Overview
Cryptantha elata (Eastw.) Payson, commonly known as the Mojave cryptantha, is a small flowering plant belonging to the Boraginaceae family. It is native to the Mojave Desert region of the southwestern United States and Northwestern Mexico.Appearance
The plant has a hairy and glandular stem that can grow up to 30 centimeters tall. Its leaves are narrow and covered in fine hair, giving them a greyish-green appearance. The flowers of Cryptantha elata are white or cream colored and form in clusters at the end of the stems. They have a tubular shape and five pointed lobes.Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the Mojave cryptantha due to its native range. It is also known as the Mojave popcornflower or stickseeds, referring to the sticky seeds that are dispersed by passing animals.Uses
Cryptantha elata has been used traditionally by Native American tribes for medicinal purposes. The plant was used to make a tea to treat colds, fevers, and respiratory ailments. The sap of the plant was also applied topically to treat skin irritations and insect bites. In addition, the plant has ornamental value and is cultivated for its attractive flowers. It can be grown in rock gardens or container gardens and requires well-draining soil and full sun exposure. Overall, Cryptantha elata is a hardy and adaptable plant that provides both medicinal and ornamental value.Light Requirements
Cryptantha elata requires full sun to partial shade to grow properly. In areas with intense heat, it may benefit from some shading during the hottest parts of the day. Providing ample light will promote healthy and vigorous growth.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is highly adaptive to a variety of temperatures and can tolerate a wide range of conditions. However, it is important to note that Cryptantha elata is a desert plant and can withstand extreme hot and cold temperatures. The ideal temperature range for optimal growth is between 60-90°F.
Soil Requirements
Cryptantha elata prefers well-draining soils that are sandy or rocky in texture. It is drought-resistant and can survive in poor soil conditions. The plant can adapt to a wide range of soil pH and can grow in soils with a pH range of 6.5-8.5. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of a balanced plant food in the springtime can encourage growth.
Cultivation of Cryptantha elata
Cryptantha elata is a drought-tolerant desert plant that thrives in sunny and dry conditions. When planting, ensure you select a well-draining soil, as the plant is susceptible to root rot.
It is ideal to plant during the early spring or fall when the ground is moist, and the temperatures are mild. Seeds are the best method of propagation, and you need to sow them in the prepared soil, ensuring they are no deeper than 1/8 inch deep.
The plant prefers full sun, but it can tolerate some shade; however, the flowering may not be as prolific in such environments. Hence, plant in an area with at least six to eight hours of sunlight per day.
Watering Needs of Cryptantha elata
Being a dryland plant, Cryptantha elata does not require a lot of watering. The plant has adapted to survive long periods of drought by storing water in its roots and leaves. As such, watering should only be done when the soil is dry to the touch.
In the first few weeks of planting, some extra water may be necessary to help establish the plant. However, once the plant has taken root and starts to grow, watering should reduce to avoid root rot.
Fertilization of Cryptantha elata
Cryptantha elata is not a heavy feeder, and as such, fertilizer should be offered sparingly. On average, apply a balanced, granular fertilizer once a year around the plant’s drip line, before new growth begins, to supplement the nutrients in the soil.
Additionally, adding organic matter such as compost, or a layer of mulch around the plant’s base, can help to improve the soil structure and provide some natural nutrients to the plant.
Pruning Cryptantha elata
Cryptantha elata is a low-growing plant, and as such, pruning is not necessary. However, removing dead leaves or stems improves airflow around the plant, preventing the spread of diseases.
If you decide to prune, do it during the early spring before the plant begins to bloom. Prune spent flowers and fruit stalks to encourage further blooming and promote bushier growth.
Propagation of Cryptantha elata
Cryptantha elata, also known as tall cryptantha, is a biennial or short-lived perennial plant that belongs to the Boraginaceae family, native to western North America. The plant is mainly propagated by seeds.
Seed Propagation
The ideal time to gather the seeds of Cryptantha elata is when the flowers have withered. Collect the matured seeds in a paper bag to avoid moisture accumulation and store them in a cool and dry place until sowing time.
Sow the seeds in a well-draining and loamy soil mixture. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and keep the soil moist until germination. The optimal temperature range for germination is between 15°C and 25°C, which usually takes around 7 to 14 days.
After germination, keep the soil moderately moist and provide plenty of sunlight. When the seedlings are 2 inches tall, transplant them into individual pots or directly into the ground. The recommended spacing between individual plants is 6 to 12 inches apart.
Always remember to keep the soil moderately moist and protect the young plants from extreme temperature fluctuations, such as frost or heat waves. Cryptantha elata plants are known for their hardiness, but it is always best to provide optimum growing conditions to promote healthy growth.
Propagation of Cryptantha elata through cuttings or division is not recommended since the plant does not develop a properly functioning root system through these methods.
Disease Management:
Cryptantha elata is a hardy plant species that is not prone to many diseases. However, certain fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust may affect the plant. Powdery mildew appears as a white, powdery film on the leaves and can be managed by removing infected leaves and improving air circulation around the plant. In contrast, rust typically appears as yellow or orange pustules on the underside of leaves, and is best managed with regular pruning and removal of affected plant parts.
Pest Management:
Although it is not a common issue, Cryptantha elata may be vulnerable to spider mites and aphids. Spider mites are tiny mites that suck the sap from the plant's leaves, resulting in yellow and mottled spots. Aphids weaken the plant by sucking its sap and secreting honeydew that attracts ants. Both pests can be managed by regularly washing the leaves with a strong spray of water or using insecticidal soap. Horticultural oil and neem oil are also effective in controlling spider mites and aphids.
