Description
Hemizonia increscens (Hall ex Keck) Tanowitz ssp. villosa Tanowitz, commonly known as the woolly dwarf tarweed or woolly tarweed, is an aromatic, long-lived plant species belonging to the sunflower family (Asteraceae). It produces small yellow flowers that are grouped together in head-like structures. It is a herbaceous plant that grows as a perennial shrub and can reach up to 20 centimeters tall. Unlike other Hemizonia species, this tarweed has a cushion-like appearance due to its dense, curved, and hairy leaves.
Origin and Distribution
The woolly dwarf tarweed is native to California, specifically in the coastal and inland regions of the state. It is commonly found in areas with sandy soils, such as dry washes, hillsides, and dunes. It is also adapted to areas with a Mediterranean climate that has hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
Uses
The woolly dwarf tarweed was traditionally used by Native Americans as a medicinal plant. The leaves were made into poultices or ointments that were applied to relieve headaches, rheumatism, and various skin irritations. Today, it is also used as an ornamental plant in rock gardens, xeriscapes, and native plant gardens due to its unique appearance. It can be propagated from seeds or cuttings.
General Appearance
The woolly dwarf tarweed has a small, cushion-like appearance due to its hairy and curved leaves. Its stems are also hairy and may be a reddish-green to brown color. The flowers are small, yellow, and gathered together in head-like structures that are 1 to 2 centimeters in diameter. The plant may bloom from May to July or August, depending on the location and climate. It is a hardy plant that can survive in areas with moderate drought but may need occasional watering during dry periods.
Light Requirements
Hemizonia Increscens ssp. Villosa is native to semi-arid regions, where it requires full sun exposure to grow and thrive. The plant can tolerate some shade, but it will not flower as abundantly. Therefore, it is recommended to plant it in an area where it receives at least six hours of direct sun exposure each day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant's natural habitat experiences hot summers and cool winters; thus, it is suitable for cultivation in USDA hardiness zones 7 to 10. Hemizonia Increscens ssp. Villosa requires a temperature range of 60 to 90°F (15 - 32°C) to grow successfully. The plant is tolerant to extreme heat and drought conditions, but it cannot withstand frost or prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Hemizonia Increscens ssp. Villosa requires well-draining soils with low fertility. The plant cannot tolerate waterlogged and poorly drained soils, which can lead to root rot and other diseases. The ideal soil pH for this plant is slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0). Adding organic matter, such as compost or leaf mold, can help improve soil structure and fertility, promoting healthy growth. Hemizonia Increscens ssp. Villosa is also tolerant to saline soils and can survive in coastal regions with high levels of salt exposure.
Cultivation of Hemizonia increscens (Hall ex Keck) Tanowitz ssp. villosa Tanowitz
Hemizonia increscens (Hall ex Keck) Tanowitz ssp. villosa Tanowitz is a plant that thrives in full sunlight and well-draining soil. It is essential to choose a location where the plant can receive full sun exposure, especially during the growing season.
The plant belongs to the aster family and is endemic to California in the United States. It is a drought-tolerant plant and prefers sandy or gravelly soils.
The ideal time to plant Hemizonia increscens (Hall ex Keck) Tanowitz ssp. villosa Tanowitz is in autumn when the temperatures are low. The temperature range for this plant is between 10°C to 35°C. In regions where the temperature goes below 0°C, it is advisable to cover the plant to protect it from frost.
Watering Needs of Hemizonia increscens (Hall ex Keck) Tanowitz ssp. villosa Tanowitz
When grown in containers, the plant should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist. In contrast, when planted in the ground, it only needs some water during prolonged dry spells. It is crucial to note that over-watering can lead to root rot, which can destroy the plant.
Before watering, check the soil moisture by sticking a finger into the soil. If it feels dry, then water it.
Fertilization of Hemizonia increscens (Hall ex Keck) Tanowitz ssp. villosa Tanowitz
The plant requires minimal fertilization, and it's advisable to feed it once a year with slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Applying too much fertilizer can lead to excessive growth that is weak and easily broken.
Pruning Hemizonia increscens (Hall ex Keck) Tanowitz ssp. villosa Tanowitz
Pruning helps to promote bushier growth and prevent the plant from becoming leggy. It should be done once a year, preferably in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Simply trim back the plant evenly, just a few inches above the base. This allows for the stimulation of new growth from the base of the plant.
Propagation of Hemizonia increscens ssp. villosa
There are two main methods for propogating Hemizonia increscens ssp. villosa: seeds and cuttings.
Propagation by seeds
The most common method of propagation is through seeds. Hemizonia increscens ssp. villosa produces small black seeds that can be easily collected when mature. Growers may choose to plant the seeds outdoors or indoors.
When planting outdoors, wait until the soil has warmed up and there is no chance of frost. Plant the seeds directly in the ground in a sunny location. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and water regularly until they germinate. With proper care, these seedlings may grow into mature plants in two to three years.
When planting indoors, start the seeds in trays or pots filled with a light soil mix. Sow the seeds on the surface of the soil and lightly tamp them down. Water the soil regularly and keep it moist until the seeds germinate. Once the seedlings are large enough, they can be transplanted into larger pots or moved outdoors.
Propagation by cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is less common but can be a successful method for Hemizonia increscens ssp. villosa. Take cuttings from mature plants in the summer when the plant is actively growing. Cuttings should be 3-6 inches long and taken from the end of the stem. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone.
Plant the cuttings in a pot or tray filled with a well-draining soil mix. Water the soil regularly and keep it moist until the cuttings have developed roots. After a few weeks, plants can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the ground if the weather is suitable.
Disease Management
The plant Hemizonia increscens (Hall ex Keck) Tanowitz ssp. villosa Tanowitz may be susceptible to several diseases, and it is important to identify and manage them promptly. Here are some of the most common diseases that can damage the plant:
- Leaf spot: This fungal infection causes brown or black spots to form on the leaves of the plant. To manage it, remove and dispose of affected leaves and avoid wetting the foliage when watering. Fungicides may also help.
- Root rot: Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot, which causes the roots to become soft and slimy. To manage it, improve drainage, reduce watering, and consider using fungicides.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal infection appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage it, remove and dispose of affected plant parts and improve air circulation around the plant. Fungicides may also help.
Pest Management
Hemizonia increscens (Hall ex Keck) Tanowitz ssp. villosa Tanowitz can also be susceptible to pests that can damage the plant and reduce its growth. Here are some of the most common pests that affect the plant:
- Aphids: These small insects can cluster on the leaves and stems of the plant, causing distortions and yellowing. To manage them, spray the plant with a strong stream of water, or use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Cutworms: These caterpillars can cut off the stem of the plant near the soil surface. To manage them, use collars or barriers around the stem, and consider using insecticidal sprays.
- Spider mites: These tiny mites can cause yellowing and stippling on the leaves of the plant. To manage them, remove and dispose of affected plant parts, improve air circulation, and use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
