Origin
Grindelia scabra Greene var. neomexicana (Woot. & Standl.) Steyermark, also known as New Mexico gumweed, is a plant species that is native to North America, specifically found in the Southwestern regions of the United States and Northern Mexico.
Common Names
Grindelia scabra Greene var. neomexicana has various common names including New Mexico gumweed, sticky-heads, and rosinweed. The plant is also known as "Gum Plant" due to its sticky resinous sap.
Uses
The plant has long been used by traditional healers among the native populations of Southwest America for a variety of medicinal purposes. The sap from the leaves and stems of the plant has been used as a remedy for treating respiratory issues, coughs, colds, and the flu. The plant has also been used as an herbal remedy for bronchitis and asthma due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
Today, Grindelia scabra is utilized in herbal medicine and found in various forms such as tinctures, teas, and capsules to treat respiratory conditions. The plant is also an important source of nectar for bees and butterflies.
Appearance
Grindelia scabra Greene var. neomexicana is a small perennial herb that grows up to 1-2 feet tall. The plant has alternate leaves that are long, narrow, and toothed. It has yellow-rayed flower heads that bloom from July to September and produce a sticky, resinous material. The stems of the plant are tough and woody, with small branches that have many yellow flower heads.
Growth Conditions for Grindelia scabra Greene var. neomexicana (Woot. & Standl.) Steyermark
Light Requirements: Grindelia scabra Greene var. neomexicana typically grows in full sun to partial shade. In areas with extremely hot summers, it can benefit from some afternoon shade to prevent stress.
Temperature Requirements: This plant is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, where it grows in areas with hot, dry summers and mild winters. It is adapted to a wide range of temperatures but prefers temperatures between 60-80°F (15-27°C).
Soil Requirements: Grindelia scabra Greene var. neomexicana grows best in well-draining soils with moderate to low fertility. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sand, clay, and rocky soils. However, it does not do well in soil that is constantly moist or waterlogged.
Water Requirements: This plant is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. It is important to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot and other issues. In the first year after planting, regular watering may be necessary to help the plant establish a strong root system.
Fertilizer Requirements: Grindelia scabra Greene var. neomexicana does not require a lot of fertilizer and can actually be harmed by excessive nitrogen. If you choose to fertilize, use a low-nitrogen fertilizer such as one with a 5-10-10 or 10-20-20 NPK ratio. Apply the fertilizer in early spring before new growth appears.
Cultivation Methods
Grindelia scabra Greene var. neomexicana (Woot. & Standl.) Steyermark is a hardy plant that can grow in various climate conditions. It grows well in areas with full sun exposure and well-draining soil. The plant can be propagated through seeds or stem cuttings, but seeds are the easiest method. The seeds should be sown in the spring or fall, and the soil should be kept moist until germination occurs. Once the seedlings are established, they can be transplanted outdoors in a suitable location.
Watering Needs
The Grindelia scabra Greene var. neomexicana (Woot. & Standl.) Steyermark plant prefers well-draining soil and does not require much watering. Water the plant when the topsoil is dry to the touch, and avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot. During the summer months, the plant may require more frequent watering, but always make sure the soil is dry before watering again.
Fertilization
Grindelia scabra Greene var. neomexicana (Woot. & Standl.) Steyermark is not a heavy feeder and does not require much fertilization. A balanced fertilizer mix can be applied during the growing season to provide necessary nutrients. However, the plant can survive without fertilization if grown in nutrient-rich soil.
Pruning
Grindelia scabra Greene var. neomexicana (Woot. & Standl.) Steyermark does not require frequent pruning. However, it can be pruned to maintain its shape or to remove any dead or damaged branches. Pruning can be done in the fall or early spring, but avoid cutting back too much as this can affect the plant's growth.
Propagation of Grindelia scabra Greene var. neomexicana (Woot. & Standl.) Steyermark
Grindelia scabra Greene var. neomexicana (Woot. & Standl.) Steyermark, commonly referred to as New Mexico gumweed, is a herbaceous plant native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. The plant is known for its medicinal properties, including its use as a cough suppressant, and has also been cultivated for ornamental purposes.
Propagation Methods
There are several methods for propagating Grindelia scabra var. neomexicana, including:
Seed Propagation
The easiest and most common method of propagation for Grindelia scabra var. neomexicana is via seed. The plant produces small, light brown seeds that are dispersed naturally, but can also be harvested and sown artificially. Seeds should be collected when the plant has finished flowering and the seed heads have dried out and turned brown. Seeds can be sown in pots or directly in the ground, and should be covered with a thin layer of soil. They should be watered regularly and kept in a warm, sunny location until they germinate.
Cuttings Propagation
Another method of propagation for Grindelia scabra var. neomexicana is via stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from mature, healthy plants during the growing season, and should be approximately 4-6 inches in length. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone before being planted in well-draining soil. The cutting should be kept in a warm, humid location until it roots, and then transplanted to its final location.
Division Propagation
Grindelia scabra var. neomexicana can also be propagated via division. This is done by digging up mature plants and separating the root ball into smaller sections, each of which can be replanted in a new location. Divisions should be taken in the spring or fall when the plant is not actively growing. Divisions should be planted in well-draining soil and watered regularly until they become established.
Disease Management
Grindelia scabra Greene var. neomexicana (Woot. & Standl.) Steyermark is susceptible to several diseases. The most common ones include powdery mildew, leaf blight, and damping-off.
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as white, powdery spots on the leaves, stems, and floral parts. To manage powdery mildew, prune off the infected parts, ensure good air circulation, and apply fungicides like sulfur or neem oil.
Leaf blight is a bacterial disease that causes the leaves to turn brown or black and eventually die. To manage leaf blight, prune off the infected parts, avoid overhead watering, and apply copper-based fungicides.
Damping-off is a soil-borne fungal disease that affects the seedlings, causing them to wilt and die. To prevent damping-off, use well-draining soil, sterilize the planting equipment, and avoid overwatering.
Pest Management
Grindelia scabra Greene var. neomexicana (Woot. & Standl.) Steyermark is also vulnerable to pest attacks, including spider mites, aphids, and caterpillars.
Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the leaves, leaving them with yellow or white spots. To manage spider mites, prune off the infected parts, release natural predators like ladybugs, and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that suck the sap from the leaves and stems, causing them to curl or become distorted. To manage aphids, prune off the infected parts, release natural predators like lacewings, and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Caterpillars are the larvae of moths and butterflies that feed on the leaves and can defoliate the plant. To manage caterpillars, handpick them off the plant, release natural predators like birds, and apply Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) insecticide.
