Overview:
Eschscholzia minutiflora S. Wats. ssp. twisselmannii C. Clark is a flowering plant of the family Papaveraceae. It is a small sub-species of the genus Eschscholzia, also known as the California poppy. This sub-species is native to the San Joaquin Valley of California, United States.
Common Names:
The common name for Eschscholzia minutiflora S. Wats. ssp. twisselmannii C. Clark is Twisselmann's poppy. It is named in honor of American botanist, Arnold Twisselmann, who first discovered this sub-species in 1961.
Appearance:
Twisselmann's poppy is a herbaceous annual plant that typically grows up to 30 centimeters tall. It has blue-green, small, narrow leaves that are lightly hairy. The flowers are yellow with four petals, and each petal is deeply divided into two lobes. The center of the flower is dark with a distinctive ring of small yellow-orange stamens that surround a green ovary.
Uses:
Twisselmann's poppy is often used as a decorative plant in gardens and landscapes due to its bright yellow flowers. Like other sub-species of Eschscholzia, it is also a popular source of natural dyes for textiles, producing a yellow to light gold color. Historically, it has also been used by Native American tribes for medicinal purposes, although scientific studies on its effectiveness are limited.
Light Requirements
Eschscholzia minutiflora ssp. twisselmannii requires a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth. It can tolerate partial shade but prolonged shade can lead to stunted growth and poor flowering.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers a warm, dry climate with moderate temperatures ranging from 68°F to 86°F (20°C to 30°C). It can tolerate occasional frosts but extended periods of cold temperature can damage or kill the plant.
Soil Requirements
Eschscholzia minutiflora ssp. twisselmannii prefers well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. It can tolerate some drought conditions but requires moderate watering during the growth period. The plant can grow in sandy or rocky soil types but requires good soil preparation and nutrient-rich organic matter for optimal growth.
Cultivation Methods
Eschscholzia minutiflora S. Wats. ssp. twisselmannii C. Clark is a hardy plant that is best grown in well-drained soil. It can tolerate different soil types and prefer full sun to partial shade. The plant does not tolerate soil that is constantly wet, so make sure to avoid planting in areas where the soil does not drain well.
The best time to plant Eschscholzia minutiflora S. Wats. ssp. twisselmannii C. Clark is in early spring or late fall. Sow the seeds vertically so that they are just covered with soil. Water the newly planted seeds daily for the first week to ensure that the soil remains moist, but not waterlogged.
Watering Needs
Eschscholzia minutiflora S. Wats. ssp. twisselmannii C. Clark does not require a lot of water once established. It is best to water the plant deeply once a week, instead of shallow watering every day. Ensure that the soil dries out before the next watering cycle. The plant is drought-tolerant, so it can survive long periods without water.
Fertilization
Eschscholzia minutiflora S. Wats. ssp. twisselmannii C. Clark does not require a lot of fertilization. A balanced fertilizer can be used once a month, but it is not necessary for the plant's growth. Over-fertilizing can reduce flowering and lead to an excess of foliage growth.
Pruning
Eschscholzia minutiflora S. Wats. ssp. twisselmannii C. Clark does not require pruning, but it can help to promote healthier growth and more flowers. Pinch back the stems and deadhead spent flowers once they begin to wilt. This practice stimulates the plant to develop more branches and flowers, which results in a fuller, more vibrant plant.
Propagation of Eschscholzia minutiflora S. Wats. ssp. twisselmannii C. Clark
Eschscholzia minutiflora S. Wats. ssp. twisselmannii C. Clark, commonly known as Twisselmann's poppy, can be propagated by two methods: seeds and cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation by seeds is the most common method used to grow Twisselmann's poppy. The seeds of this plant can be collected during the summer and fall, as they ripen. They can be directly sown in the garden in the fall or early winter, or in the spring. The seeds must be planted in well-drained soil, preferably in a location with full sun exposure. The seeds should be sown at a depth of ¼ to ½ inch, and spaced at least 6 inches apart. Water the seeds regularly until they germinate, which usually takes about 1 to 2 weeks, depending on the temperature and moisture levels.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is another method used to grow Twisselmann's poppy. This method is ideal for producing genetically identical clones from parent plants that have desirable characteristics, such as disease resistance or flower color. To propagate Twisselmann's poppy by cuttings, select a healthy plant and take a 4 to 6-inch stem cutting in the early summer, when the plant is actively growing. Remove the lower leaves of the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in well-drained soil, preferably in a location with partial shade. Water the cutting regularly to keep the soil moist and protect it from direct sunlight until it forms roots, which usually takes about 6 to 8 weeks.
Disease Management
Eschscholzia minutiflora S. Wats. ssp. twisselmannii C. Clark is typically a hardy plant, but it can still be affected by a number of diseases. Here are some of the most common diseases and ways to manage them:
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot usually appears as small, circular, or irregularly-shaped spots on the leaves. It is caused by a fungus and can spread rapidly in wet conditions. To manage this, remove infected leaves and avoid overhead watering. Use a fungicide if necessary.
Root Rot
Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant. It is caused by excess moisture in the soil and can lead to wilting and death of the plant. To prevent this, avoid overwatering and make sure there is adequate drainage in the soil.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves. It is caused by a fungus and can weaken the plant over time. To manage this, remove infected leaves and use a fungicide if necessary. It's also important to make sure there is proper air circulation around the plant.
Pest Management
Eschscholzia minutiflora S. Wats. ssp. twisselmannii C. Clark is not typically affected by pests, but here are some common pests that can still cause problems:
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To manage this, use a strong spray of water to dislodge them or use insecticidal soap.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause yellowing and speckling of the leaves. They are difficult to see with the naked eye and can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Snails and Slugs
Snails and slugs can eat the leaves and flowers of the plant. To manage this, use a slug bait or set up a physical barrier around the plant to keep them away.
