Overview
Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus (Hook.) Nutt. ssp. lanceolatus (Nutt.) Hall & Clements, commonly known as lanceleaf rabbitbrush, is a perennial shrub that is native to western North America.
Description
The plant grows up to 6 feet tall and has a rounded, bushy shape with multiple stems. The leaves are lance-shaped and typically range from 1 to 3 inches in length and up to 0.4 inches in width. The flowers are small and yellow and bloom in late summer and early fall. The plant is covered in a sticky substance, which gives it its species name "viscidiflorus."
Uses
The Native American tribes in the western United States have traditionally used Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus for medicinal purposes, such as treating coughs, colds, and fevers. The plant is also used as a food source for wildlife, such as rabbits and birds.
Cultivation
Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus prefers well-drained soil and full sun. It is drought-tolerant and can grow in a variety of soil types. Propagation is typically done through seed or stem cuttings. The plant is an excellent option for landscaping and erosion control due to its hardiness and attractive foliage.
Light Requirements
Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus ssp. lanceolatus typically prefers full sun exposure for optimal growth. It can tolerate some shade, but it may not flower as profusely as it would in full sun. If grown indoors, it requires bright artificial light.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can tolerate a range of temperatures, but it grows best in a climate with warm summers and cool winters. The ideal temperature range is between 60-80°F during the growing season and 20-30°F during the dormant season. Extreme heat or cold temperatures may cause stress and hinder growth.
Soil Requirements
Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus ssp. lanceolatus prefers well-draining soils that are slightly acidic to neutral (pH range of 6.0-7.0). It can tolerate poor, rocky soils and prefers sandy loam soils rich in organic matter. When planting, it is important to ensure adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging, which may lead to root rot.
Cultivation
Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus (Hook.) Nutt. ssp. lanceolatus (Nutt.) Hall & Clements, commonly known as lance-leaved rabbitbrush, is a hardy plant that thrives in USDA hardiness zones 4 through 8. It prefers full sun exposure and well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral.
Watering Needs
During the establishment period, rabbitbrush should be watered regularly, but not excessively, to encourage growth. Once the plant is established, it is highly drought-tolerant and does not require regular watering. Water only during extended periods of dry weather in smaller and controlled amounts.
Fertilization
Rabbitbrush does not require regular fertilization but it will benefit from a slow-release, low-nitrogen fertilizer once per year. Do not over-fertilize, as too much fertilizer can cause excessive growth and a weaker root system.
Pruning
Rabbitbrush does not require frequent pruning. However, during the late winter or early spring, you can prune any dead branches or shape the plant as desired. Take care not to remove more than one-third of the plant's growth at one time.
Propagation of Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus (Hook.) Nutt. ssp. lanceolatus (Nutt.) Hall & Clements
Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus (Hook.) Nutt. ssp. lanceolatus (Nutt.) Hall & Clements, commonly known as the lance-leaved rabbitbrush, can be propagated through both sexual and asexual reproduction methods.
Sexual Propagation
The seeds of the lance-leaved rabbitbrush can be harvested from the mature plant during the fall season. The seeds should be cleaned and stored properly in a cool and dry place. These seeds could be sown directly into the soil during the spring season when the temperature is around 60°F (16°C).
Asexual Propagation
Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus (Hook.) Nutt. ssp. lanceolatus (Nutt.) Hall & Clements can also be propagated through vegetative means such as cuttings, layering, and division.
Cuttings: Softwood cuttings of lance-leaved rabbitbrush can be taken during the summer season and should be approximately 6 inches (15 cm) in length. The cuttings should be treated with a rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining potting mixture. Place the pot in a shaded area and keep the soil evenly moist until roots appear which takes about 2-3 weeks.
Layering: In the spring season, choose a healthy and strong branch of the parent plant and make a small cut in it just below a node. Attach it to the ground using a U-shaped wire, spreading the branch out and pinning it down with soil. Cover the area with mulch or soil to encourage rooting. Once the roots develop, separate the new plant from the parent plant and replant it in its desired location.
Division: Lance-leaved rabbitbrush can be divided in the spring season, when the plant is just emerging from dormancy. Carefully dig up the clump and separate the individual plants making sure each has enough roots to survive. Replant the new plants in their desired locations.
Disease Management
Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus ssp. lanceolatus, commonly known as lanceleaf rubber rabbitbrush, is generally considered a hardy plant that is resistant to many diseases. However, it is still susceptible to some pathogen attacks. Here are some of the most common diseases that may affect the plant and suggestions on how to manage them:
- Leaf Spot – Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes circular or irregular spots on the leaves. The spots may be yellow or brown and may have a reddish-brown border. The disease can be managed by removing infected plant debris, maintaining good air circulation, and avoiding overhead watering.
- Rust – Rust is another fungal disease that is characterized by yellow or orange powdery spots on the leaves. The spots may coalesce and cause the leaves to become distorted. To manage the disease, remove infected plant debris and avoid overhead watering.
- Canker – Canker is a fungal disease that causes sunken lesions on the stem. The lesions may be brown or black and may ooze sap. To manage the disease, prune and destroy infected branches and stems.
Pest Management
Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus ssp. lanceolatus is also relatively resistant to pests. However, some pests may still cause damage to the plant. Here are some of the most common pests that may affect the plant and suggestions on how to manage them:
- Aphids – Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the leaves. They can be managed by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water or insecticidal soap.
- Mites – Mites are tiny arachnids that feed on the leaves. They can be managed by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water or insecticidal soap.
- Root Weevils – Root weevils are beetles that feed on the roots of the plant. They can be managed by applying beneficial nematodes to the soil.
