Commicarpus verticillatus (Poir.) Standl. var. glandulosus (Franch.) Cufod.
Commicarpus verticillatus (Poir.) Standl. var. glandulosus (Franch.) Cufod. is a flowering plant that belongs to the amaranth family, Amaranthaceae. This plant is commonly known as Whorled Flat-top or Trans-Pecos Fameflower.
Origin
The Whorled Flat-top is mostly found in the United States in arid regions, particularly in Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, and Utah. The plant is also found in parts of Mexico.
General Appearance
Whorled Flat-top is a perennial herb that grows up to 0.5-1.5 feet tall. The plant has numerous branches that spread outwards and are covered in small, white hairs. The leaves of the plant are elongated, thin, and whorled around the stem. They grow up to 2-4 inches long and 0.12-0.25 inches wide. The leaves are light green in color and have small hairs on the top and bottom sides.
The Whorled Flat-top plant produces small, pinkish-white flowers that bloom in clusters at the top of the stems. The flowers have a flat shape and are around 0.16-0.20 inches in diameter. The flowers produce small fruits, which are capsules that contain black seeds.
Uses
The Whorled Flat-top has several medicinal uses, including treating fever, dysentery, and diarrhea. The plant is also used to treat snakebites and other venomous bites and stings. The leaves of the plant are used to soothe burns and wounds. The plant also has ornamental value and is used in landscaping for its attractive, pinkish-white flowers.
In addition to its medicinal and ornamental uses, the Whorled Flat-top plant has been used by indigenous people for food. The leaves and stems of the plant are edible and can be eaten cooked or raw.
Light Conditions:
Commicarpus verticillatus (Poir.) Standl. var. glandulosus (Franch.) Cufod. prefers bright, direct sunlight while growing. It requires a minimum of 6 hours of sunlight exposure per day. Lack of sunlight can lead to stunted growth and weakened plants.
Temperature Requirements:
The plant grows well in warm climatic conditions. It prefers temperatures between 20°C to 30°C and cannot tolerate frost or extreme cold temperatures. The minimum temperature required for the plant to grow is 10°C. In temperatures lower than this, the plant may show signs of damage.
Soil Requirements:
Commicarpus verticillatus (Poir.) Standl. var. glandulosus (Franch.) Cufod. prefers well-drained soils for growth. The plant can thrive in a variety of soils, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, but the soil should not be waterlogged. The best soil pH for the plant is slightly acidic to neutral, between 6.0 to 7.0. The plant is also not tolerant of salinity in the soil.
Cultivation Methods
Commicarpus verticillatus var. glandulosus is a heat-loving plant that thrives in hot and dry conditions. To cultivate this plant, you must choose a location that receives plenty of sunlight throughout the day. The soil should be well-draining and not retain too much moisture. It is best to grow them in pots since they can be sensitive to cold and need to be brought inside during the winter months in cooler climates. The best time to plant these plants is in late spring or early summer, after the last frost has passed.
Watering Needs
Commicarpus verticillatus var. glandulosus is drought-tolerant and can withstand prolonged periods without water. The best practice is to allow the soil to dry out before watering them; water the plant deeply when it is dry, and avoid over-watering. Over-watering can cause the plant's roots to rot and invite fungus and other diseases. It is best to use a watering can or drip irrigation to avoid wetting the foliage and instead water the soil directly.
Fertilization
Commicarpus verticillatus var. glandulosus does not require regular feeding. However, a light application of a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, will encourage healthy growth and blooming. Feed the plant once every 6-8 weeks during the growing season, following the manufacturer's instructions for dosage and application. Overfeeding can cause the plant to grow too quickly, limiting its blooming potential.
Pruning
Commicarpus verticillatus var. glandulosus does not require regular pruning, but you can pinch or cut back any leggy or spindly stems to encourage bushier growth. You can also deadhead any spent blooms to encourage more blooming throughout the growing season. If the plant has become too large or unsightly, you can cut it back in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. This will rejuvenate the plant and promote healthy growth for the upcoming season.
Propagation Methods
Commicarpus verticillatus (Poir.) Standl. var. glandulosus (Franch.) Cufod. can be propagated by seeds, stem cuttings, and layering.
Seed Propagation
Seeds should be collected after the plant has flowered. They can be sown directly into the soil or started in pots indoors.
If sowing directly into the soil, ensure that the soil is well-draining and moist. Rake the soil and sprinkle the seeds on top, then lightly cover them with soil. Keep the soil moist until the seedlings emerge.
If starting seeds indoors, fill a pot with well-draining soil and sow the seeds on top. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil, then water them lightly. Place the pot in a warm spot with bright, indirect light. Keep the soil moist until the seedlings emerge.
Stem Cuttings
Select a healthy stem from the parent plant, and make a clean cut just below a node. Remove any leaves from the bottom half of the stem, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the stem cutting in a pot with well-draining soil, and keep the soil moist. Place the pot in a warm spot with bright, indirect light. The stem cutting should root within a few weeks.
Layering
Select a healthy stem from the parent plant and bend it down to the ground. Make a small wound on the underside of the stem, and cover it with soil. Anchor the stem in place with a small wire or stone. Keep the soil moist, and in several weeks, the stem should develop roots. Once roots have formed, cut the stem from the parent plant and plant it in a pot with well-draining soil.
Disease Management
Commicarpus verticillatus var. glandulosus is generally resistant to many diseases, but the plant can still get affected by some disorders.
Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes the plant to develop small, dark spots on the leaves. It can also cause leaf drop and stunted growth. To manage this disease, remove infected plant material, ensure good air circulation, and avoid overhead watering.
Rust: Another fungal disease that can cause yellow-orange pustules to form on the leaves. To manage rust, you can apply a fungicide and remove infected plant material. Ensure that the plant has good air circulation.
Root rot: Overwatering or poorly drained soil can cause root rot, which can result in wilting and death of the plant. To manage root rot, ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering.
Pest Management
Commicarpus verticillatus var. glandulosus is generally free from major pest infestations, but the plant can still be affected by some pests.
Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing and mottling of the leaves. To manage spider mites, you can wash the leaves with a strong jet of water, apply insecticidal soap, or remove heavily infested leaves.
Whiteflies: These pests can cause yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth. They can also transmit viral diseases. To manage whiteflies, you can apply insecticidal soap or remove heavily infested leaves.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars can eat the leaves and cause defoliation. To manage caterpillars, you can remove them by hand or apply a biological or chemical control.
Regular monitoring of the plant is important to catch any potential problems early and manage them effectively. Avoid stressing the plant by providing it with proper water and nutrition, and ensuring it has good air circulation.
