Overview
Calochortus weedii var. intermedius Ownbey, also known by its common name as the Tulare County mariposa lily, is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Liliaceae. This plant is native to western North America and is typically found in California's Tulare County.
Appearance
The Tulare County mariposa lily stands out due to its unique appearance. The plant has a bulbous base from where multiple basal leaves grow. It reaches a height of up to 50 cm, and each stem produces a single, large flower with three white petals that have a brownish-purple central spot. The flowers have a papery texture, with a prominent yellow center, purple stripes, and a thin, pink outline.
Uses
The Tulare County mariposa lily has garnered interest from horticulturists and gardeners as an ornamental plant that can add diversity to landscaped gardens. The plant's bulb is also said to have medicinal properties and has been used by indigenous communities to treat various ailments.
However, it is worth mentioning that the Tulare County mariposa lily is rare and threatened in its natural habitat. Therefore, its collection and trade are regulated to prevent the depletion of wild populations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Calochortus weedii var. intermedius, or the Tulare County mariposa lily, is a striking plant with unique flowers and a bulbous base. It is mainly found in Western North America's Tulare County and is used as an ornamental plant and for medicinal purposes. Its collection and trade are regulated due to its rarity and threatened status.
Light Requirements
Calochortus weedii var. intermedius typically grows in open, sunny areas. They require direct sunlight or a minimum of 6 hours of sunlight per day. The plant will not perform well in shade or low-light conditions. It is important to provide the plant with a location that receives full sun exposure for optimal growth.
Temperature Requirements
Calochortus weedii var. intermedius is a warm-season plant adapted for USDA Hardiness Zones 6 through 9. They prefer moderate to warm temperatures, ranging between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. During the night, the plant prefers cooler temperatures, ranging between 45 and 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soil. It grows well in sandy or loamy soils but tends to struggle in heavy clay soil. Soil pH should range between 5.5 and 7.0, which is slightly acidic to neutral. Organic matter such as compost, aged manure, or peat moss can be added to the soil to improve drainage and aeration.
Cultivation Methods
Calochortus weedii Wood var. intermedius Ownbey requires well-draining soil with a neutral pH level. It thrives in full sunlight, but it can tolerate partial shade in hot climates. The best time to plant these bulbs is in the fall. You should plant them at a depth of about 2 to 3 inches, making sure to space them 3 to 4 inches apart. This allows enough space for the bulbs to grow and prevents overcrowding.
Watering Needs
Calochortus weedii Wood var. intermedius Ownbey requires moderate watering. You should water it deeply once a week, or more frequently during the summer months, when the weather is dry. Overwatering can cause root rot, so it's crucial to ensure that the soil dries out between waterings.
Fertilization
Calochortus weedii Wood var. intermedius Ownbey does well with a balanced fertilizer. You should fertilize it once every three months during the growing season. Before applying any fertilizer, perform a soil test to determine which nutrients the plant is lacking. Apply the fertilizer according to the package instructions, and be sure to water it in well.
Pruning
Calochortus weedii Wood var. intermedius Ownbey doesn't require much pruning. You can remove the spent flowers after they fade, which encourages the plant to put its energy into growing new leaves and roots. However, you should avoid cutting back the leaves until they turn yellow and start to die back naturally. This process allows the plant to store energy in the bulb for the next growing season.
Propagation of Calochortus weedii Wood var. intermedius Ownbey
Calochortus weedii Wood var. intermedius Ownbey, commonly known as intermediate mariposa lily, can be propagated through several methods which include seed propagation, division, and bulb offsets.
Seed propagation
The most common propagation method for Calochortus species is through seed propagation. The seeds are produced in oblong capsules that split open when mature. Collect seed capsules as soon as they have ripened but before they have released their seeds and air dry them. For seed germination, sow the seeds on a moist, well-draining soil mix in fall or early winter, about 1-inch deep and 3 inches apart. Alternatively, you can refrigerate the seeds for 6-8 weeks before planting. Be patient, as germination may take several weeks, and the seedlings can take one to several years to flower.
Division
Calochortus weedii can also be propagated through division. Divide the plant in early fall when the foliage begins to yellow, and the flower stalks are browned. Gently dig up the bulbs and separate them. Each division should have at least one growing point. Replant the divisions immediately, so the bulbs do not dry out.
Bulb offsets
Bulb offsets are the small bulblets that grow around the parent bulb. These bulblets can be separated from the parent bulb in fall and replanted. Take care not to damage their fragile roots, and replant them immediately to ensure their survival.
Disease Management
Calochortus weedii Wood var. intermedius Ownbey is susceptible to several diseases, including:
- Botrytis blight
- Fusarium blight
- Pythium root rot
To manage these diseases, it is important to maintain proper plant hygiene by removing dead or infected plant parts regularly. Additionally, it is advisable to avoid overhead watering as it can encourage the spread of fungal diseases. Fungicides can also be used as a preventative measure, and infected plants should be removed and destroyed to prevent further spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Calochortus weedii Wood var. intermedius Ownbey is also at risk of damage from a number of pests, including:
- Thrips
- Aphids
- Spider mites
To manage these pests, it is important to monitor plants regularly and intervene as soon as an infestation is detected. Natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings can help control the population of these pests, or chemical insecticides can be used as a last resort. Plant hedges or barriers can also help to deter pests from reaching the plant.
