Origin
Enemion stipitatum, also known as the Oregon false rue anemone, is a native plant species found in western North America, specifically in the states of Oregon, California, and Washington.
Common Names
Aside from Oregon false rue anemone, Enemion stipitatum is also commonly referred to as false rue anemone, meadow false rue anemone, and groundsel.
Uses
The plant has limited commercial value, but it is used in landscaping as a groundcover in woodland and shaded garden areas. It is also used in native plant restoration projects, and in some Native American cultures, the plant has been used as a traditional medicinal remedy for various ailments such as respiratory issues.
General Appearance
Enemion stipitatum is a low-growing herbaceous perennial plant that can reach up to 30cm in height. The plant produces finely cut leaves that are typically light green in color and possess a slightly hairy texture. It produces somewhat inconspicuous white flowers that average about 1.5cm in diameter and bloom in early spring. The flowers have a yellow center and are borne atop slender, erect stems. The plant tends to grow in colonies in shaded areas and is often found in wooded areas, meadows, and along streams and rivers.
Light Requirements
Enemion stipitatum is a woodland plant and prefers shady locations with partial to full shade. Direct sunlight exposure may cause leaf scorch or wilting.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the growth of Enemion stipitatum is between 10°C to 27°C. It can survive in lower temperatures but may not grow well.
Soil Requirements
Enemion stipitatum prefers well-draining soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. It can grow in a variety of soils, including loamy, sandy, and clay. However, it is sensitive to waterlogging and requires adequate drainage. The presence of organic matter in the soil may enhance the plant's growth.
Cultivation
Enemion stipitatum is a perennial plant that thrives in well-draining, fertile soil. It prefers areas that receive filtered sunlight or dappled shade, and it is best grown in USDA zones 5 to 9. In hotter regions, it is recommended to plant the Enemion stipitatum in shaded areas to prevent sunscald damage. The plant can be propagated through seeds or division of the rhizomes.
Watering Needs
The Enemion stipitatum requires consistently moist soil, but it is essential to avoid overwatering the plant. If the soil becomes soggy, it can cause root rot, which is potentially fatal to the plant. It is advised to water the plant regularly, especially during the growing season when the soil can dry out quickly. During periods of drought, the soil needs to be thoroughly watered to prevent moisture stress.
Fertilization
The Enemion stipitatum doesn't require much fertilizer due to its natural hardiness. However, applying a general-purpose balanced fertilizer during the growing season can help improve its growth and overall health. Fertilizer should be applied according to the manufacturer's instructions, and it should be watered well after application to avoid burning the roots. Avoid applying fertilizer during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
Pruning
Pruning the Enemion stipitatum plant is crucial for its overall health and to encourage new growth. Dead leaves, stems, and flowers should be regularly removed to prevent fungal or bacterial diseases from setting in. It is recommended to prune the plant in the late fall or early spring before the growing season to stimulate vigorous growth. When pruning, make sure to sterilize pruning shears with rubbing alcohol or bleach to avoid transferring diseases to healthy parts of the plant.
Propagation of Enemion stipitatum (Gray) Drumm. & Hutchinson
Enemion stipitatum is propagated both by seed and by rhizome division. Both methods are relatively straightforward and can result in successful plant propagation with some investment of time and attention.
Propagation by Seed
Seeds of E. stipitatum can be obtained from several sources; either by collection in the wild or from commercial suppliers. Sowing seeds is typically done in the late winter or early spring. To improve germination rates, seeds should be stratified for several weeks prior to planting. This can be accomplished by mixing the seeds with a moistened soil mix and placing the mixture in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for 4-6 weeks. After stratification, seeds can be sown onto a seed starting mix of soil, sand, and perlite. Seeds are best placed on the surface of the soil then lightly pressed into the mix. The seed tray can then be covered with a clear plastic lid to help maintain moisture around the seeds. The seed tray should be placed in a bright location with temperatures around 68-70°F. The soil should be kept moist at all times, but not waterlogged. Germination of E. stipitatum typically occurs within 3-4 weeks.
Propagation by Rhizome Division
Another way to propagate E. stipitatum is through rhizome division. This method involves dividing up existing clumps of E. stipitatum into smaller sections, each containing some roots and a few stems or leaves. The best time to do this is in early spring, when new growth is just starting to emerge. To begin, carefully dig up the clump of E. stipitatum being propagated and clean the roots. Look for natural separations in the clump or use a sharp knife to divide the rhizome into sections, taking care to keep each section intact. Plant the sections into a well-draining potting mix. Water the section thoroughly and place it in a bright location with temperatures around 68-70°F. The soil should be kept only slightly moist for the first few weeks as the plant establishes itself, and then gradually increased to regular watering intervals as growth and development continue.
Common Diseases
Enemion stipitatum is generally a healthy plant species which does not suffer from diseases except under conditions of stress, such as low light, drought or soil compaction. However, one common disease that can affect this plant is root rot. Root rot can be caused by fungi such as Phytophthora and Pythium, and leads to wilting and stunted growth. To avoid root rot, it is essential to plant the Enemion stipitatum in well-drained soil, avoid overwatering, and provide good air circulation around the plant's roots. Fungal treatments may also help prevent root rot.
Common Pests
Enemion stipitatum may also be susceptible to attacks by plant pests such as aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. These pests can be found on new growth, along the leaf margins or on the undersides of the plant's leaves. The feeding of these pests can cause damage to the plant's structures and disrupt its growth. To control pests, it is important to identify them first. Aphids and mealybugs can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil while spider mites can be eliminated with a jet of water from the hose. Natural predators of these pests like ladybugs, lacewings, and spiders can also be used as a biological control method.
