Overview
Ericameria crispa (L.C. Anders.) Nesom is a perennial shrub that belongs to the sunflower family, Asteraceae. This plant is commonly known as Turpentine bush, Yellow rabbitbrush, or Pineywoods rabbitbrush. It is native to North America and can be found in the Great Plains, Rocky Mountains, and Arizona.
Description
Turpentine bush has a dense and rounded shape, growing up to 3 meters tall and 2.5 meters wide. Its stems are woody and its branches are slender and covered with fine hairs. The leaves of the plant are simple, narrow and linear, having a length of 2.5-7.5 cm, and they are curled into a spiral shape. The foliage is grayish-green in color, and it produces daisy-like flowers that are yellow to golden-brown in hue.
Uses
Ericameria crispa has several uses. Historically, Native Americans used the leaves and young stems to make a tea which is a remedy for cough, colds, flu, and diarrhea. The plant exudes a turpentine fragrance, hence its name, and its branches have been used as fuel in campfires and for fencing. Today, the plant is used for ornamental purposes, to control erosion on slopes, and to restore habitat for pollinators and wildlife.
Light Requirements
Ericameria crispa prefers full sun exposure for optimal growth. The plant thrives in open areas with direct sunlight and does not tolerate shaded conditions.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is adaptable to a wide range of temperatures. It thrives in areas with high temperatures and low relative humidity. The dry and arid conditions of the western regions of the US are best suited for this plant. However, E. crispa can tolerate freezing temperatures of up to -20°C and can survive extended periods of drought.
Soil Requirements
E. crispa thrives in well-drained, sandy soils with low to moderate fertility. The plant does not require rich soils and can grow in areas with poor soils or rocky substrates. However, it cannot tolerate waterlogged soils and high soil salinity.
Cultivation methods
Ericameria crispa is a deciduous shrub native to North America. It is commonly referred to as yellow rabbitbrush or rubber rabbitbrush. The plant is a hardy perennial tolerant of drought and extreme temperatures. It can grow up to eight feet tall and 15 feet wide at maturity, and can survive in various types of soil, including clay, loam, sand, and gravel. It prefers well-draining soil in dry, sunny locations.
Watering needs
Due to its tolerance for drought, Ericameria crispa does not require frequent watering. A weekly watering during periods of drought or high heat is sufficient. Over-watering can lead to root rot or fungal diseases. In addition, avoid watering the plant in the evening or at night to prevent fungal growth.
Fertilization
Ericameria crispa does not require frequent fertilization. A yearly application of balanced fertilizer in the spring will suffice. Avoid fertilizing during the fall or winter months to avoid promoting growth during the dormant period.
Pruning
Pruning Ericameria crispa is necessary for maintaining its shape and preventing overcrowding. The best time to prune is during the winter dormant season before new growth appears in the spring. To prune, remove any diseased, damaged, or dead branches. Cut the shrub back to the desired size, shape, and height. During the growing season, it is best to remove spent flowers to prolong blooming and encourage new growth.
Propagation of Ericameria crispa
Ericameria crispa, also known as leatherleaf goldenweed, can be propagated through seeds and cuttings.
Propagation through seeds
The plant produces seeds that can be collected when they turn brown. Collect the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place until planting time. To increase germination rates, soak the seeds in water overnight before planting. The best time to plant the seeds is in the fall. Sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix, covering them lightly with soil. Water the soil gently and keep it moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes 2 to 3 weeks.
Propagation through cuttings
The best time to take cuttings is during the plant's dormant season, which is in late winter or early spring. Select healthy, young stems and make a cutting about 4 to 6 inches long. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the stem and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a pot filled with a well-draining soil mix, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Cover the pot with a plastic bag to provide humidity and place it in a bright but shaded area. The cutting should root in about 4 to 6 weeks.
Propagation through cuttings is more reliable than seed propagation for Ericameria crispa, as the plant can be slow to produce viable seeds.
Disease and Pest Management for Ericameria crispa (L.C. Anders.) Nesom
Ericameria crispa, commonly known as the yellow fleabane or smooth goldenweed, is a hardy plant that can survive in harsh conditions with minimal care. However, it is still susceptible to various pests and diseases that can lower its aesthetic appeal and threaten its health. The following are the common diseases and pests that affect Ericameria crispa and ways to manage them:
Diseases
1. Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal infection that displays a white, powdery substance on the leaves and stems of the plant. The spores of the fungi thrive in high humidity and cool temperatures. Powdery mildew can stunt growth, yellow leaves, and eventually cause leaf drop. The best way to manage powdery mildew is to ensure that the plant has adequate air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and remove any infected plant parts. Fungicides can also help prevent powdery mildew from spreading.
2. Root rot: Root rot is a fungal infection that causes the roots of the plant to rot, making it difficult for the plant to uptake nutrients and water. Overwatering the plant and poor drainage are the primary causes of root rot. To manage root rot, ensure the plant has well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. You can also apply fungicides that contain pythium to manage root rot.
Pests
1. Aphids: Aphids are tiny, pear-shaped insects that are usually found on the undersides of leaves and stems. They can suck the sap from the plant, causing leaves to curl and die, and stunt growth. The best way to manage aphids is to use insecticidal soap, neem oil or a strong stream of water to dislodge them. Biological control, such as ladybugs, can also help reduce aphid infestations.
2. Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny arachnids that feed on the undersides of leaves, causing yellow spots on leaves and eventually leading to leaf drop. Hot and dry conditions exacerbate spider mite populations. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with water often, use insecticidal soap, or add predatory mites such as Phytoseiulus persimilis.
3. Leaf miners: Leaf miners are tiny larvae that tunnel through leaves, causing black or brown spots on leaves. These spots can cause yellowing of leaves and eventually lead to leaf drop. To manage leaf miners, remove infected plant parts and reduce water stress, which attracts leaf miner adults. Neem oil can also help in controlling leaf miners.
By following the above tips, you can manage diseases and pests that may affect Ericameria crispa and keep your plant healthy and thriving.
