Overview: About Descurainia pinnata (Walt.) Britt. ssp. pinnata
Descurainia pinnata (Walt.) Britt. ssp. pinnata is a flowering plant that belongs to the mustard family Brassicaceae. This species is commonly known as western tansy mustard, western tansymustard, American tansy mustard, Spanish tansy mustard, and yellow tansy mustard. It is native to North America and widely distributed from Alaska to Mexico.
Appearance
The western tansy mustard is a perennial herb that can grow up to two feet tall. The plant has finely divided leaves that are almost fern-like in appearance. The leaves are alternate, pinnately divided into numerous segments that are linear or lanceolate, ranging from 0.5 to 3.5 cm in length. The stem is slender and branching, and it produces a small inflorescence of bright yellow flowers that are about a quarter of an inch in diameter. The flowers bloom from late spring to early summer.
Uses
Descurainia pinnata has many traditional uses. The plant has been used as a medicinal herb by various Native American tribes for many years. Native tribes of the Great Plains used it for a variety of medicinal purposes, such as coughs, colds, and fever. It was also used as a poultice to treat swelling, stings, and bruises. The Navajo tribe used the plant as a dye and as a food seasoning. The plant is also known to be a valuable source of nectar and pollen for honeybees and other pollinators.
In addition, Descurainia pinnata is sometimes planted for ornamental purposes in prairie gardens and naturalized areas. It is also used in land reclamation projects due to its strong and expansive root system that helps to stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
Overall, Descurainia pinnata (Walt.) Britt. ssp. pinnata is a beautiful and valuable plant that has played an essential role in various cultures throughout history.Light Conditions
Descurainia pinnata (Walt.) Britt. ssp. pinnata prefers full sun or partial shade. It can grow in areas with low to moderate levels of light, but too much shade can cause stunted growth and sparse foliage.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can adapt to a wide range of temperatures, but it thrives best in mild to moderate climates. It can tolerate both hot and cool temperatures, but extremes can hinder its growth and survival.
Soil Conditions
Descurainia pinnata (Walt.) Britt. ssp. pinnata can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and rocky soils. It prefers well-draining soils that are moderately fertile and have a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. However, it can tolerate slightly acidic soils as well. This plant is drought-resistant but regular watering is recommended for optimal growth.
Cultivation Methods
Descurainia pinnata (Walt.) Britt. ssp. pinnata, also known as western tansy mustard, is a hardy, low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. It is a perennial plant that prefers well-drained soils and full sun exposure. It can also thrive in hot and dry conditions. The plant can be propagated from seed or by taking cuttings.
Watering Needs
Although western tansy mustard is drought-tolerant, it will still need to be watered regularly during its growing season. The plant should be watered deeply once a week. However, make sure that the soil has drained well before watering it again. Overwatering can lead to root rot and harm the plant.
Fertilization
Descurainia pinnata (Walt.) Britt. ssp. pinnata does not require heavy fertilization. In fact, excessive fertilization can harm the plant, as it prefers a lean soil. You can add a light layer of compost or a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to encourage healthy growth. However, do not fertilize the plant during the fall or winter as it prepares to go dormant.
Pruning
Western tansy mustard does not require regular pruning. However, you can remove any dead or damaged branches to keep the plant looking healthy. The plant can be trimmed back in the early spring to encourage new growth. Avoid pruning the plant during the late summer or fall as this can affect its ability to produce flowers.
Propagation of Descurainia pinnata (Walt.) Britt. ssp. pinnata
Descurainia pinnata (Walt.) Britt. ssp. pinnata is known to be propagated by seeds. In general, this plant is self-pollinated, but cross-pollination may also occur. It's a self-sustaining plant, and once established, it can thrive in different types of soils, and it can tolerate a range of environmental conditions.
Germination and Seed collection
The seeds of Descurainia pinnata (Walt.) Britt. ssp. pinnata can be collected from the mature seed pods. Harvesting the seeds before they are fully ripe assures that the seeds will not get lost or eaten by animals. Sow the collected seeds in early spring or late fall in well-draining soil. It takes 7 to 14 days for the seeds to germinate at 15-20°C. Thin the seedlings after two weeks to ensure that they have enough space to develop.
Cuttings and Transplanting
Propagation of Descurainia pinnata (Walt.) Britt. ssp. pinnata through cuttings can also be done. The cuttings should be about 4 to 6 inches long and must be taken from a healthy plant. The leaves should be removed, leaving only a few pairs of leaves at the top of the cuttings. Dip the cuttings in water for a few hours before planting in the soil. Keep the soil moist and avoid exposure to direct sunlight. Transplanting can be done after six weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Descurainia pinnata (Walt.) Britt. ssp. pinnata
Descurainia pinnata (Walt.) Britt. ssp. pinnata is a hardy, drought-tolerant plant that grows in many different soil types. However, like all plants, it is susceptible to diseases and pests. Here are some common ones and ways to manage them:
Diseases:
Clubroot: Clubroot is a soil-borne disease caused by the fungus Plasmodiophora brassicae. It can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To prevent clubroot, rotate crops and avoid planting in infected soil. Raised beds can also improve drainage and reduce the likelihood of infection.
Root rot: Root rot is caused by a combination of fungi, including Fusarium and Phytophthora. It can cause wilting and yellowing of the leaves and eventually death of the plant. To prevent root rot, ensure good drainage, avoid planting in compacted soil, and do not overwater your plants. You can also apply fungicides to prevent and treat root rot.
Pests:
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant and can cause stunted growth, yellowing of the leaves, and deformation of the plant. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also introduce natural predators like ladybugs to your garden.
Cabbage loopers: Cabbage loopers are the larvae of moths that feed on the leaves of the plant. They can cause large, irregular holes in the leaves. To manage cabbage loopers, remove any affected leaves and use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) insecticide.
Cutworms: Cutworms are the larvae of moths that feed on the stem of the plant and can cause the plant to wilt and eventually die. To manage cutworms, use row covers around the plant or apply insecticides containing spinosad.
By following these disease and pest management techniques, you can ensure that your Descurainia pinnata (Walt.) Britt. ssp. pinnata plants grow healthy and strong.
