Overview
Gilia ochroleuca M.E. Jones ssp. bizonata A.& V. Grant is a flowering plant species that belongs to the phlox family (Polemoniaceae). This plant is commonly known by several names, including pale-yellow gilia, pale-yellow trumpet or pale-yellow ipomopsis. The plant is native to the arid regions of western North America.
Description
Gilia ochroleuca M.E. Jones ssp. bizonata A.& V. Grant is an annual herbaceous plant, with a multi-branched stem that can grow up to 40 cm in height. It has narrow, pointed leaves that grow vertically up the stem, and are a bright green color. These leaves alternate on the stem, and are covered in soft hairs.
One of the unique features of this plant is its flower cluster, which contains many small, trumpet-shaped flowers that are pale yellow in color. These flowers can be up to 3 cm long, and grow close to the stem. The plant blooms from late spring to early summer.
Uses
Gilia ochroleuca M.E. Jones ssp. bizonata A.& V. Grant is commonly used in landscaping and gardening due to its showy flowers and relatively low maintenance requirements. It is also often used as a filler in meadows and wildflower gardens.
In the past, Native American tribes used this plant to cure sore throats by boiling the leaves to create a tea. The tea was then used as a gargle to soothe the throat.
Overall, this plant is highly attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies and is also used to help conserve and reestablish native plant communities.
Light Requirements
Gilia ochroleuca M.E. Jones ssp. bizonata A.& V. Grant grows best in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but excessive shade will cause stunted growth and fewer flowers.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers cool to moderate temperatures, and it can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. The plant can withstand temperatures as low as 20°F (-7°C) and as high as 90°F (32°C) for short periods only. It prefers daytime temperatures between 65°F and 75°F and nighttime temperatures between 40°F and 50°F.
Soil Requirements
For optimal growth, the plant requires well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH level between 6.0 to 7.0. Sandy or loamy soils are preferred, but the plant can grow in a wide range of soils, including rocky or gravelly soils. However, it does not tolerate heavy clay soils with poor drainage. The plant can grow at elevations up to 6000 feet (1800 m) with adequate soil moisture levels.
Cultivation Methods
Gilia ochroleuca M.E. Jones ssp. bizonata A.& V. Grant prefers full sun or partial shade, and well-drained soil. It can tolerate poor soil conditions, but it grows best in fertile soil. Plant the seeds in the spring or fall, about ¼ inch deep and 6 inches apart. The plant grows up to 2 feet tall and 1 foot wide.
Watering Needs
Gilia ochroleuca M.E. Jones ssp. bizonata A.& V. Grant needs regular watering during the growing season, especially in dry areas and hot weather. Water the plant thoroughly once or twice a week, depending on the soil moisture. Avoid over-watering, which can cause root rot and other diseases.
Fertilization
To promote healthy growth and flowering, fertilize Gilia ochroleuca M.E. Jones ssp. bizonata A.& V. Grant with a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 formula, in the spring and summer. Follow the instructions on the label and apply the fertilizer lightly around the base of the plant. Avoid getting the fertilizer on the leaves, as it can burn them.
Pruning
Gilia ochroleuca M.E. Jones ssp. bizonata A.& V. Grant does not require regular pruning. However, you can deadhead the spent flowers to promote new growth and prolong the blooming season. Use sharp and clean pruning shears and cut the stems just above a leaf or bud. In the fall, cut back the stems to about 6 inches from the ground to prepare the plant for winter dormancy.
Propagation of Gilia ochroleuca M.E. Jones ssp. bizonata A.& V. Grant
Gilia ochroleuca M.E. Jones ssp. bizonata A.& V. Grant, commonly known as pale-yellow gilia, is usually propagated through seeds. The seeds of this plant can be easily collected from the mature flowers and sown in the desired location.
For sowing, the soil must be well-draining and have good fertility. The seeds must be sown at a depth of approximately 1/8 inch and should be kept moist until germination occurs. This plant usually germinates within 10-14 days, depending on the environmental conditions such as soil temperature and sunlight.
This plant can also be propagated through stem cuttings. For this method, cut a mature stem of the plant approximately 2-3 inches long and remove all the lower leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and insert it into a pot containing a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and maintain a temperature of around 65-75°F. The roots will start to develop in 3-4 weeks.
A third propagation method for this plant involves division. This can be done in early spring when the plant is not in its active growth phase. Dig up the plant carefully and separate the roots into smaller sections. Each section should contain at least one healthy shoot and root. Replant the sections in well-draining soil and keep them moist until new growth appears.
Disease Management
Gilia ochroleuca M.E. Jones ssp. bizonata A.& V. Grant is generally a disease-resistant plant that is not typically affected by many diseases. However, due to extreme weather conditions or other environmental factors, the plant may experience some mild fungal infections and bacterial diseases.
The following are some common diseases that may affect the plant and their management:
- Leaf Spots: Fungal infections can cause small brown spots on the leaves of the plant. You can manage this by removing affected leaves and ensuring good air circulation around the plant.
- Powdery Mildew: This is a fungal disease that can cause powdery white spots on the leaves. To manage powdery mildew, prune the affected parts and dispose of them properly. Apply a fungicide spray to protect the healthy parts of the plant.
- Botrytis Blight: This is a fungus that affects the flowers and leaves of the plant. Prune the infected parts and increase air circulation around the plant to manage this.
Pest Management
Gilia ochroleuca M.E. Jones ssp. bizonata A.& V. Grant is generally not susceptible to many pests. However, some common pests can still affect it.
The following are some pests that may affect the plant and their management:
- Aphids: Aphids can suck the sap out of the plant's leaves. You can manage aphids by spraying insecticidal soap on the affected parts of the plant.
- Thrips: Thrips feed on flowers and leaves of the plant, causing them to turn brown. To manage them, you can use yellow or blue sticky traps, insecticidal soap, or neem oil.
- Spider Mites: Spider mites can cause yellowing or bronzing of the leaves. You can manage spider mites by spraying the plant with water and increasing the humidity around it. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
It is advisable to regularly inspect the plants and take measures immediately once some anomalies have been discovered. This timely attention can prevent the spread of pests and diseases to the other parts of the plant.
