Description of Lappula hispida
Lappula hispida (Gray) Greene, also known as bristly stickseed or hispid stickseed, is a biennial or perennial plant that belongs to the family Boraginaceae. This plant has a height of 30-80 cm and grows in dry and rocky areas in the western United States and Canada.
General Appearance
Bristly stickseed has hairy leaves and a rough stem with numerous branches. Its inflorescence consists of small, blue or purple flowers that are clustered in a dense, rounded head. Each flower has five petals that are fused together forming a funnel-like structure and five stamens that protrude beyond the petals. The plant develops prickly bur-like seeds after flowering, which stick to clothing and fur, aiding in seed dispersal.
Common Names
Lappula hispida is commonly known by the following names:
- Bristly stickseed
- Hispid stickseed
- Hairy stickseed
- Western stickseed
- Roughseed stickseed
Uses
The Native American tribes of the Great Basin, including the Shoshone and Paiute, used the roots and leaves of the plant as a traditional remedy for various ailments such as fever, colds, and respiratory problems. The plant is also a source of food for several species of mammals, birds, and insects. It is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and public landscapes, as it adds visual interest with its blue-purple flowers.
Light Requirements
Lappula hispida typically prefers full sun, but it can tolerate partial shade. It requires a minimum of 6 hours of sunlight per day to grow properly. When grown in partial shade, it may become leggy and may not flower as much as those grown in full sun.
Temperature Requirements
Lappula hispida is hardy in USDA zones 5 through 9. It prefers cool to moderate temperatures between 60-75°F (15-23°C). During the winter months, it can tolerate frost and freezing temperatures. Hot, dry summers may cause stress to the plant, which can affect its growth.
Soil Requirements
Lappula hispida prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but it grows best in loamy soils with a pH range of 6.0-7.0. It does not grow well in heavy, clay soils that are poorly drained. To help with drainage, you can add perlite, sand or gravel to the soil mix.
Cultivation
Lappula hispida, also known as hispid stickseed, is a hardy perennial plant that grows well in various types of soil. It requires full sun to light shade and prefers well-draining soil. It can be propagated by seeds or through division of established plants.
Watering needs
While hispid stickseed is drought-tolerant, it still requires regular watering to thrive. During the growing season, water the plants deeply once a week or when the top inch of soil is dry. Reduce watering in the fall to prepare the plants for winter dormancy.
Fertilization
Lappula hispida does not require frequent fertilization. However, you can feed it with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring. Avoid over-fertilizing the plant as it can lead to excessive foliage growth and reduced flowering.
Pruning
Regular pruning helps to maintain the shape and size of the hispid stickseed plant. In early spring, cut back the dead stems to the ground. Deadheading the spent blooms throughout the growing season encourages the plant to produce more flowers.
Propagation of Lappula hispida
Lappula hispida, commonly known as woolly blueweed, is a resilient plant that is native to North America. Propagation is an essential step for those who want to plant and grow this species successfully. The plant reproduces both sexually and asexually, making it easy to propagate in various ways.
Seed Propagation
The propagation of Lappula hispida can be done through seeds. The best time to sow the seeds is in the spring, and it is best to start indoors in a seed tray or sow them directly into the garden. Cover the seeds lightly with soil and keep them moist until they germinate, which typically takes about 10-14 days. Seeds should sprout readily, but if you have trouble germinating, you can soak them in water overnight before planting.
Division of Root Clumps
The propagation of Lappula hispida can also be done through root division for plants already established in the garden. Dig up the plant carefully, loosening the soil around the roots, and divide the clump into several sections. Each section must have few stems and roots. Transplant the separate portions into individual containers or a bed with fertile soil and good drainage. Make sure to water the sections well.
Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings can also be used to propagate the woolly blueweed successfully. Take cuttings from healthy mature stems in the early summer, which are about 4 inches long. Remove the leaves from the lower one-third of the cutting, and dip it into a rooting hormone powder. Plant the cutting into a container or the garden bed with good soil and proper drainage. Keep the soil moist for the first week to encourage root development. Cutting propagation is an asexual propagation method, and thus, the new plants will be the same as the parent plant.
Final Thoughts
Lappula hispida is a beautiful plant and easy to propagate through several methods. By providing these propagation tools, plant enthusiasts can multiply the number of woolly blueweed plants in their garden and enjoy their beauty to the fullest.
Disease and Pest Management for Lappula hispida
Lappula hispida is a flowering plant species that belongs to the borage family. It is commonly known as the hispid forget-me-not, and it is often grown in gardens, meadows, and open forests. The plant is susceptible to some common diseases and pests that can affect its growth and health. Here are some of them:
Diseases
Root rot: This is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, leading to stunted growth, wilting, and eventual death. It is caused by poor drainage and overwatering, which creates an ideal environment for the fungal pathogen. To manage root rot, avoid overwatering, ensure good drainage, and apply a fungicide to the soil.
Powdery mildew: This is a common fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant, causing a white powdery coating on the surface of the leaves. It can also cause the leaves to curl, deform, and drop prematurely. To manage powdery mildew, ensure good air circulation around the plant, prune affected leaves, and apply a fungicide.
Rust: This is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant, causing yellow-orange powdery spots on the undersides of the leaves. It can also lead to premature leaf drop, stunted growth, and weakened plants. To manage rust, remove and destroy infected plant material, apply a fungicide, and avoid overhead watering.
Pests
Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing leaves to curl, yellow, and drop. Heavy infestations can lead to stunted growth and weakened plants. To manage aphids, remove them by hand or spray them with a strong stream of water.
Caterpillars: These are the larvae of moths and butterflies that feed on the leaves of the plant, causing holes and defoliation. To manage caterpillars, handpick them or apply an organic pesticide.
Spider mites: These are tiny, sap-sucking insects that can cause yellowing and mottling of the leaves. They are common in hot, dry weather and can be managed by keeping the plant well-watered and by applying an insecticidal soap or oil.
In conclusion, Lappula hispida is susceptible to some common diseases and pests that can affect its health and growth. However, with proper management, it is possible to prevent and control these problems, ensuring a healthy and vibrant plant.
