Crepis runcinata (James) Torr. & Gray var. hispidulosa T.J. Howell ex Rydb.
Crepis runcinata var. hispidulosa, commonly known as the Rock Hawkweed, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. The plant is native to the United States, specifically found in the Pacific Northwest region and various other states such as California, Idaho, and Montana.
General Appearance
The Rock Hawkweed plant produces a basal rosette, with leaves that are deeply lobed and have a smooth texture but slightly hairy edges. The plant can grow up to 50 cm tall and produces an inflorescence with multiple flower heads. The flowers have a yellow color with 5 petals and are 1-2 cm in diameter.
Common Names
The Crepis runcinata var. hispidulosa has several common names including Rock Hawkweed, Cutleaf Hawksbeard, and Runcinate Crepis.
Uses
The Rock Hawkweed was traditionally used by Native American tribes for various medicinal purposes such as treating skin conditions, stomach problems, and scurvy. The plant is also popular among gardeners, who often cultivate them as ornamental plants in rock gardens.
Light Requirements
Crepis runcinata var. hispidulosa usually grows in areas with abundant sunlight. The plant favors full sun exposure, but it can also tolerate partial shade. Lack of sufficient light usually results in elongated stems, fewer flowers, and stunted growth.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows in a variety of climates, but it thrives best in areas with cool summers and mild winters. Optimal daytime temperatures range between 60-80°F (15-26°C), while nighttime temperatures ideally range between 40-60°F (4-15°C). However, the plant can tolerate temperatures as low as 25°F (-4°C) and as high as 90°F (32°C).
Soil Requirements
Crepis runcinata var. hispidulosa prefers well-draining soils that are rich in nutrients. The plant thrives in moist soils that are slightly acidic but can tolerate slight alkalinity. The ideal soil pH range for optimal growth is 5.5 to 7.0. The plant can grow in sandy and loamy soils or rocky outcroppings, but it does not tolerate clay soils. Soil fertility can be enhanced by adding organic matter such as compost, leaf mold, or well-rotted manure.
Cultivation Methods
Crepis runcinata (James) Torr. & Gray var. hispidulosa T.J. Howell ex Rydb. is a hardy perennial that prefers well-draining soil. The plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate partial shade. It can be propagated by seeds or division of the root system in the spring or fall. The plant requires minimal care and can be grown in containers or directly in the ground.
Watering Needs
Crepis runcinata (James) Torr. & Gray var. hispidulosa T.J. Howell ex Rydb. prefers moderate watering, and the soil should be moist but not waterlogged. The plant can tolerate drought conditions, but it is essential to water it regularly during dry spells. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Fertilization of Crepis runcinata (James) Torr. & Gray var. hispidulosa T.J. Howell ex Rydb. is not necessary, but it can benefit from a light application of slow-release fertilizer in the early spring. Avoid applying fertilizer during the summer months, as this can cause the plant to become leggy and weak. Over-fertilization can also lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flower production.
Pruning
Pruning Crepis runcinata (James) Torr. & Gray var. hispidulosa T.J. Howell ex Rydb. is not necessary, but deadheading spent blooms can encourage continued flowering and extend the blooming season. Remove any damaged or diseased foliage promptly to prevent the spread of disease. The plant can be cut back to the ground in the fall after it has finished flowering.
Propagation of Crepis runcinata (James) Torr. & Gray var. hispidulosa T.J. Howell ex Rydb.
Crepis runcinata (James) Torr. & Gray var. hispidulosa T.J. Howell ex Rydb., commonly known as dune hawksbeard, is a native perennial herb in North America. It is a member of the family Asteraceae and is found in sandy habitats near the coast. The plant produces yellow flowers that bloom from May to August.
Propagation of Crepis runcinata (James) Torr. & Gray var. hispidulosa T.J. Howell ex Rydb. can be done through its seeds, which are usually dispersed by wind. The seeds are often dormant and require stratification to stimulate germination. This involves keeping the seeds in the refrigerator for several weeks before planting. The ideal time for stratification is in the fall, before planting in the spring.
Another propagation method for dune hawksbeard is through vegetative propagation, specifically through division and cuttings. Division involves separating the plant into smaller sections and replanting them to establish new plants. This method is best done during the plant's dormant season or in early spring.
Cuttings can also be taken from the plant's stem and propagated in soil or water. The cuttings should be taken from new growth and should include at least one node. To increase the success rate of the cuttings, a rooting hormone can be applied to the cut end before planting.
Overall, Crepis runcinata (James) Torr. & Gray var. hispidulosa T.J. Howell ex Rydb. can be propagated through both seed and vegetative methods, making it a versatile and easily propagated plant.
Disease and Pest Management for Crepis runcinata var. hispidulosa
Crepis runcinata var. hispidulosa, commonly known as the soft-hairy hawksbeard, is a wildflower native to Western North America. While generally a hardy plant, it can be susceptible to a few diseases and pests.
Common Diseases
Verticillium Wilt: This fungal disease causes yellowing and wilting of the plant foliage. Unfortunately, there is no cure for Verticillium wilt, so it is important to remove and destroy infected plants to prevent the spread to nearby healthy individuals.
Leaf Spot: This fungal disease appears as small, dark spots on the leaves that eventually turn yellow and fall off. To manage leaf spot, remove infected leaves and prevent overhead watering, as the fungus thrives in moist conditions.
Common Pests
Aphids: These small insects feed on the plant sap, causing deformed growth and yellowing foliage. Aphids can be removed with a strong stream of water or treated with insecticidal soap.
Spider Mites: These tiny arachnids also feed on the plant sap, causing yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Spider mites can be managed with insecticidal soap or by introducing predatory mites.
Snails and Slugs: These mollusks can cause significant damage to the foliage and flowers of Crepis runcinata var. hispidulosa. To manage snails and slugs, handpick them from the plants in the evening or early morning when they are most active, or use a slug bait that is safe for use around pets and wildlife.
By being vigilant for signs of disease and pest infestations and taking appropriate action, you can help keep Crepis runcinata var. hispidulosa healthy and vibrant in your garden or natural habitat.
