Ericameria nauseosa (Pallas ex Pursh) Nesom & Baird ssp. nauseosa var. bigelovii (Gray) Nesom & Baird
Ericameria nauseosa is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to North America and can be found from Alaska to California, eastward to the Rocky Mountains and the Great Plains, and into Mexico. The plant is also known by other common names, such as rabbitbrush, gray rabbitbrush, rubber rabbitbrush, chamisa, and gray sagewort.
The plant has been used for medicinal purposes by Native American tribes for centuries. It is used to treat coughs, colds, flu, and other respiratory ailments. The leaves and flowers are also used as a poultice to treat skin rashes and bruises.
Ericameria nauseosa is a shrub that can reach up to 3 meters in height. The plant has a rounded crown with yellow-green, narrow leaves that are 1 to 3 centimeters long. The leaves are covered with fine hairs giving it a grayish appearance. The plant flowers in the late summer and fall, producing small yellow flowers that are clustered at the ends of the branches. The flowers produce fruits with fluffy seeds that are dispersed by wind.
Ericameria nauseosa ssp. nauseosa var. bigelovii is a subspecies of the plant that is found in the southwestern United States. The var. bigelovii has larger leaves and flowers than the species. The plant is an important source of food and habitat for wildlife such as deer, elk, and birds. The plant plays an important role in the ecosystem by stabilizing soil and preventing erosion.
Basic Description of Ericameria Nauseosa ssp. Nauseosa var. Bigelovii
Ericameria nauseosa ssp. nauseosa var. bigelovii is a sub-species of the Ericameria nauseosa plant that is native to North America. It is commonly referred to as the Bigelow's rabbitbrush and is a tall shrub that grows up to a maximum height of 2-3 meters. Typically, it has a fast-growing rate and blooms yellow flowers mainly in August and September.
Light Conditions
Ericameria nauseosa ssp. nauseosa var. bigelovii thrives in bright sunlight and warm temperatures. It requires at least 6 hours of direct exposure to sunlight every day. Thus, it is suitable for planting in areas with full access to sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Ericameria nauseosa ssp. nauseosa var. bigelovii is a hardy plant that can endure extreme weather conditions. However, it thrives in moderate temperatures ranging from 20-35°C. It is frost-resistant and can tolerate low temperatures as long as it is not extreme and prolonged.
Soil Conditions
Ericameria nauseosa ssp. nauseosa var. bigelovii is drought-resistant and prefers well-draining soils. It can grow well in different soil types but thrives in sandy or gritty soils. For optimal growth, the soil should be slightly acidic or neutral with a pH of around 5.0 to 7.5. It is also essential to ensure the soil is well aerated as the plant requires good air circulation to grow healthily.
Cultivation methods
Ericameria nauseosa (Pallas ex Pursh) Nesom & Baird ssp. nauseosa var. bigelovii (Gray) Nesom & Baird is a tough and durable plant that is native to North America and is known to thrive in adverse conditions. It is a woody shrub that requires full sun and well-drained soil. To cultivate this plant, it is essential to provide adequate sun exposure and suitable soil conditions. The ideal soil pH for this plant is slightly acidic to alkaline, with a pH of 6.0 to 8.5.
Watering needs
The plant is drought tolerant and has low water requirements. It is essential to water the plant adequately during the first growing season, after which it should be able to survive on natural rainfall. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which could be fatal for the plant.
Fertilization
Ericameria nauseosa (Pallas ex Pursh) Nesom & Baird ssp. nauseosa var. bigelovii (Gray) Nesom & Baird requires minimal fertilization. Fertilize the plant once a year during the spring with a balanced fertilizer in the ratio of (10-10-10) or (20-20-20). Ensure that the fertilizer is spread evenly around the plant, and do not allow it to come into direct contact with the roots.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to keep the plant looking tidy and to promote healthy growth. This plant should be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Use sharp pruning shears to remove damaged, dead, or diseased limbs. The plant can also be pruned to manage its size and shape. To promote healthy growth, only remove up to one-third of the plant's total growth during pruning.
Propagation of Ericameria nauseosa ssp. nauseosa var. bigelovii
Ericameria nauseosa ssp. nauseosa var. bigelovii, commonly known as Bigelow's rabbitbrush, is a shrub that can be propagated through various methods including seeds, cuttings, and division.
Seeds
Seeds of Bigelow's rabbitbrush should be sown in the fall after the first frost or in the spring after the last frost. The seeds should be sown in well-drained soil that is moist but not waterlogged. The soil should be lightly covered with sand or fine soil and kept moist until the seeds germinate.
Cuttings
Cuttings from Bigelow's rabbitbrush can be taken in the spring or fall from new growth that is not woody. Cuttings should be taken from healthy plants and should be approximately 3-4 inches long. The leaves on the lower half of the cutting should be removed and the cutting should be planted in well-drained soil that is kept moist until roots form.
Division
Bigelow's rabbitbrush can also be propagated through division. This is best done in the spring when the plant is actively growing. The plant should be dug up and divided into smaller sections with a sharp, sterile tool. Each section should have a viable root system and be replanted in a well-drained soil that is kept moist until new growth appears.
Disease Management
Ericameria nauseosa is generally a hardy and disease-resistant plant. However, it can be prone to certain diseases like powdery mildew, verticillium wilt, and root rot. Powdery mildew can be controlled with fungicides or by improving air circulation around the plant. Verticillium wilt and root rot can be prevented by avoiding poorly drained soils and ensuring the plant is not overwatered. Preventative soil treatments and fumigants can also be used to control these diseases.
Pest Management
Ericameria nauseosa can attract pests like spider mites, aphids, and various beetles. These pests can cause leaf curling, discoloration, and stunted growth. The use of insecticidal soaps or oils can effectively manage these pests. Neem oil, a natural insecticide, can also be used to control pests. It is important to regularly check the plant for early signs of infestation and take necessary measures to prevent the spread of the pests.
