Origin and Common Names
Cerastium arvense L. var. purpurascens Boivin, also known as Purple-stemmed mouse-ear chickweed, is a flowering plant native to Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa. It belongs to the family Caryophyllaceae and is one of the subspecies of Cerastium arvense.
General Appearance
This herbaceous perennial plant can grow up to 30cm in height and has creeping stems that form dense mats. The leaves are hairy, narrow, and pointed, measuring 1-3cm in length. The flowers are white with five petals and appear in clusters at the ends of the stems. The plant has a shallow fibrous root system and can adapt to different soil types. The stems of this plant are purplish in color, that's why it is called Purple-stemmed mouse-ear chickweed.
Uses
Cerastium arvense L. var. purpurascens Boivin is mainly used for its medicinal properties. It has been traditionally used in Europe to treat respiratory ailments, coughs, and colds. The plant has also been used to treat mild stomach disorders and as a diuretic. As well as being traditionally used for its medicinal purposes, this plant can also be used in the garden as a ground cover due to its ability to spread quickly and form a dense mat of foliage.
Light Conditions:
Cerastium arvense L. var. purpurascens Boivin thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. The plant requires approximately 6 to 8 hours of sunlight exposure per day, which allows it to develop its flowers and produce seeds. Insufficient sunlight can lead to weaker growth and a lower flower yield.
Temperature Conditions:
The plant can tolerate cold temperatures and is often found in colder regions. It grows best in temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F). Lower temperatures can slow down the plant's growth, while higher temperatures can result in wilting and stunted growth.
Soil Requirements:
Cerastium arvense L. var. purpurascens Boivin prefers well-drained soils that are rich in nutrients. The ideal soil pH level would be between 6.5 to 7.5. The plant can grow in sandy-loam, clayey, or loamy soils, provided that they are not waterlogged. Soil that is overly acidic or alkaline can affect the plant's ability to absorb nutrients, leading to stunted growth.
Water Requirements:
The plant thrives in moist soil conditions, but it doesn't tolerate waterlogged soils. Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil slightly moist but not wet. Too much water can lead to fungus growth and root rot. During the summer, the plant may require more frequent watering as it is susceptible to drought.
Cultivation Methods
Cerastium arvense L. var. purpurascens Boivin is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It can be grown in full sun or partial shade and in any soil type as long as it is well-draining. The ideal pH range for this plant is between 6 and 7.5. The plant can be propagated either from seeds or cuttings.
Watering Needs
This plant is drought-tolerant and does not require much watering. It should be watered only when the soil is dry to the touch. Over-watering can lead to root rot and other diseases. It is important to water the plant at the base and avoid wetting the leaves to prevent fungal infections.
Fertilization
Cerastium arvense L. var. purpurascens Boivin is a low-maintenance plant and does not require much fertilization. However, a balanced organic fertilizer can be used once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering. It is important not to over-fertilize as it can lead to leggy growth and fewer flowers.
Pruning
Cerastium arvense L. var. purpurascens Boivin does not require much pruning. However, deadheading the flowers regularly can prolong the blooming period. It is also important to remove any diseased or damaged leaves and stems to avoid spreading diseases to other parts of the plant. The plant can be trimmed back after flowering to promote bushier growth and prevent it from becoming too leggy.
Propagation Methods
Cerastium arvense L. var. purpurascens Boivin, commonly known as purple chickweed, can be propagated through various methods such as seeds, stem cuttings, and division.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Cerastium arvense L. var. purpurascens Boivin can be sown directly in the soil during spring or fall. The soil should be well-draining with a pH level of 6.0-7.0. The seeds should be sown 1/8 inch deep and then covered with a thin layer of soil. The seeds should be kept moist but not waterlogged until they germinate in 7-14 days. After that, they should be watered regularly as required.
Stem Cutting Propagation
Stem cuttings of Cerastium arvense L. var. purpurascens Boivin can be taken during spring or summer. The stem cuttings should be at least 3-4 inches long and should have at least two sets of leaves. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone before planting it in a well-draining potting mix. The cutting should be watered regularly and kept in a humid place until it starts to root, which can take up to 4-6 weeks.
Division Propagation
Cerastium arvense L. var. purpurascens Boivin can also be propagated through division. It is best done during the spring or fall. The plant should be dug up, and the roots should be gently separated. Each section should have at least one set of leaves and a healthy root system. The sections should be replanted in a well-draining soil mix and watered regularly until they become established.
Disease Management
Cerastium arvense L. var. purpurascens Boivin is generally a hardy plant and is less prone to diseases than other plants. However, certain environmental conditions, such as humidity and excess moisture, can promote the growth of fungal diseases. Below are some common diseases that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Root Rot
Root rot is a common problem for Cerastium arvense L. var. purpurascens Boivin, particularly when the soil is waterlogged. To prevent root rot, ensure that the plant is not overwatered and that the soil drains well. If root rot is already affecting the plant, remove any affected roots and replant the plant in fresh, well-draining soil.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant. Symptoms include white, powdery patches on the leaves. To prevent powdery mildew from affecting the plant, ensure that the plant is not overcrowded, and provide adequate air circulation. If powdery mildew is already affecting the plant, remove any affected leaves and spray the plant with a fungicide formulated for powdery mildew.
Pest Management
While Cerastium arvense L. var. purpurascens Boivin is less prone to pests than other plants, certain pests can still affect its growth and health. Below are some common pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Aphids
Aphids are small insects that suck sap from the plant, causing the leaves to curl and distort. To prevent aphids, keep the plant healthy and stress-free by providing adequate water and nutrients. If aphids are already affecting the plant, spray the plant with insecticidal soap, horticultural oil, or a neem oil solution.
Slugs and Snails
Slugs and snails can also affect the health of the plant. They eat holes in leaves and can even eat entire seedlings. To prevent slugs and snails, remove any debris in the garden that can provide shelter for these pests. Place a barrier of copper mesh or diatomaceous earth around the base of the plant to discourage slugs and snails from reaching it.
By following these disease and pest management practices, you can keep your Cerastium arvense L. var. purpurascens Boivin healthy and thriving.
