Origin
Eriophyllum wallacei (Gray) Gray var. rubellum (Gray) Gray, commonly known as Wallace's woolly daisy, is a species of flowering plant native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico.
Common Names
Eriophyllum wallacei var. rubellum is commonly known as Wallace's woolly daisy, woolly daisy, or pink woolly-daisy.
Uses
The plant is not commonly used for medicinal purposes, but it has been used traditionally by indigenous communities in Mexico to treat respiratory problems, wounds, and gastrointestinal issues. The plant also serves as an important source of nectar for pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and moths.
Eriophyllum wallacei var. rubellum is also a popular ornamental plant due to its showy pink flowers and its ability to survive in drought-prone regions. It is often planted in xeriscapes and rock gardens, and it can add a splash of color to a variety of landscape designs.
General Appearance
Eriophyllum wallacei var. rubellum typically grows between 15 and 50 cm tall and can have a spread of up to 50 cm wide. Its narrow leaves are hairy and can range from 2 to 6 cm long. The plant blooms from March to October and produces bright pink to lavender-colored flowers with yellow centers. The flowers are typically 1.5 to 2 cm in diameter. The plant prefers full sun and well-draining soil and is often found in rocky slopes, canyons, and desert washes.
Growth Conditions of Eriophyllum wallacei (Gray) Gray var. rubellum (Gray) Gray
Eriophyllum wallacei (Gray) Gray var. rubellum (Gray) Gray plant, also known as Wallace's Woolly Daisy is a perennial plant that is native to the southwestern United States. This plant typically grows in rocky, well-draining soils in open areas at elevations of 2,000 to 5,500 feet.
Light
Eriophyllum wallacei (Gray) Gray var. rubellum (Gray) Gray prefers full sun exposure, but it can tolerate partial shade. To encourage maximum growth and flowering, it is important to provide the plant with at least six hours of direct sunlight daily.
Temperature
This plant grows in a wide range of temperatures ranging from 20 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it is important to note that they are sensitive to frost and freezing temperatures. It is often best to plant this species in warm months when the temperature is above 50 degrees Fahrenheit to promote proper establishment.
Soil
Eriophyllum wallacei (Gray) Gray var. rubellum (Gray) Gray prefers well-drained soils, rocky soil, and sandy soils with a pH range of 6.5 to 8.5. It is also tolerant of soils with low fertility, but it is important to avoid soils that retain water for long periods since this plant is susceptible to root damage caused by prolonged dampness.
Additionally, it is common for this plant to be found growing in disturbed areas such as roadsides and construction sites, where soils are often compact and lacking in organic material. This suggests that it is relatively adaptable and tolerant of a range of soil conditions.
Cultivation Methods for Eriophyllum wallacei (Gray) Gray var. rubellum (Gray) Gray
Eriophyllum wallacei (Gray) Gray var. rubellum (Gray) Gray, commonly known as "Wallace's woolly daisy," is a drought-tolerant perennial plant that prefers well-draining soils with full sun exposure. It is native to the southwestern United States and often found in rocky slopes, canyons, and desert areas.
The plant thrives in USDA hardiness zones 7-10, where the temperature ranges from 0-40°C. It can be propagated from seed or cuttings in the spring or fall when the temperature is moderate.
Watering Needs for Eriophyllum wallacei (Gray) Gray var. rubellum (Gray) Gray
Although Eriophyllum wallacei (Gray) Gray var. rubellum (Gray) Gray is drought-tolerant, it requires regular watering during its first growing season until it is well established. Afterward, it can survive with minimal watering. It is crucial to avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. The best practice is to water it once a week and let the soil dry out before the next watering.
Fertilization for Eriophyllum wallacei (Gray) Gray var. rubellum (Gray) Gray
Eriophyllum wallacei (Gray) Gray var. rubellum (Gray) Gray does not require regular fertilization. However, applying a balanced fertilizer like 10-10-10 during the spring can enhance its growth and promote blooming. It is essential to follow the directions on the fertilizer package and avoid overfertilizing, which can cause harm.
Pruning for Eriophyllum wallacei (Gray) Gray var. rubellum (Gray) Gray
Eriophyllum wallacei (Gray) Gray var. rubellum (Gray) Gray does not require regular pruning. However, removing any dead or damaged leaves and flowers can enhance its appearance and promote blooming. It is best to prune it after the blooming season, which is usually in late spring to early summer.
Propagation of Eriophyllum wallacei var. rubellum
Eriophyllum wallacei var. rubellum, also known as red-stemmed woolly sunflower, can be propagated through both seeds and cuttings.
Propagation through Seeds
The best time to collect seeds from the red-stemmed woolly sunflower is in the late summer or early fall, once the flowers have wilted and the seed heads have turned brown. The seeds should be harvested carefully and stored in a cool, dry place until they can be sown.
The seeds should be sown in the spring, after the last frost, and can be sown directly into the garden bed or started indoors and then transplanted. The soil should be well-draining and slightly acidic, with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
The seeds should be sown at a depth of 1/8 to ¼ inch and spaced 12 to 15 inches apart. They should be kept moist but not waterlogged until they have germinated.
Propagation through Cuttings
Red-stemmed woolly sunflowers can also be propagated through stem cuttings taken in the summer. Cuttings should be taken from the tip of healthy, non-flowering stems and should be 4 to 6 inches in length.
The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a mixture of perlite and peat moss. They should be kept moist but not waterlogged and should be placed in a warm, bright location with indirect sunlight.
After a few weeks, the cuttings should start to develop roots. Once they have a good root system, they can be transplanted into garden beds or pots.
Disease and Pest Management for Eriophyllum wallacei (Gray) Gray var. rubellum (Gray) Gray
Eriophyllum wallacei (Gray) Gray var. rubellum (Gray) Gray, also known as the Wallace’s woolly daisy, is a hardy plant that is resistant to many diseases and pests. However, it may still be affected by some ailments, which can lead to stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and even death. Below are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant, as well as suggestions for managing them.
Diseases
Leaf spot: This disease is caused by fungal pathogens that infect the leaves of the plant, causing circular, brown, or black spots. To manage the disease, remove and destroy any infected leaves and keep the area around the plant clean and dry.
Root rot: This disease, caused by fungi that thrive in wet conditions, can cause the plant to wilt and die. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering the plant. If the disease is already present, remove infected plants immediately and avoid planting anything in the same location for at least a year.
Pests
Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects feed on the sap of the plant, causing leaves to yellow and curl. To control an aphid infestation, use insecticidal soap or neem oil and prune any heavily-infested leaves.
Spider mites: These tiny, red or yellow arachnids also feed on the sap of the plant, causing leaves to turn yellow and appear stippled. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a strong spray of water to dislodge the pests and use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control their population.
By taking these preventive measures and quickly addressing any issues that arise, you can help ensure that your Eriophyllum wallacei (Gray) Gray var. rubellum (Gray) Gray plant thrives and remains healthy.
