Overview
Ceanothus oliganthus Nutt. ssp. sorediatus (Hook. & Arn.) C. Schmidt, commonly known as the moss mat or lichen ceanothus, is a type of shrub native to California. This plant is part of the Rhamnaceae family, and within it, the genus Ceanothus.
Appearance
The moss mat ceanothus is a low-growing shrub that typically reaches a height of one to three feet and can spread to four feet wide. It has small, round, dark green leaves that grow in an alternate pattern on the stem. Its flowers form in clusters and are usually blue, purple, or white in color.
Origin and Distribution
The moss mat ceanothus is native to California and can be found in the state's coastal sage scrub and chaparral ecosystems. It is most commonly found in the central and southern regions of the state, including Ventura, Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, and San Diego counties.
Uses
The moss mat ceanothus has several uses, both for humans and wildlife. Its seeds and leaves provide a source of food for birds and small mammals, while its nectar attracts bees and butterflies. Native Americans used the plant's roots as a treatment for diarrhea and as a poultice for skin sores and wounds. It is also cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its drought tolerance and attractive appearance.
Light Requirements
Ceanothus oliganthus Nutt. ssp. sorediatus (Hook. & Arn.) C.Schmidt typically grows in open, sunny areas or partially shaded areas. Full exposure to sunlight is ideal for the plant to thrive.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to California, and it can withstand the harsh, dry summers and mild, wet winters of the Mediterranean climate. It is adapted to moderate temperatures, ranging from 15 to 25 °C during the growing season.
Soil Requirements
Ceanothus oliganthus Nutt. ssp. sorediatus (Hook. & Arn.) C.Schmidt prefers well-drained soils that are nutrient-poor. It prefers soils that are slightly acidic, with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 6.5, but can also tolerate slightly alkaline soils. Additionally, the plant prefers dry, rocky soils that are low in organic matter, and it is commonly found growing on serpentine soils, which are high in magnesium and low in calcium.
Cultivation methods
Ceanothus oliganthus Nutt. ssp. sorediatus (Hook. & Arn.) C. Schmidt is commonly known as the mountain whitethorn or hairy ceanothus. It is a woody shrub that grows best in full sun to partial shade. It prefers well-drained, sandy to rocky soils and is tolerant of drought. It can be propagated from seed or cuttings.
Watering needs
Ceanothus oliganthus Nutt. ssp. sorediatus (Hook. & Arn.) C. Schmidt is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. It is essential to water the plant deeply once a week during the first year after planting to help roots establish. Once established, it can survive on natural rainfall, but it may benefit from occasional watering during prolonged droughts.
Fertilization
Ceanothus oliganthus Nutt. ssp. sorediatus (Hook. & Arn.) C. Schmidt does not require frequent fertilization. It is a native plant that can obtain nutrients from the soil naturally. However, if the soil is deficient in nutrients, you can fertilize it in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer that is specific for woody shrubs. You should avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers because they can promote leaf growth instead of flower production.
Pruning
Ceanothus oliganthus Nutt. ssp. sorediatus (Hook. & Arn.) C. Schmidt benefits from periodic pruning to maintain its shape and promote new growth. It is best to prune the plant after flowering because it blooms on old wood. If you prune it in the fall or winter, you risk removing the flowers for the following year. Use pruning shears to remove the spent flower clusters and damaged or diseased branches. You can also shape the shrub as necessary. Avoid over-pruning, as this can weaken the plant and reduce flower formation.
Propagation of Ceanothus Oliganthus Nutt. ssp. Sorediatus (Hook. & Arn.) C. Schmidt
Ceanothus Oliganthus Nutt. ssp. Sorediatus (Hook. & Arn.) C. Schmidt can be propagated via seeds and cuttings.
Propagation via Seeds
The seeds of Ceanothus Oliganthus Nutt. ssp. Sorediatus (Hook. & Arn.) C. Schmidt can be sown in the fall or early spring when the soil is moist and cool. The seeds should be sown at a depth of about 1/4 inch in a well-draining soil mix. Germination can take several weeks to several months and may require stratification or scarification to stimulate germination.
Propagation via Cuttings
The cuttings of Ceanothus Oliganthus Nutt. ssp. Sorediatus (Hook. & Arn.) C. Schmidt can be taken from semi-hardwood stems in the summer. Cuttings should be about 4-6 inches in length and taken from the tips of new growth. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mix. Care should be taken to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Cuttings can take several weeks to root and should be kept in a protected area until they have established roots and have begun to show new growth.
Disease Management
Ceanothus oliganthus Nutt. ssp. sorediatus, commonly known as Soredia ceanothus, is a highly resistant plant that can tolerate several diseases. However, there are certain microbial pathogens that can infect this plant. Here are some of the common diseases that might affect this plant:
- Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that can affect the twigs, leaves, and flowers of the Soredia ceanothus. It leads to the formation of small brown lesions on the leaves, which eventually turn into large yellow or brown spots. The best way to manage this disease is to prune the infected parts and dispose of them properly.
- Leaf spot: Leaf spot is another fungal disease that can affect this plant. It leads to the formation of small, circular, reddish-brown spots on the leaves. The infected leaves may eventually fall off the plant. To prevent this disease, ensure that you do not water the plant from above, as this can cause the leaves to remain wet for long periods, making them more susceptible to fungal attacks.
- Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that can affect the leaves of the Soredia ceanothus. It leads to the formation of a white powdery coating on the upper surface of the leaves, which eventually dries up and falls off. To prevent this disease, ensure that you do not overcrowd your plants, as this can cause poor air circulation, which can exacerbate the problem. You can also use a fungicide to control the spread of this disease.
Pest Management
In addition to diseases, the Soredia ceanothus is also prone to pest attacks. Here are some common pests that might affect this plant, and ways to control them:
- Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that can infest the leaves of the Soredia ceanothus. They pierce the leaves and feed on the sap, which can cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. To prevent spider mite infestations, ensure that you keep the plant well-watered, as spider mites tend to thrive in dry conditions. You can also use an insecticidal soap to control their population.
- Caterpillars: Caterpillars are another common pest that can infest the Soredia ceanothus. They feed on the leaves of the plant, which can cause them to develop holes. To prevent infestations, you can handpick the caterpillars from your plant and dispose of them properly.
- Scale insects: Scale insects are small pests that can attach themselves to the leaves and twigs of the Soredia ceanothus. They can cause the leaves to turn yellow and distort the growth of the plant. To prevent infestations, you can prune the infected parts and dispose of them properly. You can also use a horticultural oil to control their population.
