Origin
Hymenoxys acaulis (Pursh) Parker var. epunctata (A. Nels.) Cronq. is native to the western United States and Mexico, and can be commonly found in Colorado.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known as Four Nerve Daisy or Tetraneuris acaulis var. epunctata, and is a member of the Asteraceae family.
Uses
The Hymenoxys acaulis (Pursh) Parker var. epunctata has been used in traditional medicine for various ailments including fever and coughs.
General Appearance
The Four Nerve Daisy has a basal cluster of narrow leaves and relatively small yellow flowers with four visible veins on each petal. It is a low-growing perennial that typically only grows to a height of 6 inches with an equal spread. The foliage of the plant is evergreen, and it commonly blooms from March to July.
Light Requirements
Hymenoxys acaulis var. epunctata requires full sun to thrive. It is a drought-tolerant plant that can survive in hot and dry conditions. It is necessary to provide it with at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. The plant will not grow well in shady conditions and needs direct sunlight to flower.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is adapted to a wide range of temperature conditions. It grows well in zones 4-9, meaning it can tolerate extreme cold weather (-20°F to 30°F). It also performs well in hot climates with temperatures reaching up to 100°F. However, the plant does not do well in areas with high humidity.
Soil Requirements
Hymenoxys acaulis var. epunctata prefers well-draining sandy or gravelly soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH level (6.5-7.5). The plant does not do well in heavy clay soils or poorly-drained areas. It is also essential to avoid planting it in soil that is too rich in nutrients, as this will cause it to produce excessive foliage with few flowers. Additionally, it is recommended to add a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to conserve moisture and prevent the growth of weeds.
Cultivation methods
Hymenoxys acaulis var. epunctata is a native perennial that grows in dry areas with well-draining soils. It prefers full sun but tolerates some shade. The plant can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be planted in the spring or early summer, and cuttings should be taken in the spring. The plant has a slow germination rate, so be patient.
Watering needs
Deep watering once a week is sufficient for the Hymenoxys acaulis var. epunctata plant. The soil should be moist but not saturated. This plant thrives in dry conditions, so avoid overwatering. During the summer months, it might require more frequent watering.
Fertilization
This plant does not require a lot of fertilization. A balanced fertilizer can be applied in the spring and summer months once a month. However, too much nitrogen can lead to weak stems and foliage. Avoid fertilizing in the fall, as this could stimulate new growth that might not survive the winter.
Pruning
Pruning can be done at any time of the year, but spring is the best time to remove dead or damaged stems and foliage. Use clean, sharp pruning shears to make clean cuts. Pruning can also encourage new growth and more compact growth.
Propagation of Hymenoxys acaulis (Pursh) Parker var. epunctata (A. Nels.) Cronq.
Propagation of Hymenoxys acaulis (Pursh) Parker var. epunctata (A. Nels.) Cronq. is best done through seeds, cuttings, or division.
Seeds
Hymenoxys acaulis (Pursh) Parker var. epunctata (A. Nels.) Cronq. produces seeds that can be collected and sown in early spring in a sandy, well-draining soil mix. Seeds should be sown shallowly and kept moist until germination. The seedlings should be kept in a bright spot with filtered light and gradually acclimated to full sun before transplanting outdoors.
Cuttings
Cuttings of Hymenoxys acaulis (Pursh) Parker var. epunctata (A. Nels.) Cronq. can be taken in early summer when new growth is present. Cuttings should be taken from the tips of the plant and should include at least two nodes. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the cuttings in a bright, warm spot with filtered light and mist regularly until roots have formed and new growth emerges.
Division
Dividing Hymenoxys acaulis (Pursh) Parker var. epunctata (A. Nels.) Cronq. in early spring is another propagation option. Carefully dig up the plant and gently separate the root ball into smaller sections, making sure that each section has a good amount of roots and foliage. Plant each section in a well-draining soil mix, and keep moist until new growth appears.
Disease Management
The Hymenoxys acaulis (Pursh) Parker var. epunctata (A. Nels.) Cronq. is relatively resistant to diseases, but some common diseases could affect the plant. One of the most common diseases that affect this plant is powdery mildew. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that forms a white or grayish powdery coating on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, remove any infected foliage, increase air circulation around the plant, and avoid overhead watering. Applying a fungicide can also help in managing the disease.
Another disease that may affect this plant is root rot, which is caused by waterlogged soils or poor drainage. To manage root rot, avoid over-watering the plant and improve soil drainage. Additionally, avoid planting the plant in areas with poor drainage.
Pest Management
The Hymenoxys acaulis (Pursh) Parker var. epunctata (A. Nels.) Cronq. may also be susceptible to pest infestations, especially from aphids, spider mites, and thrips. Aphids and spider mites suck the sap from the leaves, leading to yellowing, stunted growth, and distortion. Thrips, on the other hand, cause black streaks on the foliage.
To manage these pests, regular inspection of the plant is necessary to catch any infestations early. Pruning any heavily infested foliage and destroying weeds around the plant can also help in managing these pests. Additionally, applying insecticidal soap can help in controlling the pests while avoiding the use of harmful pesticides.
