Origin and Common Names
Ernodea littoralis Sw. var. angusta (Small) R.W. Long, also known as Narrowleaf Golden-Eye or Beach Jacquemontia, is a plant species native to the southeastern United States, including Florida, Georgia, and Alabama.Appearance
The Narrowleaf Golden-Eye plant is a small evergreen shrub that can grow up to 4 feet tall and 3 feet wide. This plant has narrow leaves that measure around 0.5 inches wide, giving the plant its name. The leaves are a bright green color and have a shiny surface. The plant blooms small, white, and funnel-shaped flowers that measure around 1 inch in diameter, usually seen in the summer months.Uses
Ernodea littoralis Sw. var. angusta has several uses; it is used in landscaping as ornamental plants, and it makes for great groundcover due to it's evergreen nature. The Narrowleaf Golden-Eye is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments like a cough, cold, fever, and arthritis. The plant extracts have anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties that make them useful in medicine. However, the plant's medicinal uses should be done with caution as there is limited scientific evidence available.hereLight Requirements
Ernodea littoralis Sw. var. angusta prefers full sunlight for optimal growth and development. It can tolerate some shade but may become leggy and produce fewer flowers in low light conditions.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to coastal areas of the southeastern United States and requires warm temperatures to thrive. It grows best in USDA hardiness zones 9-11, where minimum temperatures do not drop below 20° F (-6° C). In cooler areas, it may be grown in containers and brought indoors during the winter.
Soil Requirements
Ernodea littoralis Sw. var. angusta prefers well-draining soils with a pH range of 5.5-7.5. Sandy soils are ideal, as they allow for good root growth and prevent water from pooling around the roots. It is drought tolerant but benefits from regular watering during prolonged dry spells. It is sensitive to salt exposure and should not be planted in areas with high salt levels.
Cultivation methods
Ernodea littoralis Sw. var. angusta (Small) R.W. Long, commonly known as Narrow leaf Golden-rod, is a perennial plant that can be grown either outdoors or indoors in containers. The plant prefers well-drained soil and partial shade.
Although it can be grown in full sun, providing some shade can prevent stress and leaf scorching. To propagate the plant, you can either use seeds or shoots from an existing plant.
Watering needs
The narrow leaf golden-rod is a drought-tolerant plant, and overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues. It is essential to check the soil moisture level regularly before watering the plant. If the soil feels dry to the touch, add some water, but ensure it drains freely to prevent waterlogging. During the hot summer months, you may need to water the plant more frequently.
Fertilization
Narrow leaf golden-rod is a light feeder, and applying fertilizer should be done sparingly, twice a year at most. It is best to use a balanced slow-release fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10:10:10.
Pruning
Pruning helps the narrow leaf golden-rod maintain a neat and compact habit. It is essential to prune the plant after flowering to prevent self-seeding and to promote a bushier habit. Use a pair of clean and sharp pruning shears to cut back the plant by 1/3 of its overall height, paying attention not to damage the stem or foliage.
The plant can also benefit from deadheading, which involves removing spent flowers and seed-heads. This not only prolongs the flowering season but also stimulates the plant to produce more flowers. Pruning also allows for the removal of diseased and damaged foliage. Wearing gloves can protect hands from any irritation caused by the plant's sap.
Propagation of Ernodea littoralis Sw. var. angusta (Small) R.W. Long
Ernodea littoralis Sw. var. angusta (Small) R.W. Long, commonly known as beach creeper, is a fast-growing, salt-tolerant plant that occurs naturally on coastal beaches and dunes. The plant is well-suited for erosion control and landscaping projects. There are several propagation methods available to propagate this plant.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating Ernodea littoralis Sw. var. angusta. The seeds should be sown in the spring or early summer in a container filled with well-draining soil. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil and kept moist. The container should be placed in a warm and sunny location. The seeds will germinate within two to four weeks.
Cutting Propagation
Ernodea littoralis Sw. var. angusta can also be propagated using cuttings. Cuttings should be taken in the summer from green, non-flowering shoots. The cuttings should be 4- to 6-inch long and have at least two nodes. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cuttings in a container filled with a well-draining soil mix and keep them moist. The cuttings will root within four to six weeks.
Division Propagation
The division method of propagation is suitable for well-established plants. The plant should be divided in the early spring when the new growth begins. Dig up the plant and separate the root ball into several smaller sections. Replant the sections into containers filled with well-draining soil mix and keep them moist. The new plants will take root and begin growing in a few weeks.
Disease Management
The plant Ernodea littoralis Sw. var. angusta is susceptible to fungal diseases such as leaf spot, powdery mildew, and rust. These diseases often thrive in humid conditions, so proper watering and air circulation can help prevent their occurrence. If infected leaves are spotted, they should be promptly removed and destroyed to reduce the spread of the disease.
Chemical fungicides can also be used to manage fungal diseases. Fungicides containing copper or sulfur are effective against powdery mildew and rust, while chlorothalonil can be used to manage leaf spot. It is important to always follow label instructions when using fungicides.
Pest Management
Some common pests that can affect Ernodea littoralis Sw. var. angusta include scales, mealybugs, and spider mites. These pests can cause damage to the leaves and stems of the plant, and if left unchecked, can lead to stunted growth and reduced flowering.
One way to manage pest infestations is through natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings. These predators feed on the pests, reducing their numbers. Regularly inspecting the plant for signs of infestation and promptly removing affected areas can also help prevent their spread.
If natural predators are not effective, insecticidal soaps or oils can be used to manage pest populations. These products work by suffocating the pests and are considered a safer alternative to chemical insecticides. However, it is important to always follow label instructions and avoid spraying during hot or windy conditions.
