Origin and Common Names
Chrysosplenium alternifolium L. var. iowense (Rydb.) Boivin, also known as alternate-leaved golden-saxifrage, is a perennial plant that belongs to the saxifrage family. This plant is native to North America, particularly found in Northern and Central United States, including Iowa, Colorado, Montana, and Minnesota. It is commonly known as ticklegrass and mirror plant.
Uses
Chrysosplenium alternifolium L. var. iowense (Rydb.) Boivin is primarily used for ornamental purposes, as it has a pleasant appearance with its bright green leaves, yellow-green flowers, and silver-lined stems. It is planted in rock gardens, woodland gardens, or moist meadows, where it thrives in damp soil environments. This plant is also known to possess diuretic properties and is traditionally used to promote urination.
General Appearance
Chrysosplenium alternifolium L. var. iowense (Rydb.) Boivin is a low-growing plant that forms a mat-like structure, reaching a height of only 4 to 6 inches. The leaves of the plant are alternate and heart-shaped, with serrated margins. The stems are reddish-brown and are lined with silver-colored veins, giving the plant a unique aesthetic. The flowers are yellow-green and bloom from March to May, with each flower being just 1/8 to 1/3 inches in diameter. Overall, this plant is a stunning addition to any garden and is a valuable contributor to the flora of North America.
Light Requirements
Chrysosplenium alternifolium L. var. iowense (Rydb.) Boivin typically grows in shady areas, such as damp woodland, along streams, and in wet meadows. This plant prefers partial to full shade, and exposure to direct sunlight should be avoided.
Temperature Requirements
Chrysosplenium alternifolium L. var. iowense (Rydb.) Boivin prefers cooler temperatures. The average temperature at which this plant thrives ranges from 50 °F to 70 °F. However, the plant can withstand mildly warmer temperatures in the range of 75 °F to 80 °F if kept in consistently moist soil. Extreme temperature fluctuations should be avoided.
Soil Requirements
The Chrysosplenium alternifolium L. var. iowense (Rydb.) Boivin prefers soil that is consistently moist and well-draining. The plant does best in moist, humus-rich soils that are neutral to slightly acidic, with pH levels ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. This plant can tolerate damp soil, but the soil must not be waterlogged to the point where water cannot drain away from the roots. The plant prefers soil that is rich in organic matter and hosts a variety of microorganisms.
Cultivation Methods for Chrysosplenium alternifolium L. var. iowense (Rydb.) Boivin
Apart from its native habitats which are wet or permanently damp sites in forests, wet meadows, and alpine rock crevices, Chrysosplenium alternifolium L. var. iowense (Rydb.) Boivin can also be grown in other areas as long as the necessary water conditions are provided. The ideal soil for planting this plant is a moist and well-drained one with plenty of organic matter and humus. The plant prefers partial to full shade, and direct sunlight should be avoided.
Watering Needs of Chrysosplenium alternifolium L. var. iowense (Rydb.) Boivin
Watering is a decisive factor in growing Chrysosplenium alternifolium L. var. iowense (Rydb.) Boivin since it requires a constant level of moisture in the soil. The soil must neither be too wet nor too dry. Thus, it is advisable to water the plant regularly, especially during the warm and dry seasons. One must ensure that the water does not form pools around the plant.
Fertilization of Chrysosplenium alternifolium L. var. iowense (Rydb.) Boivin
Generally, Chrysosplenium alternifolium L. var. iowense (Rydb.) Boivin does not require fertilization. However, if you think that your plant is not growing to its fullest potential, then you can use organic fertilizers. Make sure to use fertilizers that are high in nitrogen content. Too much fertilizer could damage the plant, so it is better to use less and more often.
Pruning Chrysosplenium alternifolium L. var. iowense (Rydb.) Boivin
Pruning is not mandatory for Chrysosplenium alternifolium L. var. iowense (Rydb.) Boivin. However, if you desire to control the size of the plant, you can prune the leaves. Pruning promotes branching, and it is advisable to prune the plant early in the spring if needed. Deadheading is also an essential part as it helps the plant in focusing its energy on producing new blooms.
Propagation Methods for Chrysosplenium alternifolium L. var. iowense (Rydb.) Boivin
Chrysosplenium alternifolium L. var. iowense (Rydb.) Boivin, also known as "Golden-saxifrage," is a herbaceous perennial plant typically found in wetland areas. If you are interested in propagating this plant, here are some methods you can try:
1. Seed Propagation
One of the simplest methods to propagate Chrysosplenium alternifolium is through seed propagation. Collect seeds from mature plants during August to September, and store them in a cool, dry place. Start the seeds indoors during late winter, and transplant them into the garden during the spring. The seeds should germinate in two to three weeks.
2. Division
You can also propagate Golden-saxifrage through division. Divide mature plants during early spring or late autumn with a spade or a knife. Replant the divided sections into well-prepared soil and keep it moist. The divided plants can be propagated by seed, stem cutting, or rooting nodes from the mother plant.
3. Stem Cutting
Take stem cuttings during June or July and remove the lower leaves, leaving just one or two sets of leaves on the top. Dip the stems into rooting hormone, and insert them into pots filled with a potting mix that contains perlite and peat moss. Keep the soil moist and maintain a warm temperature. Roots should develop within a month, and the plants can be transplanted into the garden in the fall.
Disease Management
Chrysosplenium alternifolium var. iowense is relatively resistant to diseases. However, the plant may develop some fungal and bacterial infections under certain growing conditions.
One of the most common fungal diseases affecting the plant is powdery mildew, which manifests as greyish-white powdery spots on the leaves. The powdery mildew can be treated using fungicides, applying them after every two weeks up to three times until the condition is under control.
Bacterial infections such as soft rot may also affect the plant. Overwatering and overcrowding can make the plant susceptible to soft rot. To manage bacterial infections, it is advisable to remove the affected plants and avoid overwatering. Using sterilized soil and clean equipment can also help in preventing the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
The plant may be vulnerable to some pests, including aphids and spider mites, among others.
Aphids are small pear-shaped insects that pierce the leaves and suck sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. Natural predators like lady beetles, lacewings, and parasitic wasps may help control aphids. Applying insecticides like neem oil can also help in controlling the pests.
Spider mites have piercing-sucking mouthparts and can cause extensive damage to the plant within a short time. These pests thrive in hot and dry conditions. They often appear as tiny dots undersides of the leaves and spin a webbing-like substance. To control spider mites, it is essential to keep the plant hydrated and increase humidity. A simple solution of water and soap (1 tsp per quart of water) can also help in managing spider mites.
Regular monitoring and inspection of the plant can help identify pest problems early before they cause extensive damage.
