Background
Descurainia pinnata (Walt.) Britt. ssp. brachycarpa (Richards.) Detling is a flowering plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. It is also known as western tansy mustard or common flixweed and is native to North and South America.
Appearance
The plant can grow up to 2 feet in height and has deeply divided, fern-like leaves that are bluish-gray in color. The flowers are small and yellow, arranged in elongated clusters at the end of the stems. The fruit is a small capsule that contains tiny, round, black seeds.
Uses
Descurainia pinnata has been traditionally used by Native Americans for medicinal purposes. The plant is rich in alkaloids and has been used as a treatment for bronchitis, coughs, and other respiratory ailments. It has also been used as a poultice for skin conditions and as a laxative.
Modern research has shown that Descurainia pinnata contains compounds that have potential anticancer properties and may also have benefits for cardiovascular health.
The plant is also used for erosion control and as a forage crop for livestock in arid regions.
Cultivation
Descurainia pinnata is a hardy plant that tolerates a wide range of growing conditions. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun but can tolerate some shade. The seeds can be directly sown in the spring or fall, and the plant does not require much water or fertilizer.
Growth conditions for Descurainia pinnata (Walt.) Britt. ssp. brachycarpa (Richards.) Detling
Light: Descurainia pinnata prefer full sun but can tolerate some shade. They grow best in areas with at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature: These plants are adapted to a range of temperatures. They can tolerate heat up to 100°F and cold temperatures down to -50°F, making them suitable for a wide range of climates.
Soil: Descurainia pinnata ssp. brachycarpa prefers well-draining, sandy or gravelly soils. They are also tolerant of poor soils and can grow in soils with low fertility. However, they do not tolerate soils that are waterlogged or have a high clay content.
Moisture: These plants prefer dry or semi-dry conditions and can tolerate drought. They do not require frequent watering and can survive on natural rainfall alone.
pH: Descurainia pinnata ssp. brachycarpa prefers soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH (7.0 to 8.5). They are tolerant of slightly acidic soils, but do not grow well in highly acidic soils.
Nutrients: These plants do not require high levels of nutrients and can grow in soils with low fertility. They are known to accumulate selenium, which can be toxic in high doses for some animals.
In summary, Descurainia pinnata ssp. brachycarpa is a hardy plant species that can survive in a range of environmental conditions. They prefer full sun, well-draining soils with neutral to slightly alkaline pH, and do not require frequent watering or high levels of nutrients. They are adapted to a range of temperatures and can grow in areas with both hot summers and cold winters.
Cultivation Methods
Descurainia pinnata (Walt.) Britt. ssp. brachycarpa (Richards.) Detling is an adaptable and hardy plant that can thrive in a variety of soil types and climatic conditions. This plant is best propagated either by seed or cuttings. The soil should be well-drained and fertile, with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Plant the seeds or cuttings in a sunny location, at a depth of about 1/4 inch, and keep them moist until they germinate.Watering Needs
Descurainia pinnata (Walt.) Britt. ssp. brachycarpa (Richards.) Detling requires moderate watering. Water the plant deeply about once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter months. Overwatering can cause root rot, and drought stress can stunt the growth of the plant. It is important to test the soil moisture levels frequently to ensure that the plant is receiving the appropriate amount of water.Fertilization
Descurainia pinnata (Walt.) Britt. ssp. brachycarpa (Richards.) Detling is a light feeder and requires minimal fertilizer. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring will give the plant a boost. Excessive fertilization can cause the plant to grow too quickly, resulting in weak stems and reduced flowering.Pruning
Descurainia pinnata (Walt.) Britt. ssp. brachycarpa (Richards.) Detling typically does not require pruning. However, deadheading flowers as they fade can encourage the plant to produce new blooms and extend the flowering season. In addition, cutting back the plant in late fall to about 6 inches from the ground can help to rejuvenate it in the spring.Propagation of Descurainia pinnata (Walt.) Britt. ssp. brachycarpa (Richards.) Detling
Descurainia pinnata ssp. brachycarpa is a self-pollinating plant, which makes propagation by seed relatively easy. Seeds collected from plants in the wild can be used to propagate new plants.
Seed Collection
Seeds should be collected in the fall when the seed pods are dry and brown. To collect the seeds, simply clip off the seed pods and place them in a paper bag. Keep the bag in a warm, dry location until the pods split open and release the seeds.
Seed Preparation
Before planting, the seeds should be cleaned and stored properly. To clean the seeds, rub them together in your hands, or use a sieve to remove any unwanted debris. Store the cleaned seeds in a dry, cool place until planting time.
Planting
The seeds can be sown directly into the soil either in the fall or early spring. Plant the seeds at a depth of approximately ¼ inch, in full sun, and in well-draining soil. It is important to keep the soil moist during the germination period, which usually takes 7-10 days.
Disease management
Descurainia pinnata (Walt.) Britt. ssp. brachycarpa (Richards.) Detling is generally resistant to most diseases. However, several fungal diseases can adversely affect the plant's growth and yield. The most common diseases that can affect Descurainia pinnata include:
- White rust: This fungal disease causes white, powdery spots on the leaves, stems, and flowers. It can lead to defoliation and stunted growth. To manage white rust, remove the infected plant parts and apply a fungicide.
- Black spot: This is another fungal disease characterized by black spots on the leaves, which can lead to defoliation. To manage black spot, remove the infected plant parts and apply a fungicide.
Pest management
Descurainia pinnata is relatively pest-resistant. However, several pests can infest the plant and cause damage. The most common pests that can affect Descurainia pinnata include:
- Aphids: These are small insects that suck sap from the plant, leading to wilting and stunted growth. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Cabbage worms: These are the larvae of white butterflies that feed on the leaves and can lead to defoliation. To manage cabbage worms, use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) or spinosad sprays.
