Overview
Diplacus aurantiacus (W. Curtis) Jepson ssp. aurantiacus, commonly known as Sticky Monkeyflower, is a species of flowering plant in the family Phrymaceae. It is native to California and Oregon, where it is commonly found growing in coastal and inland habitats such as chaparral, sagebrush scrub, and grasslands.
Appearance
The Sticky Monkeyflower plant can grow up to three feet and has a spreading habit. The leaves are gray-green, narrowly oval, and covered in glandular hairs. The flowers are tubular with flared lips and can be orange, yellow, or reddish in color, which attracts hummingbirds and bees for pollination.
Uses
Sticky Monkeyflower has several medicinal uses in traditional Native American cultures and is used for conditions such as sore throats, respiratory issues, and dermatological problems. It is also commonly used as a landscaping plant in gardens and public spaces for its colorful blooms and ability to attract pollinators.
In addition, the plant has been studied for its high levels of phenolic compounds, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds could be used in the development of new drugs with potential therapeutic benefits, such as anti-cancer drugs or treatments for neurodegenerative diseases.
Growth Conditions for Diplacus aurantiacus (W. Curtis) Jepson ssp. aurantiacus
Light: This plant requires full sun exposure for optimal growth and blooming. It can tolerate some partial shade, but flowering may be reduced.
Temperature: Diplacus aurantiacus prefers moderate temperatures between 60-80°F (15.5-26.5°C) during the day and cool nights between 50-60°F (10-15.5°C). It can tolerate some frost, but extended freezing temperatures can damage the plant.
Soil: It grows best in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal pH range is between 6.0-7.5. Diplacus aurantiacus can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
Water: This plant prefers moderate watering and can tolerate some drought, but excessive moisture can lead to root rot. Watering should be decreased during the winter months.
Fertilizer: Diplacus aurantiacus does not require regular fertilizing, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can promote growth and blooming.
Pruning: Prune back the plant after flowering to promote bushier growth and to remove any dead or damaged growth. Diplacus aurantiacus can also be shaped as desired, but avoid over-pruning as this can reduce flowering.
Cultivation Methods
Plant Diplacus aurantiacus ssp. aurantiacus in well-draining soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5. The plant prefers full sun and can grow in a variety of soil types, including loam, sandy, and clay soils. It is drought-tolerant but also grows well in moist soil.
Watering Needs
Water Diplacus aurantiacus ssp. aurantiacus deeply once a week during the growing season. During periods of drought, water the plant every two to three days. Make sure not to overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot. Water the plant at the base and avoid getting the foliage wet to prevent fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Apply a balanced fertilizer like a 10-10-10 formula to Diplacus aurantiacus ssp. aurantiacus in early spring as the plant resumes growth. Supplement it with organic compost or well-rotted manure to improve the soil quality. Avoid overfertilizing the plant as it can lead to excessive foliage growth and reduced flower production.
Pruning
Prune Diplacus aurantiacus ssp. aurantiacus in the late winter or early spring before new growth occurs. Remove dead, damaged, and diseased branches and trim back overgrown branches to maintain the desired shape and size. Pinch back the tips of the plant during the growing season to promote bushier growth and more flowers.
Propagation of Diplacus aurantiacus (W. Curtis) Jepson ssp. aurantiacus
Diplacus aurantiacus (W. Curtis) Jepson ssp. aurantiacus, commonly known as sticky monkeyflower, can be propagated through various methods, including seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation by Seeds
The easiest and most common method of propagating Diplacus aurantiacus is through seeds. The plant produces small, black, kidney-shaped seeds that are typically dispersed through wind or water. To propagate through seeds, the grower must collect the seeds from the mature plant in the fall and sow them in well-draining soil in the spring. It is recommended to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and to place the container in a bright, warm location until the seeds germinate, which may take up to three weeks.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is another method of propagating Diplacus aurantiacus. To propagate through cuttings, the grower must remove 3-5 inches of stem from the mature plant in the spring or summer. The cuttings should be taken from the softwood of the stem, which is the section of the plant between the new growth and the older, woody growth. The grower should remove any leaves from the lower half of the stem and dip the cut end in rooting hormone before placing it in a well-draining soil mixture. The grower should keep the soil moist and place the container in a bright, warm location until roots form, which may take up to eight weeks.
Propagation by Division
Diplacus aurantiacus can also be propagated by division. To propagate through division, the grower must dig up the mature plant in the spring or fall and separate the plant into several sections. Each section should have a root ball and several stems. The grower should plant each section in a well-draining soil mixture and water thoroughly. It is recommended to keep the soil moist and place the container in a bright, warm location until new growth appears, which may take up to six weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Diplacus aurantiacus
Diplacus aurantiacus is generally a hardy plant and relatively resistant to pests and disease as long as the plant is healthy and the growing conditions are optimal. However, the plant may occasionally suffer damage from a range of harmful insects and diseases.
Common Pests
Some common pests that might infest Diplacus aurantiacus include spider mites, aphids, scales, and mealybugs. Spider mites can be detected by the webbing they produce, while aphids, scales, and mealybugs can be seen on the leaves and stems of the plant.
To manage these pests, it is important to begin with regular monitoring of the plant for signs of infestation. This can help to catch and control the pests before they become established. Pests can be removed by hand or controlled with insecticides that are safe for use on Diplacus aurantiacus.
Common Diseases
Diplacus aurantiacus is susceptible to a range of fungal diseases, including powdery mildew, rust, and root rot. Powdery mildew appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves, while rust appears as orange or brownish pustules. Root rot, a fungal disease of the roots, can be detected by symptoms such as wilting and yellowing of the leaves.
To manage fungal infections, it is essential to maintain good hygiene in the garden, including removing and destroying infected plant material. Regularly cleaning and disinfecting pruning tools and containers can further help to prevent the spread of fungal spores.
In addition, it is crucial to provide good air circulation and avoid overwatering the plant, as these conditions can encourage the growth of fungal diseases.
Conclusion
While Diplacus aurantiacus is a relatively hardy plant, it may occasionally suffer from pests and diseases. By taking a proactive approach to monitoring and management, gardeners can help to keep the plant healthy and productive.
