Overview
Hedeoma drummondii Benth. var. reverchonii Gray is a perennial herb in the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is native to the southwestern United States, particularly found in Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas.
Common Names
Hedeoma drummondii Benth. var. reverchonii Gray is commonly known as Drummond’s false pennyroyal, Drummond’s false hedeoma, or Reverchon’s false pennyroyal.
Appearance
Drummond’s false pennyroyal typically grows up to 12 inches tall. The plant has slender stems that are reddish-brown in color and covered in fine white hairs. Its leaves are opposite, ovate, and have serrate margins. They are also covered in fine hairs and range from 0.2 to 1 inch in length. The flowers of the plant are small and lavender to purple in color, forming in small clusters at the top of each stem. The plant has a strong minty scent when crushed or rubbed.
Uses
Drummond’s false pennyroyal has been traditionally used as a natural insect repellent and has also been used in Mexican folk medicine to treat ailments such as fever, cough, and digestive issues. Its essential oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties, and it is sometimes used as a flavoring agent in food and beverages.
However, caution must be taken when handling or consuming this plant as it contains toxic compounds that can cause headaches, nausea, and vomiting in large quantities.
Growth Conditions for Hedeoma drummondii Benth. var. reverchonii Gray
Light: Hedeoma drummondii Benth. var. reverchonii Gray typically grows in full to partial sunlight. It can tolerate some shade but requires enough light to thrive. However, too much exposure to direct sunlight can result in scorching of the leaves.
Temperature: This plant is native to Texas and thrives in warm temperatures. It can tolerate semi-arid conditions, but it does need some moisture. It grows well in USDA plant hardiness zones 7 to 10, with average temperature ranges of 15 to 30 degree Celsius.
Soil: Hedeoma drummondii Benth. var. reverchonii Gray prefers well-draining, sandy or gravelly soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Soil with high clay content or poor drainage can lead to problems such as root rot. It is also important to ensure that the soil is not continually waterlogged, as this can also cause problems for the plant.
Water: While Hedeoma drummondii Benth. var. reverchonii Gray does not require a lot of water, it does require some moisture to thrive. The plant can tolerate drought conditions but performs best when consistently watered. It is important to avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot.
Fertilizer: Hedeoma drummondii Benth. var. reverchonii Gray typically does not require fertilization if grown in a nutrient-rich soil. However, if the plant is grown in poor soil, a balanced fertilizer can be applied in early spring to promote growth.
Cultivation of Hedeoma drummondii Benth. var. reverchonii Gray
The Hedeoma drummondii Benth. var. reverchonii Gray, also known as Texas false pennyroyal, is a wildflower that thrives in dry soils. It is a durable, low maintenance plant that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions, making it a perfect addition to a rock garden or xeriscape landscape.
Hedeoma drummondii prefers well-draining sandy or rocky soils. It can tolerate slightly acidic soils, but it grows best in neutral to alkaline soils.
The plant is hardy to USDA zones 7a to 10b and can withstand hot and dry conditions. It requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth.
Watering Needs
Hedeoma drummondii Benth. var. reverchonii Gray is drought tolerant and can survive long periods without water. However, young plants require regular watering to establish their root systems. Water young plants weekly for the first four weeks and gradually decrease watering frequency as the plant matures. Fully grown plants require infrequent watering, especially in areas with frequent rainfall. When watering, make sure to avoid wetting the plant's leaves as they can be prone to fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Hedeoma drummondii Benth. var. reverchonii Gray does not require regular fertilization. In fact, over-fertilizing can lead to rapid growth, which can make the plant more susceptible to diseases. If you must fertilize, apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer once every two years.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Hedeoma drummondii Benth. var. reverchonii Gray as the plant does not get too tall. However, deadheading spent flowers can encourage blooming and maintain the plant's shape. Cut back the plant by one-third of its height in the early spring to remove old or diseased stems and promote healthy growth.
Propagation of Hedeoma drummondii Benth. var. reverchonii Gray
Hedeoma drummondii Benth. var. reverchonii Gray, commonly known as Reverchon's false pennyroyal, is a flowering plant native to Texas and Oklahoma, USA. This herbaceous plant is mainly grown for its ornamental value and its ability to attract pollinators. Propagation of Hedeoma drummondii Benth. var. reverchonii Gray can be done through various methods, including:
Seed propagation
Seeds of Hedeoma drummondii Benth. var. reverchonii Gray can be harvested from the dried fruit of the plant. The seeds should be sown during the early spring in a well-drained soil mix. The soil should have a pH of 6.5-7.0. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 1/16 inch and should be covered with a thin layer of soil. The pots should be watered lightly and placed in a shaded area. Germination of the seeds can take anywhere from 7-21 days.
Cutting propagation
Cutting propagation of Hedeoma drummondii Benth. var. reverchonii Gray can be done during the late summer or early fall. Cuttings should be taken from the stem tips of the plant and should be around 5-6 inches long. The cuttings should be dipped into a rooting hormone and planted into a well-draining soil mix. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. The pots should be placed in a shaded area until the cuttings have established roots.
Division propagation
Division propagation of Hedeoma drummondii Benth. var. reverchonii Gray can be done during the early spring. The plant should be dug up and carefully divided into smaller sections. Each section should have some roots and a few stems. The sections should be planted into a well-draining soil mix and watered lightly. The pots should be placed in a shaded area until the plants have established roots and new growth.
Disease and Pest Management for Hedeoma Drummondii Benth. var. Reverchonii Gray
Hedeoma drummondii Benth. var. reverchonii Gray, commonly known as Texas false pennyroyal, is a lovely plant with its fragrant foliage and purple flowers. However, like any other plant, it is prone to disease and pest attacks. Here are common diseases and pests that might affect the plant, and suggestions on how to manage them:
Common Diseases
Fungal Diseases: Texas false pennyroyal can be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot. To manage these diseases, it is essential to keep the plant dry by providing good spacing, adequate sunlight, and proper drainage. You can also spray a fungicide according to the product's instructions.
Bacterial Diseases: The most common bacterial disease that affects Texas false pennyroyal is bacterial leaf spot. The symptoms include brown to black spots on the foliage. To prevent bacterial diseases, avoid overhead watering and keep the plant dry. You can also spray copper fungicide to manage bacterial leaf spots.
Common Pests
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny, eight-legged creatures that suck the sap out of the plant's leaves, causing discoloration and distortion. To manage spider mites, you can spray insecticidal soap on the foliage. It is also essential to keep the plant well-watered to prevent pest infestation.
Aphids: Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that suck sap from the plant's leaves and stems. They can cause curling and yellowing of the foliage. To manage aphids, you can spray the plant with a strong stream of water to remove the pests. You can also use insecticidal soap to get rid of severe infestations.
Whiteflies: Whiteflies are tiny, winged insects that suck the sap from the plant's leaves. They can cause severe damage to the foliage and transmit plant viruses. To manage whiteflies, you can introduce beneficial insects such as ladybirds and lacewings in your garden. You can also use sticky traps to monitor and manage whitefly populations.
With proper care and management, Texas false pennyroyal can thrive and remain healthy, free from any disease or pest attack. Regular monitoring is also essential to detect any infestation or disease early on and manage it before it becomes severe.
