Overview
Eriophyllum lanatum var. obovatum, commonly known as obovate woolly sunflower, is a species of perennial plant that is part of the Asteraceae family. It is native to western North America, specifically California and Oregon, and can be found in various habitats such as coastal bluffs, grasslands, and mountain meadows.
Description
The obovate woolly sunflower grows up to 3 feet tall and 3 feet wide, with an upright and bushy form. It has silvery-green, woolly leaves that are obovate or spatulate in shape, meaning they are narrower at the base and wider towards the tip. The plant produces showy yellow flowers that are about an inch in diameter and bloom from late spring to early summer. The flowers are surrounded by hairy bracts that give the plant a fuzzy appearance and add to its unique charm.
Cultural Significance and Uses
The obovate woolly sunflower is not commonly used in formal gardens but is a popular addition to informal native and wildlife gardens due to its attractive flowers and its ability to attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Native American tribes, such as the Pomo, Maidu and Yuki, have traditionally used the plant for medicinal purposes to treat various ailments such as coughs, headaches, and digestive problems.
The plant also has ecological importance in that it is drought tolerant and can help prevent soil erosion. It is also a food source for deer and rabbits. However, it should be noted that the plant is toxic to livestock and can cause diarrhea and other digestive problems if ingested.
Cultivation
The obovate woolly sunflower is an easy-to-grow and low-maintenance plant that prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, from sandy to clay soils, and is relatively drought tolerant once established. The plant can be propagated from seeds or stem cuttings and is often used in naturalized landscaping, wildflower meadows, and erosion control projects.
Overall, the obovate woolly sunflower is a beautiful and useful plant that is well-suited to the western North American climate, and is an excellent choice for anyone looking to add a touch of natural beauty and ecological sustenance to their garden or landscape.Growth Conditions for Eriophyllum lanatum var. obovatum
Eriophyllum lanatum var. obovatum, commonly known as Oregon sunshine, is a flowering plant that is native to western North America. It is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of different conditions, but there are certain growth conditions that are optimal for its growth and development.
Light Requirements
Oregon sunshine is a sun-loving plant that thrives in full sunlight. It prefers at least six hours of direct sunlight each day to grow and bloom properly. If the plant is grown in too much shade, it may become leggy or fail to bloom.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is well adapted to a range of temperature conditions, but it typically grows best in areas with mild temperatures. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from below freezing to temperatures well above 100°F. However, extreme heat or cold can damage the plant, so it is important to protect it during periods of severe weather.
Soil Requirements
Oregon sunshine is adaptable to a wide range of soil types but prefers well-draining, sandy or loamy soils. It can tolerate clay soils as long as they are not waterlogged and have good drainage. The plant also prefers soils that are slightly acidic, with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5.
Overall, Eriophyllum lanatum var. obovatum is a plant that is well adapted to a variety of different growing conditions. As long as it is given the right amount of sunlight, temperature, and soil conditions, it can thrive and produce beautiful flowers throughout the growing season.
Cultivation Methods
Eriophyllum lanatum (Pursh) Forbes var. obovatum (Greene) Hall is a fairly easy plant to cultivate, and it can be grown either from seed or propagated from cuttings. The plant prefers well-drained soil with full to partial sun exposure. It can be grown in containers or planters, but it will require frequent watering in this case. The plant should be planted at a depth that places the roots level with the surrounding soil. It is also advisable to protect newly planted specimens from the wind for the first year.
Watering Needs
The plant requires little watering once it has matured. However, it needs regular deep watering during the first year of establishment. It thrives in well-draining soil that gets regular moisture. One way to ensure proper watering is to check the soil moisture by poking a finger into the soil to a depth of about 1-2 inches and making sure it is not excessively dry.
Fertilization
Eriophyllum lanatum (Pursh) Forbes var. obovatum (Greene) Hall does not require frequent fertilization. It is best to fertilize the plant once a year in spring with an organic or balanced fertilizer. A layer of compost can also be applied to the surrounding soil in spring.
Pruning
The plant can be pruned to maintain its shape or to remove dead or diseased growth. An important point to remember is that pruning should be done after flowering, as the plant blooms on the previous year's growth. Prune back one-third of the plant's woody growth in early spring to stimulate new growth. Some gardeners prefer to shear the plant in mid-summer, which results in a denser, more compact growth habit. Shearing the plant will also encourage a second flush of blooms in the fall.
Propagation of Eriophyllum lanatum (Pursh) Forbes var. obovatum (Greene) Hall
Eriophyllum lanatum (Pursh) Forbes var. obovatum (Greene) Hall, commonly known as the Oregon sunshine, is a native flowering plant in California and Oregon. This plant is a member of the Asteraceae family and is widely cultivated for its bright yellow flowers and hardiness. Propagation of E. lanatum var. obovatum can be easily done through various methods. The following are some of the best ways to propagate this plant effectively.
Seed Propagation
The most common way to propagate E. lanatum var. obovatum is through seed propagation. Collect the seeds from the dried flowers after their blooming cycle. The best time for collecting the seeds is during the late summer or early fall. The seeds are small, black, and papery. Sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix in a tray, press them lightly, and cover them with a thin layer of soil. Water the seeds regularly, and keep the tray in a warm and bright place. The germination process usually takes two to four weeks.
Division Propagation
Division propagation is also a popular method of propagating E. lanatum var. obovatum. This method involves dividing the root ball of a mature plant into several small pieces. Before dividing, remove the plant from its pot and gently separate the roots. Make sure that each division has enough roots to support its growth. Repot each division in a separate container and water well. Place the containers in a shaded place and keep the soil moist until the new plants are established.
Cuttings Propagation
Propagation through cuttings is a less popular yet effective way to propagate E. lanatum var. obovatum. Take a two to three-inch cutting from the stem of a mature plant in the spring or early summer. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cutting in a rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix in a container. Keep the container in a warm and bright place and make sure that the soil is moist at all times. Once the roots start to develop, transfer the plant to a bigger container or transplant it outside.
Overall, propagation of E. lanatum var. obovatum can be easily done through several methods. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, so choose the one that works best for you. Proper care and attention are vital for the successful propagation of this plant. Once propagated, the E. lanatum var. obovatum will grow into a beautiful and hardy plant that can survive in various environmental conditions.
Disease Management
Eriophyllum lanatum (Pursh) Forbes var. obovatum (Greene) Hall is generally a healthy plant, but it can be susceptible to some diseases, including:
- Leaf spot: This disease is caused by various types of fungi that attack the leaves and cause small, circular, water-soaked spots that enlarge and become necrotic. To manage the disease, infected leaves should be removed and destroyed. Additionally, avoid overhead watering and provide adequate spacing between plants to increase air circulation.
- Crown rot: Crown rot is caused by the fungus Phytophthora spp. It causes the crown and roots to rot, leading to wilting and death of the plant. To manage the disease, remove and destroy infected plants. Do not replant in the same area for several years.
Pest Management
Eriophyllum lanatum (Pursh) Forbes var. obovatum (Greene) Hall is also susceptible to some pests, including:
- Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny arachnids that feed on plant sap, which causes yellowing and stippling of leaves. In severe infestations, leaves may drop prematurely. To manage spider mites, remove and destroy infested leaves and increase humidity around the plant by misting or using a humidifier. Pesticides may be necessary in severe cases.
- Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed by piercing plant tissue and sucking out sap. This can cause distorted growth, yellowing of leaves, and sooty mold. To manage aphids, spray plants with a strong stream of water to dislodge them. In severe infestations, pesticide applications may be necessary.
