Origin
Cassiope lycopodioides (Pallas) D. Don var. cristapilosa (Calder & Taylor) Boivin, commonly known as Crested Cassiope, is a plant species that is native to the high-altitude regions of alpine North America, including Alaska, British Columbia, and the Rocky Mountains.
Common Names
The Crested Cassiope plant is commonly known by its scientific name, but it is also referred to by several other names, including Mountain Beauty, Club Moss Cassiope, and Snow Cassiope.
General Appearance
The Crested Cassiope is a low-growing evergreen shrub that typically reaches heights of about 5 cm - 10 cm. It has a mat-like growth habit and typically forms clumps of leaves that grow outwards from the center, giving the plant a rosette-like appearance. The leaves are small and narrow, resembling those of a lycopodium or club moss. The flowers of this plant are urn-shaped, pink to white in color, and typically grow in clusters at the tips of the branches. The plant blooms during the summer months, from July to August.
Uses
The Crested Cassiope plant is often grown as an ornamental plant due to its unique and attractive appearance. It is often used in rock gardens, alpine gardens, and other garden areas that require low, mat-like ground cover plants. The plant can thrive in relatively harsh conditions, making it an excellent choice for landscaping in high-altitude environments. In addition, the plant has been used by some indigenous peoples in Alaska for medicinal purposes, primarily to treat headaches and other minor ailments.
Light Requirements
Cassiope lycopodioides var. cristapilosa generally prefers partial to full shade. They grow best in areas with filtered light. Direct sunlight must be avoided as it can cause the leaves to yellow or brown and may also cause leaf drop on young plants.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is well suited for growing in cool and moist environments. It can grow well in areas with a range of temperatures from as low as -25°C to a maximum of 20°C. The plant can tolerate frost but too much heat may cause the plant to dry out.
Soil Requirements
Cassiope lycopodioides var. cristapilosa prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. The plant does well in slightly acidic soils with a pH range of 4.0 to 5.5. It is best grown in soils that have good aeration.
Other Growth Conditions
The plant requires a consistent moisture supply without becoming waterlogged, which can result in root rot. It responds well to regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Pruning can be done after blooming to encourage growth of new foliage and flowers. Humidity levels around the plant must be kept fairly high as it is prone to drying out. The plant also requires good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.
Cultivation Methods
Cassiope lycopodioides (Pallas) D. Don var. cristapilosa (Calder & Taylor) Boivin, also known as crested cushion heather, is a hardy plant that can grow both indoors and outdoors. It prefers well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH, and a location that receives ample sunlight and good ventilation.
In terms of propagation, crested cushion heather can be propagated via stem cuttings, layering, or division of the clumps in spring or autumn. It is recommended to plant in earthen pots or beds, and transplanted every two years.
Watering Needs
Crested cushion heather has moderate watering needs. The soil should be kept evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other diseases. It is better to water deeply once a week with a thorough soak for outdoor plants.
For indoor plants, it is recommended to use a well-draining pot and water the plant once every 3-5 days. It is important to monitor the humidity level as well, and provide regular misting to prevent the leaves from dry out.
Fertilization
Crested cushion heather prefers an acidic soil pH between 4.5-6.5. Therefore, it is suggested to use an acidic fertilizer, such as a rhododendron or azalea fertilizer. Feed the plant once every two months from spring to fall, and every three months during winter.
In addition, it is recommended to add organic matter to the soil for better drainage and nutrient retention. This can include peat moss, compost, or well-rotted manure.
Pruning
Crested cushion heather requires minimal pruning, but it helps to maintain its shape and encourage new growth. The best time for pruning is in late winter or early spring before the new growth begins.
To prune, cut off any dead, diseased, or damaged stems as well as crossed and overlapped branches. Cut back any leggy branches to about 1 inch above the woody growth. Finally, trim the tips of the remaining healthy branches lightly to stimulate bushier growth. Do not cut back into old wood or the plant may not regrow.
Propagation Methods
The Cassiope lycopodioides (Pallas) D. Don var. cristapilosa (Calder & Taylor) Boivin is propagated through three main methods: seed propagation, vegetative propagation, and stem cutting.
Seed Propagation
One of the most common propagation methods for Cassiope lycopodioides (Pallas) D. Don var. cristapilosa (Calder & Taylor) Boivin is through seeds. The plant produces small seeds that are sown in a well-draining soil mixture. It is important to keep the soil moist during germination, which can take up to six weeks. The seedlings can be transplanted once they are large enough to handle, typically around six months after germination.
Vegetative Propagation
The plant can also be propagated vegetatively through division. This method involves separating the mature plant into smaller sections, each of which is planted individually. It is best to use a sharp, clean knife to avoid damage to the plant. The new plants must be watered regularly and kept in a shaded area until the roots are well-developed.
Stem Cutting
A third propagation method is stem cutting. This method involves taking a cutting from the stem of the Cassiope lycopodioides (Pallas) D. Don var. cristapilosa (Calder & Taylor) Boivin and planting it in well-draining soil. The cutting should be around four inches long and have at least two leaves. The cutting should be placed in a shaded area and watered regularly. Once the cutting has rooted, it can be transplanted into its final location.
Disease Management
Cassiope lycopodioides var. cristapilosa is prone to various fungal diseases that can affect its growth and appearance. One common fungal disease that affects this plant is powdery mildew. Powdery mildew can cause a white, powdery substance to form on the leaves, inhibiting chlorophyll production and eventually leading to leaf drop. It can be managed by removing infected plant parts and applying fungicides such as sulfur or neem oil.
Another fungal disease that can affect this plant is leaf spot. Leaf spot causes tiny brown or black spots on the leaves, which can eventually lead to defoliation. This disease can be managed by applying fungicides and removing infected leaves. Cultural practices such as watering early in the day and improving air circulation can also help to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
There are several pests that can affect Cassiope lycopodioides var. cristapilosa, including spider mites, aphids, and scale insects. Spider mites and aphids can be removed by spraying the plant with water or by applying insecticidal soap. Scale insects can be removed by scraping them off with a soft-bristled brush or by applying horticultural oil.
Cassiope lycopodioides var. cristapilosa can also be affected by deer and rodents. To manage deer, gardeners can use deer-resistant plants or install physical barriers such as fences or netting. To prevent rodents, it is important to keep the garden area clean and remove any potential hiding places for rodents.
