Overview
Hackelia diffusa (Lehm.) I.M. Johnston var. cottonii (Piper) R.L. Carr, commonly known as cotton's stickseed, is a species of flowering plant in the borage family Boraginaceae. It is a native to North America and can be found in various habitats such as meadows, valleys, and forests.
Appearance
The cotton's stickseed is a biennial or perennial plant that can grow up to 1 meter in height. It has a hairy stem and leaves that are lanceolate to ovate shape, with an acuminate tip. The flowers are small and have a bluish-purple color, which grows in a coiled inflorescence. The fruit is an achene that is brown and covered in hairs, making it stick to clothing or fur.
Common Names
The cotton's stickseed is commonly known by various names such as Pacific stickseed, woolly burr, and cotton burr.
Uses
The cotton's stickseed has been used by Native Americans in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including stomach problems and skin irritations. It is also used by some as a natural dye. However, it should be noted that the plant is not commonly used in modern medicine due to the limited scientific research done on its effectiveness and safety.
Growth Conditions for Hackelia diffusa var. cottonii
Light: Hackelia diffusa var. cottonii typically grows in areas with full to partial sunlight. It can tolerate some shade, but optimal growth requires at least six hours of sunlight per day.
Temperature: This plant is native to the Pacific Northwest area of North America, where it grows in a temperate climate. It prefers cool to moderate temperatures and can withstand frost. The ideal temperature range for Hackelia diffusa var. cottonii is between 50-75 degrees Fahrenheit.
Soil: Hackelia diffusa var. cottonii is adaptable to a range of soil types, but it thrives in well-draining soils with ample organic matter. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils with a pH range of 5.5-7.5. This plant can tolerate soils with varying levels of moisture, from dry to moist, but it does not grow well in waterlogged soil.
Water: Hackelia diffusa var. cottonii requires regular watering, especially during periods of drought. It can tolerate short periods of waterlogged soil but prolonged exposure to excess moisture can be detrimental to its growth. The plant is drought-tolerant once established, but consistent moisture is necessary for optimal growth and flowering.
Fertilizer: Hackelia diffusa var. cottonii does not require excessive fertilization. However, adding a slow-release fertilizer with balanced nutrients during the growing season can promote healthy growth and flowering.
Propagation: This plant can be propagated by seed, which should be sown in the fall or early spring. It can also be propagated by division of established plants in the spring or early fall. Cuttings are not usually successful in propagating this plant.
Cultivation
Hackelia diffusa (Lehm.) I.M. Johnston var. cottonii (Piper) R.L. Carr is native to western North America and is typically found growing in sandy or rocky soils. It prefers full sun to partial shade, and well-drained soil. When cultivating Hackelia diffusa (Lehm.) I.M. Johnston var. cottonii (Piper) R.L. Carr, it is best to grow it from seed. The seeds can be sown directly into the soil in the early spring or fall. In colder climates, the seeds can be started indoors about 4 to 6 weeks before the last frost date. Transplant the seedlings outdoors once the temperatures are warm and the danger of frost has passed.
Watering Needs
Hackelia diffusa (Lehm.) I.M. Johnston var. cottonii (Piper) R.L. Carr prefers moderate watering. It is important to water the plant deeply but avoid overwatering. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering to prevent root rot. During hot and dry weather, provide regular irrigation to promote healthy growth.
Fertilization
When it comes to fertilizing Hackelia diffusa (Lehm.) I.M. Johnston var. cottonii (Piper) R.L. Carr, it is best to avoid using chemical fertilizers and opt for organic options. Apply a thin layer of compost or well-rotted manure in the early spring to provide nutrients to the soil. Repeat the process once every year to promote healthy growth.
Pruning
Hackelia diffusa (Lehm.) I.M. Johnston var. cottonii (Piper) R.L. Carr does not require pruning. However, it is recommended to deadhead the flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming throughout the growing season. To deadhead, remove the faded flowers by pinching them off at the base of the stem. This will encourage the plant to produce more flowers and will prolong the blooming season.
Propagation
The propagation of Hackelia diffusa (Lehm.) I.M. Johnston var. cottonii (Piper) R.L. Carr can be done through two methods: seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Hackelia diffusa (Lehm.) I.M. Johnston var. cottonii (Piper) R.L. Carr can be collected from the plant's flowers and sown directly into well-draining soil in a sunny location. The best time to collect the seeds is when the flowers have matured and begun to dry out. The seeds should be sown at a depth of around 1 cm and spaced out at intervals of 10-12 cms apart. Germination typically occurs within 1-3 weeks, depending on the environmental conditions.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation of Hackelia diffusa (Lehm.) I.M. Johnston var. cottonii (Piper) R.L. Carr can be done through stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from the stem in the summer months, from the softwood growth. Cuttings should be around 5-6 cms in length and should be treated with rooting hormone before planting in well-draining soil. The cuttings should be kept in a warm and humid location until roots start to develop, which typically takes 2-4 weeks. Once roots have developed, the young plants can be transplanted to a sunny location.
Disease Management
Hackelia diffusa (Lehm.) I.M. Johnston var. cottonii (Piper) R.L. Carr is susceptible to a few diseases that can impact its growth and yield. Some of the common diseases affecting this plant include root rot, powdery mildew, and rust.
To manage root rot, it is essential to avoid over-watering the plant and ensuring that the soil has good drainage. Fungicides can also be applied to the soil to prevent the growth and spread of the fungus causing root rot.
Powdery mildew can be prevented by keeping the foliage as dry as possible. Ensure proper spacing of the plants to encourage air circulation and remove any infected leaves promptly. Fungicides containing myclobutanil, propiconazole or triforine can help control powdery mildew.
Rust can be treated using fungicides that contain myclobutanil, thiophanate-methyl, or propiconazole. Removal and destruction of infected plant material can also prevent the spread of rust.
Pest Management
In addition to diseases, Hackelia diffusa (Lehm.) I.M. Johnston var. cottonii (Piper) R.L. Carr can also be affected by pests such as spider mites and aphids.
Spider mites can be managed by regularly monitoring the plant for infestation. Infected plants can be isolated to prevent the spread of the mites. Mites can also be removed through high-pressure water sprays or by using insecticidal soaps or oils.
Aphids can be controlled by spraying infected plants with a mixture of water and insecticidal soaps or oils. Encouraging the presence of natural predators like ladybugs can also help control the aphids. Regular monitoring of the plant for pests can help prevent severe infestations.
