Origin
Crepis occidentalis Nutt. ssp. costata (Gray) Babcock & Stebbins, commonly known as western hawksbeard, is a species of flowering herbaceous plant in the Asteraceae family. It is native to North America, specifically the western region of the United States and parts of Canada.
Common Names
Western hawksbeard is known by a variety of common names, including western crepis, narrowleaf hawksbeard, and western hawkweed.
Uses
The plant has various traditional medicinal uses, including as a digestive aid, appetite stimulant, and as a treatment for respiratory problems. It also has been used in the treatment of snakebites, wounds, and skin irritations.
In addition, western hawksbeard has some food uses. During the early spring, the plant produces edible leaves that are said to be a good source of vitamins and minerals. The leaves can be added to salads, sandwiches, or used as a garnish.
General Appearance
Western hawksbeard is a perennial herbaceous plant that typically grows anywhere from 30 to 60cm tall. It features a taproot system and erect, slender stems with milky sap. The plant's leaves are narrow and lance-shaped, measuring anywhere from 3 to 15cm long and up to 1cm wide. The flowers are arranged in small clusters at the top of the stems and are composed of yellow ray and disk flowers.
The plant blooms from late spring to summer and produces a large quantity of seeds that are dispersed by the wind. It grows best in dry, open areas such as hillsides, meadows, and along roadsides.
Light Requirements
Crepis occidentalis Nutt. ssp. costata thrives in full sunlight to partial shade conditions. At least six hours of direct sunlight per day is recommended for optimum growth and flowering. Too much shade can lead to stunted growth and a decrease in flowering.
Temperature Requirements
Crepis occidentalis Nutt. ssp. costata can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it prefers moderate temperatures. The plant grows best at temperatures between 60°F to 75°F (15.5°C to 24°C). High temperatures, exceeding 90°F (32°C), can lead to dehydration and heat stress. In addition, frost can damage young plants and reduce their overall growth and health.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH level. Sandy, loamy, and clay soils are all acceptable as long as they are not too compacted. The optimal soil should be rich in organic matter and nutrients, which promotes good drainage and healthy roots. It is recommended to amend the soil with compost or other organic material before planting.
Cultivation
Crepis occidentalis Nutt. ssp. costata (Gray) Babcock & Stebbins can be cultivated outdoors under full sun or partial shade. The plant thrives in well-draining, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 6.5 and 7.5. Supplementing the soil with compost or aged manure can help improve soil quality.
The best time for planting is during the spring when the soil has warmed up, and the risk of frost has passed. To plant, dig a hole about twice the size of the root ball, place the plant in the hole, and fill it with soil, compressing the soil around the plant to ensure good contact. After planting, water the plant thoroughly to help settle the soil around the roots.
Watering Needs
Crepis occidentalis Nutt. ssp. costata (Gray) Babcock & Stebbins is a drought-tolerant plant that requires moderate watering. The plant should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season or when the soil dries out. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's crucial to ensure that the soil is well-draining and doesn't become waterlogged.
During the winter months, reduce watering to once every two weeks or when the soil begins to dry out.
Fertilization
Crepis occidentalis Nutt. ssp. costata (Gray) Babcock & Stebbins does not require much fertilization. However, a monthly application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season can help promote healthy growth and flowering.
Over-fertilization can lead to excessive growth, and may cause the plant to become leggy or flop over. Therefore, it's essential to use fertilizer sparingly and follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Pruning
Crepis occidentalis Nutt. ssp. costata (Gray) Babcock & Stebbins requires minimal pruning. The plant naturally develops a rounded shape with upright stems that can reach up to 2 feet tall. However, if the plant becomes too leggy or floppy, it can be pinched back in early summer to encourage bushier growth and more abundant flowering.
Old, woody stems can be pruned in early spring to promote new growth and maintain the plant's overall health and shape. Deadheading spent flowers can also encourage continued blooming throughout the growing season.
Propagation of Crepis occidentalis Nutt. ssp. costata (Gray) Babcock & Stebbins
Crepis occidentalis Nutt. ssp. costata (Gray) Babcock & Stebbins, commonly known as western hawksbeard, can be propagated through different methods described below:
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method for propagating Crepis occidentalis. The plants produce abundant seeds that can be collected when the seed heads are dry. Harvested seeds should be stored in a cool and dry place before planting. For seed germination to occur, the seeds need to have undergone a cold stratification period of at least two weeks. Sow the seeds in a pre-pared seed bed or containers filled with well-prepared soil mix. Water the soil, and keep moist until germination occurs, which usually takes 7-14 days. Once the seedlings are 2-3 inches tall, transplant them to their permanent location in the garden.
Vegetative Propagation
While seed propagation is the most common method for Crepis occidentalis, vegetative propagation can also be an option. This method is usually done through division or cuttings, as follows:
Division
Division is the easiest way to propagate Crepis occidentalis. This method is best done in the spring when the plant is just starting to grow actively. Dig up the plant and gently separate the clumps. Ensure that each clump has several stems and a good root system. Replant the clumps immediately to their new location and water well.
Cuttings
Cuttings can be taken in the summer when the plant is actively growing and the stems are firm. Take cuttings of about 4 inches long, remove the lower leaves, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Place the cuttings in a pot filled with well-draining soil, and keep it moist and out of direct sunlight until rooting occurs. Transplant the rooted cuttings to their permanent location in the garden.
Disease Management
Crepis occidentalis Nutt. ssp. costata (Gray) Babcock & Stebbins is relatively resistant to diseases, but it may occasionally suffer from fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust.
To manage powdery mildew, it is recommended to keep the foliage dry and promote good air circulation. Infected plants can be treated with fungicides such as sulfur, neem oil, or potassium bicarbonate. It is also advisable to prune infected plant parts and remove them from the area.
Rust can be managed in a similar way to powdery mildew, by promoting good air circulation and removing the infected plant parts. Fungicides such as copper or sulfur can also be used to prevent the spread of rust.
Pest Management
Crepis occidentalis Nutt. ssp. costata (Gray) Babcock & Stebbins may be attacked by pests such as aphids, spider mites, and caterpillars.
Aphids can be removed from the plants by hand or with a strong stream of water. Using insecticidal soaps, neem oil, or horticultural oils can also be effective. Natural predators of aphids can be introduced into the area, including ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps.
Spider mites can be managed by keeping the soil moist and increasing the humidity around the plants. Predatory mites can also be introduced into the area and are effective at controlling spider mites. Insecticidal soaps, horticultural oils, or neem oil can also be used.
Caterpillars can be prevented by handpicking the caterpillars or using insecticidal sprays that contain Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt).
It is always best to monitor the plants regularly and take prompt action if any signs of disease or pest infestation are observed. Preventive measures such as providing proper lighting, moisture, and nutrients can also help to keep the plants healthy and resistant to disease and pests.
