Overview
Descurainia menziesii (DC.) O.E. Schulz var. glandulosa O.E. Schulz, commonly known as Menzies' tansy mustard or sticky tansy-mustard, is a common weed species found in the western part of North America. It is a member of the Brassicaceae family and produces small yellow flowers and long, narrow seedpods.
Origin and Distribution
Menzies' tansy mustard is native to western North America and can be found from British Columbia in Canada to California and New Mexico in the United States. It prefers to grow in open areas such as roadsides, fields, and disturbed sites.
Common Names
Descurainia menziesii var. glandulosa is commonly known as Menzies' tansy mustard or sticky tansy-mustard due to the glandular hairs on the plant that can make it feel sticky to the touch. It is also known as Menzies' peppergrass or gumweed.
Appearance
Menzies' tansy-mustard is an annual weed that ranges in height from 10 to 60 centimeters tall. The stem is slender and striated, and the leaves are pinnately divided and have narrow segments. The small yellow flowers are only around 2 millimeters in diameter and are arranged in racemes at the end of the stems. The seedpods are narrow, long, and cylindrical, measuring around 4-6 centimeters in length, and contain numerous small seeds.
Uses
Menzies' tansy-mustard has some traditional medicinal uses in Native American and Mexican cultures, including being used to treat colds, coughs, and headaches, and also as a digestive aid. However, it is important to note that it is not recommended to use this plant without consulting a medical professional first. It also has some potential as a cover crop or in soil stabilization due to its ability to grow in disturbed areas and tolerate dry conditions. However, it should be noted that it can also be an aggressive invasive species and can outcompete native vegetation if not properly managed.
Light Requirements
Descurainia menziesii var. glandulosa prefers full sunlight to partial shade. This plant requires a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight per day for healthy growth and blooming.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to arid regions of North America and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It can withstand high temperatures of up to 100°F (38°C) and can tolerate cold temperatures of up to 14°F (-10°C). However, the plant is not very frost tolerant.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soil that is sandy or gravelly. It can grow in a wide range of soil pH, from acidic to alkaline. If the soil is heavy, amend it with sand or other gritty material to increase drainage. The plant also requires moderate moisture but can tolerate drought to some extent. Overwatering should be avoided as it can cause root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Descurainia menziesii (DC.) O.E. Schulz var. glandulosa O.E. Schulz is a perennial plant that thrives in well-drained soil with full sun exposure. It can be propagated from seed or by division in the fall or early spring. The plant prefers moderately dry conditions and is tolerant of drought.
Watering Needs
The plant requires periodic watering to maintain good health, especially during the summer months. Allow the soil to dry slightly between watering, as prolonged dampness can lead to root rot. Avoid over-watering, as it can cause the plant to become waterlogged and die.
Fertilization
Fertilizing the plant is not necessary, as it is tolerant of poor soil conditions. If desired, apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring when new growth appears. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as excess nutrients can cause the plant to grow too rapidly or become susceptible to disease.
Pruning
Descurainia menziesii (DC.) O.E. Schulz var. glandulosa O.E. Schulz does not require extensive pruning, as it typically grows in a bushy, compact form. However, some light pruning can be done in the spring to shape the plant or remove any dead or damaged growth. Avoid pruning in the fall, as it can stimulate new growth that may not have time to harden off before the winter months.
Propagation of Descurainia menziesii var. glandulosa:
Descurainia menziesii var. glandulosa can be propagated by seeds or cuttings. Propagation by seeds is the easiest and most common method, but propagation by cuttings is usually done for cultivars or when specific traits are desired.
Propagation by Seeds:
Seeds should be collected from mature flower stalks in late summer or early fall when they have turned brown. The seeds should be stored in a cool, dry place until they are planted in the spring. The seeds require stratification for 1-2 months before planting to simulate the natural winter conditions that trigger germination.
The seeds should be sown in well-drained soil in the spring, as soon as all danger of frost has passed. The seeds should be lightly covered with soil and kept moist until they germinate, which usually takes 1-2 weeks. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted to individual pots or directly into the garden.
Propagation by Cuttings:
Cuttings should be taken from the plant in mid-summer when the plant is actively growing. Select a healthy stem, free of diseases and pests. The stem cutting should be about 4-6 inches long and should be taken from the lower part of the plant.
The lower leaves should be removed, leaving only 2-3 leaves at the tip. The cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in sterile, well-draining soil. The soil should be kept moist and the cuttings should be kept in a warm, protected area until they root, which usually takes 2-3 weeks.
Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted to larger pots or directly into the garden. It is important to keep the cuttings well-watered and protected from extreme temperatures until they are well-established.
Disease and Pest Management of Descurainia menziesii (DC.) O.E. Schulz var. glandulosa O.E. Schulz
Descurainia menziesii (DC.) O.E. Schulz var. glandulosa O.E. Schulz, commonly known as glandular tansy mustard, is a herbaceous plant that is native to western North America. Despite being a hardy plant, it is susceptible to a few common diseases and pests.
Common Diseases
Clubroot: Clubroot is a fungal disease that causes distortion and swelling of the roots, which ultimately leads to stunted growth. The fungus responsible for this disease can persist in the soil for up to 20 years. To manage clubroot, ensure that you rotate crops and avoid planting in infected soil.
White Rust: White Rust is a fungal disease that produces white pustules on the leaf surface. The pustules can reduce the plant's photosynthetic ability. To manage white rust, avoid overhead watering, and remove infected plants immediately.
Common Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can damage plants. They are usually found on the underside of leaves, and their feeding can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soaps or neem oil.
Leafhoppers: Leafhoppers are small, fast-moving insects that feed on the underside of leaves. Their feeding can cause stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and the spread of plant diseases. To manage leafhoppers, use insecticidal soaps or neem oil.
Slugs and Snails: Slugs and snails are common pests that can cause significant damage to plants. They feed on the leaves, leaving behind large holes. To manage slugs and snails, handpick them off the plant regularly, or use slug bait.
With proper management of these pests and diseases, Descurainia menziesii (DC.) O.E. Schulz var. glandulosa O.E. Schulz can thrive and provide visual interest in gardens or natural areas.
