Overview
Lappula erecta A. Nels. is a species of flowering plant in the borage family (Boraginaceae) known by the common names tapertip stickseed and narrow-fruited stickseed. The plant is native to North America and can be found throughout much of the continent in a variety of habitats, including sagebrush, grasslands, and disturbed areas.
Appearance
Tapertip stickseed is an annual or biennial plant that can grow up to 60 centimeters tall. The stems are erect and covered in small, sharp hairs. The leaves are lance-shaped and also covered in hairs. The flowers are small, trumpet-shaped, and range in color from white to pale blue. The fruit is a small, prickly bur that contains one to four seeds.
Uses
The plant has several medicinal uses among Native American tribes, including as a poultice for abscesses and boils. The seeds are also edible and have been used by some tribes to make a type of porridge. The plant is also used as an ornamental plant in some gardens.
Light Conditions
Lappula erecta A. Nels. requires full sunlight exposure to grow and bloom. The plant cannot survive in shady conditions or with partial exposure to sunlight. Therefore, it is recommended to grow Lappula erecta in open areas rather than in shaded regions.
Temperature Requirements
Lappula erecta A. Nels. has a wide range of temperature requirements and can grow in cold, temperate, and warm climate conditions. However, the plants grow best in temperate conditions with moderate temperatures that range between 12°C to 24°C. The optimal temperature range for flowering and fruiting of Lappula erecta is 16°C to 20°C.
Soil Requirements
To grow Lappula erecta A. Nels., the soil must be well-drained and rich in soil nutrients. The plant does not tolerate waterlogging in the soil and requires moderate to low moisture content to thrive. The ideal pH range for Lappula erecta is between 6.0 to 7.5. The plant can tolerate somewhat alkaline soils, but very acidic soils may hamper the growth of the plant.
Cultivation Methods
Lappula erecta A. Nels. is a hardy annual plant that is tolerant of a wide range of growing conditions, including poor soil, drought, and high temperatures. It is easy to cultivate and grow, making it an excellent choice for beginner gardeners.
When planting Lappula erecta A. Nels., be sure to select a well-draining site with full sun exposure. The seeds should be sown directly into the ground in late spring or early summer at a depth of around ¼ inch. The plants will germinate in 7-10 days and should be thinned to a spacing of 12-18 inches once they are a few inches tall.
Watering Needs
Lappula erecta A. Nels. is a drought-tolerant plant, so it does not require regular watering. However, in hot, dry weather, it may need to be watered once a week to keep the soil moist.
When watering, be sure to avoid getting the leaves wet, as this can lead to fungal diseases. It is best to water the plant at the base, using a soaker hose or drip irrigation system.
Fertilization
Lappula erecta A. Nels. does not require much fertilization, as it is adapted to grow in poor soil. However, a light application of compost or a balanced fertilizer can help to promote growth and bloom.
The fertilizer should be applied in early spring, before the plant begins to grow. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Lappula erecta A. Nels. However, if the plant becomes too tall and leggy, it can be pinched back to promote bushier growth.
To pinch the plant, simply use your fingertips to remove the top inch or so of the stem. This will encourage the plant to produce more side branches and result in a fuller, more compact plant.
Propagation of Lappula erecta A. Nels.
Lappula erecta A. Nels. can be propagated via two main methods: by seed and by stem cuttings.
Propagation by seed
Lappula erecta A. Nels. produces small, shiny, black seeds that can be easily collected from mature plants in the fall. To propagate the plant by seed:
- Collect mature seeds from the plant
- Plant the seeds in a well-draining potting mix or directly in the ground
- Cover the seeds lightly with soil and water thoroughly
- Maintain a consistently moist environment by regularly watering the seeds
- Germination should occur within 14-21 days
Propagation by stem cuttings
Lappula erecta A. Nels. can also be propagated by stem cuttings taken during the growing season. To propagate the plant by stem cuttings:
- Take stem cuttings from healthy plants during the growing season
- Make sure the cuttings are at least 2-3 inches long and have a few leaves
- Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone
- Plant the cuttings in a well-draining potting mix or directly in the ground
- Water the cuttings thoroughly and maintain a consistently moist environment by regularly watering them
- Roots should develop within 2-4 weeks, and the new plant can be transplanted to a larger container or the ground
Both propagation methods can be successful for Lappula erecta A. Nels., and the resulting plants should have the same characteristics as the parent plant.
Disease Management
Lappula erecta A. Nels. is susceptible to various diseases. Some of the common ones include:
- Root Rot: Root rot is caused by various soil-borne fungi. The fungus invades the roots, causing discoloration, decay, and eventual death. To manage root rot, ensure proper drainage, avoid overwatering, and treat the soil with fungicides.
- Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is caused by a fungal infection that causes circular-shaped brown spots on the leaves. To manage leaf spot, remove any infected leaves, spray the plant with fungicides, and ensure that the plant is well-ventilated.
- Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease characterized by powdery white spots on the leaves. To manage powdery mildew, remove any infected leaves, spray the plant with fungicides, and ensure that the plant is well-ventilated.
Pest Management
Lappula erecta A. Nels. is also susceptible to various pests. Some of the common ones include:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that can suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to curl and wilt. To manage aphids, remove them with a strong spray of water, apply insecticidal soap, or use neem oil.
- Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny, eight-legged pests that feed on the leaves, causing them to become speckled and bronze-colored. To manage spider mites, remove any infected leaves, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil, or release predatory mites that feed on the spider mites.
- Thrips: Thrips are small, slender insects that damage leaves and flowers by sucking the sap and causing them to become distorted and discolored. To manage thrips, remove any infected flowers, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil, or release predatory mites that feed on the thrips.
