edible and has a slightly sour taste, making it an excellent addition to salads and sandwiches.
Growth conditions for Calandrinia tweedyi Gray
Calandrinia tweedyi Gray, commonly known as Tweedy's desert-purslane, is a small perennial herbaceous plant native to the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico. The plant typically grows in open and rocky areas at elevations between 300 and 1,500 meters.
Light requirements
Calandrinia tweedyi Gray thrives in full sun to partial shade. In areas with hot summers, the plant prefers partial shade during the hottest part of the day. Inadequate sunlight may lead to stunted growth, decreased flowering, and increased susceptibility to pests and diseases.
Temperature requirements
Calandrinia tweedyi Gray grows in warm climates and is adapted to high temperatures. The plant is hardy to USDA zones 9 to 11, with temperatures ranging from 20°F to 50°F (-6.7°C to 10°C). In areas with extreme temperature fluctuations, Tweedy's desert-purslane may experience stress, leading to decreased growth and poor flowering.
Soil requirements
Calandrinia tweedyi Gray prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant can tolerate slightly alkaline to slightly acidic soils, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged, as the plant is sensitive to rot. Adding compost or well-rotted manure to the soil before planting can improve soil fertility and moisture retention, promoting healthy growth.
Cultivation Methods
Calandrinia tweedyi Gray is a warm-season flowering plant that requires full sun exposure to grow. It grows best in well-draining, sandy soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be neutral to slightly acidic (6.0-7.0). It can be propagated by planting the seeds in the spring or early summer, after the soil has warmed up, or by propagating stem cuttings during the growing season.
Watering Needs
Calandrinia tweedyi Gray requires moderate watering during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can kill the plant. Watering should be reduced during the winter months, as the plant goes dormant.
Fertilization
Calandrinia tweedyi Gray does not require heavy fertilization. However, a light application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season can help promote healthy growth and flowering. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
Pruning
Calandrinia tweedyi Gray does not require regular pruning. However, deadheading spent flowers can help promote continued flower production throughout the growing season. In addition, trimming back any damaged or diseased foliage can help keep the plant healthy and attractive.
Propagation of the Calandrinia tweedyi Gray Plant
The Calandrinia tweedyi Gray plant is propagated by seed and stem cuttings.
Propagation by Seed
The Calandrinia tweedyi Gray plant can be propagated by seeds. The seeds should be sown in the spring. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix. The soil should be kept moist until the seeds germinate. The seeds will germinate in two to three weeks.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings can also be used to propagate the Calandrinia tweedyi Gray plant. The stem cuttings should be taken from a healthy plant in the spring or summer. The stem cuttings should be four to six inches long. The lower leaves should be removed. The stem cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone. The stem cuttings should be planted in a well-draining soil mix. The soil should be kept moist until the stem cuttings root. The stem cuttings will root in two to three weeks.
Propagation of the Calandrinia tweedyi Gray plant is easy and effective using either of the two methods described above.
Disease and Pest Management for Calandrinia tweedyi Gray
Calandrinia tweedyi Gray, also known as Tweedy's calandrinia, is a beautiful and delicate plant that is native to California. While it is generally a hardy plant, it can still be affected by various diseases and pests. Here are some of the common problems that may affect Calandrinia tweedyi Gray and how to manage them:
Diseases
One of the primary concerns with Calandrinia tweedyi Gray is root rot. This is caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or soil-borne pathogens such as Pythium and Rhizoctonia. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-draining and not waterlogged. Avoid watering the plant excessively and make sure the soil is allowed to dry out slightly between waterings.
Another disease that may affect Calandrinia tweedyi Gray is powdery mildew. This is a fungal disease that appears as white or gray powdery patches on the leaves. It can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering. If powdery mildew does occur, it can be treated with neem oil or a sulfur-based fungicide.
Pests
Two common pests that may affect Calandrinia tweedyi Gray are spider mites and aphids. Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the sap from the leaves of the plant, causing yellowing and discoloration. Aphids, on the other hand, are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing distorted growth and yellowing leaves.
To manage spider mites and aphids on Calandrinia tweedyi Gray, use a strong spray of water to dislodge the pests from the plant. You can also apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill the pests. Try to avoid using harsh chemical insecticides, as these can harm beneficial insects and pollinators in your garden.
By taking these steps to manage diseases and pests on Calandrinia tweedyi Gray, you can help ensure that this beautiful plant stays healthy and thriving in your garden.
