Plant Description:
Eriophyllum confertiflorum (DC.) Gray var. tanacetiflorum (Greene) Jepson, also known as golden yarrow, is a perennial plant native to California and Oregon. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is characterized by its yellow, daisy-like flowers and finely divided leaves.
Plant Appearance:
The plant typically grows up to 2 feet tall and has an upright, bushy habit. Its leaves are narrow and feathery, measuring about 1-3 inches long and 1/16 to 1/8 inch wide. The leaves are usually gray-green in color and covered in soft, silky hairs. The plant blooms from May to September and produces clusters of yellow flowers that are about ½ inch wide.
Common Names:
Golden yarrow is commonly known as seaside gold yarrow, tanacetum-leaved eriophyllum, or golden dust.
Uses:
Golden yarrow has a variety of uses. Native Americans used the plant for medicinal purposes, particularly to treat wounds and fever. The plant can also be used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes, as it is drought-tolerant and easy to grow. Additionally, the plant is often used in the production of natural dyes.
Light Requirements
Eriophyllum confertiflorum var. tanacetiflorum requires full sun exposure to grow properly. It cannot thrive in shady or partially shaded areas. Therefore, it should be planted in a location that receives direct sunlight for most of the day. This plant can grow in a hot and dry area but should be protected from frost and excessive heat.
Temperature Requirements
Eriophyllum confertiflorum var. tanacetiflorum can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it prefers cool conditions. The best temperature range for the plant is between 60-80 °F (15-26 °C) during the day and 40-60 °F (4-16 °C) at night. This plant can survive in slightly higher temperatures, but care must be taken to avoid excessive heat or frost.
Soil Requirements
Eriophyllum confertiflorum var. tanacetiflorum grows best in well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. The recommended soil pH range for this plant is 6.0 to 7.0. It can tolerate poor soil but performs better in fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil must be kept moist but well-drained to ensure proper growth. Additionally, this plant needs soil that is not compacted or rocky to allow for optimal root growth.
Cultivation Methods
Eriophyllum confertiflorum var. tanacetiflorum, also known as golden yarrow, is native to California and can be grown in dry, rocky, and coastal areas. It prefers well-draining soil with a mix of sand, gravel, and loam. The plant needs full sun exposure for most hours of the day and grows well in temperatures ranging from 50 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
Watering Needs
Golden yarrow is a drought-resistant plant that only needs occasional watering. Water it deeply every two weeks in the summer, especially during a dry spell. During the rainy season, cut back on watering and let nature take its course. When the plant starts to wilt, it may be time to give it a thorough watering.
Fertilization
Golden yarrow requires no additional fertilization. The plant is adapted to low-nutrient soils and can grow well without much soil amendment. Fertilization may cause the plant to produce more foliage than flowers. A yearly slow-release fertilizer should suffice if the soil is particularly poor.
Pruning
Golden yarrow can be pruned in the spring to promote bushier growth and to remove any frost-damaged stems. Cut the stems back to about six inches from the base of the plant. Deadheading spent flowers will encourage new blooms and extend the flowering period. Pruning should be done with clean, sharp pruners to avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation Methods of Eriophyllum confertiflorum var. tanacetiflorum
Eriophyllum confertiflorum var. tanacetiflorum is commonly known as Golden Yarrow. The plant is native to California and is a popular choice for gardening due to its showy yellow flowers, drought tolerance, and ability to attract pollinators.
Propagation by Seed
The propagation of Eriophyllum confertiflorum var. tanacetiflorum can be done using seeds. The best time to collect seeds is during the fall when the seed heads have dried up. The seeds are small and need to be sown in a container filled with a well-draining medium. Sow the seeds at a depth of 1/8 inch and keep the container in a warm and bright location until the seeds germinate. Once the seedlings have grown a few leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots until they are large enough to be planted outdoors.
Propagation by Division
Another method to propagate Eriophyllum confertiflorum var. tanacetiflorum is through division. This method is usually done in the early spring when the plant begins to produce new growth. Dig up the entire plant and break it into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has a healthy stem and roots. Transplant the new divisions into separate pots or directly into the ground, making sure to water them regularly.
Propagation by Cuttings
Eriophyllum confertiflorum var. tanacetiflorum can also be propagated by taking cuttings from a healthy plant. Cut a stem that is approximately 4-6 inches long and remove all the leaves except for the top few. Dip the cutting into rooting hormone and plant it into a container filled with a well-draining medium. Keep the container in a bright and warm location and water it regularly until the cutting has rooted. Once the roots have grown, transplant the cutting into individual pots or directly into the ground.
Propagation of Eriophyllum confertiflorum var. tanacetiflorum using any of these methods is relatively easy and can be done by novice gardeners. By following the correct propagation techniques, gardeners can enjoy the beauty of Golden Yarrow in their gardens.
Disease and Pest Management for Eriophyllum Confertiflorum (DC.) Gray var. Tanacetiflorum (Greene) Jepson
Eriophyllum confertiflorum var. tanacetiflorum is a California native plant that is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, certain pests and diseases can affect its growth and overall health. Below are some common diseases and pests that can affect this plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
1. Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a powdery grey or white growth on leaves and stems. It can also cause leaves to curl and turn yellow.
Management: To manage powdery mildew, remove any infected plant parts and dispose of them. Avoid overhead watering and ensure good air circulation around the plant. If the infestation is severe, you can use a fungicide.
2. Rust: This fungal disease can cause rust-colored spots on leaves, stems, and flowers.
Management: To manage rust, remove any infected plant parts and dispose of them. Avoid overhead watering and ensure good air circulation around the plant. If the infestation is severe, you can use a fungicide.
Pests
1. Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that can suck the sap from leaves and stems. They can cause leaves to curl, turn yellow, and drop prematurely.
Management: To manage aphids, you can blast them off with a strong stream of water or use insecticidal soap. You can also attract natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings.
2. Spider mites: These are tiny, spider-like pests that can cause leaves to look stippled and yellow. They can also spin webs on the plant.
Management: To manage spider mites, you can blast them off with a strong stream of water or use insecticidal soap. You can also increase the humidity around the plant to discourage them from thriving.
3. Snails and slugs: These pests can eat holes in the leaves and flowers.
Management: To manage snails and slugs, you can set up traps using beer or copper tape. You can also handpick them and dispose of them.
Eriophyllum confertiflorum var. tanacetiflorum is a beautiful and easy-to-grow plant. By being vigilant about pest and disease management, you can ensure that it thrives in your garden.
