Origin
Disporum trachycarpum (S. Wats.) Benth. & Hook. f. var. subglabrum E.H. Kelso, commonly known as hairyfruit fairybells or roughfruit fairybells, is a native plant species found in the western United States. It is commonly found in California, Oregon, and Washington.
Common Names
The hairyfruit fairybells has several common names, including roughfruit fairybells and Kelso's fairybells. These names refer to the plant's unique appearance and characteristics.
Uses
The Disporum trachycarpum is commonly used for ornamental purposes, as it has attractive foliage and flowers. It is also known for its medicinal properties and has been used by indigenous tribes for various ailments, including stomach and liver issues.
General Appearance
The hairyfruit fairybells is a perennial plant that grows up to 50 cm in height. The plant has long, slender stems and alternate leaves that are up to 15 cm long and 8 cm wide. The flowers of the plant are bell-shaped, are usually greenish-white, and have distinct reddish-brown stripes on the inside. The fruit of the plant is a hairy, reddish-brown capsule that contains many seeds. The overall appearance of the plant is elegant and attractive, making it a popular choice for gardeners and horticulturists alike.
Light Requirements
Disporum trachycarpum (S. Wats.) Benth. & Hook. f. var. subglabrum E.H. Kelso thrives in partially shaded to fully shaded areas. Direct sunlight exposure sometimes leads to scorching leaves, stunted growth, and reduced flowering. Therefore, it is best to place the plant in an area where it can receive filtered sunlight or shade during the hottest parts of the day to promote healthy growth.
Temperature Requirements
Disporum trachycarpum (S. Wats.) Benth. & Hook. f. var. subglabrum E.H. Kelso is known for its versatility in temperature extremes. The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, including frost, severe cold, and heatwaves. However, the optimal temperature for its growth and development is between 15°C – 21°C. Temperatures lower than 5°C or higher than 30°C can negatively impact the plant's growth and survival rate.
Soil Requirements
Disporum trachycarpum (S. Wats.) Benth. & Hook. f. var. subglabrum E.H. Kelso prefers moist, well-draining soils. The ideal pH for the plant's growth is between 4.5 and 6.5. Loamy or sandy soils with a considerable amount of organic matter and nutrients are the most suitable for the plant's growth. Avoid planting the Disporum trachycarpum (S. Wats.) Benth. & Hook. f. var. subglabrum E.H. Kelso in poorly drained soils as it can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.
Cultivation Methods
Disporum trachycarpum (S. Wats.) Benth. & Hook. f. var. subglabrum E.H. Kelso is a perennial plant that thrives in shaded environments with well-drained soil. You can propagate this plant using seeds or division. To propagate from seeds, sow the seeds in a well-prepared garden bed and cover them lightly with soil to give them access to light. Alternatively, divide the plant at the beginning of spring, just as new shoots start emerging. Dig up the parent plant and divide the rhizomes with a sterilized cutting tool.
Watering Needs
The Disporum trachycarpum (S. Wats.) Benth. & Hook. f. var. subglabrum E.H. Kelso plant requires regular watering, particularly during the growing season. Water the plant deeply at least once a week, or more often if the soil dries out quickly. In hot and dry conditions, give the plant additional watering. It's best to water early in the morning to allow the plant to absorb the water and dry off during the day to minimize the risk of fungal infections.
Fertilization
Disporum trachycarpum (S. Wats.) Benth. & Hook. f. var. subglabrum E.H. Kelso is a low-maintenance plant that doesn't require frequent fertilization. However, you can apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer at the beginning of spring to promote healthy growth. If the plant seems to require more nutrients, you can add some organic matter to the soil during the growing season.
Pruning
The Disporum trachycarpum (S. Wats.) Benth. & Hook. f. var. subglabrum E.H. Kelso plant does not require extensive pruning. However, you can remove any yellow or damaged leaves from the plant to prevent the spread of disease. Also, cut back the stems to the base of the plant after they wither and turn yellow in the autumn season. This helps to promote new growth in the spring and prevents the stalks from reseeding and spreading out of control.
Propagation of Disporum trachycarpum var. subglabrum
Disporum trachycarpum var. subglabrum can be propagated through various methods including seed sowing, division, and stem cuttings.
Seed Sowing
Seeds of Disporum trachycarpum var. subglabrum can be collected from mature fruits and sown immediately in a well-draining seed-raising mix. The seeds need to be stored in a cool and dry environment before sowing to prevent them from drying out. The sowing medium should be kept moist but not waterlogged, and the seedlings should be kept in a shaded area until they have developed a few leaves.
Division
Disporum trachycarpum var. subglabrum can be propagated through division of mature clumps. This should be done in early spring before the plant starts to actively grow. The clump should be dug up and carefully divided to ensure that each division has ample roots. The divisions can then be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist until they are established.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings of Disporum trachycarpum var. subglabrum can be taken in late spring or early summer. Choose a stem that has not yet flowered and cut a 10-15 cm section below a node. Remove the lower leaves leaving only a few at the top of the cutting. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone before planting it in a pot filled with well-draining potting mix. Keep the cutting moist and in a shaded area until it has developed roots and new growth.
Disease and Pest Management for Disporum trachycarpum (S. Wats.) Benth. & Hook. f. var. subglabrum E.H. Kelso
Disporum trachycarpum (S. Wats.) Benth. & Hook. f. var. subglabrum E.H. Kelso is generally a hardy plant and is not affected by many diseases. However, certain pests and diseases can still cause problems for the plant. As a helpful assistant, I will provide information on some of the common diseases and pests that may affect Disporum trachycarpum (S. Wats.) Benth. & Hook. f. var. subglabrum E.H. Kelso and suggest ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that may affect Disporum trachycarpum (S. Wats.) Benth. & Hook. f. var. subglabrum E.H. Kelso is root rot. This disease is caused by overwatering and poor drainage. Root rot can be prevented by ensuring that the soil is well-draining and by allowing the soil to dry slightly between watering. In severe cases of root rot, it may be necessary to replant the affected plant in fresh soil with improved drainage.
Another common disease that may affect this plant is powdery mildew. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that presents as a white, powdery coating on the leaves of the plant. This disease is favored by cool, rainy weather and high humidity. To prevent powdery mildew, provide adequate air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering. In severe cases, fungicides may be necessary.
Common Pests
One of the most common pests that may affect Disporum trachycarpum (S. Wats.) Benth. & Hook. f. var. subglabrum E.H. Kelso is spider mites. Spider mites are small, spider-like creatures that suck sap from the leaves of the plant. Spider mites can be controlled by regularly spraying the plant down with a strong stream of water or by using insecticidal soap.
Another common pest that may affect this plant is aphids. Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that feed on the plant sap. They can be found on the undersides of leaves and around the stem of the plant. Aphids can be controlled by removing them with a strong stream of water or by using insecticidal soap. Ladybugs are natural predators of aphids and can be introduced to the garden to control the pest population.
By following these simple pest and disease management techniques, Disporum trachycarpum (S. Wats.) Benth. & Hook. f. var. subglabrum E.H. Kelso can thrive in any garden. I hope you found this information helpful!
