Origin and Common Names:
Lappula echinata Gilib. var. occidentalis (S. Wats.) Boivin, also known as Western Stickseed or Hedgehog Stickseed, is a species of plant in the borage family (Boraginaceae) native to North America. It can be found from British Columbia and Alberta in Canada to California and New Mexico in the United States.
Appearance:
The plant typically grows to be 20-60 centimeters tall and has woody stems that are covered in hairs and small thorns. Its leaves are narrow and spiky, ranging from 1.5-5 centimeters in length. The flowers of the Western Stickseed are small and pale blue, growing in clusters along the stems. They bloom from June to August and are followed by small, prickly fruits that stick to clothing and fur.
Uses:
The seeds of the Western Stickseed were used by indigenous people as food and medicine. The seeds can be roasted and eaten like nuts, or ground into flour and used to make bread. They were also used to treat a variety of ailments, ranging from bronchitis to venereal diseases. Today, the plant is primarily used for ecological restoration projects, as it is an important species in the native plant communities of the American West. It is also sometimes grown as an ornamental plant, although its prickly fruits can be a nuisance.
Light Requirements
Lappula echinata var. occidentalis grows well in full sunlight and can also tolerate partial shade. However, it tends to flower more profusely in brighter light conditions. In areas with low light intensity, the plant may grow taller and have a weaker stem, which can make it more susceptible to lodging.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers warm and dry conditions. It is adapted to the harsh and arid climates of the western United States. Therefore, it grows well in regions with a hot, semi-arid to arid climate. The optimum temperature range for this plant's growth is between 18 to 28 degrees Celsius (64 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day and 5 to 12 degrees Celsius (41 to 54 degrees Fahrenheit) at night.
Soil Requirements
Lappula echinata var. occidentalis is well-adapted to grow in sandy or gravelly soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 8.5. It can tolerate soils with low nutrient levels, high mineral content, and low organic matter. Moreover, this plant prefers well-drained soils since waterlogged soils can lead to root rot and disease. In summary, the soil requirement for Lappula echinata var. occidentalis is that it should have low fertility, be well-draining and alkaline.
Cultivation Methods
Lappula echinata Gilib. var. occidentalis (S. Wats.) Boivin, also known as western stickseed, is a hardy perennial plant that is native to North America. It grows well in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 8 and can thrive in a variety of soils. When cultivating western stickseed, it is essential to ensure that the soil is well-draining and has a pH range between 6.0 and 8.0.
The plant should be grown in full sun to partial shade and placed in an area with adequate air circulation. Additionally, it can be propagated through seeds or stem cuttings.
Watering Needs
Western stickseed requires minimal watering once established, as it is drought tolerant. However, it is crucial to ensure that the plant receives at least one inch of water per week during the growing season. The soil should be kept moderately moist, but avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Fertilization
Western stickseed does not require significant fertilization, but the use of slow-release granular fertilizers during the growing season can enhance its growth. The fertilizer should be applied to the soil, following the manufacturer's instructions. Additionally, adding compost to the soil annually can improve its fertility.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for western stickseed, but deadheading spent flowers can extend its blooming period. Additionally, removing diseased or dead stems and leaves can enhance the plant's overall health. Avoid pruning the plant too close to the ground as it can disturb the root system.
Propagation of Lappula echinata Gilib. var. occidentalis (S. Wats.) Boivin
The plant Lappula echinata Gilib. var. occidentalis (S. Wats.) Boivin can be propagated using various methods, including seed propagation, division, and stem cuttings.
Seed propagation
This plant produces viable seeds that can be used for propagation. To propagate the plant using seeds, the seeds should be collected from mature plants, preferably during late summer to early fall, and stratified in a cold environment to break seed dormancy. Once stratified, seeds can be sown directly into the soil or started indoors under controlled conditions, depending on the grower's preference. The seeds should be kept moist until they germinate, and the seedlings should be transplanted to their permanent location after they have grown enough to handle.
Division
Lappula echinata Gilib. var. occidentalis (S. Wats.) Boivin can be propagated using division. This method involves dividing an established plant into two or more sections and replanting each section as a new plant. To propagate using division, the mother plant should be dug up, and the roots should be carefully separated into sections. The sections should be replanted in well-draining soil and kept moist until they establish themselves in their new location.
Stem cuttings
Lappula echinata Gilib. var. occidentalis (S. Wats.) Boivin can also be propagated using stem cuttings. This method involves taking a stem cutting from the mother plant and planting it in a well-draining soil medium to form roots and grow into a new plant. To propagate using stem cuttings, select a healthy stem from the mother plant and make a clean cut just below a node. Remove any leaves from the lower half of the stem and dip the cut end in rooting hormone before planting it in well-draining soil. The cutting should be kept moist until it has formed roots and starts to grow.
Disease Management for Lappula echinata Gilib. var. occidentalis (S. Wats.) Boivin
Lappula echinata Gilib. var. occidentalis (S. Wats.) Boivin, commonly known as Western sticktight, is susceptible to various diseases. The most common diseases that affect this plant include:
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease is characterized by circular, sunken spots on leaves and stems. It causes the plant to weaken, turn yellow, and die. To manage anthracnose, remove and destroy all infected plant parts and apply a fungicide.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by waterlogged soil and is characterized by wilting, yellowing, and stunted growth of the plant. To manage root rot, ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease is characterized by a white, powdery coating on leaves and stems. It causes distorted growth and weakened plants. To manage powdery mildew, remove and destroy infected plant parts and apply a fungicide.
Pest Management for Lappula echinata Gilib. var. occidentalis (S. Wats.) Boivin
The most common pests that affect Lappula echinata Gilib. var. occidentalis (S. Wats.) Boivin include:
- Aphids: These tiny insects suck the sap from the plant and cause stunted growth, yellowing, and distorted leaves. To manage aphids, spray with insecticidal soap or a neem oil solution.
- Cutworms: These caterpillar-like larvae cut through the stems of young plants, causing them to wilt and die. To manage cutworms, apply a biological control agent or a pesticide containing Bacillus thuringiensis.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests feed on the sap of the plant and cause yellowing and curling of leaves. To manage spider mites, spray with insecticidal soap or a neem oil solution.
Regular inspection of the plant is essential to detect any signs of disease or pest infestation. Proper management of these problems will ensure the health and vigor of the Lappula echinata Gilib. var. occidentalis (S. Wats.) Boivin plant, leading to a healthy and beautiful garden.
