General Description
Chrysanthemum arcticum L. var. polare (Hultén) Boivin, commonly known as Arctic Chrysanthemum, is a perennial plant species in the Asteraceae family. It is a rare and unique plant native to the arctic regions of North America, including Canada, Alaska, and Greenland. The plant typically grows in low-lying areas such as streambanks, tundra, and rocky slopes.
Appearance
The Arctic Chrysanthemum plant has erect stems that can reach up to 30 cm tall. The leaves are dark green, oval-shaped, and deeply lobed, with serrated edges. The stems and leaves are covered in soft white hairs. The plant produces solitary yellow flowers with tubular centers and eight to ten ray florets. The flowers are about 2-3 cm in diameter.
Common Names
The Arctic Chrysanthemum is also known by its common name, Arctic Daisy. Other common names include Polar Chrysanthemum, Arctic Marigold, and Arctic Sunflower.
Uses
The Arctic Chrysanthemum has been used by indigenous people for various medicinal purposes. The plant contains compounds such as flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties. The leaves and stems of the plant have been used in traditional medicine for treating colds, coughs, and sore throats. The plant is also used as a food source by wildlife in the arctic regions, such as caribou and muskox. The plant is now grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks due to its unique appearance and hardiness.
Light Requirements
Chrysanthemum arcticum L. var. polare (Hultén) Boivin requires full sunlight to thrive. It grows best in areas that receive at least six hours of sunlight daily.
Temperature Requirements
Chrysanthemum arcticum L. var. polare (Hultén) Boivin is a cold-hardy plant and can tolerate extreme weather conditions. It grows well in temperate climates with temperatures ranging between 0 and 15 degrees Celsius. High temperatures can cause the plant to wilt, while extreme cold can lead to the death of the plant.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-drained soil with a pH level between 5.5 and 7.5. It thrives in nutrient-rich and moist soil. The soil should be loamy with a high content of organic matter. The plant is not tolerant of water-logged soils and may die if left in such conditions for extended periods.
Cultivation Methods
Chrysanthemum arcticum L. var. polare (Hultén) Boivin, also known as Arctic Chrysanthemum, is a hardy, low-growing perennial herb that thrives in low temperatures. The plant is native to arctic and alpine regions and grows best in well-drained soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5.
It prefers full sun to partial shade and needs protection from strong winds. It can be propagated from seeds or cuttings and usually takes about two to three years to reach maturity.
Watering Needs
Arctic Chrysanthemums require a moderate amount of water during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
It is essential to avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot and fungal diseases. During the winter, watering should be reduced to prevent the plant from freezing.
Fertilization
The Arctic Chrysanthemum does not require a lot of fertilization, but it can benefit from a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
It is recommended to fertilize the plant once every month from spring to late summer to provide nutrients for optimal growth. Avoid fertilizing the plant during the winter months as this can stimulate new growth that may not survive the cold temperatures.
Pruning
Arctic Chrysanthemums do not require a lot of pruning, but occasional pinching of the tips can help to promote bushier growth. Deadheading spent flowers can also encourage the plant to produce more blooms.
It is essential to prune the plant in the spring to remove any dead or damaged leaves and stems.
It is also crucial to cut back the plant after the first frost in the fall to prevent the plant from becoming too leggy and encourage new growth the following spring.
Propagation of Chrysanthemum arcticum L. var. polare (Hultén) Boivin
Chrysanthemum arcticum L. var. polare (Hultén) Boivin, commonly known as Arctic chrysanthemum, is a herbaceous perennial plant that is native to the Arctic regions of North America. The plant is known for its attractive daisy-like flowers that bloom in early summer and its ability to withstand extreme environmental conditions.
Propagation Methods
Chrysanthemum arcticum L. var. polare (Hultén) Boivin can be propagated by several methods, including seed, division, and cuttings.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Chrysanthemum arcticum L. var. polare (Hultén) Boivin can be collected in late summer and sown in a cold frame in the fall. The seeds require cold stratification for several weeks before they will germinate. Once the seedlings have developed roots, they can be transplanted into individual pots and grown until they are ready for outdoor planting. Seed propagation is the easiest and most reliable way to grow Chrysanthemum arcticum L. var. polare (Hultén) Boivin.
Division Propagation
The plant can also be propagated by division in the spring or fall. To propagate by division, carefully dig up an established plant and separate the root ball into individual plants. Each new plant should have several healthy shoots and a good root system. Plant the new divisions in well-draining soil and keep them well-watered until they are established.
Cutting Propagation
Chrysanthemum arcticum L. var. polare (Hultén) Boivin can be propagated by cuttings taken in the spring or early summer. Take 3-5 inch cuttings from the plant and dip them in a rooting hormone solution. Plant the cuttings in a well-draining potting soil and keep them moist until roots develop. Once the roots form, transplant the new plants into individual pots and grow them until they are ready to be planted outdoors.
Disease and Pest Management for Chrysanthemum arcticum L. var. polare (Hultén) Boivin
Like all plants, Chrysanthemum arcticum L. var. polare (Hultén) Boivin is susceptible to various diseases and pests. It is important to take certain measures to prevent and manage these issues in order to ensure the plant's health and productivity.
Common Diseases
One common disease that may affect Chrysanthemum arcticum L. var. polare is powdery mildew. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that typically appears as a white or gray powder on the leaves and stems. This disease can cause a reduction in plant growth and yield. To manage powdery mildew, it is important to practice good sanitation by regularly removing infected plant material and improving air circulation around the plant.
Bacterial wilt is another common disease that can affect Chrysanthemum arcticum L. var. polare. Bacterial wilt can be identified by wilting or yellowing of the leaves, which may eventually turn brown and die. To manage bacterial wilt, it is important to avoid over-watering and to remove infected plants immediately.
Common Pests
One common pest that may affect Chrysanthemum arcticum L. var. polare is the chrysanthemum aphid. These pests can cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. To manage chrysanthemum aphids, it is important to regularly inspect and monitor the plant and to apply insecticides as needed.
Another common pest that can affect Chrysanthemum arcticum L. var. polare is the two-spotted spider mite. These pests typically appear as tiny red or brown specks on the leaves and can cause yellowing and leaf drop. To manage two-spotted spider mites, it is important to improve air circulation and to apply insecticidal soap or other appropriate insecticides to the affected plants.
Conclusion
With proper disease and pest management, Chrysanthemum arcticum L. var. polare (Hultén) Boivin can produce healthy and productive plants. It is important to monitor the plant regularly and to take swift action when any issues are identified. By following these guidelines, Chrysanthemum arcticum L. var. polare can thrive and provide beautiful blooms for many years to come.
