Origin
Crossosoma bigelovii S. Wats. var. bigelovii, commonly known as Bigelow's Crossosoma, is a native plant of North America. It is found in California, Nevada, and Arizona in the United States and Baja California in Mexico.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Bigelow's Crossosoma, Bigelovia, Desert Christmas Tree, and Sunflower Broom.
Uses
The plant has several medicinal uses. The Navajo Indians used the plant to treat bronchitis and coughs. The dried leaves were used as a tea to relieve stomach aches and diarrhea. The plant also has anti-inflammatory properties and was used as a poultice to relieve swelling and pain. Today, the plant is mainly used for landscaping purposes as it is a drought-resistant plant that requires little maintenance.
General Appearance
The Bigelow's Crossosoma is a small shrub that grows up to three feet tall and three feet wide. The plant has grayish-green leaves that are hairy and small yellow flowers that bloom in the summer. The fruit of the plant is a small, cone-shaped, woody capsule that contains seeds. The plant grows in arid regions, especially in sandy or gravelly soil.
Light Requirements
Crossosoma bigelovii S. Wats. var. bigelovii requires full sun to grow and thrive. It is a desert plant that can tolerate intense sunlight, making it ideal for hot and arid conditions. The plant cannot grow in shaded areas or areas with partial sun exposure.
Temperature Requirements
The typical growth conditions for Crossosoma bigelovii S. Wats. var. bigelovii include warm temperatures. The plant is well-suited for hot and dry climates and can tolerate temperatures ranging from 20-35°C. However, the plant cannot withstand freezing temperatures or frost, making it not suitable for cold climates.
Soil Requirements
The plant must grow in well-draining soil that is sandy or gravelly in texture. This allows for good drainage, which is vital for plant growth. The ideal soil pH level for Crossosoma bigelovii S. Wats. var. bigelovii should range between 6.0 to 8.0. Additionally, the plant requires a minimal amount of organic matter in the soil since it prefers growing in a low-nutrient environment.
Cultivation
Crossosoma bigelovii S. Wats. var. bigelovii, also known as bigelow's crossosoma, is an evergreen flowering shrub native to California, United States. It is a popular landscaping plant due to its striking yellow flowers and ability to thrive in arid regions. When cultivating this plant, it is important to consider the temperature, soil, and sunlight requirements.
Bigelow's crossosoma grows well in well-draining, nutrient-rich soils that are slightly acidic or alkaline in pH. It also prefers full sunlight exposure. It can withstand drought conditions, making it ideal for xeriscaping and water-wise gardens.
Watering Needs
As a drought-tolerant plant, bigelow's crossosoma does not require much watering. Young plants may need more frequent watering until they establish a deep root system. It is advisable to water deeply but infrequently to encourage water penetration to the roots. Watering should be reduced during the winter, as the plant goes into its dormant phase.
Fertilization
Crossosoma bigelovii S. Wats. var. bigelovii can benefit from fertilization during its active growth period, which is usually in spring and summer. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 is ideal. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for dosage recommendations. Overfertilization can damage the roots and foliage, so ensure not to exceed the recommended doses.
Pruning
Pruning is not a necessity for bigelow's crossosoma, but it can be done to maintain its shape and size. It is best to prune during the winter or early spring. Any dead, damaged, or diseased stems can be removed. Light pruning can also be done to promote bushier growth.
Propagation Methods of Crossosoma bigelovii S. Wats. var. bigelovii
Crossosoma bigelovii S. Wats. var. bigelovii, commonly known as Bigelow's Crossosoma or sunburst, is a perennial shrub native to California, USA. The plant has a beautiful yellow flower and is drought-tolerant, making it an ideal choice for gardens in dry regions. Here are the propagation methods for Crossosoma bigelovii:
Seed Propagation
Crossosoma bigelovii propagates well from seeds. Collect mature seeds in the fall and sow them in a well-draining soil mix. Cover the seeds with a light layer of soil and keep them moist. The ideal temperature for germination is around 70°F. Germination usually occurs within 1-2 months.
Cuttings Propagation
Crossosoma bigelovii can be propagated from greenwood cuttings taken in the spring. Take cuttings of 4-6 inches long, remove the lower leaves, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cuttings in a well-draining soil mix, keep them moist, and cover with a plastic bag to maintain humidity. Place the cuttings in a bright, indirect light. Rooting usually occurs within 4-6 weeks.
Division Propagation
Crossosoma bigelovii can also be propagated by division. Dig up the entire plant, taking care not to damage the roots, and divide it into several sections. Replant each section in a well-draining soil mix and water thoroughly. Division is best done in the fall or early spring when the plant is not actively growing.
Disease Management
Crossosoma bigelovii S. Wats. var. bigelovii is generally hardy and disease-resistant, but it can sometimes fall prey to certain plant diseases.
One of the most common diseases that can affect this plant is powdery mildew, which appears as a white or gray coating on the leaves. To manage this fungal disease, it is recommended to spray affected plants with a mixture of water and baking soda, or to use a commercial fungicide.
Another disease that can affect Crossosoma bigelovii is rust, a fungal disease that causes orange or brown spores to appear on the undersides of leaves. To manage rust, it is recommended to remove and destroy infected leaves, as well as to spray plants with a copper-based fungicide.
Pest Management
Crossosoma bigelovii S. Wats. var. bigelovii is also relatively pest-resistant, but can occasionally fall prey to certain insect pests.
One common pest that can affect this plant is the spider mite, a tiny, spider-like insect that sucks the sap from leaves and can cause them to yellow and die. To manage spider mites, it is recommended to regularly spray plants with water and to use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Another pest that can affect Crossosoma bigelovii is the whitefly, a small, flying insect that feeds on the leaves and can cause stunted growth. To manage whiteflies, it is recommended to use sticky traps, insecticidal soap, or neem oil.
It is important to regularly inspect plants for signs of disease or pest infestation, and to take prompt action to manage any issues that arise. By practicing good disease and pest management techniques, it is possible to keep Crossosoma bigelovii S. Wats. var. bigelovii healthy and thriving.
