Origin and Common Names
Dodecatheon cylindrocarpum Rydb. is a flowering plant species that is native to North America, specifically found in the central and southern Rocky Mountains region of the United States. It is commonly known as the Mountain shooting star, as well as the cylinder-fruited shooting star.
General Appearance
The Mountain shooting star is a perennial plant that usually grows to a height of 20 to 60 cm. It has basal leaves that form a rosette, and showy flowers that bloom from May to July. The flowers are purple, magenta or pink, and have five petals in a nodding or outward-facing position.
The plant's stem is leafless and topped with an umbel of several flowers. The leaves are oblanceolate, meaning that they are widest near the top and gradually taper to a point.
Uses
Dodecatheon cylindrocarpum Rydb. has several medicinal uses, as its leaves and roots are known to contain alkaloids that are often used to treat chronic pain, fever, and inflammation. It also has ornamental uses and may be grown as an attractive plant for gardens or landscaping. Mountain shooting star is also pollinated by bumblebees, making it an important plant in the ecosystem.
Growth Conditions for Dodecatheon cylindrocarpum Rydb.
Dodecatheon cylindrocarpum Rydb., also commonly known as the Cylindrical-fruited Shooting Star, is a North American native plant that is mostly found in the western United States, particularly in the states of Colorado, Nebraska, Wyoming, and South Dakota. This species is a herbaceous perennial that is grown for its ornamental value. Here are some specific growth conditions that are suitable for Dodecatheon cylindrocarpum Rydb:
Light Requirements
Dodecatheon cylindrocarpum Rydb. requires full sun to part shade. In its native range, it is usually found growing in open meadows or along stream banks, where it is exposed to a fair amount of sunlight. The plant may tolerate some shade, especially in the afternoon when the sun is most intense, but it will not thrive in full shade.
Temperature Requirements
The Cylindrical-fruited Shooting Star typically grows in a region of the United States that experiences cold, dry winters and warm summers. The plant can tolerate freezing temperatures and even snow, making it a hardy species. However, it prefers temperatures that are between 50°F to 80°F (10°C to 27°C). In hot weather, the plant may go dormant earlier or require more water than usual to thrive.
Soil Requirements
Dodecatheon cylindrocarpum Rydb. prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be moist, but not waterlogged. In the wild, this species is commonly found growing in areas with shallow soils, where the water table is relatively close to the surface. Adding compost or other organic matter to the soil can help improve its overall structure and help retain moisture during dry spells. This species can tolerate a soil pH range of 5.0 to 7.0.
Cultivation
Dodecatheon cylindrocarpum Rydb. is a sturdy perennial herb that belongs to the primrose family 'Primulaceae'. Its broad leaves and tall, slender stems make it an attractive addition to any garden. The plant is native to western North America and can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 4-8.
The plant prefers moist soils that are rich in organic matter, but it can also grow in sandy or rocky soils. Dodecatheon cylindrocarpum Rydb. needs to be grown in a location that receives partial shade, especially in hotter climates.
Watering Needs
Watering is a crucial aspect of Dodecatheon cylindrocarpum Rydb. care. The plant prefers moist soil at all times, so it is essential to water it regularly during the growing season. It is better to water the plant deeply once a week rather than frequent, shallow watering.
During the early spring and fall, watering can be reduced as the plant becomes dormant. However, the soil should never be left to dry out completely, and it is crucial to monitor the moisture levels in the soil to avoid over or under-watering.
Fertilization
Fertilization is essential to promote healthy growth and abundant flowering in Dodecatheon cylindrocarpum Rydb. It is recommended to feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10, in early spring before the onset of new growth.
The fertilizer should be applied around the root zone of the plant and watered in thoroughly. Care should be taken not to over-fertilize the plant as this can lead to excessive vegetative growth at the expense of flowering.
Pruning
Pruning is not generally required for Dodecatheon cylindrocarpum Rydb. However, removing any dead, damaged, or diseased foliage can help the plant to maintain a tidy appearance. This can be done at any time during the growing season.
After flowering, it is recommended to cut back the flower stalks to prevent seed production and encourage a second flush of blooms. This will also help to prevent the plant from becoming leggy and sprawling.
Propagation of Dodecatheon cylindrocarpum Rydb.
Dodecatheon cylindrocarpum Rydb., commonly known as the mountain shooting star, can be propagated through seeds or division.
Propagation by seeds
The plant produces a capsule that contains many small seeds. Collect the seeds in the fall before they naturally disperse. Remove the chaff by gently rubbing the seed capsule between your fingers. Sow the seeds in a container filled with a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil consistently moist and maintain a temperature of 65-70°F (18-21°C). The seeds should germinate within two to four weeks. Once the seedlings have grown four to six leaves, transplant them into individual containers.
Propagation by division
You can propagate the plant through division in the spring or fall. Dig up the plant and gently separate the roots. Cut the roots into sections, making sure that each section has at least one stem and a good root system. Transplant the divided sections into individual containers or the desired location in the garden. Water the new plants thoroughly.
Keep in mind that it may take up to a year for the newly propagated plants to bloom. However, once the plants begin to bloom, they will provide a beautiful display of pink to purple flowers.
Disease and Pest Management for Dodecatheon cylindrocarpum Rydb.
Dodecatheon cylindrocarpum Rydb. is generally a low-maintenance plant that does not require a lot of effort to keep healthy. However, it is still susceptible to a few diseases and pests that can cause damage if left uncontrolled.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases affecting Dodecatheon cylindrocarpum Rydb. is powdery mildew. This fungal disease presents as a white, powdery substance that forms on the leaves. To manage powdery mildew, it is best to remove and dispose of any infected plant material. Make sure to water the plants directly at the soil level and avoid getting the leaves wet since this can contribute to the spread of powdery mildew.
Another disease that can affect Dodecatheon cylindrocarpum Rydb. is root rot. This disease is caused by overly damp soil and can cause the plant to wilt or die. To manage root rot, ensure that the soil has good drainage, and do not overwater the plant. It is also important to not plant the Dodecatheon cylindrocarpum Rydb. in dense soil, as this can cause water to accumulate, leading to root rot.
Common Pests
One pest that can affect Dodecatheon cylindrocarpum Rydb. is aphids. Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing damage to the leaves and flowers. To manage aphids, it is best to introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings. Alternatively, a soapy water solution can be applied to the affected areas to control the pest.
Another pest that can affect Dodecatheon cylindrocarpum Rydb. is thrips. These insects are tiny, but they can cause significant damage to the plant by feeding on the leaves and flowers. To manage thrips, it is best to introduce predatory insects such as mites, or to apply an insecticidal soap or oil to the plant.
By being vigilant and implementing appropriate disease and pest management strategies, it is possible to grow healthy and thriving Dodecatheon cylindrocarpum Rydb. plants.
