Overview
Caulanthus major (M.E. Jones) Payson var. major is a flowering plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae or mustard family. It is a herbaceous annual plant that primarily grows in the western parts of North America, particularly in California, Nevada, and Utah.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known as the slenderstem false mustard, slender-stemmed jewelflower, and giant mustard. Its scientific name "Caulanthus" is derived from two Greek words: "kaulos" meaning stem and "anthos" meaning flower.
General Appearance
The slenderstem false mustard typically grows to a height of 30-100 cm. It has a slender stem that can be hairy or smooth and produces basal leaves that are spatula-shaped while the upper leaves are linear and deeply lobed. The plant has bright yellow flowers that have four petals and six stamens. Its fruit is a narrow, cylindrical pod that contains the plant's seeds.
Uses
Caulanthus major (M.E. Jones) Payson var. major is not widely used for medicinal purposes, despite the presence of compounds such as glucosinolates, which are known to have potentially anti-cancer effects. However, this plant is used as a food source for livestock and as a cover crop. Since the slenderstem false mustard is an annual plant, it is used as a natural detoxifier for farmland contaminated with heavy metals due to its ability to absorb and store these metals in its tissues.
Light requirements
Caulanthus major var. major prefers full sun to partial shade. The plant usually grows in open, rocky, or gravelly areas with low vegetation.
Temperature requirements
Caulanthus major var. major can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it prefers a warm, dry climate. It can survive in temperatures ranging from 0°F (-18°C) to 120°F (49°C).
Soil requirements
Caulanthus major var. major is typically found in sandy, gravelly, or rocky soils with good drainage. The plant can tolerate soils with a pH range from acidic to alkaline. However, it prefers soil with a pH range from 6.5 to 7.5.
Cultivation Method
Caulanthus major (M.E. Jones) Payson var. major, also known as the bigelow’s spineflower, is a herbaceous plant native to the southwestern United States. It can tolerate extreme temperatures, making it adaptable to various climates, and it’s a great choice for low maintenance landscapes. Start by choosing a location with good sunlight exposure and well-draining soil. The plant can thrive in different soil types, but it prefers sandy or sandy-loam soils with a pH of 7.0.
Watering Needs
The Caulanthus major requires moderate watering, especially during its growing season. Water the plant once a week, or once every two weeks, depending on the climate and the weather. Keep the soil moist but avoid overwatering, which may cause root rot and diseases. Always remember to water the plant early in the morning and avoid watering in the evening to prevent fungal growth.
Fertilization
Fertilize the Caulanthus major with a balanced liquid fertilizer every month during the growing season. Alternatively, you can use a slow-release granular fertilizer at the start of the growing season. Apply the fertilizer to the soil, but avoid getting it on the leaves or flowers. Be careful not to overfertilize, since it may result in tall, weak stems, and fewer flowers.
Pruning
The Caulanthus major doesn't require frequent pruning, but it's advisable to trim any dead, yellow, or diseased leaves and stems. Prune the plant after the flowering season, or in early spring, before the plant resumes its growth. Cut the stems back to a third of their height to promote bushy and compact growth. Pinching the stems off at the tips using your fingers, or pruning shears, can encourage branching and more flower production.
Propagation of Caulanthus major (M.E. Jones) Payson var. major
Caulanthus major (M.E. Jones) Payson var. major, commonly known as Great Basin wild cabbage, is a native perennial herb found in the western United States. It can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation through Seeds
The easiest and most common propagation method for Caulanthus major (M.E. Jones) Payson var. major is through seeds. The seeds can be collected from mature plants in the fall and sown in the spring. The seeds require a cold period of stratification before planting. They can be sown thinly in trays or pots filled with a well-draining soil mix and covered with a thin layer of soil. The seeds should be watered regularly, and the seedlings should be transplanted into larger pots when they reach a suitable size.
Propagation through Cuttings
Caulanthus major (M.E. Jones) Payson var. major can also be propagated through stem cuttings. The cuttings should be taken in spring or early summer from new growth. The cuttings should be about 4 inches long and should be taken from the top of the plant. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mix. The soil should be kept moist until the cuttings have rooted and then can be treated as mature plants.
Propagation through Division
Caulanthus major (M.E. Jones) Payson var. major can also be propagated through division. The plant should be divided in the early spring before new growth appears or in the fall after blooming has finished. The plant should be carefully dug up and divided into clumps, ensuring that each clump has a healthy set of roots. The clumps should be replanted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until new growth appears.
Disease and Pest Management for Caulanthus major (M.E. Jones) Payson var. major
Caulanthus major (M.E. Jones) Payson var. major, commonly known as Piper's larkspur or large-flowered jewelflower, is a species of flowering plant native to California. This plant is susceptible to several diseases and pests that could affect its growth and development. Effective management of these diseases and pests is crucial to ensure healthy growth of the plant. Here are some common diseases and pests that affect Caulanthus major (M.E. Jones) Payson var. major and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Fungal leaf spot: This disease is caused by the fungus Alternaria spp. Symptoms of this disease include small, circular or irregularly shaped brown or black spots on the leaves. The spots may eventually merge, leading to premature leaf drop. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected leaves. Avoid overhead watering and ensure proper plant spacing to improve air circulation. Apply fungicides containing copper or sulfur to prevent further spread of the disease.
Anthracnose: This disease is caused by the fungus Colletotrichum spp. Symptoms of anthracnose include sunken, water-soaked lesions on the leaves, stems, and flowers. The spots may enlarge and turn dark. Preventive management involves ensuring good sanitation practices, disease-free planting materials, improving air circulation and avoiding overhead watering. Apply fungicides containing chlorothalonil to manage the disease.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck plant sap. They can cause leaf yellowing, curling, stunted growth, and distorted leaves. To manage Aphids, prune off heavily infested plant parts and use a strong stream of water to dislodge the pests. Use insecticidal soaps, neem oil, or horticultural oils to manage heavy infestations.
Cutworms: Cutworms are caterpillars that feed on the leaves, stems, and roots of plants. They may cut the seedlings off at or below the soil level. To manage cutworms, encircle seedlings with collars made from cardboard, aluminum foil, or plastic. Apply Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki (Btk) or spinosad to control heavy infestations of cutworms.
Effective disease and pest management is crucial in maintaining the health and viability of Caulanthus major (M.E. Jones) Payson var. major. Regular monitoring and early detection of diseases and pests can help to manage these issues effectively and prevent extensive damage to the plant.
