Origin
Horkelia bolanderi Gray ssp. parryi (S. Wats.) Keck, commonly known as Parry's horkelia, is a plant species belonging to the Rosaceae family. It is endemic to western North America, specifically found in California, Oregon, and Nevada.
Common Names
Parry's horkelia has several common names, including Parry's umbrellawort, Parry's horkelia, Bolander's umbrellawort, and Bolander's horkelia.
Uses
Parry's horkelia is not commonly used in medicine or in any other industry in particular, but its flowers can be an excellent source of nectar for pollinating insects, primarily bees and butterflies.
General Appearance
Parry's horkelia is a perennial plant, typically growing up to a height of 5–20 inches. Each stem has several leaves that are divided into three lobes, and the upper surface is smooth and dark green, contrasting with the underside, which is lighter and hairy. The flowers of the plant are small, occurring in dense clusters atop the stem. They bloom in early summer and have pale pink petals and yellow center disks. The fruit that Parry's horkelia produces is a small, dry achene.
Light Requirements
Horkelia bolanderi Gray ssp. parryi (S. Wats.) Keck requires bright, full sun to partial shade for optimum growth. It can tolerate some shade, but growth may be slower and more sparse in low light conditions. In areas with intense sunlight, some afternoon shade may be necessary to prevent sunscorch on the leaves.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to high elevations in the Sierra Nevada mountains and is adapted to cool summer temperatures. It prefers a cool, moist climate with daytime temperatures between 60-75°F (16-24°C) and nighttime temperatures between 35-50°F (2-10°C). In areas with hot summers, this plant may require extra watering to prevent stress or heat damage.
Soil Requirements
Horkelia bolanderi Gray ssp. parryi (S. Wats.) Keck grows best in well-draining, sandy or rocky soils with a neutral to slightly acidic pH (6.5-7.5). It is adapted to nutrient-poor soils and can tolerate drought once established. However, it may require additional water during dry spells to prevent wilting. Heavy, clay soils can be problematic as they can retain too much water and cause root rot.
Cultivation methods
Horkelia bolanderi Gray ssp. parryi (S. Wats.) Keck is a perennial plant that belongs to the Rosaceae family. This plant is native to California, Oregon, and Nevada and is commonly found on rocky slopes, alpine meadows, and open woods. For successful cultivation, it's important to mimic the plant's natural growing conditions. The plant prefers well-draining soils, ample sunlight, and moderate moisture. To cultivate H. bolanderi, start by selecting a suitable spot that receives at least six hours of sunlight each day. The plant grows well in well-draining soils that are slightly acidic. Ensure the soil has good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Plant the seedlings in prepared soil pits at a depth of 2-3 inches and maintain a spacing of between 6 and 12 inches.Watering needs
Horkelia bolanderi Gray ssp. parryi (S. Wats.) Keck requires moderate watering to thrive. The plant prefers consistent moisture, but avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. During the growing season, water the plant once a week, or whenever the soil feels dry to the touch. Reduce watering during the dormant season, but do not allow the soil to completely dry out.Fertilization
Horkelia bolanderi Gray ssp. parryi (S. Wats.) Keck requires minimal fertilization for proper growth. The plant can thrive in average soil conditions without supplemental fertilization. However, if you want to apply fertilizers, use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10. Use fertilizers sparingly, and follow the recommended application instructions.Pruning
Pruning Horkelia bolanderi Gray ssp. parryi (S. Wats.) Keck helps to maintain the plant's shape, improve air circulation, and remove dead or damaged foliage. Prune the plant during the dormant season when it goes fully dormant and sheds its leaves. Cut stems down to the base and remove any dead or diseased leaves. Avoid pruning the plant excessively, as this can lead to stunted growth.Propagation of Horkelia bolanderi Gray ssp. parryi
Horkelia bolanderi Gray ssp. parryi (S. Wats.) Keck, commonly known as Bolander's horkelia, is a herbaceous perennial plant that grows in rocky crevices, talus slopes, and alpine meadows. The plant produces basal rosettes of leaves that extend up to 20 cm tall and 30 cm wide. The plant blooms in late spring to early summer with a profusion of tiny, white to pinkish-white flowers held in large terminal clusters.
Propagation methods
Horkelia bolanderi Gray ssp. parryi can be propagated through seed, division, or stem cuttings.
Seed propagation
To propagate Bolander's horkelia from seed, collect mature seeds from the plant when the seed capsules are dry and beginning to split open. Sow the seeds in well-drained soil in a container. Keep the soil moist and place the container in a warm, brightly lit area. Germination can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. Once the seedlings are established, transplant them to individual pots or directly into the garden.
Division
To propagate Bolander's horkelia through division, gently dig up the plant during the spring or fall when the plant is dormant. Separate the basal rosettes and replant them in a well-draining soil mixture. Water the plants thoroughly after replanting.
Stem cuttings
Bolander's horkelia can also be propagated through stem cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. Cut 8-10 cm sections of young, vigorous stems and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone and insert it into a well-draining soil mixture. Cover the cutting with a plastic bag to maintain humidity and mist regularly until new growth appears. Once new growth appears, remove the plastic bag and transplant the cutting to its permanent location.
Disease and Pest Management for Horkelia Bolanderi Gray ssp. Parryi (S. Wats.) Keck
Horkelia bolanderi Gray ssp. parryi (S. Wats.) Keck is a hardy plant that grows well in most conditions. However, like all plants, it is susceptible to certain diseases and pest infestations. To keep your Horkelia bolanderi healthy and thriving, it is important to stay vigilant and take action at the first sign of trouble.
Common Diseases
The most common diseases that affect Horkelia bolanderi include rust, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. Rust presents as yellowish-brown spots on the leaves. Powdery mildew appears as a white powder on the leaves. Leaf spot manifests as circular brown or black spots on the leaves.
Rust
To manage rust, remove any affected leaves and dispose of them in the trash. Do not compost affected leaves. Apply a fungicide to the remaining foliage, following the instructions on the product label. Increase airflow around the plant by pruning back any adjacent plants or branches and avoid overhead watering, which can promote the formation of rust.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew can be managed by removing any affected leaves and disposing of them. Increase airflow around the plant by spacing out nearby plants or pruning adjacent branches. Apply a fungicide according to the instructions on the product label.
Leaf Spot
To manage leaf spot, remove any affected leaves and dispose of them in the trash. Avoid overhead watering, which can promote the growth of leaf spot. Increase airflow around the plant by pruning back adjacent plants or branches. Regularly apply a fungicide according to the instructions on the product label.
Common Pests
Horkelia bolanderi is susceptible to several pests, including spider mites, aphids, and thrips. Infestations can lead to stunting, yellow or brown leaves, and distortion of the leaves.
Spider Mites
To manage spider mites, increase humidity around the plant by regularly misting the leaves. Spraying with a strong jet of water can also dislodge the spider mites. Use a miticide if the infestation is severe.
Aphids
Aphids can be managed by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge them. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control a severe infestation. Ladybugs and lacewings are natural predators of aphids and can help manage their population.
Thrips
Thrips can be managed by removing any affected leaves and disposing of them. Use yellow sticky cards to trap adult thrips. Apply a systemic insecticide if the infestation is severe.
By staying vigilant and taking action at the first sign of trouble, you can keep your Horkelia bolanderi healthy and thriving for years to come.
