Overview: Eriodictyon trichocalyx Heller var. lanatum (Brand) Jepson
Eriodictyon trichocalyx Heller var. lanatum (Brand) Jepson, commonly known as Lassen coyote mint or mountain balm, is a subspecies of the California-native Eriodictyon trichocalyx. It belongs to the family Boraginaceae and is found in the western United States, particularly in the Sierra Nevada mountain range.
Appearance of Eriodictyon trichocalyx Heller var. lanatum
This plant has an upright growth habit, ranging in height from 1 to 4 feet tall, and can spread up to 3 feet wide. The leaves are typically 2 to 5 inches long, and the upper surface is covered in dense fur, which has given the plant its specific epithet, "lanatum" or "woolly." The leaves also contain glandular hairs that release aromatic oils when crushed. The flowers are small and usually white or light pink that bloom in mid to late summer.
Uses of Eriodictyon trichocalyx Heller var. lanatum
Eriodictyon trichocalyx Heller var. lanatum has been traditionally used by Native Californian tribes for medicinal and ceremonial purposes. The leaves have been brewed as a tea to treat respiratory or gastrointestinal conditions. The essential oils from the plant have also been used as a natural insect repellent. Today it is still used for essential oils and potpourri as it has a lovely scent. Because of its relatively small size when compared with other plants, it is great in rock gardens and as a border plant.
In summary, Eriodictyon trichocalyx Heller var. lanatum (Brand) Jepson, is a California-native plant that can grow up to 4 feet tall and 3 feet wide. It has woolly leaves and fragrant flowers. This plant has been traditionally used for medicinal and ceremonial purposes. It is also used in the production of essential oils and potpourri. It is a great choice of plant for those seeking a natural insect repellent or looking for a fragrant shrub in their garden.Light requirements
Eriodictyon trichocalyx var. lanatum prefers full sun exposure for optimal growth. It can tolerate partial shade but growth will be slower and less vigorous. This plant can be found thriving in direct sunlight in its natural habitat, which is mostly in open and sunny areas in California.
Temperature requirements
This plant is well adapted to Mediterranean climates and can tolerate a range of temperatures. It can survive winter frost and summer heat, but its growth is optimal in areas with mild temperatures.
Soil requirements
Eriodictyon trichocalyx var. lanatum prefers well-draining soils that are rich in minerals and organic matter with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. It can grow in a wide range of soil textures, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, it is important that the soil is not waterlogged as this can lead to root rot and other issues.
This plant is well adapted to soils with low fertility, but it responds well to regular fertilization. It is recommended to use a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 NPK ratio, during the growing season.
Cultivation of Eriodictyon Trichocalyx Heller var. Lanatum
Eriodictyon Trichocalyx Heller var. Lanatum, commonly referred to as the Yerba Santa plant, is a native California evergreen shrub that can be cultivated outdoors in arid or semi-arid regions. The plant prefers well-draining soil and a sunny location, although it can tolerate partial shade.
When planting Eriodictyon Trichocalyx Heller var. Lanatum, it is important to choose a location that is protected from strong winds. The plant has a shallow root system that can be easily damaged by strong winds. The soil should be amended with organic matter such as compost or aged manure to improve soil structure, fertility, and moisture retention.
Watering Needs of Eriodictyon Trichocalyx Heller var. Lanatum
Eriodictyon Trichocalyx Heller var. Lanatum is drought-tolerant and can survive long periods of hot, dry weather. However, during the first few years after planting, it is important to water the plant regularly to help it establish a strong root system. After the plant is established, it can be left to rely on natural rainfall, although it may benefit from occasional deep watering during prolonged dry spells.
It is important not to overwater Eriodictyon Trichocalyx Heller var. Lanatum, as the plant is susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soil. In general, the plant can survive with minimal watering once it is established.
Fertilization of Eriodictyon Trichocalyx Heller var. Lanatum
Eriodictyon Trichocalyx Heller var. Lanatum does not require much fertilization, as it can grow well in poor soil. However, the plant may benefit from occasional fertilization with a balanced fertilizer in early spring. It is important not to over-fertilize the plant, as this can lead to excessive growth and reduced flowering.
Pruning of Eriodictyon Trichocalyx Heller var. Lanatum
Eriodictyon Trichocalyx Heller var. Lanatum requires minimal pruning, although it can benefit from the occasional removal of dead or damaged branches. The best time to prune the plant is in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. It is important not to prune the plant too heavily, as this can reduce flowering and cause stress to the plant.
Propagation of Eriodictyon trichocalyx var. lanatum
Eriodictyon trichocalyx var. lanatum, commonly known as Yerba Santa, is a popular shrub native to California and Oregon. The plant has various medicinal uses and is in high demand in the herbal medicine industry. Propagation of Yerba Santa is commonly done through seeds and cuttings.
Propagation through Seeds
Propagation through seeds is the most common method used to grow Yerba Santa. The seeds are obtained from mature plants during the flowering season. The seeds are then sowed in well-draining soil, ideally in early spring or fall when the temperature is mild. The soil should be kept moist but not watered excessively to prevent rotting of the seeds. Under optimal conditions, the seeds should germinate within 14-21 days.
Propagation through Cuttings
Propagation of Yerba Santa through cuttings is also a popular method. Cuttings are taken from mature plants during the dormant season, usually in early spring or fall. The cutting should be at least six inches long, preferably taken from softwood. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone and plant it in well-draining soil. The cuttings should be kept in a shaded area and should be watered regularly until they have formed roots.
Care
After propagation, Yerba Santa should be cared for properly to ensure healthy growth. The plant thrives in well-draining soil, and regular watering is essential. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry. Fertilization should be done during the growing season using a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. The plant requires full sun to partial shade to grow optimally. Regular pruning will promote bushy growth and prevent the plant from becoming leggy.
By using the appropriate propagation methods and providing adequate care, you can successfully grow Yerba Santa both indoors and outdoors.
Disease Management
Eriodictyon trichocalyx is relatively disease-resistant, but there are a few problems to watch out for. One of the most common diseases of this plant is powdery mildew. This fungal disease appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves, and can be controlled by spraying the plant with a fungicide. Another fungal disease that can affect Eriodictyon trichocalyx is leaf spot, which causes circular brown or black spots on the leaves. To control leaf spot, remove any infected leaves and destroy them.
Pest Management
Eriodictyon trichocalyx can also be susceptible to a few pests. One of the most damaging pests is spider mites. These tiny pests suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and eventually die. To control spider mites, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Another pest that can be a problem is the Eriophyid mite, which causes the leaves to curl and become distorted. This pest can be controlled in the same way as spider mites.
Caterpillars can also be a problem, especially the larvae of the Eriogaster lanestris moth. These pests can skeletonize the leaves of the plant. To control caterpillars, handpick them off the plant or spray with Bacillus thuringiensis.
Lastly, the plant can also have problems with aphids, scales, and mealybugs. These pests suck the sap from the plant, causing damage to its growth and development. To control these pests, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
