Origin and Common Names
Lappula squarrosa (Retz.) Dumort. var. erecta (A. Nels.) Dorn, also known as erect western stickseed or flatstyle stickseed, is a member of the forget-me-not family, Boraginaceae. It is native to Western North America, including parts of Canada, the United States, and Mexico.
General Appearance
Erect western stickseed is an herbaceous perennial that grows up to 60 centimeters tall. The stem is erect, branching, and covered with short stiff hairs. The leaves are alternate, lanceolate, and up to 10 centimeters long. The flowers are small and white to pale blue, arranged in clusters at the ends of branches. The fruit is a burr-like structure covered in hooked prickles that attach to clothing or fur.
Uses
Despite its prickly nature, erect western stickseed has been traditionally used by Native American tribes for medicinal purposes. The Blackfoot used a decoction of the root to treat stomach pain, while the Navajo used a poultice of the crushed leaves to treat bruises. The plant also has some potential as a forage crop for livestock.
Light Requirements
Lappula squarrosa var. erecta is a plant species that grows well in full sunlight. It requires at least six hours of direct sunlight daily to thrive. In shady conditions, the plant tends to grow tall and lanky, with weak stems, and the flowers may not develop fully.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives in temperate climates and grows well in regions with cool summers and cold winters. Lappula squarrosa var. erecta can tolerate frost and often goes dormant during the winter. In regions where the temperature is high during the summer, the plant grows slowly, resulting in smaller plants.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, from sandy to loamy soils. However, the plant does not grow well in heavy clay soils, which can limit root growth and cause waterlogging.
The ideal soil pH for Lappula squarrosa var. erecta growth is slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6-7). An excessively acidic or alkaline soil can affect nutrient uptake and impede plant growth, resulting in stunted plants. Regular soil testing can help growers ensure that the soil pH is optimal for plant growth.
Cultivation Guidelines for Lappula squarrosa (Retz.) Dumort. var. erecta (A. Nels.) Dorn
When it comes to cultivating Lappula squarrosa var. erecta, proper site selection is critical. It is adaptive to a wide range of soil types, but it requires well-drained soils with plenty of organic matter and nutrients. Therefore, select a location that gets ample sunlight and is well-drained. This plant is relatively low-maintenance and does not need much attention once established.
Watering Requirements for Lappula squarrosa var. erecta
Lappula squarrosa var. erecta is drought-tolerant and can withstand dry spells and heat waves. However, during extended dry spells, it is essential to provide adequate irrigation to ensure optimal growth and health. Water the plant deeply once a week or whenever the first inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot and the development of other health issues.
Fertilization of Lappula squarrosa var. erecta
Lappula squarrosa var. erecta is not a heavy feeder and, therefore, does not require too many nutrients to thrive. However, applying a balanced fertilizer in spring and mid-summer can help boost the plant's growth and flowering. Use a slow-release fertilizer high in potassium and phosphorus to encourage more flowers and fruits.
Pruning Lappula squarrosa var. erecta
Lappula squarrosa var. erecta does not require pruning unless it is to remove any dead or damaged stems. This plant is relatively short-lived and will die back after a few years, so pruning is not required to maximize its lifespan. However, cutting back the plant to around half its height after flowering can help promote bushier growth and encourage more flowers in the next season.
Propagation of Lappula squarrosa (Retz.) Dumort. var. erecta (A. Nels.) Dorn
Lappula squarrosa (Retz.) Dumort. var. erecta (A. Nels.) Dorn can be propagated through both seeds and stem cuttings. However, the most common method is through seeds. The plant produces seeds in large quantities, which are easily collected and propagated.
Propagation through Seeds
The seeds of Lappula squarrosa (Retz.) Dumort. var. erecta (A. Nels.) Dorn can be collected in late summer to early fall when they turn brown and are easily shaken off the plant. The seeds need to be separated from the chaff before sowing. Stratification is suggested for optimal germination. Seeds should be stored dry at a temperature of 40-50°F for approximately three months before planting.
For planting, seeds should be placed on top of moist soil in a container or plastic bag. They can be covered lightly with additional soil, sand or vermiculite. The seeds need light to germinate, so do not bury them deep. Germination typically occurs within 15-30 days. Once seeds have germinated, they can be transplanted into individual pots with a well-draining soil mixture.
Propagation through Cuttings
Propagation through stem cuttings is less common but can be successful. It is best to take stem cuttings in late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Choose healthy, disease-free stems that are 4-6 inches long. Remove all but the top few leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormones to encourage root development.
Place the cutting in a container with moist soil, sand, or vermiculite. Keep the soil moist and the cutting in a shaded area until roots have developed. Transplant to a larger container or outside into a well-draining soil mixture.
Disease Management
Lappula squarrosa (Retz.) Dumort. var. erecta (A. Nels.) Dorn can suffer from various diseases that affect different parts of the plant, including leaves, stems, and roots. The most common diseases include:
- Powdery mildew: This is a fungal disease exhibiting as a white powdery growth on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, remove the infected parts of the plant, keep the plant healthy, and utilize fungicides such as neem or sulfur.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by fungi, and it often occurs in plants with poor drainage. To prevent root rot, use well-draining soil and do not overwater the plant.
- Leaf spot: This is a fungal disease that causes yellow or brown spots on the leaves. To manage leaf spot, remove the infected parts of the plant and use copper fungicides.
Pest Management
Like many other plants, Lappula squarrosa (Retz.) Dumort. var. erecta (A. Nels.) Dorn can be affected by various pests. Some of the most common pests that can attack this plant include:
- Aphids: These tiny insects suck the sap out of the plant and can cause stunted growth. To manage aphids, spray the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
- Cutworms: These pests feed on the stems of the plant, causing them to wither and die. To manage cutworms, apply insecticides such as Bacillus thuringiensis or spinosad to the soil surrounding the plant.
- Spider mites: These pests suck the sap out of the plant, causing yellowing and shriveling of the leaves. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with water or insecticidal soap.
Regular inspections and good sanitation practices can also help to prevent pests and diseases from affecting the plant. Additionally, maintaining healthy plants by providing optimal growing conditions can also help to reduce the impact of these issues.
