Origin
Diphasiastrum complanatum (L.) Holub, also known as Running cedar, is a perennial plant species found in temperate regions of the northern hemisphere. It is native to North America, Europe, and Asia, where it grows in both dry and moist environments.
Common Names
Running cedar is a common name for Diphasiastrum complanatum. This name comes from the fact that the plant appears to be running along the ground, as its stems are low-lying and generally grow close to the surface. Other common names include ground cedar, flattened clubmoss, and fan clubmoss.
Uses
Running cedar was historically used by Native American tribes for medicinal purposes, including treating coughs, colds, and infections. The plant contains alkaloids, which have antibacterial and antifungal properties that may have contributed to its traditional use.
Today, the plant is primarily used for decorative purposes due to its unique, flattened foliage and attractive appearance. It is often used in rock gardens and as a groundcover in landscaping, as the plant does not grow tall and spreads easily.
General Appearance
Diphasiastrum complanatum is a low-growing plant that typically reaches a height of only 6-8 inches. It has thin, flattened stems that grow horizontally along the ground and are covered in tiny, needle-like leaves. The leaves are arranged in whorls around the stem and are typically a dark green color. The plant produces spore-bearing cones, which are located at the tips of the stems and resemble small, brown, papery flowers. Running cedar has a unique, delicate appearance that makes it a popular choice for decorative gardens.
Light Requirements
Diphasiastrum complanatum is typically found growing in shaded areas such as forests or along the edges of wooded areas. As such, it does not require direct sunlight for growth. Partial shade or dappled sunlight is sufficient for healthy growth and development.
Temperature Requirements
Diphasiastrum complanatum is a hardy plant that can withstand a range of temperatures. It prefers cooler temperatures and is often found growing in areas with a mean annual temperature of 7°C to 14°C. However, it can tolerate higher temperatures of up to 23°C.
Soil Requirements
Diphasiastrum complanatum thrives in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It prefers slightly acidic soils with a pH ranging from 5 to 6.5. It can also grow in poor soils and is often found growing in sandy or gravelly soils. However, it does not tolerate soils that are waterlogged or poorly drained.
In summary, Diphasiastrum complanatum prefers growing in shaded areas with partial shade or dappled sunlight. It prefers cooler temperatures ranging from 7°C to 14°C but can tolerate higher temperatures up to 23°C. It thrives in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter, slightly acidic with a pH ranging from 5 to 6.5, and does not grow well in waterlogged or poorly drained soils.
Cultivation method
The Diphasiastrum complanatum (L.) Holub plant is a hardy plant and can grow well in different soil types, including sandy and rocky soil. It requires partial to full sun exposure and prefers a cooler temperature range of around 50-70°F. It can be propagated by spores or rhizomes, but for home gardeners, it is advisable to purchase plant starts from a reputable nursery.
Watering needs
The Diphasiastrum complanatum (L.) Holub plant requires an adequate amount of watering to thrive. It prefers moist soil, so ensure that the soil remains evenly moist and not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while under-watering can cause the plant to wilt.
Fertilization
The Diphasiastrum complanatum (L.) Holub plant does not require regular fertilization. However, a slow-release granular fertilizer can be applied in the early spring to support growth. Make sure to follow the instructions on the label and apply in the correct proportion.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for the Diphasiastrum complanatum (L.) Holub plant. However, it can be trimmed to control its growth and spread. If the plant becomes too dense or starts encroaching on other plants, it can be pruned back in the spring before new growth starts. Take care not to cut back more than a third of the plant to avoid stressing it or damaging its health.
Propagation of Diphasiastrum Complanatum (L.) Holub
Diphasiastrum Complanatum (L.) Holub, commonly known as ground cedar, is a spore-bearing, perennial plant that grows in the northern hemisphere. Propagation of this plant involves two primary methods: Vegetative propagation and propagation by spores.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation involves the use of plant parts to grow a new plant. Diphasiastrum Complanatum can be propagated vegetatively by rhizome division. To propagate the plant using this method, you should carefully divide the rhizomes into small sections with roots. The divided rhizomes can then be planted in well-drained soil rich in organic matter, watered regularly, and exposed to filtered or partial sunlight. This method is best carried out in spring when the plant is actively growing.
Propagation by Spores
Propagation by spores involves using the reproductive cells of the plant to grow new individuals. Diphasiastrum Complanatum produces cone-like structures that carry sporangia containing spores. To propagate this plant using spores, you should take the cones that have already turned brown and are almost falling off the plant. Put the cones in a paper bag for a few days to allow the sporangia to open and release spores. After the spores are released, put them in a sterile growing medium that is high in organic matter and keep it moist. The growing medium should be aerated and exposed to indirect sunlight. After a couple of weeks, the spores will germinate, and small plants will emerge.
Disease Management
The plant Diphasiastrum complanatum (L.) Holub is susceptible to various diseases that can cause significant damage to the plant. The following are common diseases that affect this plant and ways to manage them:
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes the leaves of the plant to develop small spots. The spots eventually merge to form larger lesions that may cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. To manage this disease, one can remove the infected leaves and destroy them. The use of chemical fungicides may also be effective in preventing the spread of the disease.
Root Rot
Root rot is caused by a variety of fungal pathogens that attack the roots of the plant, causing wilting and yellowing of the leaves. To manage this disease, one can improve the drainage in the soil to prevent over-watering. It is also important to remove infected plants and treat the surrounding soil with fungicides to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Diphasiastrum complanatum (L.) Holub is also susceptible to different types of pests that can cause damage to the plant. The following are common pests that affect this plant and ways to manage them:
Aphids
Aphids are tiny insects that suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and distortion of the leaves. To manage this pest, one can use insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill the aphids. Ladybugs and lacewings are natural predators of aphids and can be introduced to the garden to manage the pest.
Mites
Mites are small pests that feed on the sap of the plant, causing yellowing and curling of the leaves. To manage this pest, one can use miticides or insecticidal soap. It is also important to maintain healthy plants by providing adequate water and nutrients to prevent infestation.
