Overview
Lappula redowskii (Hornem.) Greene var. texana (Scheele) Brand is a species of wildflower that belongs to the Boraginaceae family, also known as the borage family. The plant is native to North America and can be found in various states including Texas, Arizona, New Mexico, and California.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Texas stickseed, or simply, stickseed. This name is derived from the plant's sticky seeds, which easily attach themselves to clothing and fur.
Appearance
The plant typically grows to a height of 30-70 cm and has small white or purple flowers that bloom in spring and summer. The stem and leaves are covered in tiny hairs, which give the plant a rough texture. The fruit of the plant is small and prickly and contains the sticky seeds that can easily cling to anything they come into contact with.
Uses
Although the plant does not have any known medicinal uses, it is often used in landscaping due to its attractive appearance and ability to handle drought-like conditions. The plant is also used as a food source for livestock, as the leaves and flowers are edible and provide significant nutrition for grazing animals. Additionally, the plant's sticky seeds are sometimes used to create jewelry or crafts.
Light Requirements
Lappula redowskii var. texana typically grows best in full to partial sun conditions. It requires a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. In areas with hot summers, partial shade during the hottest part of the day is recommended to prevent wilting.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species typically grows well in areas with moderate to warm temperatures. It prefers temperatures ranging from 68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit. In areas with extreme heat or cold, it is recommended to plant during the ideal growing season to ensure healthy growth.
Soil Requirements
Lappula redowskii var. texana grows best in well-draining soil that has a neutral to slightly alkaline pH (6.5-7.5). It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including loam, clay, and sandy soils. However, the soil must be fertile to provide the necessary nutrients for healthy plant growth. Regular composting and fertilization is excellent for ensuring optimal plant growth.
Cultivation Methods
Lappula redowskii (Hornem.) Greene var. texana (Scheele) Brand grows well in full sun to partial shade, and it prefers well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0. When cultivating this plant, it's best to use a combination of compost and well-draining soil. Additionally, planting Lappula redowskii (Hornem.) Greene var. texana (Scheele) Brand in early spring can facilitate better growth and blooming.
Watering Needs
Lappula redowskii (Hornem.) Greene var. texana (Scheele) Brand requires frequent watering during the growing season, especially during dry spells. Watering should be gradual and frequent rather than heavy to avoid waterlogging, which can affect the plant's growth and development negatively. For established plants, you can water them once or twice per week, depending on the weather conditions.
Fertilization
Fertilization of Lappula redowskii (Hornem.) Greene var. texana (Scheele) Brand should be done once annually. Before fertilizing, conduct a soil test to determine the ideal type and amount of fertilizer to use. Generally, a balanced, NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) fertilizer can be ideal for this plant. Apply the fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season, incorporating it into the soil around the plant gently.
Pruning
Pruning can help promote bushier growth and increase flower production in Lappula redowskii (Hornem.) Greene var. texana (Scheele) Brand. Deadheading the blooms once or twice a week during the blooming season can encourage the development of new flowers. Additionally, pruning can be useful in removing damaged or diseased stems, which can help prevent the spread of infection to other areas of the plant. Prune Lappula redowskii (Hornem.) Greene var. texana (Scheele) Brand in late winter before the growth begins, or in early spring after blooming.
Propagation of Lappula redowskii var. texana
Lappula redowskii var. texana is a perennial plant that belongs to the Boraginaceae family. It is commonly known as Texas stickseed and is native to North America. The plant is mainly found in the south-central United States and Mexico. The propagation of Lappula redowskii var. texana can be done through seeds or stem cuttings.
Propagation by seeds
Propagation of Lappula redowskii var. texana by seeds is the most common method used by gardeners and horticulturists. The seeds of the plant need to be stratified before propagation. Stratification is a process of exposing the seeds to cold and moist conditions to break their dormancy.
The seeds of Lappula redowskii var. texana should be sown in late winter or early spring. They should be sown in well-draining soil and covered with a thin layer of soil. The seeds should be watered regularly and kept in a cool and shaded area. The seeds can take up to two months to germinate.
Propagation by stem cuttings
Propagation of Lappula redowskii var. texana by stem cuttings is not as common as propagation by seeds. However, it is a good option for those who want to propagate the plant quickly. The stem cuttings should be taken in the spring when the plant starts to grow new shoots.
The stem cuttings should be taken from new shoots that are approximately four inches long. The cuttings should be taken just below a node and should have at least two leaves. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in well-draining soil. The cuttings should be watered regularly and kept in a cool and shaded area. The cuttings can take up to six weeks to root.
Overall, Lappula redowskii var. texana is relatively easy to propagate. It can be propagated by seeds or stem cuttings. Both methods have their advantages, and it is up to the gardener or horticulturist to decide which method is best suited for their needs.
Disease Management
Lappula redowskii var. texana may be susceptible to various diseases that could affect its growth and yield. Among the most common diseases that may affect this plant are:
- Root rot: This fungal disease is caused by Phytophthora spp. and Rhizoctonia spp. It can cause wilting, yellowing, and stunted growth of the plant. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering, improve drainage, and use fungicides.
- Powdery mildew: This disease appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. It is caused by various fungi and can weaken the plant. To manage this disease, remove and destroy affected plant parts, improve air circulation around the plant, and use fungicides.
- Leaf spot: This disease is caused by fungal pathogens such as Septoria and Cercospora spp. It causes circular or irregular spots on the leaves, which may coalesce and lead to defoliation. To manage this disease, remove and destroy affected plant parts, improve air circulation, and use fungicides.
Pest Management
Lappula redowskii var. texana may also be susceptible to various pests that could affect its growth and yield. Among the most common pests that may affect this plant are:
- Aphids: These small insects suck the plant sap and can cause distorted growth, yellowing, and stunted growth. To manage this pest, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Caterpillars: The larvae of various moth species can chew and feed on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage this pest, handpick and destroy the caterpillars or use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) spray.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests feed on the plant sap, causing yellowing, wilting, and webbing. To manage this pest, improve humidity, spray with water to dislodge the mites, and use miticides.
By implementing these disease and pest management strategies, you can help ensure the healthy growth and yield of Lappula redowskii var. texana.
