Overview of Kochia scoparia (L.) Schrad. var. subvillosa Moq.
Kochia scoparia (L.) Schrad. var. subvillosa Moq. is a small annual herbaceous plant commonly known as burning bush, summer cypress, Mexican fireweed, and belvedere. The plant is a member of the family Amaranthaceae, native to Eurasia and introduced as an ornamental plant in North America. The plant has several uses both in the ornamental and medicinal fields.
General Appearance of Kochia scoparia (L.) Schrad. var. subvillosa Moq.
Kochia scoparia (L.) Schrad. var. subvillosa Moq. is a small shrub that can grow to reach up to 1.5 meters tall. The stems are yellow-green, densely branched, and grow upward or in a sprawling position, forming a conical shape. The plant produces tiny, greenish-yellow flowers that blossom in late summer. The plant's leaves are small, oval-shaped, and can vary in color depending on the plant's age, from bright green when young, to magenta or red-hued in the fall.
Uses of Kochia scoparia (L.) Schrad. var. subvillosa Moq.
Kochia scoparia (L.) Schrad. var. subvillosa Moq. has several uses in the ornamental horticulture field. The plant is a popular choice for seasonal landscaping displays due to its bright green foliage, which turns into an intense red or magenta color during the autumn months, and its conical shape. The plant also has medicinal properties, as it contains saponins, flavonoids, and polysaccharides. It has been traditionally used as a diuretic, laxative, and anti-inflammatory agent in Chinese herbal medicine. Additionally, Kochia scoparia (L.) Schrad. var. subvillosa Moq. is used to make soap, and the ashes obtained by burning the plant can be used as a source of potassium carbonate.
Growth Conditions for Kochia scoparia (L.) Schrad. var. subvillosa Moq.
Kochia scoparia (L.) Schrad. var. subvillosa Moq. is a hardy plant that can grow in a wide range of conditions. However, there are several specific growth conditions that are ideal for this plant to thrive.
Light
Kochia scoparia (L.) Schrad. var. subvillosa Moq. prefers full sun and requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. If grown in partial shade, the plant may become leggy and weak. Therefore, it is recommended to grow Kochia scoparia (L.) Schrad. var. subvillosa Moq. in bright, sunny locations.
Temperature
Kochia scoparia (L.) Schrad. var. subvillosa Moq. can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. However, it grows best in warm to hot temperatures between 70-90°F (21-32°C). The plant can also tolerate temperatures as low as 40°F (4°C) but may become dormant during winter months.
Soil
Kochia scoparia (L.) Schrad. var. subvillosa Moq. prefers well-drained soil with a pH range between 6.0-8.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter to promote healthy growth. The plant can tolerate sandy or rocky soil types, but it is important to avoid heavy clay soils that can retain too much moisture and cause root rot.
Furthermore, Kochia scoparia (L.) Schrad. var. subvillosa Moq. is moderately drought-tolerant, but it is important to water the plant regularly during hot and dry weather to prevent dehydration.
Cultivation
Kochia scoparia (L.) Schrad. var. subvillosa Moq. can be grown in a variety of soils, including clay, loam, sand, and even poor, dry soils. It prefers well-drained soils, but can tolerate temporary flooding.
Plant kochia seeds in late spring or early summer after the last frost date. Sow the seeds 1/8 to 1/4 inch deep and 6 inches apart. Water the seeds until the soil is moist, but not saturated. Germination should occur within 7 to 14 days.
Watering Needs
Once established, kochia plants require moderate watering. They can withstand drought conditions, but they will grow best with regular watering.
Water the plants deeply once per week, or more frequently if the soil tends to dry out quickly. Avoid overhead watering, as this can encourage fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Kochia plants do not require heavy fertilization, as they are adapted to poor soils. However, adding compost or well-aged manure to the soil before planting can increase fertility and improve soil structure.
Additionally, applying a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) once per month during the growing season can promote healthy growth and increase yields.
Pruning
Kochia plants do not require heavy pruning. However, pinching back the tips of the stems can encourage bushier growth and prevent the plants from getting too tall and spindly.
If seed production is not desired, remove the flowers before they can mature and set seed. This will also prevent the plants from becoming invasive and spreading to unwanted areas.
Propagation of Kochia scoparia var. subvillosa Moq.
Kochia scoparia var. subvillosa Moq., commonly known as prostrate summer cypress, is a tough and resilient plant native to Asia and Europe. It is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscaping due to its attractive foliage and ease of cultivation. If you're interested in propagating this plant, there are a few methods you can try.
Seed propagation
Kochia scoparia var. subvillosa Moq. can be easily propagated from seeds, which are readily available in nurseries and garden centers. Sow the seeds in well-draining soil, either indoors or directly in the garden bed. Keep the soil moist, and germination should occur in 7-14 days. Seedlings can be transplanted outdoors once they have several true leaves.
Stem cutting propagation
Kochia scoparia var. subvillosa Moq. can also be propagated from stem cuttings. Take 4-6 inch cuttings from healthy plants, making sure to remove any flowers or buds. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone, and plant them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil evenly moist and provide some shade until the cuttings have rooted and are established.
Division propagation
If you have an established Kochia scoparia var. subvillosa Moq. plant, you can propagate it by dividing the root ball. Carefully dig up the plant and use a sharp, clean tool to separate the root ball into smaller sections. Replant each section in a well-draining soil mix and keep the soil moist until the new plants are established.
Disease Management
Kochia scoparia (L.) Schrad. var. subvillosa Moq., commonly known as Mexican Fireweed, is susceptible to various fungal diseases that can cause significant harm to the plant.
One of the most common diseases that affect Kochia scoparia is powdery mildew. This fungal disease can be controlled by spraying the plant with a fungicide that contains copper sulfate or sulfur. It is essential to start treating the plant as soon as symptoms of powdery mildew appear to prevent the disease from spreading.
Another fungal disease that can affect Kochia scoparia is downy mildew. This disease causes yellow spots on the leaves and can be controlled with a fungicide that contains copper-based compounds. It is essential to prevent over-watering, which may cause the plant to become susceptible to fungal diseases.
Kochia scoparia is also susceptible to root rot, which can be caused by various fungi. This disease can be prevented by avoiding over-watering and ensuring that the soil is well-drained.
Pest Management
Kochia scoparia can also be affected by several herbivorous insects that can cause significant harm to the plant.
One of the most common pests that feed on Kochia scoparia is the Kochia leaf beetle. This beetle feeds on the foliage of the plant, causing significant defoliation. To control this beetle, insecticides containing carbaryl, malathion or pyrethroids can be used.
The Kochia mite is another pest that can cause significant harm to the plant. These mites feed on the leaves of the plant, causing yellowing and a decrease in plant vigor. Controlling these mites can be challenging; however, insecticides containing abamectin or acequinocyl can be effective.
Lastly, aphids can also become a problem for Kochia scoparia. They feed on the sap of the plant and can cause curling of the leaves, stunted growth and yellowing. Insecticides containing pyrethroids or insecticidal soap can be used to control aphids.
