Origin
Hackelia pinetorum (Greene ex Gray) I.M. Johnston var. pinetorum, commonly known as Alkali stickseed, belongs to the Boraginaceae family. It is native to North America, specifically the western United States and southwestern Canada.
Common Names
Alkali stickseed is also known by other common names such as Pine stickseed.
Uses
The roots and seeds of Alkali stickseed have been used in traditional Native American medicine as a treatment for various ailments such as rheumatism, asthma, and stomach issues. The roots have been boiled and used externally to treat skin conditions such as boils and wounds. Additionally, the plant has also been used in local traditional medicines as a diuretic, laxative, and stimulant.
Alkali stickseed is commonly used as an ornamental plant in gardens due to its showy blue flowers.
General Appearance
Alkali stickseed is a slender and erect annual, biennial or perennial herb that can grow up to 0.6 to 2 meters in height. It produces a taproot that can penetrate deeply into the soil to access moisture. The leaves are narrow, alternate, and covered with small hairs that give them slightly prickly texture. The flowers are small and arranged in clusters at the top of the stems. They are blue in color, with five pointed petals, and have long, protruding stamens. Pods are small and have hooked hairs that catch onto fur or clothing.
Light Requirements
Hackelia pinetorum typically grows in partially shaded to fully shaded conditions. It thrives under the canopy of hardwood and coniferous trees or in open but shaded areas.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species is native to mountainous areas of North America, so it is adapted to cooler temperatures. It grows best in areas with a cool and moist climate, with temperatures ranging from 40 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Hackelia pinetorum may become dormant in the summer when conditions become too dry or hot.
Soil Requirements
Hackelia pinetorum var. pinetorum prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It grows best in soils that are slightly acidic to neutral (pH of 5.0-7.0). This species is typically found growing in soils that are derived from sandstone or shale. It can also tolerate rocky or gravelly soils.
Cultivation methods
Hackelia pinetorum is a beautiful plant and a great addition to any garden. It is native to North America, and it grows best in well-drained soil under the full sun. This plant prefers a slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.0. It is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal care, making it an excellent choice for beginner gardeners.
Watering needs
The watering needs of Hackelia pinetorum are moderate. The plant does not tolerate drought well, so it is important to keep the soil evenly moist. However, overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is crucial to avoid standing water. During the summer, the plant may require more frequent watering, and during the winter, it may need less frequent watering.
Fertilization
The plant does not require frequent fertilization, but it can benefit from a balanced fertilizer application once a year in the early spring. It is important to avoid over-fertilization as it can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers. Use a slow-release fertilizer that will provide the plant with the necessary nutrients over time.
Pruning
Hackelia pinetorum does not require pruning, but deadheading can promote the production of more flowers. Once the flowers have faded, pinch back the spent stems to encourage the production of new blooms. In the fall, remove any damaged or dead stems to maintain the plant's health and appearance.
Propagation of Hackelia pinetorum var. pinetorum
Hackelia pinetorum var. pinetorum is a herbaceous perennial wildflower that belongs to the Boraginaceae family. It is commonly known as pine stickseed due to its preferred habitat in pine forests. The plant is native to the western United States, where it grows in meadows, dry slopes, and rocky areas. Propagation of Hackelia pinetorum var. pinetorum can be achieved through seeds and vegetative propagation.
Propagation through seeds
Propagation of Hackelia pinetorum var. pinetorum through seeds is relatively easy. The seeds should be collected from mature fruits in late summer when they turn brown. The collected seeds should be stored in a cool, dry place until the following spring. Stratification can help break the seed dormancy.
Sow the seeds directly into a greenhouse or outdoors in the fall. Before sowing, conduct a soil test to determine the appropriate soil pH, nutrients, and light requirements. Plant the seeds at a depth of ΒΌ inch in a well-drained and fertile soil mix. Water regularly, but avoid overwatering, which can cause the seeds to rot. Germination of Hackelia pinetorum var. pinetorum seeds occurs in the spring, and the seedlings should be transplanted into their permanent location in the garden.
Propagation through vegetative means
Propagation of Hackelia pinetorum var. pinetorum through vegetative means is also feasible. The plant can be propagated through stem cuttings or division. This method is generally preferred when a specific cultivar needs to be reproduced.
Stem cuttings should be taken in the early summer when the plant is actively growing. Cut a section of the stem, approximately 4-6 inches long, from a healthy and disease-free plant. Remove any lower leaves or flowers from the cutting, leaving only two or three leaves at the top. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder to encourage rooting and plant the cutting in a well-drained soil mix. Water the soil to keep it moist but not wet, and cover the cutting with a plastic bag or a glass jar to maintain high humidity levels. In about six weeks, the cutting should root and can be transplanted into its permanent location.
Division is best done in fall when the plant is dormant or in early spring when new growth appears. Carefully dig out the plant, taking care not to damage the roots. Gently separate the root clumps into several sections using a knife or garden shears, ensuring that each division has a sufficient amount of roots and shoots. Replant each division into a well-drained soil mix and water thoroughly.
Disease Management
Hackelia pinetorum (Greene ex Gray) I.M. Johnston var. pinetorum is susceptible to several diseases. One of the most common is powdery mildew, which causes a white, powdery coating on leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage powdery mildew, remove infected plant parts, provide good air circulation, and apply fungicides.
Another disease that affects H. pinetorum is root rot, which causes the plant to wilt and die. Root rot is caused by soil-borne pathogens that thrive in wet or poorly drained soils. To prevent root rot, avoid overwatering, improve soil drainage, and remove infected plants and soil.
Leaf spot is another disease that can affect H. pinetorum. It causes brown or black spots on leaves, which can cause the leaves to wilt and drop. To manage leaf spot, remove infected leaves, avoid overhead watering, and apply fungicides.
Pest Management
Hackelia pinetorum (Greene ex Gray) I.M. Johnston var. pinetorum can also be affected by several pests. One common pest is the spider mite, which can cause yellow or brown spots on leaves and cause them to become dry and brittle. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with water, prune heavily infested areas, and apply miticides.
Aphids are another pest that can affect H. pinetorum. They suck the sap from the plant, causing leaves to yellow and curl. To manage aphids, spray the plant with water, introduce natural predators like ladybugs, and apply insecticidal soaps.
The H. pinetorum can also be affected by cutworms, which cut the plant stem at the soil level, causing the plant to wilt and die. To manage cutworms, remove weeds and debris from the garden, use cutworm collars around the base of the plant, and apply insecticides.
