Overview
Chrysolepis chrysophylla var. minor, also known as lesser golden chinquapin, is a sub-species of Chrysolepis chrysophylla, a tree in the beech family native to western North America. It is widely distributed in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States, from northern California to southwestern British Columbia.
Description
The leaf of Chrysolepis chrysophylla var. minor is dark green and leathery with a distinctive golden underside, providing a striking contrast. The tree can grow up to 100 feet in height and has a crown that is typically narrow and conical-shaped. The bark is grey-brown and can be quite rough and scaly. The fruit of the tree is a prickly burr containing one or two nuts that are edible and have a mild, sweet flavor.
Common Names
Chrysolepis chrysophylla var. minor has several common names, including lesser golden chinquapin, dwarf golden chinquapin, Sierra golden chinquapin, and Sierra chinkapin. It is also sometimes referred to as the dwarf chinquapin or the golden chinquapin.
Uses
The nuts of Chrysolepis chrysophylla var. minor have been an important food source for many Native American tribes in the Pacific Northwest for thousands of years. The nuts can be eaten raw or roasted and ground into flour to make bread or cakes. The wood of the tree is hard and durable, making it useful for construction, furniture, and tool handles. The tree is also sometimes planted as an ornamental tree in parks and gardens.
Light Requirements
The Chrysolepis chrysophylla var. minor prefers moderate to full sunlight. This plant is adapted to growing in forests and woodlands where it receives dappled light. However, it can also tolerate full sun in cooler regions. Adequate sunlight is important for the plant to maintain its optimal growth rate and produce healthy fruits.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature for the Chrysolepis chrysophylla var. minor is between 50 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. It can tolerate both high and low temperatures, but extreme temperatures should be avoided. During the winter, this plant experiences a dormant period, and the temperature should remain below 40 degrees Fahrenheit to avoid damage to the buds.
Soil Requirements
The Chrysolepis chrysophylla var. minor grows well in well-drained soils with a slightly acidic pH ranging between 5.0 to 6.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter and nutrients. This plant prefers loamy, sandy soils but can grow in clay soil as well. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, and the plant should not be allowed to dry out completely.
Cultivation Methods
Chrysolepis chrysophylla var. minor is best cultivated in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers partial shade or dappled sunlight, so it's best to plant it under trees. In case of potting, use a pot that is at least 12 inches wide and fill it with a high-quality potting mix. The plant should be repotted every two years.
Watering Needs
The plant should be watered deeply but infrequently. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's best to allow the top inch of the soil to dry out completely before watering again. This plant prefers a moist environment, so it's important to keep the soil consistently moist.
Fertilization
Chrysolepis chrysophylla var. minor does not require excessive fertilization. It's best to fertilize the plant once a year with a slow-release fertilizer, preferably in the spring. Overfertilization can lead to leaf burn and other health issues, so it's best to use small amounts of fertilizer and follow the instructions on the label.
Pruning
The plant does not require regular pruning, but it can be trimmed to shape in the spring or fall. It's best to remove all the dead or damaged branches from the plant to keep it healthy. In case of potting, prune the plant to maintain its size and shape. Do not cut beyond the healthy parts of the plant or remove more than one-third of the foliage.
Propagation of Chrysolepis chrysophylla var. minor
Chrysolepis chrysophylla var. minor can be propagated by three main methods which include seed propagation, stem cutting, and layering. However, seed propagation is the most common method of propagation for this plant.
Seed Propagation
The collected seeds should be planted in a mixture of sand and peat moss and kept moist but not excessively watered. The seedlings should be transplanted to individual containers to encourage proper root development. However, the seeds of Chrysolepis chrysophylla var. minor can take up to two years to germinate, which is why this method is not common.
Stem Cutting
Stem cutting is another way to propagate Chrysolepis chrysophylla var. minor, but this method is not commonly used because of the plant's slow growth rate. However, if you choose this method, you should take a cutting from an actively growing stem, dip it in rooting hormone and plant it in a mix of sand and peat. It should be kept moist and covered with plastic to help retain moisture.
Layering
Layering is often the most reliable way to propagate Chrysolepis chrysophylla var. minor. Layering is the process of bending a low branch to the ground, making a small nick in the stem, and then covering the bare portion of the stem with soil while still attached to the parent plant. Once roots have formed, the new plant can be cut from the parent plant and planted in its container.
Disease and Pest Management for Chrysolepis chrysophylla var. minor
Chrysolepis chrysophylla var. minor, commonly known as the Sierra chinquapin, is a small tree or tall shrub with evergreen leaves. While it can thrive in many conditions, there are several common diseases and pests that can affect its overall health and growth. Below are some strategies for mitigating these issues.
Diseases
Phytophthora Root Rot: Phytophthora is a fungal disease that attacks the roots of plants and can cause wilting, stunted growth, and ultimately death of the tree. To prevent this disease, avoid planting this tree in poorly drained soils, and keep the root zone free from debris. Providing good drainage and avoiding overwatering can help prevent the spread of this disease.
Sudden Oak Death: Sudden oak death is a fungal disease that is related to Phytophthora and can cause leaf browning, cankers on the trunk, and death. This disease is most commonly spread in damp conditions, so avoid persistent leaf wetness and improve air circulation. It is particularly important to be vigilant for sudden oak death if this tree is growing in a forested area or near other oak species.
Pests
Chinquapin Gall Wasp: This pest lays its eggs inside the twigs of the tree, causing them to form small galls. These galls can weaken the tree and cause it to become susceptible to other diseases. Pruning infested twigs and spraying with insecticides can help manage the gall wasp.
Lecanium Scale: Lecanium scales are small, sap-sucking insects that can be identified by their hard, protective shells. Infestations can cause slowed growth, sooty mold, and leaf drop. Horticultural oils or insecticidal soaps can be used to control these pests.
Western Tent Caterpillar: These caterpillars are known for their distinctive silk tents that they create in the branches of trees. While they rarely cause long-term damage, they can defoliate trees and weaken them. Handpicking any visible egg masses and removing tents in the winter can help manage these pests.
Keep in mind that prevention is often the best strategy in managing diseases and pests. Maintaining good cultural practices, such as adequate watering and fertilizing, can help keep trees healthy and able to resist infestations. In addition, regularly inspecting trees for signs of damage or stress can help catch any issues early on, before they have a chance to become more serious.
