Overview
Erysimum capitatum (Dougl. ex Hook.) Greene var. lompocense (G. Rossb.) Kartesz, comb. nov. ined. is a species of flowering plant belonging to the family Brassicaceae. It is commonly known as sanddune wallflower and is native to North America, particularly found in California and Oregon.Description
The sanddune wallflower is a shrub that can grow up to 2 feet tall and can spread up to 3 feet in width. The leaves are blue-green and hairy, with a lanceolate shape and can grow up to 4 inches long. The flowers are typically a bright yellow color and are clustered at the tops of the stems, with each flower measuring about ½ inch wide.Uses
The sanddune wallflower has been used by Native American tribes for medicinal purposes, with the leaves being used to cure coughs, hair loss, and headaches. Some tribes also used the plant to treat wounds and skin conditions. Additionally, the plant attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies and is often used in gardens for this purpose.Cultivation
The sanddune wallflower is relatively easy to grow and can thrive in a variety of soil types, including sandy and well-drained soils. It prefers full sun and can tolerate drought conditions, making it a popular choice for xeriscaping. It can be propagated from seed or cuttings in the spring or fall. With proper care, the plant can live for several years and can provide a colorful display of blooms in the spring and summer months.Typical Growth Conditions of Erysimum capitatum var. lompocense
Erysimum capitatum var. lompocense, commonly known as the Lompoc wallflower, is a species of flowering plant that is endemic to California. It is a hardy perennial that is well-adapted to the Mediterranean climate of the region. The plant is generally found in open grasslands, chaparral, and oak woodlands.
Light Requirements
The Lompoc wallflower is a sun-loving plant and requires full sun exposure for optimal growth. It thrives in areas that receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. The plant can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause poor growth and fewer flowers.
Temperature Requirements
Erysimum capitatum var. lompocense grows best in mild temperatures ranging from 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. High temperatures can cause the plant to dry out and wilt, while frost and freezing temperatures can damage the plant and inhibit growth. The plant can tolerate light frosts, however.
Soil Requirements
The Lompoc wallflower prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy loam, clay loam, and rocky soils. The plant does not do well in waterlogged soils, as excess moisture can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Cultivation of Erysimum capitatum var. lompocense
Erysimum capitatum var. lompocense is a lovely plant that adapts well to various growing conditions. It prefers full sun but can grow in partial shade in hot climates. It is suitable for rock gardens, mixed borders, and habitats for pollinators.
Watering Needs
Erysimum capitatum var. lompocense is drought-tolerant but needs regular watering during its establishment period. Once established, the plant requires infrequent but deep watering to prevent root rot. Water the plant at the base to avoid wetting the foliage, which may encourage the development of fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Fertilize Erysimum capitatum var. lompocense once every two months during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Too much nitrogen may stimulate foliage growth at the expense of blooming. Avoid fertilizing during dormancy or in the winter season.
Pruning
Erysimum capitatum var. lompocense requires minimal pruning. Remove any dead or diseased stems at the base to maintain the plant's health, and prune after flowering to regulate the plant's shape. Light pruning stimulates branching and blooming.
Propagation Methods for Erysimum capitatum var. lompocense
Erysimum capitatum var. lompocense, commonly known as Lompoc wallflower, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. It is native to California and can be propagated through the following methods:
Seed Propagation
The easiest and most common way to propagate Erysimum capitatum var. lompocense is through seed propagation. Seeds can be collected from mature seedpods when they turn yellow or brown and start to open. The seeds should be planted in well-draining soil mixed with sand and compost. They should be planted at a depth of 1/4 inch and covered lightly with soil. The seeds should be kept moist until they germinate, which may take up to two weeks. Once the seedlings have emerged, they should be watered deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation is another way to propagate Erysimum capitatum var. lompocense, although it is more challenging than seed propagation. Cuttings should be taken from mature stems in the spring or summer and should be 3-4 inches long and include a few leaves. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in moist potting soil. They should be kept in a shaded area and misted regularly until they develop roots. Once the cuttings have established roots, they can be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the garden.
Division Propagation
Erysimum capitatum var. lompocense can also be propagated through division, although this method should be done carefully. In the early spring, when the plant is just starting to grow, the clump should be carefully dug up and divided into small sections with a sharp, sterile knife. Each section should have a few stems and a healthy root system. The divided sections should be replanted in well-draining soil and watered deeply but infrequently until they are established.
Disease Management
Erysimum capitatum var. lompocense is susceptible to several diseases. The most common ones include:
- Clubroot: This disease is caused by a soil-borne pathogen. It affects the roots of the plant, causing them to become swollen and distorted. Infected plants may also exhibit stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and wilting. To manage clubroot, avoid planting in infected soil, and use resistant cultivars. Practice crop rotation and remove infected plants to prevent the spread of the disease.
- Downy mildew: This disease is characterized by the appearance of yellow or tan spots on the leaves. The spots may also have a fuzzy appearance due to the growth of fungal spores. Downy mildew thrives in humid conditions and can spread rapidly. To manage this disease, remove infected plant debris, and avoid overhead watering. Use fungicides as a last resort.
- Crown rot: Crown rot is caused by soil-borne pathogens that attack the base of the plant, causing it to rot. Infected plants may exhibit yellowing leaves, wilting, and stunted growth. To manage crown rot, avoid planting in poorly drained soil, and remove infected plants. Use fungicides to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Erysimum capitatum var. lompocense is also prone to attack by pests. The most common pests that affect this plant include:
- Aphids: These small insects feed on the sap of the plant, causing yellowing and distortion of the leaves. Aphids also excrete a sugary substance called honeydew, which attracts ants and promotes the growth of sooty mold. To manage aphids, spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Introduce natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings.
- Cabbage moth: The cabbage moth is a common pest of the mustard family, which includes Erysimum capitatum var. lompocense. The moth lays its eggs on the leaves of the plant, and the resulting larvae feed on the foliage, causing extensive damage. To manage cabbage moth, use floating row covers to prevent the moth from laying its eggs. Handpick the larvae if they are spotted.
- Cabbage root maggot: The cabbage root maggot is the larva of a fly that feeds on the roots of the plant, causing stunted growth and wilting. To manage this pest, practice crop rotation, and use row covers. Apply beneficial nematodes to the soil to control the larvae.
