Introduction
Lacinaria squarrosa (L.) Hill, commonly known as the tall or eastern blazing star, is a native plant of North America. The plant belongs to the Asteraceae family and is a favorite among gardeners and landscapers for its showy purple flowers and ability to attract butterflies, bees, and other pollinators.General Appearance
The Lacinaria squarrosa plant stands tall at 3-6 feet and has a sturdy, erect stem with smooth, narrow leaves that are arranged alternately. The plant features long, dense clusters of bright, purple flowers that bloom from the top of the stem to the bottom during mid to late summer. The flowers are arranged in spikes and have pointed petals, providing a striking appearance that can add a pop of color to any garden.Origin and Distribution
Lacinaria squarrosa is native to North America and can be found growing across the eastern and central parts of the United States in open areas such as meadows, prairies, and savannas. The plant is also found in Canada, primarily in southern Ontario, Quebec, and Manitoba.Common Names
The tall blazing star is known by several other names, including the gayfeather, button snakeroot, and colic root. The name 'blazing star' was given due to its vibrant flowers that resemble a starburst and its ability to stand out in a landscape.Uses
Lacinaria squarrosa has several uses, including medicinal and ornamental purposes. The leaves of the plant were used by Native Americans to treat colic, gastrointestinal issues, and skin ailments such as boils and insect bites. Additionally, the plant is used in modern herbal medicine to treat various ailments, including chest congestion, menstrual cramps, and headaches. In gardens and landscapes, the tall blazing star is also used to attract pollinators. Butterflies, in particular, are drawn to the plant due to its nectar-rich blooms and provide a colorful, vibrant environment for the garden.Light requirements
Lacinaria squarrosa is a sun-loving plant that requires full sunlight to grow and thrive. It is not a shade-tolerant plant, and if grown in shade, its growth will be stunted, and it may not flower.
Temperature requirements
This plant can grow in a wide range of temperatures. It is native to North America and can tolerate both warm and cold weather conditions. However, it prefers moderate temperatures ranging from 18°C to 24°C. It can tolerate temperatures as low as -34°C, making it suitable for colder climates.
Soil requirements
Lacinaria squarrosa prefers well-drained, moist soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It will not tolerate waterlogged soils as it can lead to root rot. It prefers fertile soils rich in organic matter, making it suitable for loamy and sandy soils. It can also grow in clay soils, but drainage is crucial.
Cultivation Methods of Lacinaria Squarrosa (L.) Hill
Lacinaria squarrosa (L.) Hill is a herbaceous perennial plant that is best grown in full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. It is typically propagated by root division or through its seeds. Plant the seeds in the spring and make sure to water them regularly during germination.
The optimum temperature for growing Lacinaria squarrosa (L.) Hill is between 50-70°F. It can tolerate hot temperatures but requires sufficient moisture to thrive. Mulching around the base of the plant helps keep the soil moist and cool during the hot summer months.
Watering Needs
Lacinaria squarrosa (L.) Hill needs consistent watering to grow healthy and strong. Ensure that the soil around the plant is always moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Watering the plant early in the morning prevents the plant from getting too wet at night and reduces the risk of pest infestation and diseases.
Fertilization
Lacinaria squarrosa (L.) Hill requires regular fertilization to maintain its health and vigor. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every 3-4 weeks during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing the plant as it can lead to excessive foliage growth without the formation of flowering spikes.
Pruning
Lacinaria squarrosa (L.) Hill benefits from regular pruning to promote healthy growth and flowering. Cut back the plant to near the ground in late fall to early spring before new growth emerges. Deadhead spent flowers throughout the growing season to encourage the production of new flowering spikes. Prune back any damaged or diseased leaves or stems immediately to prevent the spread of diseases or pests.
Propagation of Lacinaria squarrosa (L.) Hill
Lacinaria squarrosa (L.) Hill, also known as the compass plant or wild sunflower, is a herbaceous perennial plant native to North America. It is a tall plant that can reach up to 9 feet in height, and it produces yellow flowers that bloom in the summer months. If you want to propagate this plant, there are several methods you can use.
Seed Propagation
The easiest way to propagate Lacinaria squarrosa is by seed propagation. You can collect the seeds from mature plants in the fall and plant them in the soil. Sow the seeds at a depth of about ¼ inch and keep the soil consistently moist until the seeds germinate. It usually takes about 2 to 3 weeks for the seeds to germinate. Once the seedlings are big enough, transplant them to their permanent location.
Division
Another method of propagating Lacinaria squarrosa is through division. You can divide mature plants in the spring or fall and replant the separated sections. To do this, carefully dig up the plant and separate the roots and stems into smaller sections. Make sure each section has healthy roots and a sufficient amount of stem. Replant the sections in a new location and keep the soil consistently moist until they become established.
Cuttings
You can also propagate Lacinaria squarrosa through cuttings, though it may be a bit more challenging than the other methods. Take cuttings from the plant in the spring or early summer, making sure each cutting has at least one node and a few leaves. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in rooting medium. Keep the medium consistently moist and maintain high humidity around the cuttings until they have rooted. Once they have rooted, transplant the cuttings to their permanent location.
Ultimately, propagating Lacinaria squarrosa requires patience and care, but it can be a rewarding experience. By following the methods outlined above, you can easily grow this beautiful plant in your garden.
Disease Management
Lacinaria squarrosa (L.) Hill is generally a disease-resistant plant. However, it can be affected by some fungal diseases, such as rust and powdery mildew.
Rust
Rust appears as small orange-yellow spots on the undersides of the leaves that later spread to the upper leaves, causing them to wither and die. To manage rust, prune and destroy the infected parts and apply fungicides like copper or sulfur-based fungicides.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew appears as powdery-white substance on the leaves and the foliage. To manage powdery mildew, ensure you don't overcrowd the plants, increase air circulation, and apply fungicides such as copper-based fungicides.
Pest Management
Lacinaria squarrosa (L.) Hill is generally pest-resistant. However, it can be affected by some pests. The major pests that affect Lacinaria squarrosa is the Iris borer.
Iris borer
Iris borer is a pest that attacks the plant in its mid-summer. The pest lays its eggs on the leaves, blooms, or old debris around the plants. The larvae then bore into the rhizome, feeding on the plant tissue from the inside. To manage the Iris borer, remove all the old debris from around the garden and apply appropriate insecticides such as Spinosad, Pyrethrum, or Neem. Also, ensure you check regularly for signs of infestation.
