Descurainia incana: Origin and Common Names
Descurainia incana, also known as Gray Tansy Mustard, is a species of flowering plant in the Brassicaceae family. It is native to North America, ranging from southern Canada to Mexico and the southwestern United States. It typically grows in prairies, deserts, and roadsides and is drought-tolerant.
Gray Tansy Mustard is the commonly used name for this plant, but it is also known by other names, such as Hoary Tansy Mustard and Silvery Tansy Mustard.
Appearance
This plant has a distinctive appearance that sets it apart from other species in the Brassicaceae family. It is an annual or biennial herb that can grow up to 3 feet tall. Its stems are stiff and erect, and its leaves are alternate and pinnately divided with toothed or lobed edges. It has small yellow flowers that grow on a spike-like inflorescence. The seeds are small and oval-shaped, and they have a slightly curved beak.
The foliage of Gray Tansy Mustard gives it its silver-gray appearance, making it easy to distinguish from other plants. When crushed, the plant releases a strong, pungent odor that some people find unpleasant.
Uses
Indigenous peoples have used Gray Tansy Mustard for its medicinal properties. The plant contains compounds that have been used to treat coughs, colds, and other respiratory ailments. It has also been used to treat digestive disorders, as a diuretic, and as a poultice for skin ailments and inflammation.
Some people also appreciate the ornamental value of Gray Tansy Mustard, as its unique appearance can add interest to wildflower gardens and xeriscapes. It can tolerate poor soils and limited watering, making it a low-maintenance addition to a garden.
Light Requirements
Descurainia incana ssp. incisa prefers full sunlight, but can tolerate partial shade. It is commonly found in open fields, meadows, and rocky slopes where ample sunlight is available throughout the day.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species is adapted to grow in temperate regions, where average temperatures range from 5°C to 35°C. It can tolerate both hot and cold temperatures, but prolonged exposure to extreme heat or frost can damage the leaves and stem. The ideal temperature range for optimal growth is between 18°C to 25°C.
Soil Requirements
Descurainia incana ssp. incisa can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and gravelly soils. However, it prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The pH level of the soil can range from acidic to slightly alkaline, between 6.0 to 8.0. This plant can tolerate drought but not waterlogging, so avoid overwatering and ensure proper drainage.
Cultivation Methods
Descurainia incana, also known as Cutleaf Tansy Mustard, is a hardy perennial herb that is adaptable to a wide range of climatic conditions. It prefers well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. The plant can be grown from seeds or cuttings. The seeds can be sown in early spring or late fall in potting soil and kept moist in a sunny location until they germinate. Cuttings can be taken from the plant in early spring and planted directly in the soil.
Watering Needs
Descurainia incana requires moderate watering, approximately once a week, during the growing season. However, it is important not to overwater the plant, as it can lead to root rot. The soil should be kept moist, but not soaking. During the winter season, the plant requires less watering and can tolerate dry soil.
Fertilization
Descurainia incana does not require heavy fertilization. An application of a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer in the spring, as new growth appears, is enough to provide the necessary nutrients for the plant. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to weak growth and susceptibility to disease and pests.
Pruning
Descurainia incana does not require heavy pruning. However, deadheading spent flowers can promote new growth and encourage the plant to continue blooming. Any damaged or diseased leaves or stems should be pruned off to prevent the spread of disease. Additionally, if the plant becomes too woody and overgrown, it can be rejuvenated by cutting it back to the ground level in the early spring.
Propagation of Descurainia incana ssp. incisa
Descurainia incana ssp. incisa, commonly known as Incised Tansy Mustard, is a hardy plant that can thrive in a wide range of environments. The plant can be propagated by both sexual and asexual means.
Sexual Propagation
The plant produces small, yellow flowers that bloom in summer and give way to elongated seedpods. These seedpods can be collected once they turn brown and can be sown directly into the soil outdoors or in containers.
It is important to note that the seeds of Descurainia incana ssp. incisa require cold stratification before they will germinate. This means that the seeds need to be exposed to a period of cold temperatures, typically around 40°F to 50°F, for several weeks before planting. This can be achieved by placing the seeds in a refrigerator for a few weeks prior to planting.
Asexual Propagation
Descurainia incana ssp. incisa can also be propagated asexually through stem cuttings. This method involves taking a cutting from the parent plant and rooting it in moist soil or water. The best time to take a cutting is in the spring or early summer.
When taking a stem cutting, it is important to choose a healthy stem that is at least a few inches long. Cut the stem at a 45-degree angle to increase the surface area for rooting. Remove any leaves from the bottom of the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder.
Place the cutting in a container filled with moist soil or water and keep it in a warm, bright location. Keep the soil or water moist until the roots develop, and the plant is ready for transplanting.
Both these methods of propagation are relatively easy and can be successful if done correctly. With proper care, the new plants will grow into healthy specimens that can be enjoyed for years to come.
Disease and Pest Management for Descurainia incana ssp. incisa
Descurainia incana ssp. incisa, commonly known as slender western tansy mustard, is a resilient and hardy plant species that can grow in various environmental conditions. However, like other plants, it may be susceptible to certain diseases and pests that can cause damage and threaten its survival. Here are some common diseases and pests that may affect this plant and ways to manage them:
Common Diseases
1. Clubroot
Clubroot is a soil-borne disease caused by the pathogen Plasmodiophora brassicae. It can cause stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and wilting of the plant. To manage this disease, ensure proper drainage in the soil, rotate crops, and practice good sanitation methods, such as removing infected plant material. Fungicides may also help prevent the spread of this disease.
2. Downy mildew
Downy mildew is a fungal disease caused by the pathogen Peronospora parasitica. It can cause yellowing of leaves, stunted growth, and a grayish-white fuzzy growth on the underside of leaves. To manage this disease, remove infected plant material, practice crop rotation, and use fungicides.
Common Pests
1. Aphids
Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can cause wilting, yellowing of leaves, and stunted growth. They also excrete a sticky substance that can attract other pests and cause fungal growth. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, encourage natural predators such as ladybugs, and remove heavily infested plant material.
2. Cutworms
Cutworms are larvae of certain moth species that feed on the stem of young plants, causing them to wilt and die. To manage cutworms, use physical barriers such as collars or mesh around the stem of young plants, handpick the worms at night, and use insecticides.
In conclusion, Descurainia incana ssp. incisa can be affected by various diseases and pests that can cause damage to the plant. The key to managing these problems is to practice good sanitation, crop rotation, and the use of both natural and chemical pest control methods.
