Origin
Gilia capitata Sims ssp. tomentosa (Eastw. ex Brand) V. Grant is a species of flowering plant in the phlox family (Polemoniaceae) native to North America.
Common Names
Commonly known as woollyhead gilia or white-haired gilia, this plant is also sometimes referred to as globe gilia due to the spherical shape of its inflorescence.
Uses
While not commonly used in commercial agriculture, woollyhead gilia is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes due to its attractive, white-haired appearance and vibrant blue flowers. It is also frequently used in prairie restoration projects and other ecological restoration efforts due to its ability to attract and support a variety of pollinators including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
General Appearance
The woollyhead gilia is a herbaceous annual plant that typically grows to a height of 30-70 cm (12-28 in). Its leaves are typically oblong or lance-shaped, and can range in length from 1-5 cm (0.4-2 in). The plant's inflorescence is a dense, spherical cluster of small, bright blue flowers, which are surrounded by a fringe of long, white hairs that give the plant its distinctive appearance.
Light Conditions
Gilia capitata Sims ssp. tomentosa typically grows in areas with full sunlight. It prefers open spaces where it can receive direct sunlight for most of the day. Partially shaded areas may also be suitable for this plant, but it may not produce as many flowers.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can adapt to a wide range of temperature conditions. However, it grows best in areas with a warm, dry climate. The optimum temperature range for this plant is from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius. Temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius or above 35 degrees Celsius may hamper plant growth.
Soil Requirements
Gilia capitata Sims ssp. tomentosa prefers well-drained, sandy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH level. This plant is adapted to grow in areas with low-nutrient soil, but it can also benefit from moderate fertilization. The soil must not be compacted, and it should have good aeration. It is also recommended to avoid water-logged or heavy clay soil as it can stunt plant growth.
Cultivation Methods
Gilia capitata Sims ssp. tomentosa (Eastw. ex Brand) V. Grant, commonly known as woolly-headed gilia, is an easy-to-cultivate plant that is native to the western United States. It prefers to grow in well-draining soil in full sun or light shade. It is best to plant the seeds directly in the garden in late winter or early spring when the soil is moist and fertile. The seeds should be lightly covered with soil and kept moist until germination occurs.
Watering Needs
Woolly-headed gilia requires regular watering to establish a strong root system. It should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season, but be careful not to overwater as this can lead to root rot. It is important to allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent the roots from becoming waterlogged.
Fertilization
Woolly-headed gilia is a light feeder and does not require heavy fertilization. However, it can benefit from a light application of a balanced fertilizer in early spring before new growth appears. The fertilizer should be applied sparingly, as over-fertilization can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
Pruning
Woolly-headed gilia does not require much pruning, but deadheading spent flowers can promote new growth and prolong the blooming period. To deadhead, simply snip off the spent blooms just above the first set of healthy leaves. It is also a good idea to lightly trim back the foliage in late fall to prevent the plant from becoming too woody and to encourage healthy growth in the spring.
Propagation Methods for Gilia capitata Sims ssp. tomentosa (Eastw. ex Brand) V. Grant
Gilia capitata is a short-lived perennial that can be propagated by seeds or stem cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds of Gilia capitata can be directly sown in the garden during spring or fall. Before sowing, the soil should be loosened and amended with organic matter. The seeds should be scattered on the surface of the soil and lightly pressed to ensure good soil contact. They should be covered with a thin layer of soil and watered gently. The seedlings should emerge within 2-3 weeks.
Alternatively, the seeds can be started indoors in late winter. They require light to germinate, so they should be sprinkled on the soil surface and not covered. The seedlings should be transplanted to the garden after the danger of frost has passed.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Gilia capitata can also be propagated by stem cuttings taken in early summer. The cuttings should be taken from healthy, disease-free plants and dipped in a rooting hormone. They should be planted in a well-draining potting mix and kept in a warm, bright location. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. The cuttings should root within 2-4 weeks and can be transplanted to the garden after the roots have established.
Disease Management
Gilia capitata Sims ssp. tomentosa is relatively resistant to diseases. However, various fungal pathogens can still cause root and stem rot, powdery mildew, and rusts.
To manage these diseases, it's best to prevent them from occurring in the first place. Start by planting disease-resistant cultivars of Gilia capitata Sims ssp. tomentosa. Do not plant in areas that are prone to waterlogging or areas that have been recently infected by a fungal disease. Practice crop rotation as well by rotating Gilia capitata Sims ssp. tomentosa with non-host crops.
Also, ensure proper irrigation practices such as not overwatering, and avoid spraying water on the leaves or flowers since water spots on the foliage can result in the growth of pathogenic fungi. When watering, do so at the base of the plant and avoid getting water on the leaves.
When you detect the presence of a fungal disease, remove and destroy the infected plant parts immediately to avoid the spread of the disease. Apply fungicides as per the instructions on the label.
Pest Management
Gilia capitata Sims ssp. tomentosa is susceptible to attacks by numerous pests, including aphids, leaf miners, and spider mites.
To manage these pests, implementing cultural controls is the best approach. Pick and destroy any infested plant material manually. Use yellow sticky traps to capture adult insects such as aphids and whiteflies. Insecticidal soaps and oil sprays can also be helpful in controlling these pests.
In cases of an extensive infestation, consider the use of insecticides. However, be sure to use insecticides that are selective and do not harm beneficial insects present in the garden. Follow the instructions on the label carefully when applying.
Regularly monitoring plants for diseases and pests can help in early detection of any problem, enabling a prompt response to be taken. It's also helpful to maintain a healthy growing environment by keeping the plants fertilized and well-watered but not waterlogged.
