Overview
Euphrasia arctica Lange ex Rostr. var. dolosa (Boivin) Boivin is a subarctic plant species that belongs in the family Orobanchaceae. This small herbaceous perennial is distributed in subarctic and alpine regions of North America.
Common names
The plant is commonly known as Arctic eyebright or Lake Louise eyebright, named after its habitat in Lake Louise, Alberta, Canada.
Appearance
Euphrasia arctica var. dolosa is a small, low-growing plant that typically reaches 5 to 15 cm in height. It has little to no stem, and the leaves are located in a basal rosette. The leaves are small, elliptic to oblong, and have short petioles. The flowers are white with purple stripes, and are clustered at the top of short stems. The fruit is a capsule that contains numerous tiny seeds.
Uses
The plant has long been used in traditional medicine for various ailments. It was used by indigenous peoples of the Arctic for treating infections, coughs, and eye problems. Modern research has shown that the plant contains compounds that possess anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, and antioxidant properties.
Arctic eyebright is also commonly used as an ornamental plant in rock gardens due to its small size and attractive flowers.
Growth Conditions for Euphrasia arctica Lange ex Rostr. var. dolosa (Boivin) Boivin
Light: Euphrasia arctica Lange ex Rostr. var. dolosa (Boivin) Boivin typically grows in areas with full sunlight to partial shade. It requires at least 6 hours of sunlight per day to thrive. When grown indoors, it should be placed near a window that receives adequate sunlight.
Temperature: Euphrasia arctica Lange ex Rostr. var. dolosa (Boivin) Boivin grows best in cool to cold temperatures ranging from 40-60°F (4-16°C). It is a hardy plant that can withstand freezing temperatures but may not grow as well in warmer conditions.
Soil: Euphrasia arctica Lange ex Rostr. var. dolosa (Boivin) Boivin prefers well-draining soils with adequate moisture. It requires a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The addition of peat moss or other organic matter can help improve soil quality and retain moisture. Soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilizer: Euphrasia arctica Lange ex Rostr. var. dolosa (Boivin) Boivin does not require heavy fertilization. However, the addition of a balanced fertilizer during the growing season can be beneficial.
Propagation: Euphrasia arctica Lange ex Rostr. var. dolosa (Boivin) Boivin can be propagated by seed or division. Seeds should be sown in the fall and will germinate in the spring. Division can be done in the spring or fall by separating the plant into smaller sections and replanting.
Pests and diseases: Euphrasia arctica Lange ex Rostr. var. dolosa (Boivin) Boivin is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if grown in waterlogged soils.
Cultivation Methods
Euphrasia arctica Lange ex Rostr. var. dolosa (Boivin) Boivin is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of conditions, but it thrives in well-drained soils and full sunlight. It is best to cultivate this plant in a garden or raised bed, as it needs plenty of space to spread out.
Sow the seeds of Euphrasia arctica in early spring or late autumn, as this gives them the best chance of germinating. Simply scatter the seeds on top of the soil, and then cover with a thin layer of soil. Water the soil gently, and keep moist until the seedlings emerge in about two weeks.
Watering Needs
Euphrasia arctica Lange ex Rostr. var. dolosa (Boivin) Boivin prefers moist soil, but be careful not to overwater it as this can lead to root rot. Water the plant deeply once a week, or whenever the soil feels dry to the touch. If the plant is growing in a pot, make sure that the pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Fertilization
Euphrasia arctica Lange ex Rostr. var. dolosa (Boivin) Boivin is a low-maintenance plant and does not require much fertilizer. Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer once a year in early spring. Alternatively, you could incorporate some well-rotted compost or manure into the soil to improve its fertility.
Pruning
Euphrasia arctica Lange ex Rostr. var. dolosa (Boivin) Boivin generally does not require pruning, but you can remove any dead or damaged leaves and stems as necessary. Cutting back the plant in early spring can encourage bushier growth and more flowers. However, be careful not to cut back too much, as this can weaken the plant.
Propagation of Euphrasia arctica Lange ex Rostr. var. dolosa (Boivin) Boivin
Euphrasia arctica Lange ex Rostr. var. dolosa (Boivin) Boivin can be propagated by both seed and vegetative propagation methods. However, seed propagation is generally preferred, as it produces plants that are true to type.
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Euphrasia arctica Lange ex Rostr. var. dolosa (Boivin) Boivin can be sown directly in the ground during spring or fall. Before sowing, it is important to stratify the seeds for 2-3 months to break their dormancy. One method of stratification is to mix the seeds with moist sand and keep them in a plastic bag in the fridge. After stratification, the seed should be sown no deeper than 1/8 inch, covered lightly with soil, and watered regularly. Germination will typically occur within 2-3 weeks.
Vegetative Propagation
Euphrasia arctica Lange ex Rostr. var. dolosa (Boivin) Boivin can also be propagated vegetatively by division or stem cuttings. Division should be done in the spring or fall when the plant is dormant. When dividing, ensure that each division has a healthy root system and replant immediately. Stem cuttings should be taken in the summer when the plant is actively growing. Cuttings should be 3-4 inches long and taken from healthy, non-flowering stems. Remove the lower leaves, dip the cut ends in rooting hormone, and plant them in moist potting soil. Cover the pot with a plastic bag to maintain humidity and place it in a warm, bright location. Rooting should occur within 2-3 weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Euphrasia arctica Lange ex Rostr. var. dolosa (Boivin) Boivin
Euphrasia arctica Lange ex Rostr. var. dolosa (Boivin) Boivin is a hardy plant that can tolerate some environmental stressors, but it can still be affected by diseases and pests. It is essential to know how to manage any possible issues to ensure the plant's health and optimal growth.
Common Diseases
Leaf spots and powdery mildew are the most common fungal diseases that Euphrasia arctica can be affected by. Leaf spots may appear as circular, brown spots with yellow halos. Powdery mildew appears as a white or gray coating on the leaves, which results in the leaves curling and dying off. The fungal diseases can be caused by several factors, including high humidity, poor air circulation, and overwatering.
Pest Infestation
Spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs are the most common pests in Euphrasia arctica. Spider mites and aphids are visible on the undersides of the leaves, and mealybugs appear as white, cotton-like substances on the leaves and stems. Pests can cause damage by feeding on the plant, leading to stunted growth and weakening the plant overall.
Management of Diseases and Pests
To manage fungal diseases, avoid overhead watering, ensure good air circulation, and remove any infected leaves from the plant. Additionally, apply a fungicide or spray a solution of baking soda and water on the affected leaves. To manage pest infestations, prune the affected parts of the plant, and use insecticidal soap or neem oil to get rid of the pests.
It is also vital to maintain proper hygiene practices by cleaning the plant's surroundings and sterilizing the gardening tools before using them on the plant. Regularly monitor the plant for any signs of diseases and pests so that action can be taken before the problem escalates.
By taking the necessary steps in the management of diseases and pests, the Euphrasia arctica Lange ex Rostr. var. dolosa (Boivin) Boivin plant will remain healthy, and its growth will not be compromised.
