Overview of Cathartolinum neomexicanum
Cathartolinum neomexicanum (Greene) Small, also known as New Mexico skeletonweed, is a native plant species in North America. It is a small flowering herbaceous perennial that belongs to the family Asteraceae. This plant is mostly found in the southwestern US in the states of Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Texas.
Description
Cathartolinum neomexicanum is a small, grayish-green plant that grows up to 30-70 cm tall from a woody rhizome. It produces basal leaves that are oblong to lanceolate and measure 10-40 mm long. The stem has alternate leaves that are smaller than the basal leaves. The entire plant has a strong odor that attracts carrion flies and beetles, which aid in pollination.
Uses
Cathartolinum neomexicanum has been used as a traditional medicine by Native Americans to treat various ailments such as colds, coughs, and fever. The Navajo Indians used the crushed leaves as a poultice to relieve pain and inflammation. The Zuni Indians used tea made from the plant for treating stomachache and respiratory complaints.
Currently, there are no commercial uses of Cathartolinum neomexicanum, but it is of interest to researchers for its biological activities and chemical compounds.
Threats and Conservation
Cathartolinum neomexicanum is designated as a species of concern due to habitat loss, degradation, and fragmentation. It is also threatened by overgrazing and invasive species that compete for resources. The US Bureau of Land Management has classified the plant as sensitive, and efforts are being made to protect its habitat and monitor its population size.
Light Requirements
Cathartolinum neomexicanum thrives in well-lit areas with plenty of sunlight. It requires full sun exposure to reach its full growth potential. Therefore, it should be placed in an area where it can receive at least 6 hours of sunlight every day. Insufficient light may cause stunted growth and weak stems.
Temperature Requirements
Cathartolinum neomexicanum can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. However, it prefers moderate temperatures between 15°C and 25°C. The plant can survive the cold winters but is not frost-resistant. Freezing temperatures may destroy the plant. Additionally, it cannot tolerate extremely high temperatures above 35°C. Therefore, it is essential to maintain a moderate temperature for the proper growth and development of the plant.
Soil Requirements
Cathartolinum neomexicanum requires well-drained soil and can tolerate a wide range of soil types. It can grow in loamy, sandy, and rocky soils. However, it performs best in deep, well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0. The soil should be rich in organic matter and nutrients to support the growth of the plant. It is also essential to maintain the soil moisture level to ensure optimal growth conditions for the plant.
Cultivation of Cathartolinum neomexicanum
Cathartolinum neomexicanum, commonly known as desert senna, is native to North America and is adapted to hot, arid conditions. It is a hardy plant that can thrive in a variety of soils, including rocky, sandy, and clay soils. It is best grown in full sun and does not require much attention once established.
Watering Needs
Cathartolinum neomexicanum is a drought-resistant plant, and it can survive for extended periods without water. However, during the growing season, it requires moderate watering to encourage healthy growth. Water the plant once a week, allowing the soil to dry out partially between waterings. Inadequate water can cause the leaves to turn yellow and drop.
Fertilization
Cathartolinum neomexicanum does not require much fertilizer to thrive. Fertilization should only be done in the spring, as it begins to grow. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer such as 10-10-10 or 20-20-20. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can cause excessive growth and reduce the plant's hardiness.
Pruning
Cathartolinum neomexicanum requires minimal pruning. Dead or diseased branches can be removed at any time to maintain the plant's health. Prune the plant in early spring to shape it and encourage new growth. Avoid over-pruning, which can reduce the plant's hardiness and cause it to become leggy.
Propagation of Cathartolinum neomexicanum (Greene) Small
Cathartolinum neomexicanum is a semi-evergreen shrub that is native to the southwestern United States, particularly in Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. This plant is commonly known as Navajo tea or greenthread due to its historical medicinal use.
Propagation by Seeds
The easiest and most common method to propagate Cathartolinum neomexicanum is by seeds. This plant produces small, slender seeds that are about 2 to 3 mm long. The seeds can be collected when the plant starts to dry out and turn brown, usually in the late summer or early fall.
Before planting the seeds, they should be stratified, which means exposing them to a period of cold and damp conditions. This process is essential for breaking down the seed coat and stimulating germination. Gardeners can stratify the seeds by placing them in a plastic bag with moistened peat moss and storing them in the refrigerator for 4 to 6 weeks.
After stratification, the seeds can be planted in seed trays containing sterile potting soil, and kept in a warm and bright location. Germination usually occurs in 7 to 14 days. When the seedlings are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots and grown until they are ready to be planted outside.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by stem cuttings is another method to propagate Cathartolinum neomexicanum, which can be useful if seeds are scarce or not available. The best time to take cuttings is during the summer when the plant is actively growing and producing new shoots.
Cut the stem with a sharp and clean tool, making sure the cutting is about 4 to 6 inches long and has at least two sets of leaves. Remove the lower set of leaves and dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone powder. Place the cutting in a pot filled with moistened potting soil and cover it with a clear plastic bag to create a humid environment. Keep the pot in a shaded area and mist the cutting occasionally to prevent it from drying out. Roots should start to form within 2 to 4 weeks. Once the plant is established, it can be transplanted to its permanent location.
In conclusion, Cathartolinum neomexicanum can be propagated by seeds or stem cuttings, and both methods are relatively easy to accomplish. Growing this plant can provide a beautiful landscape addition and also has traditional medicinal benefits.
Disease Management
Cathartolinum neomexicanum is susceptible to a few diseases such as leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot. To manage leaf spot, prune infected leaves and try to avoid watering the foliage. Powdery mildew can be managed by removing affected leaves and improving air circulation around the plant. For root rot, it is essential to plant the seeds in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.
Pest Management
The plant is prone to insect pests such as aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Aphids can be managed by applying insecticidal soap or neem oil. Spider mites and whiteflies can be controlled by spraying insecticidal soap and washing the plant's foliage with water. Caterpillars can munch on the foliage, but handpicking them usually works well to manage their population.
