General Appearance
Diplacus arachnoideus Greene is a small perennial herb endemic to California, USA. It is a charming plant with showy flowers that typically bloom from the end of winter to the beginning of summer, producing an explosion of color on dry hillsides, rocky slopes, and chaparral communities. The plant grows up to 1 ft. high and 2 ft. wide, with slender stems covered with glandular and nonglandular hairs, which give the plant a spider-web-like appearance.
Common Names
Diplacus arachnoideus Greene is commonly known as the Cobwebby Monkeyflower because of its hairy and sticky stems, which resemble cobwebs. It is also called the Spider Monkeyflower due to its spider-web-like appearance.
Uses
Native American tribes once used the plant for medicinal purposes. They brewed the leaves and flowers to make a cough syrup and used it as a poultice on wounds. The Cobwebby Monkeyflower is also commonly used in horticulture as an ornamental plant in rock gardens and containers, as it is relatively easy to grow and low maintenance. It is an ideal plant for water-wise gardens, as it requires less water than other flowering plants and thrives in well-draining soils. Additionally, it attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making it an excellent choice for pollinator gardens.
Light Requirements
Diplacus arachnoideus Greene prefers to grow in areas with full sun exposure. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth. However, the plant can still survive and grow moderately in partially shaded areas. Extreme shade or low light conditions can cause the plant to grow slowly and produce fewer flowers.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can thrive in a wide range of temperature conditions. Diplacus arachnoideus Greene grows best in areas with mild temperatures. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F). The plant can tolerate high temperatures of up to 35°C (95°F) as well as low temperatures of up to -5°C (23°F). However, it is essential to protect the plant from frost and snow during the cold season.
Soil Requirements
Diplacus arachnoideus Greene grows well in a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels, from slightly acidic to alkaline soil with a pH range of 5.0 to 8.0. The ideal soil type for this plant is sandy loam or loamy soil with good drainage. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged to prevent root rot. It is also recommended to add a layer of mulch on top of the soil to help retain moisture and prevent weed growth.
Cultivation of Diplacus arachnoideus Greene
Diplacus arachnoideus Greene, also known as the Spider monkeyflower, is a rare and beautiful plant native to California. It prefers sunny locations with well-draining soil and thrives in mild temperatures.
You can cultivate this plant both in the garden and in containers. When planting in the ground, ensure that the soil is mixed with organic matter such as peat moss or compost to provide necessary nutrients for growth. Also, allow enough space for the plant to grow and spread, typically a spacing of 6-8 inches apart. On the other hand, choose a container with drainage holes that suit the size of the plant and use a potting mix rich in nutrients.
Watering Needs
Diplacus arachnoideus Greene requires regular watering, especially during the growing season when the weather is hot, typically in the summer months. It is advisable to water this plant deeply and frequently but avoid waterlogging the soil. Ensure that the soil is dry to the touch before watering during wintertime or during the plant's dormancy period.
Fertilization
Applying fertilizer to Diplacus arachnoideus Greene is essential. Use slow-release fertilizer or a balanced liquid fertilizer to provide the nutrients required for growth and flowering. Apply the fertilizer once a month during the growing season, starting in the spring and stopping in early autumn.
Pruning
Diplacus arachnoideus Greene requires minimal pruning. You can deadhead the spent flowers and prune the stems lightly after flowering to encourage bushy growth. However, avoid over-pruning, as it can affect the plant's overall health and prevent it from blooming.
Propagation of Diplacus arachnoideus Greene
Diplacus arachnoideus Greene, also known as spider snapdragon, is a flowering plant that is native to California. It is a member of the Phrymaceae family and is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes. If you would like to propagate this plant, below are some methods that you can use:
Propagation by seeds
The easiest way to propagate Diplacus arachnoideus Greene is through its seeds. Collect the seeds from the plant when they are mature, dry and ready to be harvested. Plant these seeds in a pot or outdoor bed with well-draining soil and cover them with a thin layer of soil. Keep the soil moist but not too wet, and ensure the plant is in a sunny spot. Germination should occur within 1 to 3 weeks.
Propagation by cuttings
You can also propagate Diplacus arachnoideus Greene through stem cuttings. Take a 3-5 inch long cutting from the plant, ensuring that it has at least 2 sets of leaves. Remove the lower leaves from the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in well-draining soil and water it thoroughly. Keep the soil moist, and if possible, cover the pot or planting bed with a clear plastic bag to create a humid environment. The cutting should root in 2 to 4 weeks.
Propagation by division
Another way to propagate Diplacus arachnoideus Greene is by dividing its root clumps. This method is best done in the spring or fall when the plant is not actively growing, and preferably in its third or fourth year of growth. Dig up the plant and gently separate the root clumps, ensuring that each clump has a healthy set of leaves and roots. Replant the divisions in well-draining soil and keep the soil moist. The divisions should establish in a few weeks.
By following the above propagation methods, you should be able to successfully propagate Diplacus arachnoideus Greene and expand your collection of spider snapdragons. Good luck!
Disease and Pest Management for Diplacus arachnoideus Greene
Diplacus arachnoideus Greene or the Cobwebby Monkeyflower is a native flowering shrub that is drought-tolerant and prefers full sun to partial shade. Although it is a hardy plant, there are some common diseases and pests that can affect it. Here are some of them and how to manage them:
Common Diseases
Bacterial Blight: This disease is caused by the bacterium Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae. It causes water-soaked spots on leaves that turn brown and necrotic. It also affects the stems and flowers of the plant. To manage bacterial blight, remove and destroy infected plant parts. Avoid over-watering and providing too much moisture. Also, use copper-based fungicides.
Phytophthora root rot: This disease is caused by the fungus Phytophthora cinnamomi. It causes wilting and death of the plant. To manage phytophthora root rot, avoid planting in areas with poor drainage. Also, maintain the right soil pH and moisture level. Apply fungicides such as metalaxyl or mefenoxam.
Common Pests
Spider Mites: These are common pests that can infest the Cobwebby Monkeyflower. They suck the sap from the leaves, causing yellowing and wilting. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a strong blast of water or use insecticidal soap. Also, avoid overhead watering.
Aphids: These pests suck the sap from the leaves of the plant, causing deformities and stunted growth. To manage aphids, remove them manually or use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Also, remove weeds and avoid overcrowding the plant.
By managing these common diseases and pests, you can help your Diplacus arachnoideus Greene plant thrive and grow healthy.
