Overview
Descurainia obtusa (Greene) O.E. Schulz ssp. adenophora (Woot. & Standl.) Detling, commonly known as western tansy mustard, is a species of flowering plant belonging to the mustard family, Brassicaceae. It is a biennial or sometimes annual herb that is native to western North America.
Description
The plant typically grows up to 30 inches tall and has slender stems with small, green leaves alternating up the stem. Its yellow flowers bloom in elongated terminal clusters that bloom from March to July. The plant produces a small, round, ridged, and ribbed seed pod that is approximately 1/4 inch long.
Uses
Native American tribes have used Descurainia obtusa for medicinal purposes, including treating headaches, respiratory diseases, and digestive issues. The plant is also used as a food source, either raw or cooked, and is particularly rich in vitamin C. Additionally, it is used in landscaping as it requires little water and tolerates a variety of soil types.
Common names
Descurainia obtusa is commonly known as western tansy mustard, blunt-leaf tansy mustard, and hairy mustard.
Growth Conditions for Descurainia Obtusa ssp. Adenophora
Descurainia obtusa ssp. adenophora, commonly known as Big Bend tansy mustard, is a plant species that is native to the western United States, specifically in the Great Basin region, Colorado Plateau, and the Rocky Mountains. To grow this plant successfully, the following growth conditions must be met:
Light
Descurainia obtusa ssp. adenophora requires full sun to thrive. This plant needs at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. However, it can also grow in partial shade, but this may result in leggy plants that have reduced blooms.
Temperature
The ideal temperature for Descurainia obtusa ssp. adenophora is between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 29 degrees Celsius). It can grow in the USDA zones 4a to 10b and can tolerate extreme temperatures, from -30°F to 110°F (-34 to 43°C). This plant can tolerate drought conditions and is not suitable for excessively humid environments.
Soil Requirements
Descurainia obtusa ssp. adenophora thrives in well-drained soils. It can grow in various soil types, from sandy to loam and clay. However, it prefers fertile sandy-loam soil with a slightly acidic pH level of 5.5 to 7.0. Additionally, this plant requires moderate to low moisture and nutrients. Overwatering and over-fertilization can lead to stunted growth and reduced blooms.
Cultivation Methods
Descurainia obtusa ssp. adenophora is a drought-tolerant plant that prefers well-drained soil. It can be grown in containers or planted directly in the ground. The seeds should be sowed in the spring or fall in a location that receives full sun. During the germination process, the soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged.
Watering Needs
Once established, Descurainia obtusa ssp. adenophora requires very little watering. The plant is adapted to arid conditions and can survive on rainfall alone. However, during periods of prolonged drought, it may be necessary to supplement rainfall with occasional deep watering.
Fertilization
Descurainia obtusa ssp. adenophora does not require fertilizer to thrive. In fact, excessive fertilization can lead to increased foliage growth at the expense of flowers. If you choose to fertilize, use a balanced fertilizer sparingly, once or twice a year.
Pruning
Descurainia obtusa ssp. adenophora does not require regular pruning. However, if the plant becomes overgrown or leggy, it can be pruned back in the early spring. Cut back the stems to just above a pair of healthy leaves. This will encourage the plant to form a more compact shape and promote the growth of new foliage and flowers. Remove any dead or damaged stems as needed throughout the growing season.
Propagation of Descurainia obtusa ssp. adenophora
Descurainia obtusa ssp. adenophora can be propagated via seeds or cuttings.
Propagation via Seeds
The seeds of Descurainia obtusa ssp. adenophora can be sown directly into the ground in the spring. The soil must be well-draining and have a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. The seeds should be placed about 1/8 inch deep in the soil and covered with a thin layer of soil. They should be watered regularly until they sprout, which typically takes about two to three weeks.
Propagation via Cuttings
Descurainia obtusa ssp. adenophora can also be propagated via cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is in the spring or early summer. The cuttings should be about four inches long and should be taken from the side shoots of the plant. They should be planted in well-draining soil and watered regularly. To help the cuttings take root, they should be covered with a plastic bag to create a mini greenhouse. The bag should be removed once the cuttings have taken root, which typically takes about two to three weeks.
Disease and Pest Management of Descurainia Obtusa (Greene) O.E. Schulz ssp. Adenophora (Woot. & Standl.) Detling
Descurainia obtusa (Greene) O.E. Schulz ssp. adenophora (Woot. & Standl.) Detling, commonly known as Blunt-fruited Lepidium, is a relatively hardy plant that grows well in the arid regions of North America. Although it is considered a native plant in parts of the continent, it can be susceptible to a few diseases and pests that can affect its growth, reproduction, and overall health. Effective disease and pest management strategies can help mitigate these challenges and ensure the plant thrives in various settings.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Descurainia obtusa is black rot, caused by the fungus Alternaria brassicae. This disease manifests in the form of dark lesions on the plant's leaves, stems, and pods, and can lead to defoliation or crop loss. The fungus thrives in moist conditions, so maintaining good air circulation and avoiding overwatering can help prevent its spread. Infected plants should be removed and destroyed to prevent the spread of the spores.
Another disease that is known to affect Blunt-fruited Lepidium is downy mildew, caused by the fungus Peronospora parasitica. Symptoms include yellowing and wilting of the leaves, resulting in defoliation if left uncontrolled. Downy mildew thrives in moist and humid conditions, so proper watering practices and good ventilation are critical for prevention. In the event of an outbreak, fungicides containing copper or other active ingredients may be used to manage the disease.
Common Pests
Like most plants, Descurainia obtusa is susceptible to pests that can damage its leaves, stems, and flowers. One of the most common pests is the flea beetle, a small, jumping insect that feeds on the plant's foliage. Flea beetles leave small, circular holes in the leaves, which can weaken the plant over time. To manage flea beetle infestations, insecticides such as neem oil or pyrethrins may be used.
Another pest that can impact the growth and health of Blunt-fruited Lepidium is the aphid. These small, pear-shaped insects feed on the plant's sap and excrete honeydew, a sticky substance that can attract other pests or lead to sooty mold growth. An effective way to manage aphids is through the introduction of natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings. In severe cases, insecticidal soaps or neem oil may also be used.
Conclusion
Effective disease and pest management strategies are essential for ensuring the health and vigor of Descurainia obtusa plants. Avoiding overwatering, maintaining good ventilation, and promptly removing infected or infested plants can help control the spread of diseases and pests. Insecticides and fungicides may be used as a last resort, but it is important to follow label instructions carefully to avoid harming beneficial organisms.
