Description of Erigeron breweri Gray var. covillei (Greene) Nesom
Erigeron breweri Gray var. covillei (Greene) Nesom is a herbaceous perennial plant belonging to the Asteraceae family that is native to North America. This plant is commonly known as Brewer’s fleabane or Coville’s fleabane.
General Appearance
The plant has an erect stem that grows up to 30-70 cm tall. The stem is hairy and branched, giving rise to a bushy appearance. The leaves of the plant are alternate, narrow, and hairy, measuring 3-8 cm in length. The leaves have an elliptical shape and are toothed at the margins.
The plant produces flower heads that are composite and consist of several small, daisy-like flowers. The flower heads measure 1-2 cm in diameter and have white or pale pink ray florets. The bloom period of the plant is from June to August, and it produces seeds that are dispersed by wind.
Habitat and Distribution
Brewer’s fleabane is native to western North America and mainly occurs in California, Nevada, and Oregon. This plant grows in a variety of habitats, including meadows, rocky slopes, and open forests. It prefers well-drained, sandy or gravelly soils and is often found growing in sunny locations.
Traditional Uses
The whole plant of Erigeron breweri Gray var. covillei has been used traditionally for medicinal purposes. It was used by Native Americans as a remedy for coughs, colds, and fevers. The plant was also used as a poultice for treating wounds and burns.
Today, Brewer’s fleabane is primarily used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes. Its attractive white and pink flowers and bushy foliage make it a popular choice for rock gardens and borders.
Light Requirements
Erigeron breweri Gray var. covillei (Greene) Nesom requires full sunlight to grow properly. It is not tolerant of excessive shade, as it hinders the process of photosynthesis, which is vital for the plant's growth and survival. For optimal growth, it is advisable to plant it in areas that receive direct sunlight for at least 6 hours each day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant requires a cool and moist environment to grow, and it is mostly found in areas with cool summers and mild winters. Erigeron breweri Gray var. covillei (Greene) Nesom can survive in temperatures ranging from 40-70°F (4-21°C). It is important to note that the plant may experience damage if exposed to extreme temperatures, such as hot summers or freezing winters.
Soil Requirements
Erigeron breweri Gray var. covillei (Greene) Nesom prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Sandy or loamy soils are ideal for the plant, as they offer good drainage and moisture retention. Although the plant can grow in slightly acidic soils, neutral soils with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5 are the best. It is essential to avoid planting the species in areas with poor drainage, as it may lead to root rot and stunted growth.
Cultivation methods
Erigeron breweri Gray var. covillei (Greene) Nesom is a perennial herb that is commonly found in rocky habitats and slopes. It is known to thrive in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It is recommended to grow this plant in full sun or partial shade.
Propagation of this plant can be done through seed or vegetative means. Seeds are usually sown in the fall, and the seedlings are then transplanted in the spring. Vegetative propagation can be achieved through division, rooting stem cuttings, or layering.
Watering needs
Erigeron breweri Gray var. covillei (Greene) Nesom is a drought-tolerant plant, but it still requires moderate watering. Too much water can lead to root rot, and too little water can lead to wilting and stunted growth. It is recommended to water this plant deeply once a week and monitor the soil moisture level to avoid overwatering.
Fertilization
Erigeron breweri Gray var. covillei (Greene) Nesom does not require heavy fertilization. However, adding compost or a slow-release fertilizer to the soil in the spring can promote healthy growth and improve soil fertility. Overfertilization can lead to excessive growth and reduce flower production.
Pruning
Erigeron breweri Gray var. covillei (Greene) Nesom does not require extensive pruning. It is recommended to trim the plant back after the flowering period to promote bushier growth, and remove any dead or diseased foliage. This plant can self-seed, and removing the spent flowers can prevent the plant from spreading vigorously.
Propagation of Erigeron breweri Gray var. covillei:
Erigeron breweri Gray var. covillei (Greene) Nesom, commonly known as Brewer’s fleabane, is a perennial herb member of the Asteraceae family. This plant has a clump-forming habit and grows up to 1-2 feet tall. It produces numerous small flowers with white petals and yellow centers in late spring and early summer.
Propagating Erigeron breweri can be done through different methods:
Division:
The most common propagation method of this plant is by division. This process involves separating the clumps of the parent plant and transplanting them to new locations. The best time to do this is in the spring or the fall when the temperature is moderate, and the soil is moist. To divide the plant, use a clean and sharp garden knife or spade to slice the clump into two or more sections. Each section should have a healthy root system and three to five shoots. Replant the divided clumps at the same depth they were before and water them thoroughly.
Seeds:
You can also propagate Erigeron breweri from seeds. Collect the seeds from the parent plant after the flowering season. The seeds have a tuft of fine hair that aids in their dispersal. Remove the seeds from the tuft and dry them in a cool and dry place. Once the seeds are dry, you can store them in a sealed container in a refrigerator. Start the seeds indoors six to eight weeks before the last frost date or sow them directly in the garden in the early spring. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and water them. The seeds will germinate in 10-15 days.
In conclusion, Erigeron breweri Gray var. covillei is a beautiful plant that can be propagated through division or seeds. Whether you choose to divide the clumps or start the seeds indoors, make sure to follow the correct steps and give the new plants adequate moisture and sunlight to thrive.
Disease Management
Erigeron breweri Gray var. covillei (Greene) Nesom is generally a healthy plant with few disease problems. However, there are a few diseases that can affect this species and should be managed to prevent loss.
Bacterial blight: This disease causes circular lesions on the leaves of the plant, which turn dark brown or black as they age. The leaves may eventually fall off. To manage bacterial blight, remove infected leaves as soon as possible and avoid overhead watering, which can spread the bacteria. If the disease is severe, fungicides can be applied.
Root rot: Erigeron breweri Gray var. covillei (Greene) Nesom is susceptible to root rot when grown in poorly-drained soils. This disease causes the roots to turn brown and mushy, and the plant may wilt and die. To manage root rot, provide well-drained soil, avoid overwatering, and do not plant in areas with poor drainage.
Pest Management
Erigeron breweri Gray var. covillei (Greene) Nesom is also generally free of major pest problems. However, there are a few pests that can occasionally cause damage to the plant.
Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause deformation and discoloration of the leaves. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong stream of water or insecticidal soap.
Spider mites: These tiny pests feed on the undersides of the leaves, causing them to become stippled and discolored. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a strong stream of water or insecticidal soap.
Caterpillars: The larvae of various butterflies and moths can feed on the leaves of the plant, causing holes and notches. To manage caterpillars, hand-pick them from the plant or use Bacillus thuringiensis (BT), a natural and safe insecticide.
