Origin
Lasthenia coronaria, also known as goldfields, is a flowering plant species that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is native to North America, specifically the western regions of the United States, including California, Nevada, and Oregon.
Common Names
Aside from goldfields, Lasthenia coronaria has other common names like Pacific goldfields, common goldfields, common goldcrown, and woolly-heads.
Uses
Lasthenia coronaria is a popular ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes because of its bright yellow flowers that add color to any area. It is useful in erosion control, habitat restoration, and forage for livestock in the wild. Historically, the native people used the plant for medicinal purposes, such as treating coughs, colds, and fever.
General Appearance
The Lasthenia coronaria is an annual plant that has a woody stem base that grows from 6 to 30 centimeters tall. Its small leaves are alternate, narrow, and are hairy. It blooms from February to June, producing a cluster of flowers that are bright yellow and arranged in a flat-topped inflorescence. The plant's fruit is cylindrical with small rough hairs that usually ripens from May to July.
Light Requirements
Lasthenia coronaria typically thrives in an environment with full sun exposure. This species requires a minimum of six hours of sunlight every day to flourish. When grown indoors, the plant should be positioned near a window that receives bright light all day long. On the other hand, when grown outdoors, it should be planted in an open area that is not obstructed by any shade-giving structures.
Temperature Requirements
The best temperature range for the growth of Lasthenia coronaria is between 16 °C (60 °F) and 25 °C (78 °F). This species cannot withstand frost, and temperatures below 0 °C (32 °F) can be fatal to the plant. It is important to keep in mind the temperature requirements while growing this species indoors. The plant should be situated in a room with moderate temperature and away from drafts coming from doors or windows.
Soil Requirements
Lasthenia coronaria can thrive in various soil conditions, but well-draining soil is vital for the plant's growth. The ideal pH range for the soil is between 6.5 and 7.0. The plant prefers sandy or loamy soils with good drainage properties, but it can also do well in rocky or gravelly substrates. Adding organic matter to the soil before planting can improve the moisture retention ability of the soil and add nutrients necessary for the plant's growth. It is recommended to test the soil's pH levels before planting the species to ensure optimal growth conditions.
Cultivation methods
Lasthenia coronaria (Nutt.) Ornduff, commonly known as goldfields, is a type of flowering plant that belongs to the aster family. It is typically grown in outdoor gardens and does well in areas with abundant sunshine and moderate temperatures. When planting, it is best to start with seeds or young seedlings that have been raised in a nursery or greenhouse setting.
Prepare the soil bed by adding compost or organic matter to enhance the soil's fertility. Make sure the soil is well-draining, as waterlogged soil can cause root rot. Maintain a spacing of at least 6 inches between plants to allow them enough room to grow and spread out.
Watering needs
Goldfields require a moderate amount of water to thrive. The soil should not be allowed to dry out completely, but at the same time, overwatering should be avoided as it can cause damage to the roots. The frequency of watering will depend on the climate, soil type, and seasonal variations.
During dry spells or hot weather, extra watering may be necessary to keep the soil moist. It is best to water in the early morning or late afternoon to reduce evaporation and ensure that the plant takes up as much water as possible.
Fertilization
To promote healthy growth and reproduction, goldfields require regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen and phosphorus to provide the necessary nutrients. Apply the fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season.
Alternatively, you can use a slow-release fertilizer that will gradually feed the plant over a longer period. This is especially useful if you do not have the time or resources to fertilize the plant frequently.
Pruning
Goldfields do not require much pruning, but removing spent flowers can encourage more blooms to grow. Use a sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears to trim off the faded flowers at their base. This will prevent the plant from wasting energy on producing seeds and instead put more effort into producing new flowers.
It is also important to remove any dead or diseased foliage regularly to prevent the spread of disease and pests. Overall, goldfields are low-maintenance plants that require minimal care, making them perfect for novice or busy gardeners.
Propagation of Lasthenia coronaria (Nutt.) Ornduff
Lasthenia coronaria (Nutt.) Ornduff, commonly known as goldfields or gold buttons, can be propagated through several methods. The following are the most common ways of propagating this plant:
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is the most common and easiest method of propagating Lasthenia coronaria. The plant produces large quantities of seeds that can be harvested and stored. Seeds can be sowed directly into the garden bed or raised in a seed tray for later transplanting. For best results, sow the seeds in early spring, just as the soil begins to warm up. Place the seeds on the surface of the soil, cover them with a thin layer of soil, and water lightly. Keep the soil moist until the seedlings emerge, which usually takes about 2-3 weeks.
Division
Division is another method of propagating Lasthenia coronaria. However, this method is not recommended as the plant has a small root system that is easily damaged during division. Additionally, the plant does not transplant well and may not survive the process. If you must divide the plant, do it in early spring and ensure to keep the soil moist until new growth appears.
Cuttings
Lasthenia coronaria does not typically propagate through cuttings. This is because the plant has a taproot system that is difficult to propagate through cuttings. Attempting to propagate the plant through cuttings may not yield desirable results and is therefore not recommended.
Overall, propagation of Lasthenia coronaria can be easily achieved through seed propagation, making it an ideal plant for novice gardeners. With the right conditions, this plant will reward you with beautiful yellow flowers throughout spring and summer.
Disease and Pest Management for Lasthenia coronaria
Lasthenia coronaria, commonly known as Goldfields, is a native wildflower found in California. Although it is not highly susceptible to pests and diseases, a few common issues may occasionally arise that damage the plant's growth and development. Some effective management techniques for controlling these problems are discussed below:
Common Pests affecting Lasthenia coronaria
Aphids: Aphids are tiny insects that attack the leaves of Lasthenia coronaria. They suck the sap from the plant and cause the leaves to curl and turn yellow. This may lead to stunted growth and even death of the plant. To control aphids, one can spray a solution of neem oil or insecticidal soap on the plant. Alternatively, one can introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings, which feed on aphids.
Slugs and Snails: These pests usually begin to attack Lasthenia coronaria during the rainy season. Slugs and snails feed on the leaves of the plant, leaving large holes that make the plant vulnerable to other diseases. To control these pests, sprinkle diatomaceous earth or eggshells around the base of the plant. Alternatively, one can place copper strips or mesh around the plant, as copper is toxic to these pests.
Common Diseases affecting Lasthenia coronaria
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects Lasthenia coronaria. It appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves or flowers of the plant. To control this disease, remove the affected parts of the plant and spray a fungicide solution on the remaining parts. Keeping the plant well-ventilated and avoiding overcrowding also helps to prevent powdery mildew.
Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of Lasthenia coronaria. Infected leaves have yellow or orange spots on their upper surface and brown lesions on the undersides. To control this disease, prune and remove the infected leaves and spray a fungicide solution on the remaining parts. Ensure that the plant is well-watered and avoid splashing water on the leaves, as this promotes rust.
Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of Lasthenia coronaria. It causes the roots to rot and the plant to wilt and die. This disease is usually caused by overwatering or poorly-drained soil. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-drained and water the plant sparingly.
By following these disease and pest management techniques, one can ensure healthy growth and development of Lasthenia coronaria. Regular monitoring and timely intervention can help to prevent these issues from becoming severe.
