Description
Evax caulescens (Benth.) Gray var. petiolata Gray is a small, perennial herb that belongs to the Asteraceae family.
Origin
The plant is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It can be found growing in rocky soils at elevations of up to 9000 feet.
Common Names
Some of the common names for this plant include "stemmy snakeroot," "stemmy evergreen," and "redstem stork's bill".
Uses
The plant has been traditionally used by Native Americans for medicinal purposes, including treating stomach aches and respiratory illnesses. It has also been used as a natural insect repellent.
General Appearance
Evax caulescens (Benth.) Gray var. petiolata Gray grows up to 12 inches in height and has small, white flowers that bloom from April to July. The stem is covered in fine, dense hairs that give it a woolly appearance. The leaves are green and heart-shaped, with toothed edges and long petioles. The plant produces a cluster of small, achene seeds that are dispersed by wind.
Light requirements
Evax caulescens (Benth.) Gray var. petiolata Gray is a plant that requires full sun exposure for growth and development. It thrives in bright and direct sunlight and may not do well in shaded areas.
Temperature requirements
The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperature conditions and is found to be a hardy specimen. However, the ideal temperature for its growth is between 20-30°C. It does not tolerate frost and extreme high temperatures like those experienced in the desert.
Soil requirements
The plant prefers sandy, well-drained soils, but it also does well in rocky terrains and slopes. It requires a soil pH of between 6.0 and 7.0. The soil should be rich in organic matter and have good water retention capacity. The plant is drought resistant and can go for extended periods without watering.
Cultivation methods for Evax caulescens var. petiolata
Evax caulescens var. petiolata can be cultivated indoors or outdoors, depending on the climate and the environment. It prefers a warm and dry climate with plenty of sunlight. If growing indoors, a sunny window or a grow light can provide the necessary light for growth.
The plant can be grown from seeds or cuttings. If growing from seeds, sow them in well-draining soil and keep them moist until they germinate. If growing from cuttings, take stem cuttings from a healthy plant and plant them in a pot filled with moist soil. Keep the soil moist until the cuttings start to form roots.
Watering needs for Evax caulescens var. petiolata
The plant prefers to grow in well-draining soil that is kept moist but not too wet. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's important to let the soil dry out slightly between waterings. Water the plant more frequently during the growing season and reduce watering during the dormant season.
When watering, water the soil rather than the leaves to prevent fungal infections. Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the plant's roots.
Fertilization for Evax caulescens var. petiolata
The plant can be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer label for best results. It's important not to over-fertilize the plant, as this can cause salt buildup in the soil and damage the roots.
Pruning for Evax caulescens var. petiolata
The plant doesn't require much pruning, but it can be beneficial to remove any dead or damaged leaves or stems. It can also be shaped by pinching back the tips of the stems. The best time to prune is in the spring, before the growing season starts.
Wear gloves when pruning to avoid contact with sap, which can irritate the skin. Disinfect pruning tools before and after pruning to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Evax Caulescens (Benth.) Gray var. Petiolata Gray
Evax caulescens (Benth.) Gray var. petiolata Gray is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. Propagation of Evax can be achieved using various methods such as by seed, division or stem cuttings.
Propagation by seeds
Propagation of Evax can be achieved through the use of mature seeds. Harvested seeds should be cleaned and stored in a cool, dry place to prevent mold growth. To optimize germination rates; scarification or stratification may be required. Scarification may be done by nicking the seed coat with a knife, while stratification can be achieved by placing the seeds in a moist, dark environment for a certain period.
Propagation by division
Propagation of Evax can also be done through division, whereby the plant is carefully uprooted, and the clump is separated into smaller sections. Each section should have roots and leaves intact. Propagation by division is best done during the plant's dormancy period or early spring when the plant is actively growing.
Propagation by stem cuttings
Propagation of Evax can also be done through stem cuttings, whereby healthy stem cuttings are taken from a parent plant, usually during the active growing season. Cuttings should be taken from the tip or terminal growth of the plant. The cuttings should be 3-4 inches long, with at least two nodes. Cuttings should be treated with rooting hormone and placed in a moist rooting medium. Roots will develop after several weeks, and the plant can be transplanted to its permanent location.
Disease and Pest Management for Evax caulescens (Benth.) Gray var. petiolata Gray
Evax caulescens (Benth.) Gray var. petiolata Gray, commonly known as Cajon Pass Evax, is a species of flowering plant in the sunflower family. Like all other plants, it is susceptible to diseases and pests. Here is information about common diseases and pests that can affect the plant and some tips on how to manage them.
Common diseases that affect Evax caulescens var. petiolata
The most common disease that affects Evax caulescens var. petiolata is powdery mildew. It is a fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery substance on the leaves and stems. Powdery mildew can weaken and eventually kill the plant. It is primarily caused by high humidity and insufficient air circulation. To manage this disease, avoid overhead watering and provide enough space for air flow around the plants. In severe cases, fungicides can be used.
Another disease that might affect the plant is leaf spot caused by fungal or bacterial infections. It can appear as brown or black spots on the leaves. To prevent this disease, practice good sanitation by removing infected leaves and providing proper spacing for the plants. In severe cases, antifungal or antibacterial agents can be used.
Common pests that affect Evax caulescens var. petiolata
Evax caulescens var. petiolata is susceptible to attacks from pests such as aphids and spider mites. Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can cause curling and yellowing of leaves. Spider mites can cause discoloration and stippling of leaves. To prevent these pests, regularly inspect the plants for signs of infestation and use insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary.
Another pest that can affect the plant is the snail or slug. They can cause irregular holes and notches in the leaves. To control these pests, remove any hiding places such as weeds or debris, and handpick them from the plants. Additionally, copper tape or pellets can be used to create a barrier around the plants.
By following these tips, the gardener can ensure a healthy and pest-free Evax caulescens var. petiolata plant.
