Description of Hemizonia multiglandulosa (DC.) Gray var. sparsa Gray
Hemizonia multiglandulosa (DC.) Gray var. sparsa Gray is a perennial plant that belongs to the aster family, Asteraceae. It is commonly known as the sticky tarweed, sticky false tarweed, or Monte Vista dove weed. This plant is native to North America and is commonly found in the western states of the United States and Mexico.
Appearance of Hemizonia multiglandulosa (DC.) Gray var. sparsa Gray
The sticky tarweed plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and has several branching stems with a sticky texture due to glandular hairs. The leaves of the plant are narrow, linear, and green in color. The flowers of Hemizonia multiglandulosa (DC.) Gray var. sparsa Gray are small and yellow, clustered at the end of the stems, and bloom from June to September. The plant produces large quantities of small and flat seeds that are dispersed by wind.
Uses of Hemizonia multiglandulosa (DC.) Gray var. sparsa Gray
Hemizonia multiglandulosa (DC.) Gray var. sparsa Gray has been used by Native Americans for medicinal purposes. A tea made from the leaves was used to relieve rheumatism, arthritis, and respiratory problems. The sticky resin on the plant was used to treat sores, burns, and injuries. The plant is also used as a natural insect repellent due to its sticky texture.
In addition to its medicinal uses, Hemizonia multiglandulosa (DC.) Gray var. sparsa Gray is also used to prevent soil erosion and improve soil quality. It is a beneficial plant in the ecosystem, providing food and habitat for many insects, birds, and animals.
Overall, the sticky tarweed is an important plant in the western United States, with unique physical features, medicinal uses, and ecological significance.
Growth Conditions for Hemizonia multiglandulosa var. sparsa
Light Requirements: Hemizonia multiglandulosa var. sparsa is a sun-loving plant and requires full sunlight to grow and thrive. It is also highly tolerant of strong winds and dry conditions.
Temperature Requirements: Hemizonia multiglandulosa var. sparsa is a California native and is adapted to the warm and dry summers of the region. It grows well under warm to hot temperatures. However, it is not very frost tolerant and may die back during very cold winters.
Soil Type and Nutrient Requirements: Hemizonia multiglandulosa var. sparsa is adapted to a wide range of well-draining soil types, including sandy, loamy, or gravelly soils. It does not require highly fertile soils, and in fact, may not grow well in soils that are too rich in organic matter or nutrients. The plant is also adapted to soils that are low in moisture content, so it does not require frequent watering.
Soil pH: Hemizonia multiglandulosa var. sparsa is adapted to a wide range of soil pH, including acidic, neutral, and alkaline soils. But, it is well adapted to the acidic to neutral soils of its native range.
Other Growth Requirements: Hemizonia multiglandulosa var. sparsa is adapted to grow in open fields, chaparral ecosystems, and other dry environments. It is an annual plant and requires germination from seed each year. It is not very tolerant of disturbances such as grazing or trampling, and may not grow well in areas that are heavily disturbed.
Cultivation methods
Hemizonia multiglandulosa (DC.) Gray var. sparsa Gray, commonly known as San Diego tarweed, is a perennial plant native to California. It grows well in full sun and well-draining soil. The seeds of this plant can be propagated indoors in early spring or sowed directly into the garden after the last frost. You can start the seeds in a seedling tray or a biodegradable pot, which will prevent root disturbance when it's time for transplanting.Watering needs
San Diego tarweed requires moderate watering during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist, but not too wet, as this can cause root rot. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch and avoid waterlogging the soil. It's important to reduce watering in the dormant season to prevent fungal diseases.Fertilization
Fertilization should be done during the growing season to encourage healthy growth. It's best to use a slow-release fertilizer, which will release the nutrients gradually over time. You can also use a liquid fertilizer, such as compost tea, every two weeks to provide the plant with essential nutrients.Pruning
San Diego tarweed requires minimal pruning, but you can cut down the dead flowers and stems to encourage new growth. Make sure to use clean pruning shears to avoid spreading diseases. Avoid pruning during the hot summer months, as this can damage the plant.Propagation of Hemizonia multiglandulosa var. sparsa
Hemizonia multiglandulosa var. sparsa can be propagated by seed or cuttings.
Seeds
Seeds of Hemizonia multiglandulosa var. sparsa can be collected from mature fruits that are brown and dry. The fruits should be collected before they split open, and the seeds can be removed by gently shaking them out.
The seeds should be cleaned and air-dried before storing in a cool, dry place. To promote germination, the seeds can be subjected to cold-moist stratification for several weeks before planting.
Seeds can be sown directly in the ground in fall or early spring. The soil should be well-drained and fertile. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil and kept moist until germination.
Cuttings
Softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings can be taken from healthy, vigorous plants of Hemizonia multiglandulosa var. sparsa in late spring or early summer.
The cuttings should be about 4-6 inches long and have at least 2-3 nodes. The leaves on the lower half of the cutting should be removed, and the bottom of the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone.
The cuttings can be planted in a well-drained, sterilized potting mix and kept in a warm, humid environment. Bottom heat can be applied to promote rooting.
Once the cuttings have rooted and are actively growing, they can be transplanted to a larger container or directly in the garden.
Disease Management for Hemizonia multiglandulosa (DC.) Gray var. sparsa Gray
The main diseases that can affect Hemizonia multiglandulosa (DC.) Gray var. sparsa Gray are fungal infections, such as powdery mildew and rust. Powdery mildew is a common issue that can affect the leaves of the plant. This disease is caused by the fungi Erysiphe cichoracearum and Sphaerotheca macularis, which produce a white powdery coating on the leaves. Rust, on the other hand, is caused by various species of fungi that produce orange or reddish-brown spots on the leaves. These diseases can weaken the plant and reduce its overall health.
To manage fungal infections, it is essential to use good cultural practices. The first step is to remove any infected leaves and dispose of them properly. Fungicides can also be used to control the spread of the disease. However, it is important to choose a fungicide that specifically targets the type of fungus that is causing the infection. Another option is to use natural remedies such as diluted milk or neem oil, which can be sprayed onto the affected plants. Additionally, it is important to maintain proper air circulation and avoid overcrowding the plants, as this can increase humidity levels and promote the growth of fungi.
Pest Management for Hemizonia multiglandulosa (DC.) Gray var. sparsa Gray
The most common pests that can affect Hemizonia multiglandulosa (DC.) Gray var. sparsa Gray are aphids and spider mites. Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They can cause stunted growth, curled leaves, and a weakened plant. Spider mites, on the other hand, are tiny pests that feed on the sap of the plant and can cause yellowing or bronzing of the leaves. They are often found on the undersides of leaves, and can quickly multiply and infest the plant.
To manage aphids, it is important to monitor your plants regularly and manually remove any visible pests. You can also use insecticidal soaps or oils, which will suffocate the insects. Additionally, attracting natural predators, such as ladybugs or lacewings, can help control aphid populations. Spider mites can be more challenging to manage, as they reproduce rapidly and can be resistant to pesticides. However, using insecticidal soaps or neem oil can be effective. Additionally, increasing humidity levels and regularly washing the leaves can help prevent the mites from infesting the plant.
