Overview
Calylophus hartwegii (Benth.) Raven ssp. fendleri (Gray) Towner & Raven, also known as Fendler's Sundrops, is a species of flowering plant in the family Onagraceae. It is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico.
Appearance
Fendler's Sundrops is an herbaceous perennial that can grow up to two feet tall and two feet wide. It has bright yellow, cup-shaped flowers that bloom in the summer. The leaves are narrow and green, and the stems are often hairy.
Uses
Fendler's Sundrops is a popular ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes due to its bright yellow flowers and low maintenance. It is also used in traditional medicine by the Native American people. The plant is said to have astringent and antiseptic properties, and the roots can be boiled and used as a poultice to treat wounds and sores.
Light Requirements
Calylophus hartwegii ssp. fendleri thrives in bright, full sun to partial shade conditions. They prefer exposure to morning sun and some afternoon shade.
Temperature Requirements
The Fendler's desert primrose is a hardy perennial that is well-adapted to high temperature environments. It can grow in USDA hardiness zones 5a through 9b. Optimal temperature range for this plant is 60°F to 90°F.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It can tolerate some drought but prefers regular watering during dry periods. Calylophus hartwegii ssp. fendleri prefers soil that is rich in organic matter and is not overly compacted. It is tolerant of various soil textures, including sandy soils and those with higher amounts of clay.
Cultivation Methods
Calylophus hartwegii (Benth.) Raven ssp. fendleri (Gray) Towner & Raven, also known as Fendler's Sundrops, is a low-maintenance and easy-to-grow perennial plant that can thrive in various soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. It prefers well-drained soils that are slightly alkaline with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. This plant is best cultivated in areas that receive full sun exposure, although it can tolerate partial shade. The seeds of Fendler's Sundrops can be sown directly in the garden bed or started indoors and transplanted outdoors once the seedlings are established.
Watering Needs
Fendler's Sundrops requires moderate watering, which translates to around 1 inch of water per week during the growing season. It is important to water deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry between watering sessions to prevent root rot. During drought spells, Fendler's Sundrops can survive without additional watering, but it is always advisable to provide supplemental irrigation to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Fertilization
Fendler's Sundrops does not require heavy fertilization as it can adapt to nutrient-deficient soils. However, feeding the plant with a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 formulation, can promote lush foliage and vibrant flowers. Fertilizing should be done at the beginning of the growing season and repeated every six weeks until late summer.
Pruning
Fendler's Sundrops does not need extensive pruning, but it benefits from deadheading. Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, encourages the plant to produce more blooms and extends the flowering season. Pruning of Fendler's Sundrops should only be done to maintain its shape or to remove damaged or diseased parts of the plant. It is recommended to prune the plant back to around one-third or one-half of its height in the late fall or early spring to stimulate fresh growth and maintain its compact form.
Propagation of Calylophus hartwegii (Benth.) Raven ssp. fendleri (Gray) Towner & Raven
Calylophus hartwegii (Benth.) Raven ssp. fendleri (Gray) Towner & Raven can be propagated through several methods, including the use of seeds, stem cuttings, or division.
Propagation from Seeds
The easiest and most common way to propagate Calylophus hartwegii (Benth.) Raven ssp. fendleri (Gray) Towner & Raven is from seeds. The best time to sow seeds is in the spring when the temperature is above 60°F. Calylophus hartwegii (Benth.) Raven ssp. fendleri (Gray) Towner & Raven seeds will generally germinate in 7 to 10 days if provided with good light and warmth.
The seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix. Cover the seeds with a layer of soil that is as deep as the size of the seed. Water the seeds regularly, making sure not to let the soil dry out.
Propagation from Stem Cuttings
Calylophus hartwegii (Benth.) Raven ssp. fendleri (Gray) Towner & Raven can also be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the summer. Take a 4-to-6 inch stem cutting just below a node. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end into hormone rooting powder. Plant the cutting in a container filled with a well-draining soil mix and water well. Place the cutting in a warm location out of direct sunlight and cover with a plastic bag until roots develop, which usually takes about a month. Once the cutting has rooted, it may be transplanted to a larger pot or directly in the garden.
Propagation by Division
Calylophus hartwegii (Benth.) Raven ssp. fendleri (Gray) Towner & Raven can also be propagated through division in the spring. Dig up the mature plant and separate it into smaller sections, making sure that each section has roots. Plant the divisions in well-draining soil mix and water well. Keep the divisions in a shady area until they have rooted and then transplant the plants into a sunny location.
Disease and Pest Management for Calylophus hartwegii ssp. fendleri
Calylophus hartwegii ssp. fendleri, commonly known as Fendler's sundrops, is a hardy and low-maintenance plant that is tolerant to most pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by some common diseases and pests, which should be managed promptly to prevent damage and ensure the plant's health.
Diseases
Crown Rot: Crown rot is a fungal disease that affects the crown of the plant, causing the plant to wilt and eventually die. To manage this disease, remove the infected plant immediately, avoid overwatering the plant, and improve air circulation around the garden.
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that forms small brown or black spots on the leaves. It is caused by high humidity and poor air circulation. To manage this disease, remove the infected leaves, avoid overhead watering, and improve air circulation around the plant.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that forms a white powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage this disease, improve air circulation around the plant, remove infected leaves, and use a fungicide if necessary.
Pests
Spider Mites: Spider mites are small pests that suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to yellow and fall off. To manage spider mites, wash the plant with a strong jet of water regularly, keep the soil moist but not too wet, and use an insecticidal soap if necessary.
Slugs and Snails: Slugs and snails are common pests that eat through the leaves and flowers of the plant, causing damage and reducing its aesthetic appeal. To manage these pests, pick them off the plant manually, use copper barriers to repel them, and keep the garden clean and free of debris.
Thrips: Thrips are small insects that feed on the sap from the leaves and flowers, causing them to become distorted and discolored. To manage thrips, prune the affected areas, use insecticidal soap, and introduce natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings.
By taking prompt action to manage pests and diseases, you can keep your Calylophus hartwegii ssp. fendleri healthy and beautiful, allowing it to thrive in your garden for years to come.
