Origin
Erigeron engelmannii A. Nels. var. davisii (Cronq.) Cronq. is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant also goes by the common name Davis' engelmann daisy. It is native to the western parts of North America, including California, Nevada, and Oregon.
Common Names
Davis' engelmann daisy is a common name for this plant, but it goes by several other names as well. Some of the other common names include Engelmann's daisy, Engelmann's fleabane, and Engelmann's Daisy-fleabane.
Uses
Erigeron engelmannii A. Nels. var. davisii has a variety of uses in traditional medicine. It contains compounds with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making it useful in the treatment of wounds and infections. Some Native American tribes also used this plant for respiratory ailments like coughs and colds.
In addition, Davis' engelmann daisy is a popular ornamental plant in gardens and landscaping. Its daisy-like flowers bloom in the late spring and summer, and its low-growing habit and ability to tolerate drought make it a valuable addition to xeriscapes.
General Appearance
Erigeron engelmannii A. Nels. var. davisii typically grows to be around one foot tall and three feet wide. It has narrow, green leaves that are coated in fine hairs and can range from three to six inches long. The flowers emerge from late spring to early summer and are typically pink to lavender in color. They have a yellow center and measure between half an inch to one inch in diameter. This plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can thrive in various soil types, but it does require good drainage.
Light Requirements
Erigeron engelmannii A. Nels. var. davisii (Cronq.) Cronq. typically grows well in areas with partial shade to full sun exposure. When planted in too much shade, the plant may become leggy in appearance. In areas with high light intensity, plants may become scorched.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives in areas with temperatures ranging from cool to moderate levels. In general, it prefers temperature ranges between 7 to 22 degrees Celsius. The plant can tolerate occasional heat waves, drought conditions, and mild to moderate frost.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soils that are slightly acidic to neutral with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. The soil must be loamy and rich in organic matter to support proper growth. The plant can tolerate slightly saline soils, but it does not grow well in soils that are consistently waterlogged.
Cultivation
Erigeron engelmannii A. Nels. var. davisii (Cronq.) Cronq., commonly known as Engelmann's daisy, is a perennial plant that is native to North America. It is relatively easy to cultivate and can thrive in a variety of growing conditions.
The best time to plant Engelmann's daisy is in the spring or early fall, after the last frost has passed. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter, and it does well in full sun or partial shade. When planting, be sure to space out the plants at least 12 inches apart to allow for proper growth and air circulation.
Engelmann's daisy can also be grown from seeds. Sow the seeds in the spring in fertile, well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes around two weeks.
Watering Needs
Engelmann's daisy is a relatively drought-tolerant plant and does not require a lot of water. However, it does prefer moist soil. During the growing season, water the plant deeply once a week. Be sure not to overwater, as this can cause the roots to rot.
In the winter, when the plant goes dormant, reduce watering to once every two to three weeks. This allows the plant to rest and prepare for the upcoming growing season.
Fertilization
Engelmann's daisy does not require regular fertilization. In fact, too much fertilizer can cause the plant to grow too quickly and become weak and leggy.
However, if the soil is poor, or if the plant appears to be struggling, you can feed it lightly with a balanced fertilizer in the spring. Be sure to follow the instructions on the fertilizer package carefully, as overfertilization can cause the plant to suffer.
Pruning
Engelmann's daisy does not require regular pruning. However, it is a good idea to deadhead the spent flowers throughout the growing season. This encourages the plant to produce new flowers and keeps the plant looking neat and tidy.
In the fall, after the plant has finished blooming, you can cut it back to about 6 inches above the ground. This helps to rejuvenate the plant and encourage new growth in the spring.
Propagation methods for Erigeron engelmannii A. Nels. var. davisii (Cronq.) Cronq.
Erigeron engelmannii A. Nels. var. davisii (Cronq.) Cronq. can be propagated through several methods including seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating Erigeron engelmannii A. Nels. var. davisii (Cronq.) Cronq. Collect the seeds during the fall after the blooming period. The seeds are usually brown and hard and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three months. Stratify the seeds by mixing them with a small amount of peat and putting them in a plastic bag in the fridge for four weeks. Sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix at a depth of 1/8 inch and keep the soil moist. Place the container in a warm and bright location but away from direct sunlight. The seeds will germinate after 7-14 days and can be transplanted after they have grown to about 2 inches tall.
Vegetative propagation
Vegetative propagation is another method of propagating Erigeron engelmannii A. Nels. var. davisii (Cronq.) Cronq. This method involves taking cuttings from the plant and rooting them to produce new plants. Take cuttings from the plant during the spring or summer months. Look for healthy stems that are at least 4 inches long and have no flowers. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the stem and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Place the cutting in a rooting medium made of equal parts of peat and sand. Keep the cutting in a warm and humid location away from direct sunlight and water it often. The cutting will take about a month to develop roots. Once the roots are about 1 inch long, transplant the new plant to a larger pot filled with well-draining soil.
Disease and pest management for Erigeron engelmannii A. Nels. var. davisii (Cronq.) Cronq.
Erigeron engelmannii A. Nels. var. davisii (Cronq.) Cronq. is generally a resilient plant that rarely suffers from significant disease or pest pressure. However, it is still important to be aware of the potential problems and take steps to manage them if they occur.
Diseases
The main disease that can affect Erigeron engelmannii A. Nels. var. davisii (Cronq.) Cronq. is powdery mildew. This fungal disease appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers. It can weaken the plant and reduce its overall health and appearance.
To manage powdery mildew on Erigeron engelmannii A. Nels. var. davisii (Cronq.) Cronq., it is important to keep the plant healthy and stress-free. Make sure it receives adequate water and is planted in well-draining soil. Avoid overhead watering if possible, as it can create humid conditions that are favorable to the development of powdery mildew. If necessary, fungicides can be used to control powdery mildew, although it is important to follow all label instructions carefully.
Pests
The main pest that can affect Erigeron engelmannii A. Nels. var. davisii (Cronq.) Cronq. is spider mites. These tiny insects can feed on the plant and cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves, as well as stunted growth and reduced vigor.
To manage spider mites on Erigeron engelmannii A. Nels. var. davisii (Cronq.) Cronq., it is important to monitor the plant regularly for any signs of infestation. If spider mites are detected early, they can often be removed by using a strong stream of water to wash them off the plant. Beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings can also help to control spider mites. If necessary, insecticidal soaps or oils can be used to control spider mites, although it is important to follow all label instructions carefully.
Overall, Erigeron engelmannii A. Nels. var. davisii (Cronq.) Cronq. is a hardy plant that doesn't typically suffer from significant disease or pest pressure. However, keeping the plant healthy and monitoring it regularly can help to prevent and manage any issues that may arise.
