Desmanthus covillei - Overview
Desmanthus covillei, also known as Coville's bundleflower, is a perennial flowering plant belonging to the legume family, Fabaceae. The plant is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, particularly in Arizona, New Mexico, and Chihuahua.
Appearance
Desmanthus covillei is a shrub that grows up to 1.5 meters tall. The branches are slender, with grayish-brown bark and are covered with hairs. The leaves are bipinnately compound, about 10-25 cm long, with 20 to 40 leaflets per leaf. Each leaflet is oblong in shape, about 4-7 mm long. The plant produces small, white to pinkish flowers that are arranged in clusters on long spikes. The fruit is a pod about 3-6 mm long containing small seeds.
Common Names
Desmanthus covillei is commonly known as Coville's bundleflower, featherplume, or big bundleflower.
Uses
Desmanthus covillei has a range of traditional medicinal uses among the native people of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. The leaves, stems, and roots of the plant are used in the treatment of various ailments such as diarrhea, flu, fever, coughs, and urinary problems. The seeds are edible and have been used as a source of food for both humans and livestock. Additionally, Desmanthus covillei has potential as a forage crop for livestock because of its high protein content and drought tolerance. The plant is also used as an ornamental plant in residential gardens and for erosion control in some areas.
Light requirements
The plant Desmanthus covillei typically prefers full sunlight and does not grow well in the shade. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. This plant can tolerate some shade, but it may become leggy and weak if it does not receive enough sunlight. Therefore, it is best to plant Desmanthus covillei in a location where it can receive full sun throughout the day.
Temperature requirements
Desmanthus covillei is native to the southwestern United States, where it experiences high temperatures and low humidity. Therefore, it grows best in warm weather and is not tolerant of frost or freezing temperatures. The optimal temperature range for the growth of Desmanthus covillei is between 70°F and 90°F (21°C to 32°C).
Temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can cause damage to the plant, and temperatures below 32°F (0°C) can kill it. Thus, it is recommended to plant Desmanthus covillei during the spring or early summer months, when the weather is warm and the risk of frost has passed.
Soil requirements
Desmanthus covillei requires well-draining soil, as it is sensitive to waterlogged conditions and root rot. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, from sandy to loamy, as long as they are well-draining. The plant prefers a slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5 to 7.5) soil. Before planting, it is recommended to prepare the soil by adding compost or other organic matter to improve soil fertility and drainage.
It is also important to note that Desmanthus covillei is drought-tolerant and can survive periods of extended dryness. However, it will perform better if it receives regular watering, especially during the dry season. The plant should be watered deeply, but infrequently, to encourage deep root growth.
Cultivation
Desmanthus covillei is an easy-to-grow plant that thrives in well-draining soil and full sunlight. It can be cultivated from seeds or cuttings. The best time to plant the seeds is during springtime when the temperature is conducive for germination. If planting from cuttings, they should be taken from the parent plant during the early morning hours.
Watering Needs
Watering is crucial for the growth and development of Desmanthus covillei. The plant requires moderate watering, especially during its early growth stages. Once it is fully established, it is drought-resistant and can go for relatively more extended periods without water. During the growing season, the plant should be watered once a week. It is crucial to ensure that the soil does not become waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Desmanthus covillei requires moderate fertilization throughout its growth cycle. The best way to fertilize this plant is to work compost into the soil before planting. Fertilization should be done every three months during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer. It is worth noting that the plant can survive without fertilization but will grow better and healthier with it.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Desmanthus covillei, but it can help to maintain a desirable shape and boost growth. One can prune the plant by cutting off the top part or the branches selectively. Pruning should be done during the dormant season, which is typically during late autumn or early winter when the plant is not actively growing.
Propagation of Desmanthus covillei
Desmanthus covillei (Britt. & Rose) Wiggins ex B.L. Turner, commonly known as Coville's bundleflower, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae. Its native range includes the southern and western United States and northern Mexico. The plant is often used for soil stabilization, as it has an extensive root system that helps prevent erosion. Propagation of this plant species can be done through various methods, including seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation by seeds
Propagation by seeds is the most common method for Desmanthus covillei. The seeds are collected from mature plants, which are usually harvested in the fall when the plants have turned brown and the pods are dry. The seeds should be stored in a cool, dry location until planting time, which should be in the early spring. Seeds can be sown directly into the soil or started indoors and transplanted later.
Propagation by cuttings
Propagation by cuttings can be done by taking stem cuttings from healthy plants during the summer months when the plant is actively growing. The cuttings should be taken from the upper portion of the plant and should be several inches long with at least one node. The cuttings should be treated with a rooting hormone and then planted in a well-draining soil mixture. The cutting should be kept in a warm, humid environment until roots have formed.
Propagation by division
Propagation by division involves separating the roots and rhizomes of an established plant into smaller sections, which can then be planted individually. This method is best done in the spring, before the plant starts to actively grow. It is essential to make sure that each section has enough roots and shoots to support new growth. The new divisions should be planted in a location that receives plenty of sunlight and has well-draining soil.
Disease and Pest Management for Desmanthus covillei
Desmanthus covillei is a sturdy perennial plant that can tolerate a range of soil conditions. However, like any plant, it is not immune to diseases and pests. Proper disease and pest management can help ensure healthy growth and abundant yields of leaves and seeds.
Common Diseases
Anthracnose, caused by the fungus Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, is a common disease that affects the leaves of Desmanthus covillei. Symptoms include circular spots with dark edges that eventually enlarge and cause defoliation. Leaf rust, caused by the fungus Puccinia desmanthi, causes brownish-orange pustules on the undersides of leaves.
To manage these diseases, it is important to remove and destroy infected plants or plant parts. Fungicides may also be used, but it is important to follow label directions carefully to avoid damage to the plant.
Common Pests
The two-spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae) and the green aphid (Aphis craccivora) are common pests of Desmanthus covillei. Spider mites are tiny and difficult to see but cause yellowing and shriveling of leaves. Green aphids, on the other hand, cause curling and deformation of new leaves.
Natural predators such as lady beetles, lacewings, and spiders can help control pests. Alternatively, insecticidal soap or neem oil can be used to manage aphids and spider mites. It is important to follow label directions when using any pesticide and to avoid applying when pollinators are active.
Regular inspections of Desmanthus covillei for signs of disease and pests can help prevent the spread of these problems. Adequate moisture and proper nutrition can also help the plant develop strong natural defenses against disease and pest infestations.
