Plant Description
Iva axillaris Pursh ssp. robustior (Hook.) Bassett, commonly known as Baja tea or big footed goosefoot, is a perennial herbaceous plant in the family Asteraceae, native to North America. The plant can grow up to 1.5 meters tall, and the stems are often hairy and reddish-brown. The leaves are alternate, simple, and can be up to 15 cm long and 5 cm wide. They are typically lance-shaped with serrated edges and can be hairy or smooth. The flowers are small and greenish-white and arranged in dense clusters at the end of the stems. The plant produces tiny, papery fruits that contain a single seed.
Origin and Distribution
Iva axillaris Pursh ssp. robustior (Hook.) Bassett is primarily found in the southwestern United States, including California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. The plant is also found in some parts of northern Mexico. It is often found growing in sandy washes, along stream banks, and in other moist habitats.
Common Names
In addition to Baja tea and big footed goosefoot, Iva axillaris Pursh ssp. robustior (Hook.) Bassett is known by several other common names, including saltbush-amaranth, salt marsh elder, and Seepweed.
Uses
Baja tea has historically been used in traditional medicine systems. It was commonly used by Native American tribes for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. The leaves of the plant were often steeped in hot water to make a tea that was used to treat digestive problems and as a general tonic. The leaves and stems of Baja tea also have insecticidal properties, and the plant has been used to repel mosquitoes and other pests.
Today, the plant is primarily used for ecological restoration. The deep root system of Baja tea makes it useful for stabilizing soil in riparian habitats. The plant is also often used in wetland restoration projects, where it can help improve water quality and provide habitat for wildlife.
Growth Conditions for Iva axillaris Pursh ssp. robustior (Hook.) Bassett
Light: Iva axillaris Pursh ssp. robustior thrives in areas that receive plenty of sunlight. It can grow well in full sun to partial shade conditions. However, to promote flower production, it is best to provide the plant with at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature: The plant is adaptable to a wide range of temperatures. It grows well in areas with hot summers and mild winters as well as those with chilly winters and moderate summers. The ideal temperature range for Iva axillaris Pursh ssp. robustior is between 60 to 80 °F. The plant can tolerate occasional frosts but cannot survive through prolonged periods of freezing temperatures.
Soil Requirements: Iva axillaris Pursh ssp. robustior prefers well-drained soils that have good moisture retention capacity. It can be grown in a variety of soils, including sandy, clay, and loamy soils. However, to achieve optimum growth, the soil should be enriched with organic matter. The pH range for growth should be slightly acidic to neutral.
Water: Adequate water supply is essential for the plant to grow well. It prefers evenly moist soil but can tolerate short periods of drought. Overwatering should be avoided, as it can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Fertilizer: Iva axillaris Pursh ssp. robustior is a light feeder and does not require frequent fertilization. However, applying a slow-release fertilizer once a year in the early spring can help promote growth and flowering.
By providing the correct growth conditions, Iva axillaris Pursh ssp. robustior can be a beautiful addition to gardens and landscapes.
Cultivation
The plant Iva axillaris Pursh ssp. robustior (Hook.) Bassett, commonly referred to as robust marsh elder, is a hardy perennial plant that grows best in full sun to partial shade, in soils that are well-draining. This plant is native to wetlands, marshes, and meadows in North America and requires moist soil for optimal growth. It can be propagated from seeds or by division, and it is recommended to plant in early spring or fall when the soil is moist.
Watering Needs
Robust marsh elder has moderate water needs, and the soil should remain consistently moist, but not waterlogged. To maintain the soil's moisture level and prevent the plant from drying out, water deeply once a week or whenever the soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases that may damage the plant's health.
Fertilization
The robust marsh elder is an undemanding plant when it comes to fertilizers, and it rarely needs supplemental feeding. Adding organic matter such as compost to the soil can provide the necessary nutrients for optimal growth. Fertilizers rich in nitrogen can be used once a year during the spring to enhance the plant's foliage growth. However, overfertilizing can lead to weak stems, and it's advisable to mulch regularly to help maintain the soil's fertility.
Pruning
Regular pruning of the robust marsh elder is not necessary, as it retains its shape naturally. However, if pruning is needed, it's advisable to do it during the plant's dormant period in late fall to early spring. Pruning can be done to remove any dead, damaged, or diseased parts of the plant. Pinching of the tip of young plants promotes bushier growth and prevents leggy stems, and deadheading faded flowers promotes the plant's continued blooming. Avoid pruning the plant in mid-summer as it can encourage new growth, leading to reduced hardiness.
Propagation Methods for Iva axillaris Pursh ssp. Robustior (Hook.) Bassett
Iva axillaris Pursh ssp. Robustior (Hook.) Bassett is a dioecious plant, which means that the male and female flowers are on separate plants. The plant is primarily propagated from seed.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Iva axillaris Pursh ssp. Robustior (Hook.) Bassett are best sown directly in the garden after the last frost date has passed. The seeds should be planted to a depth of 1/4 inch and kept moist until germination occurs, which usually takes between 7-14 days.
The plants can also be started indoors, about 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. The seeds should be sown in seed trays filled with a good quality potting mix. Once they have germinated, the seedlings can be transplanted into larger pots until they are ready to be planted outdoors.
It is important to provide Iva axillaris Pursh ssp. Robustior (Hook.) Bassett with full sun exposure and well-draining soil for optimal growth.
Disease and Pest Management for Iva axillaris Pursh ssp. robustior (Hook.) Bassett
Iva axillaris Pursh ssp. robustior (Hook.) Bassett, commonly known as Povertyweed, is a hardy and tough plant that is tolerant of drought, heat, and poor soil conditions. However, like all plants, it is susceptible to certain diseases and pests that can impact its growth and health. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Root Rot: Poor drainage, overwatering, or soil that is too dense and heavy can cause root rot in Iva axillaris. Symptoms include wilting, yellowing of leaves, and stunted growth. To manage root rot, improve drainage by loosening the soil, ensuring proper watering, and avoid planting in areas where water tends to collect.
Fungal Leaf Spots: Fungal leaf spots can appear as brown or black spots on the leaves of the plant. These spots can be circular or irregular and can cause the leaves to drop prematurely, resulting in stunted growth. To manage fungal leaf spots, remove infected leaves, and improve air circulation by thinning the plant. Water the plant early in the day to allow excess moisture to evaporate from the leaves.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew appears as a white or grayish coating on the leaves of the plant. It can cause leaves to turn yellow and eventually drop. To manage powdery mildew, remove infected leaves, and improve air circulation by thinning the plant. Applying fungicides can protect unaffected leaves.
Pests
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that can be found on the underside of leaves of Iva axillaris. They suck the sap from the plant, causing it to become weak and stunted. Visible symptoms include yellow and stippled leaves. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a steady stream of water to dislodge the pests. Applying insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be helpful.
Aphids: Aphids are another tiny pest that sucks the sap from the plant, causing it to become weak and stunted. They are typically found on the new growth of the plant. Visible symptoms include yellowing leaves and distorted growth. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a steady stream of water to dislodge the pests. Applying insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be helpful. Encouraging natural predators like ladybugs can also be helpful.
Whiteflies: Whiteflies are small, flying insects that can cause wilting and yellowing of leaves. They suck the sap from the plant and secrete a sticky substance that attracts ants. To manage whiteflies, remove infected leaves, and improve air circulation. Encouraging natural predators like lacewings and parasitic wasps can also help.
By following these disease and pest management techniques, you can ensure a healthy and robust Iva axillaris Pursh ssp. robustior (Hook.) Bassett plant.
