Overview
Crepis runcinata (James) Torr. & Gray ssp. andersonii (Gray) Babcock & Stebbins is a flowering perennial plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is commonly known as Anderson's hawksbeard and is native to the western United States.
General Appearance
Anderson's hawksbeard typically grows up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. The plant has a basal rosette of lance-shaped leaves that can grow up to 10 inches long. The stem is usually hairy and can be branched or unbranched with smaller leaves. The flowers of the plant are yellow and grow in loose clusters at the end of the stem. Each flower head can produce numerous seeds, which have a tuft of white bristles that aid in wind dispersal.
Uses
The Anderson's hawksbeard plant has several uses in traditional medicine. It has been used to treat ailments such as stomach ulcers, sore throat, cough, and fever. The plant has also been used in poultices to treat minor wounds and inflammation. In addition to its medicinal properties, Anderson's hawksbeard is also used in native landscaping and as a source of nectar for pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Light Requirements
Crepis runcinata ssp. andersonii typically grows in areas with full sun exposure to partial shade. In its native habitat, it can be found in open meadows, grasslands, and sagebrush communities. Therefore, it requires a minimum of six hours of sunlight a day to thrive.
Temperature Requirements
Crepis runcinata ssp. andersonii is native to the western United States and is adapted to grow in both temperate and arid climates. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from below freezing (20°F) to hot summers (90°F). However, extreme heat and dry conditions can stress the plant, leading to wilting and reduced growth.
Soil Requirements
The soil requirements for Crepis runcinata ssp. andersonii are relatively flexible. It can grow in a variety of soil types from sandy to loamy, well-drained soils. However, it prefers soils that are moderately fertile and have a slightly acidic to slightly alkaline pH (6.0-8.0). The plant can tolerate some drought, but it requires regular watering to maintain healthy growth.
Cultivation Methods
Crepis runcinata ssp. andersonii is a perennial herb that is native to California. The plant is hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture zones 7 through 10 and grows well in full sun to partial shade. The ideal soil pH for this plant is between 6.0 to 7.5, but it can adapt to a wide range of soil conditions. It is often found in dry to moist meadows, open forests, and along streams.
Watering Needs
Crepis runcinata ssp. andersonii requires moderate watering during its growing season, which is from late winter to early summer. It is drought-tolerant but can benefit from supplemental watering during extended drought periods. Water the plant deeply once a week, providing about one inch of water per week. During the dormant season, water sparingly and only enough to keep the soil slightly moist.
Fertilization
Crepis runcinata ssp. andersonii doesn't require much fertilization. In fact, too much nitrogen can cause the plant to grow too fast and become leggy. Fertilize the plant in the early spring with a balanced fertilizer such as a 10-10-10 blend at a rate of 1 pound per 50 square feet. Avoid fertilizing in the fall, as this can encourage tender growth that may be damaged by frost.
Pruning
Crepis runcinata ssp. andersonii doesn't require much pruning, but it can benefit from deadheading when the flowers fade to encourage more blooms. Cut back any dead or damaged foliage in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. If the plant becomes too leggy, you can cut it back by one-third of its height in the late winter or early spring to encourage bushier growth.
Propagation of Crepis runcinata (James) Torr. & Gray ssp. andersonii (Gray) Babcock & Stebbins
Crepis runcinata (James) Torr. & Gray ssp. andersonii (Gray) Babcock & Stebbins, commonly known as Anderson's crepis, is a perennial herbaceous plant that is native to California's rocky and sandy areas. As a part of the daisy family, it produces multiple yellow flowers with rounded tips on top of tall, branching stems that can reach heights of up to 1 meter.
Seed Propagation
The Anderson's crepis can be propagated by seeds which are commonly available. The seeds should be sown in pots or trays in the fall or early winter. The seeds can be sown directly into the ground but require a well-drained and prepared bed that has been cleared of weeds and grasses. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil and watered regularly. Germination usually occurs within 2 to 4 weeks. Once the seedlings reach a height of 5-6 cm, they can be transplanted into individual pots or containers or into the ground.
Vegetative Propagation
Anderson's crepis can also be propagated by vegetative means, such as division or cuttings. Division should be done in spring or fall while the plant is still dormant. The plant should be carefully dug up, and the root ball should be divided into several smaller clumps. Each new division should have several shoots and a good amount of roots and should be planted in prepared soil. Cuttings can be taken from the parent plant by cutting a stem approximately 8-10 cm long. Remove the leaves from the lower two-thirds of the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder. Insert the cuttings into a well-draining soil mix and water them regularly until roots have formed.
Care and Maintenance
It is important to maintain adequate moisture levels and ensure good drainage in the soil for Anderson's crepis. In terms of fertilization, a balanced fertilizer should be applied to the soil every month during the growing season. Remove any dead or fading flowers regularly to encourage the growth of new flowers and to keep the plant looking neat. The plant is relatively low-maintenance and should thrive in most well-drained soils.
Disease Management
Crepis runcinata (James) Torr. & Gray ssp. andersonii (Gray) Babcock & Stebbins is a relatively hardy plant that is resistant to many diseases. However, here are some common diseases that may affect the plant:
- Leaf spot: This disease is caused by fungal infection and can cause brown spots on leaves. To manage this disease, remove and destroy any infected leaves. Ensure that the plant is not overcrowded to facilitate better air circulation.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal infection can cause the appearance of white or grayish powdery masses on the leaves and stems. To manage powdery mildew, use a fungicide spray or a horticultural oil spray at the first sign of infection. Ensure that the plant is not overcrowded and frequently check the plant for signs of infection.
- Root rot: This soil-borne pathogen is caused by over-watering and poorly drained soil. To manage root rot, avoid over-watering, ensure adequate drainage, and use a well-draining soil mix. In severe cases, the plant may need to be removed from the infected soil.
Pest Management
Here are some common pests that may affect Crepis runcinata (James) Torr. & Gray ssp. andersonii (Gray) Babcock & Stebbins:
- Aphids: These tiny insects can cause significant damage to the plant by sucking sap from the leaves, shoots, and flowers. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong stream of water to remove any visible insects. Alternatively, use a neem oil spray or insecticidal soap.
- Caterpillars: These pests can feed on the leaves and leave behind large holes. To manage caterpillars, pick them off by hand or use a Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) spray.
- Spider mites: These pests can cause damage by sucking sap from the leaves, causing them to dry out and turn brown. To manage spider mites, use a miticide spray or a neem oil spray.
Regular monitoring and inspection of the plant can help detect the presence of pests and diseases early, allowing for quick action to prevent damage and spread.
