General Information
Lappula deflexa (Wahlenb.) Garcke var. americana (Gray) Greene, commonly known as American stickseed, is a plant species belonging to the Boraginaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in various habitats, including dry steppes, rocky slopes, and disturbed open areas.
Appearance
American stickseed is an erect, annual or biennial herb that can grow up to 60 cm in height. It has a taproot system and is covered in short, stiff hairs. The leaves are lance-shaped, alternate, and range from 2 to 10 cm in length. The stem and leaves are generally green in color but may turn reddish as the plant ages. The flowers are small, clustered, and have five petals that are typically pink or white in color. The fruit is a prickly, hairy bur covered in hooked bristles that easily attaches to clothing or animal fur.
Uses
American stickseed has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including sore throats, coughs, and fever. It was also used as a poultice for wounds and skin irritations due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, the bur-like fruits were commonly used to create decorative arts and crafts by attaching them to clothing or other surfaces.
Light Conditions
Lappula deflexa var. americana requires full sun to partial shade for proper growth. It can tolerate a wide range of light conditions but prefers a sunny location. The plant is well adapted to grow in open fields, meadows, and prairies where it can receive ample sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Lappula deflexa var. americana can grow well in a variety of temperature conditions. The plant prefers temperate climates and can withstand sub-zero temperatures. However, it grows best in warmer temperatures ranging from 60-80°F during the growing season.
Soil Requirements
Lappula deflexa var. americana grows in a variety of soil types but prefers well-draining sandy loam soils. It can grow in moderately fertile soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. The plant prefers soils with good water retention capacity but can tolerate drier soils as well. It does not grow well in heavy clay soils.
Cultivation Methods
Lappula deflexa var. americana thrives in well-draining soils that are moist but not waterlogged. It can be grown both indoors and outdoors, but it requires adequate sunlight. If planting outdoors, it is best done in early spring when soil temperatures are above 60°F.
The seeds of Lappula deflexa var. americana should be sowed thinly on the surface of the soil, barely covering them with a fine layer of soil. Germination typically occurs within 2-3 weeks, and seedlings should be thinned to 12-15 inches apart to provide adequate growing space.
Watering Needs
Lappula deflexa var. americana requires moderate to regular watering. It is essential to avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot and other health problems in the plant. The frequency of watering depends on the weather conditions and the soil type. A good rule of thumb is to water when the soil surface is dry to the touch.
Fertilization
Lappula deflexa var. americana requires regular fertilization to encourage healthy growth and flowering. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium during the growing season, starting from early spring and fertilizing every four to six weeks. Organic fertilizers are also good options, with well-rotted manure being the best.
Pruning
Pruning Lappula deflexa var. americana is not necessary, as it is a low-maintenance plant. However, pruning can help to maintain its shape and prevent the plant from becoming too leggy. It is advisable to prune the plant after it has finished flowering, removing any dead or dying foliage. This will help to promote new growth and ensure the plant's continued health and vitality.
Propagation of Lappula deflexa (Wahlenb.) Garcke var. americana (Gray) Greene
There are several ways to propagate Lappula deflexa (Wahlenb.) Garcke var. americana (Gray) Greene, depending on the needs and preferences of the gardener or grower. Some of the most common methods include:
Seed Propagation
One of the most straightforward methods for propagating Lappula deflexa (Wahlenb.) Garcke var. americana (Gray) Greene is through seed propagation. Seeds can be sown directly into the ground in the spring or fall, or they can be started indoors and transplanted when the seedlings are large enough to handle. Seeds require good soil contact to germinate and should be planted at a depth of 1/8 to 1/4 inch. It's also important to keep the soil moist until the seedlings emerge.
Cuttings
Another option for propagating Lappula deflexa (Wahlenb.) Garcke var. americana (Gray) Greene is through cuttings. This method involves taking stem cuttings from a mature plant and rooting them in a soil mixture. The cuttings should be taken in the spring or summer when the plant is actively growing and should be about 4-6 inches long. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone before planting in a well-draining soil mixture. Keep the soil evenly moist and provide bright light, but avoid direct sunlight until the cuttings are well-rooted.
Division
Lappula deflexa (Wahlenb.) Garcke var. americana (Gray) Greene can also be propagated through division. This method involves digging up an established plant and dividing it into smaller sections, each with its own set of roots. This is best done in the fall or spring when the plant is dormant or just starting to grow. The sections can be replanted in their preferred location with new soil and watered thoroughly.
Disease Management
Several fungal diseases can severely impact Lappula deflexa var. americana. The most common are powdery mildew and leaf spot. Powdery mildew leaves a white powdery substance on the leaves and stems of the plant, whereas leaf spot causes yellowing of the leaves with small dark brown spots. To manage these diseases, apply fungicides labeled for use on the plant, and ensure adequate ventilation and sunlight reach the plant. Additionally, affected parts of the plant should be removed and disposed of.
Pest Management
Several pests can also affect Lappula deflexa var. americana. The most common pest is the spider mite. Spider mites are tiny, sap-sucking insects that can cause yellowing and browning of leaves. To manage spider mites, the use of insecticidal soaps or oils labeled for use on the plant can be effective. Additionally, regularly inspecting plants for pests and removing any infested plants promptly is always a good practice.
