Overview
Collinsia rattanii Gray ssp. rattanii is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Plantaginaceae. This plant is native to California, particularly in the North Coast, Klamath Ranges, and North Sierra Nevada. It is commonly known as Rattan's Blue-eyed Mary and Pine Blue-eyed Mary.Appearance
Rattan's Blue-eyed Mary is an annual herb that can grow up to 20-40 cm tall. It has opposite leaves that are lance-shaped and serrated at the edges. The flowers are produced in dense clusters at the top of the stem. Each flower has a blue-purple color with a white center. It blooms in spring to early summer, and the shape and color of the flowers are distinct from other members of the genus Collinsia.Uses
Collinsia rattanii Gray ssp. rattanii is typically used for ornamental purposes in gardens and landscapes due to its beautiful and unique flowers. It attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies, making it a great addition to pollinator gardens. In addition, Native Americans used the plant for medicinal purposes. They traditionally consumed a tea made from the plant's roots to treat stomach pains, fever, and sore throats.Cultivation
Rattan's Blue-eyed Mary prefers to grow in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter and with a slightly acidic pH. It thrives in areas with full sun exposure or light shade. It is best grown from seed, which should be sown in early spring before the last frost. To encourage germination, stratify the seeds in the refrigerator for two to four weeks before planting. The plant does not require much maintenance, but it should be watered regularly during dry spells.Light Requirements
Collinsia rattanii Gray ssp. rattanii typically grows in areas with partial shade to full sun exposure. It thrives in environments with bright and indirect sunlight. Direct and intense sunlight for extended periods may cause leaf scorching and damage the plant.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species is native to California and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It can adapt to moderate hot summer months and cold winter weather. The ideal temperature range for optimal growth is 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soils with a sandy or rocky texture. It requires soils with a neutral to slightly acidic pH between 6.0 and 7.5. The soil must have high organic matter content, and the plant needs regular watering to thrive. Collinsia rattanii Gray ssp. rattanii is sensitive to waterlogged soil, and it can lead to root rot and poor growth.
Cultivation Method
Collinsia rattanii Gray ssp. rattanii is a delicate plant that prefers well-drained soil. The plant grows best in a slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.0 and 7.5. It requires full sun exposure to thrive and can tolerate partial shade. You can propagate the plant through seed, and it typically takes two weeks for them to germinate. It is advisable to sow seeds indoors before planting them outside.
Watering Needs
Collinsia rattanii Gray ssp. rattanii requires adequate watering, especially during the growing season. However, ensure not to overwater the plant as it may result in root rot. You can water the plant evenly and give it a deep soak to promote healthy root growth. During the dormant season, reduce watering and do not let the soil dry out as it may affect the plant's overall growth.
Fertilization
Collinsia rattanii Gray ssp. rattanii requires moderate fertilization, and you can use organic or synthetic fertilizers. Incorporate a balanced fertilizer in the soil before planting the seedlings. Once the plant establishes, you can use a slow-release fertilizer after every four to six weeks during the growing season. Be sure to follow the package instructions and not to over-fertilize the plant as it may lead to excessive vegetation growth and affect its flowering capability.
Pruning
Collinsia rattanii Gray ssp. rattanii requires minimal pruning. You can remove dead, diseased, or damaged foliage to prevent the spread of pests and diseases. You can also clip the plant after flowering to stimulate healthy growth and promote more blooming. However, ensure not to clip more than 1/3 of the plant to avoid causing stress to the plant.
Propagation of Collinsia rattanii Gray ssp. rattanii
Collinsia rattanii Gray ssp. rattanii is a herbaceous annual plant that grows up to 80 cm tall and is commonly found in well-drained soils in meadows and open woods. Propagating Collinsia rattanii Gray ssp. rattanii is done by the following methods:
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Collinsia rattanii Gray ssp. rattanii is by seed. The optimal time for planting seeds is in the fall or early winter, just before the first frost. Seeds can be sown directly into the garden bed once the soil has warmed up enough, or they can be started indoors and transplanted once the seedlings have reached a few inches in height.
When planting seeds, it is recommended to scarify them by rubbing them gently with sandpaper or nicking them with a knife. This will help to break the seed coat and allow for better germination rates. Seeds should be planted at a depth of about 1 cm and spaced about 30 cm apart.
Collinsia rattanii Gray ssp. rattanii seeds require consistent moisture for proper germination. Be sure to keep the soil evenly moist during the germination period, which can take up to two weeks.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation of Collinsia rattanii Gray ssp. rattanii is possible but is less common than seed propagation. This method involves taking stem cuttings from a mature plant and rooting them in a suitable medium.
The best time to take cuttings is early in the growing season when the plant is actively growing. Cuttings should be about 10 cm in length and taken from healthy, disease-free plants. The cuttings should be dipped in a rooting hormone before being planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept in a warm, humid environment until roots have formed.
Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted into individual pots and grown on until they are ready for planting in the garden.
Disease Management
Collinsia rattanii Gray ssp. rattanii is generally a healthy plant, with few reported disease issues. However, several diseases may still affect the plant under certain conditions. These include:
- Fungal leaf spots: These are usually caused by excessive moisture, humidity, or poor air circulation. These can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering, planting the collinsia rattanii in an area with good air circulation, and removing and disposing of infected leaves.
- Viral infections: Viruses such as cucumber mosaic virus and tobacco rattle virus can infect collinsia rattanii, causing yellowing, stunted growth, and distorted leaves. There is no cure for viral infections, so it is essential to remove and dispose of infected plants, avoid planting susceptible plants, and control aphids, which can transmit viruses.
Pest Management
Collinsia rattanii Gray ssp. rattanii may also be attacked by several pests, including:
- Aphids: These tiny insects suck sap from the leaves, causing curling, stunting, and yellowing. To control aphids, wash them off with a strong stream of water, introduce natural predators such as ladybirds or lacewings, or use insecticidal soap.
- Spider mites: These are common pests in dry conditions. They cause yellowing or bronzing of foliage and may also produce fine webbing. To control spider mites, increase humidity by misting the plant or placing a saucer filled with water near the plant, and use insecticidal soap or miticides.
- Thrips: These tiny insects cause silvery scarring on leaves and flowers. Control thrips by spraying the plant with a stream of water or using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
