Overview of Delphinium bicolor Nutt. ssp. calcicola Warnock & Vanderhorst
Delphinium bicolor Nutt. ssp. calcicola Warnock & Vanderhorst, also known as Inyo blue-eyed grass or the Inyo larkspur, is a herbaceous flowering plant belonging to the Ranunculaceae or buttercup family. This plant is found predominantly in North America, specifically in arid regions of the eastern Sierra Nevada mountain range in California and Nevada.
General Appearance
Delphinium bicolor Nutt. ssp. calcicola is a perennial herb that grows up to 25-45 cm in height. It has narrow, grass-like leaves that grow from the base of the plant and are typically 4-12 cm long. The flowers are found on long, slender stems and are usually blue-violet in color with a distinctive yellow center. The plant blooms from May to July and produces fruit in the form of a capsule that contains several seeds.
Common Names
In addition to its scientific name, Delphinium bicolor Nutt. ssp. calcicola is also known by several common names including Inyo blue-eyed grass, Inyo larkspur, and Inyo delphinium. Inyo is a reference to the Inyo Mountains, where this plant is predominantly found.
Uses
Delphinium bicolor Nutt. ssp. calcicola has no known uses in traditional medicine or for commercial purposes. However, it is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its striking blue-violet flowers. It is also a popular choice for landscaping in dry, rocky areas as it is a hardy plant that can tolerate harsh conditions.
Light Requirements
Delphinium bicolor Nutt. ssp. calcicola Warnock & Vanderhorst is a species known to thrive in full sunlight, making it perfect for gardens that receive abundant sunlight. The plant requires at least six hours of sunlight per day to grow healthy and produce blooms. Although it can tolerate shade, the plant will not bloom as well in shady areas.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers cool temperatures, making it perfect for gardens in the northern hemisphere. The optimum temperature range for Delphinium bicolor Nutt. ssp. calcicola Warnock & Vanderhorst is between 55 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant is highly sensitive to heat and will wilt under hot and humid conditions. Therefore, it is advisable to plant the species in areas with good air circulation to prevent the buildup of heat.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soils and can grow in a wide range of soil textures, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. However, it grows best in well-drained loamy soils that retain enough moisture, allowing the roots to access water without being waterlogged. The ideal pH for Delphinium bicolor Nutt. ssp. calcicola Warnock & Vanderhorst ranges from 6.0 to 7.5, slightly acidic to slightly alkaline. It is also advisable to incorporate organic matter into the soil to improve soil fertility and structure.
Cultivation
Delphinium bicolor Nutt. ssp. calcicola Warnock & Vanderhorst is a hardy perennial plant that is best grown in full sun. It is tolerant of a wide range of soil types but prefers well-draining soil. The plant can be propagated through seed or division.
If planting through seeds, sow them in the spring or fall, covering them with a light layer of soil. Keep the soil moist until the seedlings emerge, which should take about two to three weeks. When the plants are about five to six inches tall, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Division can be done in the spring or fall. Carefully dig up the plant and separate the clumps into smaller sections, making sure each section has roots attached. Replant the smaller sections in their permanent location and water well.
Watering Needs
Delphinium bicolor Nutt. ssp. calcicola Warnock & Vanderhorst requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, as the plant is susceptible to root rot. Water deeply at least once a week, and more often during hot weather.
Fertilization
Delphinium bicolor Nutt. ssp. calcicola Warnock & Vanderhorst benefits from regular fertilization to encourage healthy growth and blooms. A balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, can be applied in the early spring and again in mid-summer. Follow the instructions on the package for application rates.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for maintaining the health and appearance of Delphinium bicolor Nutt. ssp. calcicola Warnock & Vanderhorst. After the plant has finished flowering, cut back the stems to about half their height. This will encourage the plant to produce new growth and potentially a second flowering in the fall. Deadheading can also be done to remove spent blooms and encourage further flowering.
Propagation of Delphinium bicolor Nutt. ssp. calcicola Warnock & Vanderhorst
Delphinium bicolor Nutt. ssp. calcicola Warnock & Vanderhorst, commonly known as limestone larkspur, can be propagated through several methods. These methods include division, seed sowing, and stem cuttings.
Division
Division is the most common method of propagating Delphinium bicolor Nutt. ssp. calcicola Warnock & Vanderhorst. This method involves dividing the plant's root ball into smaller sections, each with its own stem and leaves. Division should be done in the fall or early spring when the plant is dormant.
Seed Sowing
Seed sowing is another way to propagate Delphinium bicolor Nutt. ssp. calcicola Warnock & Vanderhorst. Seeds can be collected from mature plants and sown directly into the ground in the fall or early spring. Alternatively, seeds can be started indoors in the late winter and transplanted outside in the spring.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings can also be used to propagate Delphinium bicolor Nutt. ssp. calcicola Warnock & Vanderhorst. This method involves taking cuttings from the parent plant's stem and planting them in a rooting hormone. Once roots have developed, the cutting is transplanted into the ground.
Disease Management
Delphinium bicolor Nutt. ssp. calcicola Warnock & Vanderhorst is susceptible to several diseases that can affect its growth and productivity. The common diseases that can affect this plant include powdery mildew, Botrytis blight, and fungal leaf spots.
To manage powdery mildew, it is important to maintain good airflow around the plants to reduce humidity. Practicing crop rotation, planting resistant varieties, and avoiding overhead watering can also help to prevent the development and spread of powdery mildew.
Botrytis blight can be managed by practicing good sanitation, removing and destroying infected plants, and avoiding overhead watering. Fungal leaf spots can be managed by removing infected leaves and destroying them.
Pest Management
Delphinium bicolor Nutt. ssp. calcicola Warnock & Vanderhorst can be prone to pests such as aphids and slugs.
Aphids can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or neem oil, introducing natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings, and practicing good plant hygiene.
Slugs can be managed by handpicking them, spreading diatomaceous earth around the base of the plant, and using slug traps.
It is important to monitor the plants regularly for signs of disease or pest damage and to take appropriate action promptly to prevent further infections or infestations.
