Overview
Coreopsis borianiana Sch.Bip. ex Schweinf. & Asch. var. cannabina Sch.Bip. ex Schweinf. & Asch., commonly known as the Mexican tickseed, is a perennial plant from the family Asteraceae. It is a native of Mexico and is cultivated in gardens as an ornamental plant or for medicinal purposes.
Description
The Mexican tickseed has a bushy habit and grows up to a height of 50-70 cm. The leaves are lance-shaped, serrated, and hairy. The stem and leaves have a greyish-green coloration with a slightly rough texture. The plant produces yellow daisy-like flowers that have a diameter of 2-4 cm and bloom from summer to autumn. The flowers are held on long stems and have a dark red center.
Uses
The Mexican tickseed has several uses, both medicinal and ornamental. In traditional medicine, the leaves and flowers of the plant are used to treat respiratory infections, fever, and digestive disorders. The plant also contains compounds that have anticancer and anti-inflammatory properties.
In gardens, the Mexican tickseed is cultivated for its bright yellow flowers, which attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. It is a low-maintenance plant that can tolerate dry weather and poor soil conditions. The plant is commonly used in borders, rock gardens, and naturalistic plantings.
Cultivation
The Mexican tickseed is a hardy plant that thrives in full sun or partial shade. It prefers well-drained soil with a pH range of 6-7.5. The plant can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in spring or autumn in a well-prepared seedbed. The plant requires watering during prolonged dry spells but can otherwise tolerate drought. It is also a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal fertilizer or pruning.
Light Requirements
The Coreopsis borianiana Sch.Bip. ex Schweinf. & Asch. var. cannabina Sch.Bip. ex Schweinf. & Asch. plant requires full sun exposure throughout the day to ensure proper growth and blooming. The plant does not tolerate shade, and insufficient light can lead to stunted growth and reduced flowering. Therefore, it is essential to plant it in an open area with direct sunlight to promote vigorous growth.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for growing Coreopsis borianiana Sch.Bip. ex Schweinf. & Asch. var. cannabina Sch.Bip. ex Schweinf. & Asch. is 15°C to 25°C. These plants can tolerate heat, but they do not grow well in extreme temperatures. Cold temperatures can damage Coreopsis borianiana Sch.Bip. ex Schweinf. & Asch. var. cannabina Sch.Bip. ex Schweinf. & Asch. plants, leading to wilting and death. Therefore, it is best to grow this plant in areas with moderate temperatures that do not lead to heat or cold stresses.
Soil Requirements
The Coreopsis borianiana Sch.Bip. ex Schweinf. & Asch. var. cannabina Sch.Bip. ex Schweinf. & Asch. plant prefers moist, well-drained soil that is fertile and rich in organic matter. The ideal pH level for the soil is 6.0 to 7.0. Soils that are too acidic or alkaline can impact the plant's growth and flowering. It is best to prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter before planting. Adequate drainage is essential to prevent waterlogging, which can result in root rot and other fungal diseases.
Cultivation Methods
Coreopsis borianiana Sch.Bip. ex Schweinf. & Asch. var. cannabina Sch.Bip. ex Schweinf. & Asch. is a hardy plant that requires minimal effort to cultivate. This cultivar prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. When planting, make sure to select a location with well-drained soil. The ideal temperature for cultivation is between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Watering Needs
Coreopsis borianiana Sch.Bip. ex Schweinf. & Asch. var. cannabina Sch.Bip. ex Schweinf. & Asch. has low to moderate water requirements. Water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry periods. However, ensure that the soil does not become waterlogged as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
This plant cultivar does not require fertilizer. However, if you want to encourage growth, you can add a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season. Do not apply fertilizer during the dormant season, as this can damage the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Coreopsis borianiana Sch.Bip. ex Schweinf. & Asch. var. cannabina Sch.Bip. ex Schweinf. & Asch. However, if you want to shape the plant or control its size, prune after blooming in late summer or early fall. Cut back one-third of the plant, leaving some foliage to protect the plant during winter.
Propagation of Coreopsis borianiana Sch.Bip. ex Schweinf. & Asch. var. cannabina Sch.Bip. ex Schweinf. & Asch.
Coreopsis borianiana Sch.Bip. ex Schweinf. & Asch. var. cannabina Sch.Bip. ex Schweinf. & Asch. can be propagated by different methods, including seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation by Seeds
The easiest and most common method of propagating Coreopsis borianiana Sch.Bip. ex Schweinf. & Asch. var. cannabina Sch.Bip. ex Schweinf. & Asch. is through seeds. It is important to collect seeds in the fall when the flowers fade and dry out. Once collected, the seeds can be stored in a cool and dry place until the following spring. The seeds should be sowed in early spring in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist. Germination usually occurs within two to three weeks.
Propagation by Cuttings
Coreopsis borianiana Sch.Bip. ex Schweinf. & Asch. var. cannabina Sch.Bip. ex Schweinf. & Asch. can also be propagated by cuttings taken from healthy plants. The best time to take cuttings is in the spring or early summer, when the plant is actively growing. Cuttings should be taken from the non-flowering stems and should be at least 4 inches long. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cutting should be dipped in a rooting hormone before being planted in a well-draining soil mix. Cuttings should be kept moist and in a warm, bright location until roots form, which usually takes about four to six weeks.
Propagation by Division
Another method of propagating Coreopsis borianiana Sch.Bip. ex Schweinf. & Asch. var. cannabina Sch.Bip. ex Schweinf. & Asch. is by division. This should be done in the early spring or fall, when the plant is not in blooming. The clump can be lifted from the soil and the root ball can be divided into several sections with a sharp knife or spade. Each section should have healthy roots and several stems. The divided sections can be replanted immediately in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until new growth appears.
Disease Management
The Coreopsis borianiana Sch.Bip. ex Schweinf. & Asch. var. cannabina Sch.Bip. ex Schweinf. & Asch. plant is susceptible to various diseases that can weaken or damage the plant and affect its growth and yield. Below are some common diseases and ways to manage them:
Bacterial Leaf Spot
Bacterial leaf spot can cause leaf drop and defoliation in Coreopsis plants. The disease spreads through water and infected plant debris. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves and debris and avoid wetting the leaves when watering. Use copper fungicides as a control measure.
Fungal Leaf Spots
Fungal leaf spots are common in Coreopsis plants, causing brown or black spots on leaves. Leaf spots weaken the plant and reduce its overall appearance. To manage this disease, practice good sanitation by removing infected leaves and debris and avoid overhead irrigation. Use copper fungicides and apply them during the growing season.
Pest Management
Coreopsis borianiana Sch.Bip. ex Schweinf. & Asch. var. cannabina Sch.Bip. ex Schweinf. & Asch. also faces pest attack, which can cause severe damage to the plant. Below are some common pests and ways to manage them:
Aphids
Aphids are common pests that suck sap from the plant and cause stunting and yellowing of the leaves. Natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings can help control these pests. Alternatively, use insecticidal soap or neem oil sprays to control them.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that attack the plant’s foliage, causing yellowing and discoloration of leaves. They thrive in hot and dry conditions. Use of insecticidal soap or horticultural oils can help control these pests. Regular spraying of water on the plant's leaves can also help manage spider mites.
