Overview
Collinsia bartsiifolia Benth. var. hirsuta (Kellogg) Pennell is a native California plant that belongs to the Plantaginaceae or Plantain family. It is commonly known as Hairy Blue-eyed Mary, Hairy Blue-eyed Mary Collinsia, and Fairy Wings.
Origin
Hairy Blue-eyed Mary is endemic to California, specifically in the central and southern parts of the state. It can be found growing in grasslands, meadows, and open areas at elevations of up to 8,000 feet.
Appearance
Hairy Blue-eyed Mary is a small, annual plant that typically grows up to 12 inches tall. It has narrow leaves that are 1-2 inches long, and 1/4 inch wide. The plant produces many small, violet-blue flowers that are 1/4 inch wide, with five petals arranged in the shape of a funnel. The flowers are borne atop branching stems that arise from a basal rosette. The stem, leaves, and calyx are all covered in stiff, short hairs, giving the plant a fuzzy appearance.
Uses
Hairy Blue-eyed Mary is primarily used as an ornamental plant in gardens, as it adds a pop of color to any landscape. It is also used in native plant restoration projects, as it is a California native that helps to maintain the state's biodiversity.
Growth Conditions for Collinsia bartsiifolia Benth. var. hirsuta (Kellogg) Pennell
The Collinsia bartsiifolia Benth. var. hirsuta (Kellogg) Pennell or the hairy Chinese blue-eyed Mary is a flowering plant that typically grows in open grasslands, meadows, and woodlands. Native to the western United States, it requires specific growth conditions to thrive, including adequate light, temperature, and soil requirements.
Light Requirements
The plant requires partial shade to full sun exposure and can tolerate moderate shade. However, it prefers areas with high light availability, especially during the early stages of growth. Lack of adequate light can lead to weak stems, reduced blooms, and stunted growth. Therefore, it is recommended to plant the species in areas that receive direct sunlight for at least four to six hours per day.
Temperature Requirements
The hairy Chinese blue-eyed Mary typically grows in areas with moderate temperatures, averaging between 15 to 26°C. It can tolerate cold regions with a minimum temperature of -7°C and warmer regions with maximum temperatures of up to 38°C. However, it requires protection from frost or extreme heat, which can damage the plant's growth and development. In hot regions, it is advisable to plant the species in areas with sufficient shade and moderate temperatures.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-drained soils with neutral to slightly acidic pH levels (6.0-7.2). It prefers soils with high organic matter content and aeration to promote root development and nutrient uptake. The species can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and rocky soils. However, they require adequate moisture levels to support optimal growth and development. It is recommended to mulch the plant's base to reduce soil moisture loss and suppress weed growth.
Cultivation methods for Collinsia bartsiifolia Benth. var. hirsuta (Kellogg) Pennell
Collinsia bartsiifolia Benth. var. hirsuta (Kellogg) Pennell is a hardy annual plant that can be easily grown from seeds. It prefers cool, moist climates and grows best in well-draining, rich soil. The plant can be grown in full or partial shade and is ideal for cultivation in garden beds or containers.
Watering needs for Collinsia bartsiifolia Benth. var. hirsuta (Kellogg) Pennell
Since Collinsia bartsiifolia Benth. var. hirsuta (Kellogg) Pennell prefers moist soil, it is important to water the plant regularly. However, care should be taken not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot. It is best to water the plant in the morning or evening, when the temperatures are cooler.
Fertilization for Collinsia bartsiifolia Benth. var. hirsuta (Kellogg) Pennell
Collinsia bartsiifolia Benth. var. hirsuta (Kellogg) Pennell does not require heavy fertilization. However, it can benefit from a light application of balanced fertilizer during the growing season. It is important to avoid over-fertilization, as this can lead to excessive vegetative growth and reduce flowering.
Pruning for Collinsia bartsiifolia Benth. var. hirsuta (Kellogg) Pennell
Pruning is generally not required for Collinsia bartsiifolia Benth. var. hirsuta (Kellogg) Pennell. However, deadheading can be beneficial, as this can promote continuous blooming throughout the growing season. Deadheading involves removing the spent flowers before they can develop into seed pods.
Propagation of Collinsia bartsiifolia Benth. var. hirsuta (Kellogg) Pennell
Collinsia bartsiifolia Benth. var. hirsuta (Kellogg) Pennell, commonly known as Bartonia, is primarily propagated through its seeds. The plant is a native to California and is often used for ornamental and medicinal purposes.
Seed Propagation
The best time to sow the Bartonia seeds is in the fall or early winter in well-draining soil. The seeds require sufficient moisture and moderate temperature for germination. The temperature range for germination is between 50 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit, which usually takes about three weeks to a month.
When the seedlings are about an inch high, they should be transplanted to larger pots with good soil mixture. This allows the seedlings to develop strong root systems. Watering the seedlings regularly and placing them in sheltered areas with indirect sunlight stimulates their growth. The Bartonia plant typically blooms between April and June.
In some cases, it is possible to propagate the Bartonia plant through cuttings. However, seed propagation remains the most effective method of propagating the plant due to its resilience and adaptability.
Disease Management
Collinsia bartsiifolia Benth. var. hirsuta is known to be susceptible to fungal and bacterial diseases. Here are some of the common diseases that might affect the plant:
- Fungal leaf spots: This disease causes circular spots to form on the leaves of the plant. It is caused by a fungal pathogen, and can lead to leaf drop and stunted growth. To manage this disease, it is important to remove any infected leaves and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides can also help prevent the spread of the disease.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease causes a white powdery substance to form on the leaves of the plant. It can stunt growth and reduce yield. To manage this disease, it is important to remove any infected plant material and improve air circulation around the plant. Fungicides can also help prevent the spread of the disease.
- Bacterial leaf spot: This disease causes water-soaked lesions on the leaves of the plant. It can lead to defoliation and death of the plant. To manage this disease, it is important to remove any infected plant material and avoid overhead watering. Copper fungicides are effective in preventing the spread of this disease.
Pest Management
Collinsia bartsiifolia Benth. var. hirsuta is also vulnerable to a number of insect pests. Here are some of the common pests that might affect the plant:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects feed on the juices of the plant. They can cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. To manage this pest, it is important to remove any affected leaves and use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control their population.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests feed on the underside of the leaves, causing a stippled appearance. They can weaken the plant and reduce yields. To manage this pest, it is important to maintain high humidity levels and use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control their population.
- Thrips: These small, slender insects feed on the flowers and leaves of the plant. They can cause distortion of the flowers and stunted growth. To manage this pest, it is important to remove any affected leaves and use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control their population.
Several insect pests can attack the plant at once, so doing regular inspections and early intervention can help to keep the plant healthy and productive.
