Origin and Common Names
Lasthenia californica DC. ex Lindl. is a species of flowering plant in the daisy family, Asteraceae. It is native to California and Baja California, Mexico. The plant is commonly known as California Goldfields or simply Goldfields, after the bright yellow flowers that cover its canopy.
General Appearance
Lasthenia californica DC. ex Lindl. is an herbaceous annual plant that grows to a height of about 12 inches (30 cm). The plant produces a basal rosette of green, lobed leaves that are about 4 inches (10 cm) long and 2 inches (5 cm) wide. The stem is typically simple or branched, and produces a dense inflorescence of composite flowers that range in color from golden yellow to orange-yellow.
The flowers of Lasthenia californica DC. ex Lindl. typically have a diameter of 1 to 1.5 inches (3-4 cm) and are arranged in flat-topped clusters. The petals are ray-like, with each flower having 8 to 13 spreading rays that surround a central disk of tubular flowers. The dark green leaves and golden yellow flowers create a striking contrast in the landscape.
Uses
Due to its attractive appearance, Lasthenia californica DC. ex Lindl. is a popular garden plant, used to add color to rock gardens, wildflower meadows, and borders. The plant is also an important component of the California native plant community and can be found growing in the wild as a pioneer species in disturbed areas such as fields, roadsides, and along the coast.
Goldfields are known for their landscape-enhancing qualities, providing food and habitat for wildlife, and their long history of use by indigenous people. Native Californians traditionally utilized the Goldfields as a food source, grinding the seeds into flour to make cakes and porridge. They also used the leaves to make poultices to treat sores, wounds, and bruises.
Light Requirements
The Lasthenia californica DC. ex Lindl. plant prefers to grow in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate bright sunlight with some protection during the hottest parts of the day, but it can also grow well in partial shade where the soil stays cooler and retains more moisture. If the plant is grown indoors, it will require several hours of sunlight per day or artificial grow lights that mimic natural sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is native to California and can tolerate moderate temperatures ranging from 10 to 30 degrees Celsius. However, it grows best in temperatures between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius. The plant is sensitive to frost and must be protected during cold winter weather. If grown indoors, the plant should be kept in an area with a constant temperature of around 20 degrees Celsius.
Soil Requirements
The Lasthenia californica DC. ex Lindl. plant grows in a well-drained garden soil with moderate fertility. It prefers a loamy soil that drains well. The soil pH should be between 6 and 7 for optimal growth. Adding organic matter to the soil can improve soil quality and drainage. The plant does not tolerate water-logged soil, and it requires regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Cultivation of Lasthenia californica DC. ex Lindl.
Lasthenia californica, also known as California goldfields, is a beautiful annual wildflower native to California, Baja California, and Oregon. This plant belongs to the Asteraceae family and is easy to grow.
When growing Lasthenia californica, it is essential to select a suitable site for planting. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. The soil should be well-draining and rich in organic matter. A soil pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 is optimal for growth.
Sow the seeds directly in the garden bed in late winter or early spring, after the last frost. Scatter the seeds across the soil surface and lightly tamp them down. Do not cover the seeds with soil as they need light to germinate. Keep the soil moist, but avoid overwatering as this can cause the seeds to rot.
Watering Needs of Lasthenia californica DC. ex Lindl.
Watering Lasthenia californica should be done regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. The plant can tolerate brief periods of drought, but consistent moisture will promote better growth and flowering. During the hot summer months, the plant may require more frequent watering to prevent the soil from drying out completely.
It is best to water the plant in the morning to allow the foliage to dry up during the day. This helps prevent fungal diseases from developing. A soaker hose or drip irrigation system is ideal for watering Lasthenia californica as it ensures the water goes to the root zone and minimizes water splashing on the leaves.
Fertilization of Lasthenia californica DC. ex Lindl.
For optimal growth and flowering, Lasthenia californica requires regular fertilization. A balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 fertilizer, can be applied every four weeks during the growing season. Another option is to feed the plant with a slow-release fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season.
It is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions when applying fertilizer to avoid overuse, which can damage the plant. Overuse of fertilizer can also cause excessive foliage growth and reduce the number of flowers.
Pruning of Lasthenia californica DC. ex Lindl.
Lasthenia californica does not require extensive pruning. Deadheading, which is removing spent flowers, can promote the growth of new flowers and prolong the flowering period. The plant can also be cut back after the first flush of flowers to encourage another round of blooms. Pruning should be done with clean, sharp pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant.
After the growing season, Lasthenia californica usually dies down, and the plant can be safely removed from the garden. However, if you want to save the seeds, allow the flowers to dry up on the plant and collect the seeds in a paper bag for storage.
Propagation of Lasthenia californica DC. ex Lindl.
Lasthenia californica DC. ex Lindl. is a beautiful, yellow-flowering plant that grows in California. It is a short-lived perennial or annual herb that can reach up to 60 cm in height. Propagation of this plant can be done through a variety of methods.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method to propagate Lasthenia californica DC. ex Lindl. Seeds can be harvested from mature plants in the late summer or early fall season. These seeds can be sown immediately, or they can be stored in a cool and dry place for future sowing.
The seeds can be sown directly into the soil or started indoors. If sowing directly, it is recommended to prepare the soil by removing weeds and debris. The seeds can then be scattered onto the soil surface and covered with a thin layer of soil. The soil should be kept moist until the seed germinates.
If starting the seed indoors, they should be sown in flats or small pots. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil, kept moist, and placed in a warm and sunny location. Once the seedlings are 4 to 6 weeks old and have developed their first true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden.
Division Propagation
Lasthenia californica DC. ex Lindl. can also be propagated by division. This method is best used for mature plants that have grown too large and are starting to die out in the center. To propagate by division, the plant should be carefully dug up and the roots and foliage should be gently separated. Each divided plant should have its own set of roots and foliage, and should be replanted immediately.
Overall, Lasthenia californica DC. ex Lindl. is an easy plant to propagate. Whether you choose to propagate by seed or division, you can enjoy this lovely yellow-flowered plant in your garden or yard.
Disease Management
Lasthenia californica DC. ex Lindl. is susceptible to several diseases, including:
- Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease characterized by white or gray powdery growth on the leaves and stems of the plant. It can cause leaf drop and stunted growth. To manage powdery mildew, use fungicidal sprays or dusts. Make sure to follow the label instructions carefully.
- Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that causes orange or yellow spots on the leaves of the plant. It can also cause a reduction in plant vigor. To manage rust, remove and destroy affected plant parts and use fungicidal sprays or dusts.
- Botrytis: Botrytis is a fungal disease that causes gray mold on the plant. It can quickly spread in humid conditions. To manage botrytis, remove affected plant parts, ensure proper air circulation, and avoid overwatering.
Pest Management
Lasthenia californica DC. ex Lindl. can also be affected by several pests, including:
- Aphids: Aphids are small sap-sucking insects that cause yellowing and curling of leaves. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap sprays or introduce natural predators like ladybugs.
- Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny arachnids that feed on the underside of leaves, causing yellow spots and white webbing. To manage spider mites, use insecticidal soap sprays or introduce predatory mites.
- Thrips: Thrips are small insects that feed on plant tissues, causing distorted growth and discoloration. To manage thrips, use insecticidal soap sprays or introduce natural predators like lacewings.
Regular inspection and quick action can help prevent the spread of diseases and pests in Lasthenia californica DC. ex Lindl. It is also crucial to maintain good sanitation practices and avoid overcrowding to reduce the risk of diseases and pests.
