Overview
Gutierrezia sarothrae, also known as broom snakeweed, is a perennial plant species indigenous to North America. It belongs to the Asteraceae or compositae family and is native to many parts of the Western United States and Northern Mexico.
Appearance
The plant has a woody base and usually grows around 1 meter tall, sometimes reaching up to 2 meters in height. Its stems are thin and hairy, with branches that extend sideways and grow outward, forming a bush-like appearance. The leaves of the broom snakeweed are green, extremely narrow and thread-like, and have an average length of around 1 cm. The flowers are small and yellow, clustered at the end of the stems.
Uses
Gutierrezia sarothrae has multiple uses, and some Native American tribes have used this plant for medicinal purposes. For example, the Hopi tribe has used this plant to treat coughs and colds, while the Navajo tribe has used it for digestive problems. The plant has also been used to treat respiratory issues, skin wounds, and sore throats. However, it is important to note that the use of this plant for medicinal purposes should be approached with caution and only after consulting with a medical professional.
In addition to its medicinal uses, broom snakeweed is also known to be a vital source of food for many animals, including deer, rabbits, pronghorns, and sage grouse. The plant is highly drought-resistant, which makes it beneficial for revegetation and stabilization of disturbed soils.
Common Names
Broom snakeweed is also known as snakeweed, matchbrush, broomweed, and turpentine weed. These names are used interchangeably throughout North America.
Light Requirements
Gutierrezia sarothrae grows best in full sunlight. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to grow optimally. If grown in partial shade, its growth will be stunted and its flowers may not appear. Thus, it is recommended to plant Gutierrezia sarothrae in an area where it can receive adequate sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Gutierrezia sarothrae is naturally found in regions with hot and dry summers and cold winters. It is well-adapted to grow in temperatures ranging from 20°F to 95°F (-6°C to 35°C). However, it is important to note that Gutierrezia sarothrae is sensitive to frost. Therefore, it should not be grown in areas where the temperature regularly drops below 20°F (-6°C).
Soil Requirements
Gutierrezia sarothrae is native to dry, rocky soils with good drainage. It can tolerate a range of soil textures, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, it prefers soils that are alkaline and slightly saline. It is also important that the soil does not remain wet or moist for prolonged periods, as it can lead to root rot. Therefore, it is recommended to plant Gutierrezia sarothrae in well-draining soils.
Cultivation Methods
Gutierrezia sarothrae is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. It is best grown from seeds that can be sown directly into the ground. This plant prefers to be planted in areas with full sun exposure and well-draining soil. During the germination period, the soil must be kept moist, and the plant should emerge between 7 to 28 days from sowing. The ideal temperature for seed germination is 68 to 77°F.
Watering Needs
Gutierrezia sarothrae is a drought-tolerant plant, and it doesn't require a lot of watering. However, the plant should be regularly watered during its initial growth stages to ensure that the soil stays moist to support the growth of the plant. Once established, the plant can go for a long time without water, but it doesn't thrive when the soil is too dry, and the leaves may turn yellow and drop when the plant is dehydrated.
Fertilization
The plant doesn't require a lot of fertilizer, but it benefits from an annual feeding of a balanced fertilizer in the spring, just before the growing season starts. Fertilizer can be used to support the growth of the plant, but if the soil is too fertile, the plant may become leggy and not as robust due to excessive growth.
Pruning
Pruning is not required for the Gutierrezia sarothrae plant, but it can benefit from a light pruning to maintain its shape or to remove deadwood. The best time to prune is during late winter or early spring, just before the growing season begins. Care should be taken not to over-prune the plant as it can limit the blooming capacity of the plant.
Propagation of Gutierrezia sarothrae (Pursh) Britt. & Rusby
Gutierrezia sarothrae, commonly known as broom snakeweed, is a perennial shrub that belongs to the sunflower family. It is widely distributed in North America, particularly in western and central regions, and is known for its medicinal properties. Propagating Gutierrezia sarothrae can be done through several methods.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method used to propagate Gutierrezia sarothrae. When collecting seeds, it is best to wait until the plant has fully matured. The seeds are then collected from the flowerheads and can be stored in a cool, dry location until it is time to plant them. The seeds should be planted at a depth equal to two times their diameter and should be watered regularly. Seedlings should appear within two to four weeks after planting.
Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings propagation is also another method of propagating Gutierrezia sarothrae. This method is mostly used when the plant has become mature. Cuttings of about six inches long should be taken from the mother plant and stripped of their lower leaves. The cuttings should then be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mix. The cuttings should be kept moist and placed in a high humidity environment to encourage root growth, which typically takes up to six weeks. Once roots have developed, the cuttings can be transplanted into their permanent locations.
Disease Management for Gutierrezia sarothrae
Gutierrezia sarothrae, commonly known as broom snakeweed, is a hardy plant species that is well adapted to harsh environments. Despite this, it can still be susceptible to various diseases that can affect its growth and productivity.
One of the most common diseases that affect G. sarothrae is rust. Rust can cause severe damage to the plant, leading to reduced crop yield or even death. To manage rust, it is essential to monitor the plant regularly for signs of the disease. Once detected, the plant should be sprayed with a fungicide, and the surrounding area should be cleared of infected plant debris to prevent the spread of the disease.
Another common disease that can affect G. sarothrae is root rot. Root rot can result from overwatering the plant or growing it in poorly drained soil. To manage root rot, it is essential to maintain proper drainage, avoid wetting the foliage during irrigation, and ensure the soil is well-drained. In severe cases, the affected plant should be removed to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pest Management for Gutierrezia sarothrae
Along with diseases, Gutierrezia sarothrae can also be vulnerable to pest infestations that can damage or destroy the plant. Here are some common pests that can affect G. sarothrae and ways to manage them:
One of the most common pests that affect G. sarothrae is aphids. Aphids can cause significant damage to the plant by feeding on the sap, which leads to stunted growth, curled leaves, and reduced yield. To manage aphid infestations, it is recommended to introduce natural predators, such as ladybugs and lacewings, which can help control the population. Additionally, spraying the plants with insecticidal soap or neem oil can also help reduce the aphid population.
Another pest that can affect G. sarothrae is spider mites. Spider mites can cause severe damage to the plant by sucking out the sap, leading to discoloration, wilting, and premature leaf drop. To manage spider mite infestations, it is recommended to spray the plants with a strong stream of water regularly to dislodge the mites. Additionally, introducing natural predators, such as ladybugs and predatory mites, can also help control the population.
Finally, caterpillars can also be a problem for G. sarothrae, as they can strip the plant's foliage and destroy the stems. To manage caterpillar infestations, it is recommended to remove the caterpillars manually or use a biological control agent, such as Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt). Bt is a naturally occurring bacteria that produces a toxin that specifically targets caterpillars.
