Description of Lappula redowskii (Hornem.) Greene var. occidentalis (S. Wats.) Rydb.
Lappula redowskii (Hornem.) Greene var. occidentalis (S. Wats.) Rydb., commonly known as western stickseed or redstem stickseed, is a perennial herb that belongs to the borage family, Boraginaceae. The plant is native to western North America, ranging from British Columbia to California, and east to Colorado.
General Appearance
Western stickseed reaches a height of 20-80 cm, depending on its growing conditions. Its leaves are narrow, lance-shaped, and covered with fine hairs that give them a rough texture. The plant's stem is erect, branching, and covered in small, sticky hooks that give it a rough feel.
The flowers of western stickseed are small, pink or purple, and grow in clusters at the end of the stem. The plant blooms from May to August. After the flowers are fertilized, they produce small, hard, prickly burs that stick to clothing and animal fur.
Common Names
Lappula redowskii var. occidentalis is commonly known as western stickseed or redstem stickseed. Other common names for this plant include sticky bur and long-stalked stickseed.
Uses
Western stickseed has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments. It has been used as a poultice for wounds and as a treatment for rheumatism and skin diseases. The plant contains compounds that may have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
Additionally, western stickseed has been used as a food source by Native American tribes. The seeds of the plant are edible and have been ground into flour or roasted for consumption.
Light Requirements
Lappula redowskii var. occidentalis prefers full sun exposure for optimal growth. In shaded areas, the plant may become leggy and produce fewer flowers. Therefore, it is recommended to plant it in an area where it receives at least six hours of sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can grow in various temperature ranges, including hot and dry climates. It thrives in temperatures ranging from 60 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 29 degrees Celsius). In temperatures beyond this range, it may become susceptible to disease and pests. It is also tolerant of cool temperatures and can survive winter temperatures of up to -30 degrees Fahrenheit (-34 degrees Celsius).
Soil Requirements
Lappula redowskii var. occidentalis prefers well-drained soils with loamy texture. It can grow in various soil types such as sandy, clay, or rocky soils, but prefers soils that are alkaline or neutral with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. The plant requires moderate moisture, so it is best to avoid waterlogged soils that can lead to root rot or other diseases. Adding organic matter to the soil can improve its structure and water-holding capacity, which can benefit the plant's growth.
Cultivation Methods for Lappula Redowskii (Hornem.) Greene var. Occidentalis (S. Wats.) Rydb.
Lappula redowskii (Hornem.) Greene var. occidentalis (S. Wats.) Rydb. is a native plant species in North America. It can be cultivated both indoors and outdoors in appropriate conditions. If you choose to cultivate this plant indoors, use a well-draining potting mix that is rich in nutrients. If you want to cultivate the plant outdoors, it should be grown in well-draining soil that is amended with organic matter. This plant requires full sun or partial shade to thrive.
Watering Needs for Lappula Redowskii (Hornem.) Greene var. Occidentalis (S. Wats.) Rydb.
It is essential to maintain the moisture content of the soil for the proper growth of the Lappula redowskii. Since this plant is drought-tolerant, it requires infrequent watering. Ensure to water it deeply and allow the soil to dry out before the next watering session. However, avoid overwatering the plant since it can lead to root rot and other severe issues.
Fertilization for Lappula Redowskii (Hornem.) Greene var. Occidentalis (S. Wats.) Rydb.
Regular fertilization can help the Lappula redowskii grow strong and healthy. You can fertilize the plant twice a year, preferably in the spring and fall, using a balanced fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen, phosphate, and potassium. Additionally, you may use an organic compost blend to fortify the soil with nutrients.
Pruning for Lappula Redowskii (Hornem.) Greene var. Occidentalis (S. Wats.) Rydb.
Pruning the Lappula redowskii is necessary to maintain its shape and promote new growth. To prune, remove any dead, diseased, or damaged leaves, stems, or flowers as they appear. Cut back the plant by up to one-third of its length each year to limit its size and keep it looking healthy. Pruning can be done anytime from late winter to early spring when the plant is still dormant, making it easier to identify and remove any dead or damaged growth.
Propagation of Lappula redowskii var. occidentalis
Lappula redowskii var. occidentalis can be propagated by either seeds or cuttings.
Propagation by Seed
Seeds of Lappula redowskii var. occidentalis can be sown directly into the ground in the fall or early spring. The seeds should be sown on a well-prepared seedbed and covered with a thin layer of soil. It takes about 14-21 days for the seeds to germinate. Once the seedlings have emerged, they should be thinned to a spacing of about 30 cm apart.
Alternatively, the seeds can also be started indoors. Sow the seeds in small pots or seed trays filled with a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and place the container in a bright location. Once the seedlings have emerged and developed their first true leaves, they can be transplanted into larger containers or directly into the ground.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is a quick and easy way to propagate Lappula redowskii var. occidentalis. Take stem cuttings from the plant in the spring or summer. Cuttings that are 5-10 cm long with a few leaves are ideal. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder. Insert the cutting into a pot filled with a well-draining soil mix and water well. Keep the soil moist and the cutting in a bright location but out of direct sunlight. Once the cutting has rooted and developed new growth, it can be transplanted into a larger container or directly into the ground.
Disease Management for Lappula redowskii var. occidentalis
There are several diseases that can affect Lappula redowskii var. occidentalis. The most common include:
- Crown rot: This disease is caused by a soil-borne fungus called Fusarium oxysporum. It can cause wilting, yellowing, and eventual death of the plant. The best way to prevent crown rot is to practice good cultural practices, such as planting in well-draining soil and avoiding overwatering. Fungicides may also be applied to control the disease.
- Anthrax: This disease is caused by a bacterium called Bacillus anthracis. It can cause blackened, sunken lesions on the stems and leaves of the plant, and can lead to plant death. There is no cure for anthrax in plants, so the best option is to remove infected plants and avoid planting in areas with a history of the disease.
- Leaf spot: This disease is caused by several types of fungi and can cause circular spots on the leaves of the plant. The spots can coalesce and cause defoliation, reducing plant growth and vigor. Fungicides may be used to control leaf spot, but the best way to prevent the disease is to avoid overhead watering and remove infected plant debris from the soil.
Pest Management for Lappula redowskii var. occidentalis
Lappula redowskii var. occidentalis can also be affected by several pests that can damage the plant. The most common pests include:
- Aphids: These small, sap-sucking insects can cause stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and wilting. They can also transmit viruses to the plant. Aphids can be controlled with insecticidal soap or oil sprays.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellow stippling on the leaves, which can eventually lead to leaf drop and stunted growth. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or oil sprays, or by introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to the garden.
- Cutworms: These larvae of moths can sever young seedlings at the soil level, causing them to wilt and die. The best way to control cutworms is to place collars around the base of the seedlings or apply a natural insecticide like Bacillus thuringiensis.
