Origin
Lasallea grandiflora (L.) Semple & L. Brouillet, also known as Largeflower False Goldenaster, is a flowering plant species native to North America. It is commonly found in the eastern region of the continent, from Vermont to Georgia and westward to Oklahoma and Texas.
Common Names
Aside from Largeflower False Goldenaster, Lasallea grandiflora is also known by other common names such as Largeflower Goldenaster, Largeflower Haplopappus, and Showy Goldenaster.
Uses
The plant has several uses, particularly in traditional medicine. Its leaves and flowers have been used by Native Americans as a poultice to treat wounds and bruises. The Cherokee tribe also used the plant for its anti-inflammatory properties, while the Seminole tribe utilized it as a remedy for respiratory problems.
Aside from its medicinal uses, Lasallea grandiflora is also cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens due to its showy yellow flowers that bloom in the late summer and early autumn.
General Appearance
Lasallea grandiflora is a perennial herb that can grow up to 5 feet tall. Its leaves are narrow and long, coarsely textured, and covered with white hairs. The flowers are composite heads, consisting of yellow ray florets and yellowish-brown disk florets. The flowers are typically 2-3 inches in diameter and bloom in clusters at the apex of the stems. The plant blooms from August to October and bears fruits that are achenes with pappus.
Light Requirements
Lasallea grandiflora prefers full sunlight exposure for optimal growth. It can also tolerate some shade but will not grow as vigorously as in well-lit areas. It is recommended to place this plant in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant favors moderate temperatures ranging between 18 to 24°C (64 to 75°F). It is not cold-hardy and cannot survive in freezing temperatures. In colder climates, it is essential to protect Lasallea grandiflora by moving it indoors during the colder months.
Soil Requirements
Lasallea grandiflora prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. The ideal pH for growth is between 5.5 to 7.0. It thrives in sandy or loamy soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil should also be able to retain moisture without becoming waterlogged.
Cultivation Methods
Lasallea grandiflora (L.) Semple & L. Brouillet is a plant that prefers full sun to partial shade and soil that drains well. It is often grown as an ornamental plant because of its stunning yellow flowers and unique foliage. The best time to plant Lasallea grandiflora is in the early spring, after the threat of frost has passed. To cultivate Lasallea grandiflora, you should prepare the soil by digging a hole that is deep enough to accommodate the plant's root system. The soil should be enriched with compost or well-rotted manure before planting. Once the plant is in the ground, water it well and maintain moist soil until it is established.Watering Needs
Lasallea grandiflora requires regular watering to thrive, especially during the growing season. You should water the plant deeply and infrequently rather than shallowly and often. This will encourage deep root growth and prevent the soil from becoming waterlogged, which can lead to root rot. As a general guideline, you should water Lasallea grandiflora once a week during the growing season, and less frequently during the dormant season. However, the precise watering needs will depend on the climate, soil type, and other factors in your specific growing environment.Fertilization
Lasallea grandiflora doesn't require a lot of fertilizer to grow well, but periodic applications can encourage healthy growth and blooming. You should fertilize the plant in the early spring before new growth begins. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for flowering plants is a good choice for Lasallea grandiflora. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates and frequency, and avoid over-fertilizing, as this can cause the plant to produce excessive foliage at the expense of flowers.Pruning
Lasallea grandiflora doesn't require a lot of pruning, but periodic maintenance is necessary to keep the plant looking attractive and healthy. You should prune the plant in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins. You can remove any dead or damaged branches, and shape the plant as desired. However, avoid cutting back more than one-third of the plant at a time, as this can stress the plant and reduce its blooming potential.Propagation of Lasallea grandiflora (L.) Semple & L. Brouillet
Lasallea grandiflora, also known as the large-flowered false goldenaster, produces seeds as well as rhizomes that can be used for propagation.
Propagating by seeds:
Propagation by seeds is possible but can be challenging. Seeds of Lasallea grandiflora are small and require light for germination. Sow the seeds on the surface of a well-draining propagation mix and press them gently into the mix without covering them. Keep them moist and place the tray in an area with bright, indirect light. The seeds usually take 2-4 weeks to germinate.
Propagating by rhizomes:
Propagation by rhizomes is a more reliable and faster method. First, choose a healthy mother plant and dig up a portion of its rhizomes. Carefully divide the rhizomes into smaller sections, each with at least one shoot and a good number of roots. Plant the sections in a well-draining mix and water them enough to keep the soil consistently moist. Place the pots in a shaded area and keep them well-ventilated. New shoots usually emerge within 2-4 weeks.
Propagation by rhizomes can also be done by taking stem cuttings. Cut a portion of the mother plant's stem that has several nodes. Remove the leaves from the lower nodes and dip the cuttings into rooting hormone. Plant the cuttings in a well-draining mix and keep them moist. The cuttings might take several weeks to root and grow.
Lasallea grandiflora is a lovely plant that can be propagated by seeds or rhizomes. However, the latter is the more effective method and can produce healthier plants.
Disease Management
Lasallea grandiflora is usually a healthy plant, but it can be susceptible to some diseases. These include botrytis blight, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. Botrytis blight and powdery mildew are caused by fungi, while leaf spot is caused by bacteria.
To manage botrytis blight, it is essential to prune affected areas, remove diseased plant debris, water in the morning, and improve air circulation. Use a fungicide to prevent the spread of the disease further. To reduce powdery mildew damage, apply horticultural oil, reduce the amount of overhead irrigation by using drip irrigation, and improve air circulation. Finally, to manage leaf spot disease, use copper-based fungicides and avoid wetting the leaves while watering.
Pest Management
Lasallea grandiflora usually has no serious problems with pests. Some pests that can attack this plant include spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Spider mites are small and difficult to notice, but their presence is indicated by yellowing leaves. Control by regularly wiping the leaves with a damp cloth or a strong spray of water.
Aphids are usually found on the underside of the leaves, and they suck plant sap, causing curling and distortion of the leaves and flowers. Control aphids with a strong spray of water, insecticidal soap, or neem oil. Finally, mealybugs usually appear as a white, cottony substance on the leaves. Use rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soap to control this pest.
