Overview:
Calystegia spithamaea (L.) Pursh var. pubescens (Gray) C.F. Reed is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the family Convolvulaceae. This plant is commonly known as small camas, Pacific camas, or Lewis' camas.
Origin:
Calystegia spithamaea is native to western North America and can be found in British Columbia, Washington, Oregon, California, and Idaho. It typically grows in meadows, grasslands, and open woodlands.
General Appearance:
The plant grows up to 60 cm in height and has slender stems that bear lance-shaped leaves up to 15 cm long. The flowers are bell-shaped, and their color usually ranges from white to pale blue. These flowers grow in clusters of 2-5 flowers per stem.
Uses:
Native American tribes, including the Coast Salish and Haida people, have used Calystegia spithamaea for various purposes. The bulbs of the plant were a significant food source for these communities and were often roasted or steamed before consumption.
The plant has also been used for medicinal purposes, primarily as a laxative and for treating insect bites and stings. However, it is essential to use caution when using it for medicinal purposes, as any misuse or excessive consumption can have adverse effects.
Conclusion:
Calystegia spithamaea (L.) Pursh var. pubescens (Gray) C.F. Reed is a fascinating plant with a rich cultural history. Its use as a food source and medicinal plant by indigenous communities highlights its importance in their culture and way of life.
Light Requirements
Calystegia spithamaea (L.) Pursh var. pubescens (Gray) C.F. Reed typically grows in areas with partial shade to full sun exposure. However, it prefers shaded areas during the hottest part of the day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers a mild climate, with temperatures that range between 5°C to 30°C (41°F to 86°F). It cannot tolerate frost, extreme heat, or prolonged dryness.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. Calystegia spithamaea (L.) Pursh var. pubescens (Gray) C.F. Reed can grow in a wide range of soils, including sandy, clay, and loam soil. However, they prefer soils with a pH of 5.5 to 7.5.
Water Requirements
Although the plant can withstand some drought, it requires moderate to abundant watering to thrive. It is essential to ensure that the soil is moist but not flooded. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can cause the plant's death. It is best to water the plant deeply and infrequently to maintain healthy growth.
Cultivation methods
Calystegia spithamaea (L.) Pursh var. pubescens (Gray) C.F. Reed, also known as pubescent small bindweed, can be cultivated in a broad range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. It prefers soils that are well-drained and moist. The plant can either be propagated by seeds or by division of roots. It is best planted in an area with partial shade to full sun.
Watering needs
The plant requires moderate watering, especially during dry spells. Watering should be done in such a way that it doesn't stagnate since Calystegia spithamaea (L.) Pursh var. pubescens is prone to root rot. Ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization
To ensure optimum growth, fertilizing the plant is necessary. It can be done using a slow-release fertilizer that has high phosphorus content. Alternatively, organic fertilizers such as compost manure can be used. Fertilization should be done at the beginning of the growing season.
Pruning
Pruning the plant helps to maintain its shape and encourages bushy growth. In spring, the plant should be pruned back to remove any dead or damaged sections. Also, removing the tips of the lateral branches encourages the development of lateral buds, resulting in a bushier plant.
Propagation of Calystegia Spithamaea (L.) Pursh var. pubescens (Gray) C.F. Reed
Calystegia Spithamaea (L.) Pursh var. pubescens (Gray) C.F. Reed, commonly known as the Hairy Bindweed, is a species of flowering plant belonging to the Convolvulaceae family. The plant is mainly found growing in wet meadows, fields, and along streams. Propagation of the Calystegia Spithamaea can be done through different methods.
Division Propagation Method
The division method involves taking divisions from the mother plant. Mature Calystegia Spithamaea are known to produce many runners when left undisturbed. The runners can be cut from the mother plant at a point where they have roots attached and planted to begin a new plant. It is essential to note that the division should be done carefully to avoid damaging the plant's roots and stem.
Sowing Propagation Method
The sowing propagation method requires the collection of seeds from a mature Calystegia Spithamaea plant. The seed should be sown in a seed tray or pot filled with well-draining soil mixture. The seeds should then be kept in a bright location with a temperature between 15°C- 20°C. Once the seedlings have matured to a transplant-ready stage, they can be moved to a full sun exposure spot with adequate soil moisture. The sowing propagation method takes a longer time to produce a mature plant compared to the division method.
Cutting Propagation Method
The cutting propagation method involves obtaining a cutting from the Calystegia Spithamaea plant. The cutting should be from the softwood part of the plant and not the hardwood. The cutting should then be planted in well-draining soil and kept in a bright location with high humidity conditions. The cutting usually takes a few weeks to root, and after rooting, it can be transplanted to a permanent location.
The Calystegia Spithamaea (L.) Pursh var. pubescens (Gray) C.F. Reed plant can be propagated through various methods, including division, sowing, and cutting. Each method has its advantages, and the best method largely depends on the availability of resources and time.
Disease Management
Calystegia spithamaea can be affected by fungal diseases such as leaf spots and root rots. To manage these diseases, it is important to maintain a clean and healthy growing environment. Minimize plant stress by providing adequate water, nutrients, and sunlight. Avoid overwatering and ensure good drainage. Remove infected leaves or plants and destroy them to prevent the spread of the disease.
It is also helpful to apply a fungicide to protect the plant from fungal infections. Copper-based fungicides are effective against leaf spots and root rots. Apply the fungicide according to the manufacturer's instructions and repeat as needed.
Pest Management
Calystegia spithamaea can be affected by pests such as spider mites, aphids, and caterpillars. To manage these pests, it is important to regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation. Look for webs, visible insects, and chewed leaves. Catching the infestation early is key to preventing damage.
One effective way to manage pests is to use natural predators. Introduce beneficial insects such as ladybugs or lacewings to the growing environment to control aphids and other small insects. For larger pests such as caterpillars, handpicking and removing them is effective.
If you prefer to use a pesticide, choose an insecticidal soap or neem oil. These products are less harmful to the environment and beneficial insects. Apply the pesticide according to the manufacturer's instructions and take care not to apply during the heat of the day or when the plant is under stress.
Avoid using broad-spectrum pesticides as they not only kill harmful pests but also beneficial insects. This can upset the ecological balance of the growing environment and lead to more pest problems in the future.
