Origin and Common Names
Cryptantha humilis (Gray) Payson var. commixta (J.F. Macbr.) Higgins, also known as Cryptantha, is a plant species of the Boraginaceae family. This plant species can be found in western North America, from British Columbia, Canada to California, United States. Cryptantha humilis var. commixta, in particular, is commonly called veiny cryptantha, and it traditionally grows in sandy and gravelly soil in sagebrush, grasslands, and open forests.Uses
Cryptantha humilis var. commixta has a few uses in traditional Native American medicine. The Navajo people make a decoction of the roots as a liniment for swollen, painful areas of the body. On the other hand, the Paiute people use a similar preparation of the plant as a bath for babies with skin irritations. Apart from medicinal value, this plant species has potential as a native plant for landscaping and restoration projects because it is drought-tolerant, requires low maintenance, and can attract pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and moths to the area.General Appearance
Cryptantha humilis var. commixta is a small, annual or biennial herb that generally grows between three and 20 centimeters in height. It has a prostrate or ascending stem, purplish with white, stiff hairs, and veiny leaves that are oval to spoon-shaped and usually covered in short, stiff hairs. This plant species also bears tiny, white flowers with five petal lobes, tipped with a hair-like appendage. The fruit of Cryptantha humilis var. commixta is a small, nutlet that is rough, textured with obvious wrinkles, and has a white, scar-shaped mark at the base. Overall, the plant's general appearance is characterized by its low growth habit and white, veiny hairs covering the leaves and stem.Light Requirements
Cryptantha humilis var. commixta thrives in full sun exposure. It requires at least six hours of direct or indirect sunlight every day to grow adequately. The plant cannot survive in areas with too much shade or minimal sun exposure.
Temperature Requirements
The plant typically grows in dry environments, with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 38°C. It can tolerate harsh conditions and withstand drought or extreme heat. However, the plant's productivity, growth, and flowering are higher in moderate temperatures (20-25°C).
Soil Requirements
The plant grows in well-draining soils with sandy or gravelly textures, such as loamy or clay soils. The soil needs to retain some moisture but should not be waterlogged. It also prefers slightly alkaline to neutral soils with pH ranging from 6.5 to 8.0. Cryptantha humilis var. commixta also grows better in soils with low fertility because high-nutrient soils promote foliage growth instead of flowering.
Cultivation methods:
Cryptantha humilis var. commixta is a drought-tolerant plant that prefers well-draining soils and full sun exposure. It can grow in various soil types, including rocky, sandy, or clay soils, as long as they are well-draining. Sow the seeds in the fall or early spring in the desired location, either by directly seeding or transplanting seedlings. This species does better in an open field or garden bed rather than a container, as it requires plenty of space for the roots to grow.
Watering needs:
Cryptantha humilis var. commixta is a drought-tolerant species, but it still requires occasional watering. For young plants, water once a week, providing deep watering to ensure the soil's moisture reaches the roots. During extreme drought conditions, established plants might need additional watering, preferably every two weeks. Make sure not to over-water the plant, as it might lead to root rotting and other health problems.
Fertilization:
Cryptantha humilis var. commixta does not require frequent fertilization and can grow and survive without any application of fertilizer. However, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer, preferably nitrogen-based, once or twice a year during the plant's active growing season to encourage robust and healthy growth. Apply the fertilizer as recommended by the product's manufacturer and avoid over-fertilization, as it can damage the plant.
Pruning:
Cryptantha humilis var. commixta does not require frequent pruning, but it can be beneficial to trim the plant's dead or wilted leaves and branches periodically. Perform any pruning operations either after the plant finishes flowering or during the fall or early spring when the plant is still dormant. To promote further branching, cut the plant's leading shoot back by half or two-thirds of its length. Avoid cutting the main stem or branches severely, as it can negatively impact the plant's health and growth potential.
Propagation of Cryptantha humilis var. commixta
Cryptantha humilis var. commixta is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Boraginaceae or forget-me-not family. The plant is native to western North America, including California, Nevada, and Oregon. Cryptantha humilis var. commixta can be propagated through various methods as described below:
Seed propagation
The easiest and most common method of propagating Cryptantha humilis var. commixta is through seed propagation. Collect ripe seeds from the dried inflorescence during the fall season. Spread the seeds on a tray and let them dry out for a week or two. Sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix, and cover with a thin layer of soil. Place the tray in a bright location with indirect sunlight and keep the soil moist. Germination usually takes 2-4 weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted to individual pots after they develop their true leaves.
Cuttings propagation
Cryptantha humilis var. commixta can also be propagated through cuttings. Take a 4-6 inch cutting from the stem of the plant during spring or summer. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in well-draining soil mix, and water thoroughly. Cover the cutting with a plastic bag and keep it in a shaded location with indirect sunlight. Mist the cutting regularly, and remove the plastic bag once the plant starts to grow new leaves.
Division propagation
Division is another propagation method that can be used for Cryptantha humilis var. commixta. Divide established clumps in early spring when new growth appears. Use a sharp tool to separate the clumps into smaller sections with roots. Plant each section in a well-draining soil mix, and water thoroughly. Keep the newly planted divisions in a shaded location with indirect sunlight and keep the soil moist until they establish new growth.
Disease Management
Cryptantha humilis var. commixta is not known to be highly susceptible to any specific diseases, but it can still be affected by common plant diseases such as powdery mildew, root rot, and leaf spot.
To manage powdery mildew, remove and destroy affected plant parts immediately, and try to improve air circulation to prevent further infection. You can also spray the plant with a fungicide containing sulfur or neem oil.
If your plant is suffering from root rot, make sure to avoid overwatering and improve soil drainage. Prune affected roots and apply a fungicide to halt further damage.
Leaf spots can be managed by removing affected leaves and applying a copper-based fungicide to the rest of the plant.
Pest Management
Cryptantha humilis var. commixta is also relatively resistant to pests. However, it can still be attacked by common garden pests such as aphids, spider mites, and thrips.
To manage aphids, you can spray the plant with a strong water jet or use insecticidal soap. For spider mites, regularly spray the plant with water to improve humidity levels, and keep it away from hot, dry areas. You can also use predatory mites to control the spider mite population.
Thrips can be managed by attracting natural predators, such as ladybugs and lacewings, or by using insecticidal soap. Preventive measures, such as removing infected plants and weeds, can also help.
