Origin
Grindelia camporum Greene var. bracteosa (J.T. Howell) M.A. Lane, commonly known as Bracted gumweed, is a plant species that belongs to the family Asteraceae. This plant is native to the western regions of North America, primarily found in California, Nevada, and Oregon.
Common Names
Bracted gumweed is also referred to by various common names such as Camphorweed, Bract gumweed, and Howell's Gumweed.
Uses
The Bracted gumweed was traditionally used by Native Americans for medicinal purposes. They used the plant to cure colds, rheumatism, coughs, and other respiratory ailments. The plant contains essential oils that have calming effects, making it useful in alternative medicine practices. The dried plant parts, such as leaves and flowers, can be used to prepare tea or tinctures.
Today, Bracted gumweed is mostly used as an ornamental plant, commonly used as ground cover in gardens and landscaped areas. The plant's deeply lobed leaves and yellow flowers make it an attractive addition to the garden, which is drought-resistant and easy to grow in well-drained soil.
General Appearance
Bracted gumweed is a woody perennial plant that can grow up to 6 feet tall. The plant grows in a clump, with a basal rosette that spreads slowly as the plant ages. The leaves of the plant are thick, leathery, and deeply lobed with serrated edges. The flowers of the Bracted gumweed are bright yellow and bloom in July and August. The plant blooms through summer and into fall, producing seeds that are dispersed by wind or animals.
The stems and leaves of the Bracted gumweed are covered with sticky hairs or resinous material that secretes a gum-like substance when broken. This is the reason why it is called gumweed.
Light Conditions
Grindelia camporum Greene var. bracteosa (J.T. Howell) M.A. Lane prefers full sunlight to partial shade. It is an extremely sun-loving plant and will thrive best in areas with plenty of light. It can tolerate some shade but may not flower as prolifically as in full sun.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for growing Grindelia camporum Greene var. bracteosa (J.T. Howell) M.A. Lane is between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. This plant can withstand high temperatures but prefers cooler weather and may not tolerate extreme heat well. It is also able to tolerate temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit and grows well in regions with mild winters.
Soil Conditions
Grindelia camporum Greene var. bracteosa (J.T. Howell) M.A. Lane can grow in just about any well-draining soil but prefers loam or sandy soils with a pH range between 6.0 and 8.0. This plant grows well in dry soils and can tolerate periods of drought, but it also requires occasional watering during prolonged dry spells.
Cultivation methods
Grindelia camporum Greene var. bracteosa (J.T. Howell) M.A. Lane can be cultivated using seeds or cuttings. If planting by seed, sow during the spring or fall. They should be sown at a depth of about 1/8 inch and spaced at least 18 inches apart. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged until germination occurs. For cuttings, gather healthy cuttings in the spring or early summer, making sure to take a cutting with a few leaves attached. Remove all but the top two or three leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone before planting in a sandy soil mix. Provide the plant with ample sunlight to encourage growth.
Watering needs
Grindelia camporum Greene var. bracteosa (J.T. Howell) M.A. Lane prefers dry soil conditions and can tolerate drought well, but it is important to water them regularly when they are first planted to help establish their root systems. Once established, water only when the soil becomes dry. Overwatering can cause root rot and other issues, so be cautious not to water too much.
Fertilization
Grindelia camporum Greene var. bracteosa (J.T. Howell) M.A. Lane is not a heavy feeder and does not require fertilizer. However, if you do decide to fertilize, use an all-purpose fertilizer during the plant's active growth period (spring and summer). Be cautious not to over-fertilize, as this can cause more damage than good.
Pruning
Grindelia camporum Greene var. bracteosa (J.T. Howell) M.A. Lane does not typically require pruning, but if you need to shape or control the size of the plant, do so in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. To do this, cut back stems to a desirable height or remove any dead or damaged branches.
Propagation of Grindelia camporum Greene var. bracteosa (J.T. Howell) M.A. Lane
Grindelia camporum Greene var. bracteosa (J.T. Howell) M.A. Lane, commonly known as Grindelia, is a native plant species found in the western United States. Propagation of Grindelia is typically done through vegetative means, which includes both stem cuttings and root cuttings.
Vegetative Propagation
Stem cuttings taken in early summer from newly grown shoots should be used for propagation. Cuttings should be approximately 6 inches long and cut just below a node. Remove all but the top few leaves on the cutting to prevent moisture loss and encourage root growth. Dip the cutting in rooting hormone before planting in a pot containing a mixture of peat and perlite. Cover the pot with a plastic bag to maintain humidity and place in a warm location with indirect sunlight. Once roots have formed, transplant the cutting to a larger pot or directly in the ground.
Root cuttings should be taken from the lateral roots of a mature plant during its dormant stage. Cuttings should be approximately 2-3 inches long and planted in a pot containing a mixture of peat and perlite. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a cool, dark location until roots have formed. Once roots have formed, transplant the cutting to a larger pot or directly in the ground.
Propagation of Grindelia thru seed is feasible but typically not used as frequently because the plants' development from seed is less reliable and slower M.A. Lane.
Disease Management
Grindelia camporum Greene var. bracteosa (J.T. Howell) M.A. Lane is generally a hardy plant, but it can be susceptible to a few diseases. The most common diseases that affect this plant include:
- Root rot: This is a fungal disease that is caused by overwatering. To prevent root rot, ensure that the plant dries out between waterings. You can also treat the plant with a fungicide.
- Mildew: Mildew is a fungal disease that typically appears as white or gray spots on the leaves of the plant. To prevent mildew, ensure that the plant is not overcrowded and has enough airflow. You can also treat the plant with a fungicide.
- Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that appears as reddish-brown spots on the leaves. To prevent rust, ensure that the plant is not overcrowded and has enough airflow. You can also treat the plant with a fungicide.
In addition to the above measures, it is important to practice good plant hygiene by removing any diseased plant material and disposing of it properly to prevent the spread of disease.
Pest Management
While Grindelia camporum Greene var. bracteosa (J.T. Howell) M.A. Lane is not often plagued by pests, it can be affected by a few common pests, including:
- Aphids: Aphids are small insects that suck the sap from the leaves and stems of the plant. To treat aphids, you can spray the plant with a mixture of soap and water or an insecticide.
- Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that spin webs on the plant and suck the sap from the leaves. To treat spider mites, you can spray the plant with a mixture of soap and water or an insecticide. You should also increase the humidity around the plant.
It is important to monitor your plants regularly for any signs of pests and to take action as soon as you notice an infestation. Early intervention can help prevent the pests from causing significant damage.
