Overview
Horkelia bolanderi Gray ssp. clevelandii (Greene) Keck is a small flowering plant that is native to California, specifically in the San Francisco Bay Area and the Central Coast region. This plant is part of the rose family (Rosaceae) and is closely related to the cinquefoil (Potentilla).
Common Names
The Horkelia bolanderi Gray ssp. clevelandii goes by several common names, including cleveland's horkelia and Bolander's horkelia. The former is named after its discoverer, Daniel Cleveland, while the latter honors H.N. Bolander, a botanist who made significant contributions to the study of California native plants.
Appearance
The cleveland's horkelia is a small herbaceous plant that typically grows up to 20 centimeters in height. The plant's stems are slender and upright, and its leaves are basal and divided into several segments. The flowers of this plant are small and white, and they bloom in clusters. The plant typically blooms in the spring and summer months.
Uses
While the Horkelia bolanderi Gray ssp. clevelandii has no significant commercial or medicinal uses, it does play an important role in its natural ecosystem. Pollinators such as butterflies and bees are attracted to its flowers, while small animals and insects take refuge in its leaves. Additionally, it is often used in landscaping as a ground cover or border plant due to its attractive foliage and low maintenance requirements.
Growth conditions of Horkelia bolanderi Gray ssp. clevelandii (Greene) Keck
Horkelia bolanderi Gray ssp. clevelandii (Greene) Keck, commonly known as Cleveland's horkelia, is a perennial plant that belongs to the rose family. This plant is native to California and can be found growing in rocky meadows, slopes, and open woodlands from 500 to 2500 meters in elevation.
Light requirements
Cleveland's horkelia prefers full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. In partial shade, the plant may become leggy and produce fewer flowers. In areas with intense sunlight, the plant may require some shade in the afternoon to prevent leaf scorching.
Temperature requirements
Horkelia bolanderi Gray ssp. clevelandii (Greene) Keck thrives in temperate climates with mild winters and hot summers. The plants can tolerate temperatures as low as -18°C and as high as 43°C. The ideal temperature range for growth is between 15°C and 27°C.
Soil requirements
Cleveland's horkelia grows well in well-drained soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The soil should be fertile and rich in organic matter. The plant prefers sandy loam or loamy soils and may struggle in heavy clay soils. It is essential to ensure that the soil is not waterlogged, as this may lead to root rot.
In conclusion, Horkelia bolanderi Gray ssp. clevelandii (Greene) Keck requires full sun to partial shade, well-drained soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5, and a temperature range of 15°C to 27°C. Proper growth conditions are essential to ensure that this plant thrives and produces healthy flowers.
Cultivation Methods
Horkelia bolanderi Gray ssp. clevelandii (Greene) Keck are native to California and grow best in well-drained soil that is rich in nutrients. They grow well in full sun to partial shade areas and can tolerate moderate levels of salt spray. Horkelia bolanderi Gray ssp. clevelandii (Greene) Keck can be grown from seeds or propagated through stem cuttings.
When planting seeds, prepare the soil by digging holes that are twice the size of the seed and fill them with a mix of compost and soil before planting. Water them regularly and provide some shade for the first few weeks after planting to protect them from the sun.
Watering Needs
Horkelia bolanderi Gray ssp. clevelandii (Greene) Keck requires moderate watering. It is important to water the plants deeply and to avoid over-watering or leaving the soil too wet as they can develop fungal diseases. Water the plants when the soil feels dry to the touch and try to maintain consistent soil moisture.
Fertilization
Horkelia bolanderi Gray ssp. clevelandii (Greene) Keck can benefit from fertilizer applications to promote healthy growth and vibrant blooms. Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, every six weeks during the growing season. Be sure to follow the instructions on the package and avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to burning the roots or causing the plants to become leggy.
Pruning
Horkelia bolanderi Gray ssp. clevelandii (Greene) Keck requires little to no pruning, except for the removal of dead or damaged foliage and spent blooms. This will encourage the plant to direct its energy towards new growth and blooms. Trim the plants back in late fall to prepare them for the colder months ahead.
Propagation of Horkelia bolanderi Gray ssp. clevelandii (Greene) Keck
Horkelia bolanderi Gray ssp. clevelandii (Greene) Keck can be propagated through two methods, namely, seed propagation and stem cutting propagation.
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method for growing Horkelia bolanderi Gray ssp. clevelandii (Greene) Keck. It is essential to get seeds from a reliable source to ensure they have adequate germination rates. The seeds of Horkelia bolanderi Gray ssp. clevelandii (Greene) Keck should be sown in a suitable growing medium, which is well-drained and rich in organic matter. The seeds should be sown at the beginning of spring, and it is best to water them frequently, preferably twice a day, to ensure they stay moist. The seedlings should emerge in a few weeks, and once they are about 2-3cm tall, they should be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden.
Stem cutting propagation
Stem cutting propagation is another method of propagating Horkelia bolanderi Gray ssp. clevelandii (Greene) Keck. Cuttings should be taken from new growth in spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. It is best to take cuttings that are about 10-12cm long and have two to three nodes. The lower leaves of the cutting should be removed, and the cut end should be dipped in rooting hormone powder before being placed in a suitable growing medium. The medium should be kept moist, but not wet, and the container should be covered with a plastic bag to retain moisture. The cuttings should root within a month, and once they have a good root system, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden.
Disease Management
Horkelia bolanderi Gray ssp. clevelandii (Greene) Keck is a relatively disease-resistant plant, but it can still be affected by a few diseases.
One disease that can affect H. bolanderi is powdery mildew, which can be identified by a white, powdery coating on the leaves. To manage powdery mildew, it is important to remove infected plant parts and to increase air circulation around the plant. Treating with a fungicide may also be necessary.
Another disease that can affect H. bolanderi is verticillium wilt, which causes yellowing and wilting of the leaves. This disease can be managed by planting resistant cultivars and practicing good crop rotation.
Pest Management
Like most plants, Horkelia bolanderi Gray ssp. clevelandii (Greene) Keck can be affected by a variety of pests.
One pest that can affect H. bolanderi is aphids, which can cause distorted growth and discoloration of the leaves. To manage aphids, it is important to regularly inspect the plant for infestations and to remove them by hand or treat the plant with an insecticidal soap.
Another common pest that affects H. bolanderi is spider mites, which can cause yellowing and webbing on the leaves. Spider mites can be managed by increasing humidity around the plant and treating it with a miticide.
