Origin and Common Names
Lappula redowskii (Hornem.) Greene var. desertorum (Greene) I.M. Johnston, commonly known as Redowsk's lappula, is a plant species that belongs to the Boraginaceae family. The plant is native to North America and can be found in the western part of the United States and Canada. It is commonly found in arid and semi-arid regions and is often seen growing alongside other desert plants like yucca, cacti, and sagebrush.
Appearance
The Redowsk's lappula is a small, erect annual herb that grows up to 20 cm tall. The plant has thin, branched stems covered in fine, short hairs that are smooth to the touch. It has small, lanceolate, or linear leaves that are greenish-gray in color, arranged alternately on the stem. The flowers are small, 5-lobed, located at the tips of the stems, and have a bluish-purple color. The plant blooms from May to September, and the fruit is a small, hard, prickly nutlet covered in hooked hairs that easily cling to clothing or fur.
Uses
The Redowsk's lappula has been traditionally used for medicinal purposes by various Indigenous communities in North America. Tea made from the leaves and stems was used to treat stomach ailments, while poultices made from the crushed seeds were used to relieve pain and inflammation. The seeds have also been used as a food source by Indigenous communities. Today, the plant is mainly used for ecological purposes, as it is known to provide food and habitat for various insects and birds. It is also a popular plant for xeriscaping or landscaping with drought-resistant plants because of its attractive flowers and ability to tolerate dry conditions.
Light Requirements
Lappula redowskii var. desertorum grows best in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shading, but excessive shade can lead to weakened growth and reduced production of flowers and seeds. It is best to plant this species in a location that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
Lappula redowskii var. desertorum can grow in a wide range of temperatures, but it prefers a semi-arid climate. It can tolerate high temperatures of up to 40 degrees Celsius and cold temperatures ranging from -10 to -15 degrees Celsius. In hot and dry weather, it may go dormant during the summer and resume growth in the cooler months.
Soil Requirements
Lappula redowskii var. desertorum prefers well-drained soils with good aeration. It can grow in various soil types, including sandy, loam, and gravelly soils. However, it cannot tolerate waterlogged soils. For optimal growth, the soil pH should be between 6.0 and 8.5. It is also important to avoid soils with high salt content, as this species is not salt-tolerant.
Cultivation Methods for Lappula redowskii (Hornem.) Greene var. desertorum (Greene) I.M. Johnston
Lappula redowskii (Hornem.) Greene var. desertorum (Greene) I.M. Johnston, commonly known as Redowsk's lappula, prefers growing in full sunlight and well-draining soils. It is commonly found in rocky and sandy habitats and can withstand drought-like conditions. Therefore, it is best to avoid overwatering and to provide it with a well-draining growing medium.
Redowsk's lappula can be propagated through seeds, and they can be sown directly into the ground during the spring and fall seasons. The seeds must be lightly covered with soil and watered well. Once the seedlings reach 4-6 inches in height, they can be transplanted to a permanent location.
Watering Needs for Lappula redowskii (Hornem.) Greene var. desertorum (Greene) I.M. Johnston
Redowsk's lappula is drought tolerant and requires minimal watering. Watering should be done once every two weeks during the summer months and once a month during the rest of the year. Do not overwater, as this can lead to root rot. Before watering, ensure that the soil has dried out completely.
Fertilization for Lappula redowskii (Hornem.) Greene var. desertorum (Greene) I.M. Johnston
Redowsk's lappula is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal fertilization. Fertilization can be done once a year in the spring season using a balanced fertilizer. Overfertilization can lead to excessive growth, and the plant may become leggy and weak.
Pruning Lappula redowskii (Hornem.) Greene var. desertorum (Greene) I.M. Johnston
Redowsk's lappula does not require much pruning. However, if the plant becomes leggy and starts to lose its shape, it can be pruned back to its desired height. Pruning can be done during the early summer months after the plant has finished blooming. Dead blooms can also be removed to encourage new bloom growth.
Propagation Methods for Lappula redowskii var. desertorum
Lappula redowskii var. desertorum is a perennial plant commonly seen in North America's deserts. Propagating this plant can be accomplished using different methods, including seeds and cuttings.
Propagation through Seeds
The easiest form of propagating Lappula redowskii var. desertorum is through seeds. Ensure that the seeds harvested are from healthy plants and stored in a dry, cool place. Start sowing the seeds indoors six to eight weeks before the last frost or sow them directly into the garden when the soil has warmed up.
Sow the seeds at a depth of 1/8 inch, and ensure the soil is well-draining but moist to allow for proper germination. Germination can occur within two to three weeks of sowing when temperatures are maintained between 55°F and 65°F. Once the seedlings grow big enough, transplant them into their permanent location in the garden or container.
Propagation through Cuttings
Propagation through cuttings is another method of growing Lappula redowskii var. desertorum. Begin by taking cuttings from the plant when it is actively growing during the spring or summer. Choose non-flowering stems and ensure they're healthy and disease-free. Cut the stems to a length of 2-4 inches using a clean, sharp knife.
Remove any leaves from the lower part of the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining, moist soil mixture, and cover with a clear plastic bag to retain the moisture. Maintain an ambient temperature of approximately 70°F and water the cuttings several times a day to keep the soil moist.
After three to six weeks, the cuttings start developing roots and new growth. Transplant the cutting in a permanent location in the garden or container.
Disease and Pest Management for Lappula redowskii var. desertorum
Lappula redowskii var. desertorum, also known as Desert Stickseed, is an herbaceous plant that is native to North America. Although it is generally considered to be a hardy plant that is resistant to many pests and diseases, there are still some issues that may arise that can negatively affect its growth. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Lappula redowskii var. desertorum, along with suggestions for managing them.
Diseases
Lappula redowskii var. desertorum is generally resistant to many common plant diseases. However, some diseases that may affect this plant include:
Root Rot
Root rot is a fungal disease that can cause the roots of the plant to rot, leading to stunted growth or even death. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil drains well, and avoid overwatering. If root rot is already present, remove any affected plant parts and treat the soil with a fungicide.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white or gray powder-like substance on the leaves and stems. To prevent powdery mildew, keep the plant well-ventilated and avoid watering the leaves. Treat powdery mildew with a fungicide.
Pests
Lappula redowskii var. desertorum is generally resistant to many common plant pests. However, some pests that may affect this plant include:
Aphids
Aphids are small insects that suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and deformities. To prevent aphids, introduce predators such as ladybugs or lacewings into the garden. If the infestation is large, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat the plant.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny arachnids that can cause damage to the plant by piercing the leaves and sucking out the sap. To prevent spider mites, keep the plant well-hydrated and avoid introducing infested plants into the garden. If the infestation is severe, treat the plant with an insecticide.
By taking precautions to avoid disease and pest issues, and using appropriate management techniques, you can help ensure the health and longevity of your Lappula redowskii var. desertorum plant.
