Origin
Crepis runcinata (James) Torr. & Gray ssp. glauca (Nutt.) Babcock & Stebbins, commonly known as Smooth Hawksbeard, is a species of flowering plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is native to North America and grows exclusively in the western region of the continent, from Alaska to California.
Common Names
Smooth Hawksbeard is known by several common names, including Smoothleaf Hawksbeard, Sharp-toothed Hawksbeard, and Rocky Mountain Hawksbeard.
Uses
The plant has been used medicinally by various Native American tribes to treat a wide range of ailments such as indigestion, headaches, and fever. The ground root was used for treating wounds and spasms. Moreover, it was used as a food source by the Paiute tribe, who ate the roasted seeds and used the leaves in their cooking. Nowadays, it is mainly used for ornamental purposes and as a source of nectar for pollinators.
General Appearance
Smooth Hawksbeard is a herbaceous perennial plant that grows to a height of about 30-70 cm. It has basal leaves and a hairy stem that branches out into smaller ones towards the top. The leaves are deeply lobed, and the edges are toothed, giving it a serrated appearance. It produces yellow flowerheads, typically with 13-21 ray florets surrounding 100-200 disk florets. The fruit is an achene that is about 4-5 mm long, with a pappus of white bristles at the top. The plant prefers moist areas like meadows, forests, and streambanks, but can also grow in dry regions, even in disturbed soils.
Light Requirements
Crepis runcinata ssp. glauca prefers to grow in full sun, meaning it needs at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. However, it can tolerate partial shade as well.
Soil Requirements
The plant can grow in a variety of soils, but it prefers well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH level. It grows well in sandy and loamy soils, but not in heavy, clay soils. Proper drainage is crucial for the growth and development of this plant.
Temperature Requirements
Crepis runcinata ssp. glauca grows well in USDA hardiness zones 3-8, and its optimum temperature range is between 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit. It is a hardy plant that is tolerant of cold weather and can survive light frosts in the fall and spring.
Cultivation
Crepis runcinata (James) Torr. & Gray ssp. glauca (Nutt.) Babcock & Stebbins is a hardy perennial plant that grows best in well-draining soil with a pH of around 6.5 to 7.5. It prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. The plant can be propagated from seeds or cuttings, and should be planted in spring or fall.
Watering Needs
Crepis runcinata (James) Torr. & Gray ssp. glauca (Nutt.) Babcock & Stebbins requires consistent moisture but does not tolerate waterlogged soil. It is important to water this plant deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather and the soil's moisture retention capacity. Avoid overhead watering as it can lead to fungal and bacterial problems. Instead, water at the base of the plant.
Fertilization
It's recommended to fertilize Crepis runcinata (James) Torr. & Gray ssp. glauca (Nutt.) Babcock & Stebbins with an all-purpose, slow-release fertilizer in the spring. Apply the fertilizer according to the manufacturer's instructions, and avoid fertilizing during the plant's dormant period. Soil testing can help determine the nutrient deficiencies and tailor the fertilizer application to the plant's needs.
Pruning
Crepis runcinata (James) Torr. & Gray ssp. glauca (Nutt.) Babcock & Stebbins does not require regular pruning. However, removing dead, damaged, or diseased foliage and stems can improve the plant's appearance and health. It's important to use sharp and sterile pruners to avoid injuring the plant and spreading pathogens. Pruning can be done in early spring or after the plant's flowering period.
Propagation of Crepis runcinata (James) Torr. & Gray ssp. glauca (Nutt.) Babcock & Stebbins
Crepis runcinata (James) Torr. & Gray ssp. glauca (Nutt.) Babcock & Stebbins can be propagated using several methods:
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Crepis runcinata (James) Torr. & Gray ssp. glauca (Nutt.) Babcock & Stebbins is through seed propagation. The seeds mature in late summer to early fall and can be collected and stored until the following spring. To propagate the plant using seeds, scatter them thinly on the surface of a seed-starting mix, water lightly, and place in a warm, bright location. The seeds will germinate in 1-3 weeks, and the resulting seedlings can be transplanted into individual pots once they have developed their second set of true leaves.
Division
Crepis runcinata (James) Torr. & Gray ssp. glauca (Nutt.) Babcock & Stebbins can also be propagated through division. This method is best done in the spring or fall when the plant is actively growing. Dig up the mature plant and gently separate the individual stems while keeping the root system intact. Replant each stem in a prepared location with well-draining soil and water thoroughly.
Cuttings
Cuttings taken from the stems and rhizomes of Crepis runcinata (James) Torr. & Gray ssp. glauca (Nutt.) Babcock & Stebbins can also be used to propagate the plant. Take 2-3 inch cuttings from the top of the stem or at the base of the plant in the spring or early summer. Plant the cuttings in small pots filled with a well-draining soil mix, water regularly, and place in a bright, warm location. Roots should develop within 2-3 weeks, and the resulting plant can be transplanted into a larger pot or its final location.
Disease Management
Crepis runcinata (James) Torr. & Gray ssp. glauca (Nutt.) Babcock & Stebbins is susceptible to several diseases, including:
- Root Rot: Root rot is caused by fungal pathogens, such as Phytophthora, Pythium, and Rhizoctonia. Symptoms include wilting, yellowing, and stunting of the plant. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering, improve soil drainage, and use fungicides.
- Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is caused by fungi, such as Cercospora and Septoria. Symptoms include circular spots on the leaves, which turn yellow or brown over time. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves, avoid overhead watering, and use fungicides.
- Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is caused by fungal pathogens, such as Erysiphe, Leveillula, and Golovinomyces. Symptoms include a white powdery growth on the leaves and stems. To manage this disease, maintain proper plant spacing, provide good air circulation, and use fungicides.
Pest Management
Crepis runcinata (James) Torr. & Gray ssp. glauca (Nutt.) Babcock & Stebbins is also prone to insect pests, such as:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant. Symptoms include curled, distorted leaves and the presence of honeydew and sooty mold. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or natural predators.
- Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny arachnids that suck the sap of the plant, causing yellowing and stippling of the leaves. To manage spider mites, use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or predatory mites.
- Whiteflies: Whiteflies are small, winged insects that feed on the underside of the leaves, causing yellowing and stunting of the plant. To manage whiteflies, use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or natural predators.
Additionally, practicing good sanitation by removing weeds and debris around the plant can reduce the risk of pest infestations. Regularly monitoring the plant for signs of disease or pest problems and taking appropriate action early can help prevent damage and maintain the health of Crepis runcinata (James) Torr. & Gray ssp. glauca (Nutt.) Babcock & Stebbins.
