Overview
Lepidium lasiocarpum Nutt. var. orbiculare (Thellung) C.L. Hitchc. is a perennial plant that belongs to the family Brassicaceae. It is a native of western North America and is commonly found in dry areas such as sagebrush flats, foothills, and open woodlands. This plant is also known by its common names, roundfruit pepperweed, and hairyfruit peppergrass.Appearance
Lepidium lasiocarpum var. orbiculare is a herbaceous plant that grows up to 50 cm tall. The stems are erect, branched, and covered in fine hairs. The leaves are green, alternate, and have a lanceolate shape. The plant produces small, white flowers that form clusters at the end of the stems. The fruit of this plant is round, flattened, and covered in fine hairs.Uses
The seeds and leaves of Lepidium lasiocarpum var. orbiculare have a long history of medicinal use by various indigenous cultures. The plant has been used as a poultice to treat bruising and rheumatism, and as an infusion to treat coughs and colds. In addition, the cooked seeds of this plant are edible and have a nutty flavor.Cultivation
Lepidium lasiocarpum var. orbiculare is commonly propagated by seed. The plant prefers dry, well-draining soil and requires full sun exposure. It is drought tolerant and can survive in both hot and cold temperatures. This plant is also known to attract various pollinators such as bees and butterflies.Light Conditions
The plant Lepidium lasiocarpum Nutt. var. orbiculare (Thellung) C.L. Hitchc. requires full sunlight to grow. The plant can tolerate partial shade but may not produce as much foliage or flowers if planted in such locations. When planting the plant, it should be positioned where the surroundings do not shade it. The amount of sunlight the plant receives is crucial in determining the plant's growth rate and size.
Temperature Requirements
The plant Lepidium lasiocarpum Nutt. var. orbiculare (Thellung) C.L. Hitchc. can grow in both cold and warm temperatures. However, the plant thrives best in moderate temperatures, ideally between 15°C to 30°C. To maximize its growth, the plant should be grown in areas that experience these temperatures and ensure that the temperatures do not drop below 5°C. Temperatures below 5°C can damage the plant's leaves and make it difficult for the plant to survive.
Soil Requirements
The plant Lepidium lasiocarpum Nutt. var. orbiculare (Thellung) C.L. Hitchc. grows best in well-drained, fertile soil. The soil pH should range between 6 to 7.5. Clay, sandy soils, and loam are suitable soils for growing the plant. The soil should be rich in organic matter and have adequate water-retaining capacity. The plant is known to do well in soil with medium moisture. Soil that is too dry can make it challenging for the plant to survive.
Cultivation Methods
Lepidium lasiocarpum Nutt. var. orbiculare (Thellung) C.L. Hitchc. is a hardy perennial plant that can be cultivated both indoors and outdoors. It requires well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight to grow properly. The plant can be propagated using seeds or cuttings.
It is important to provide the plant with adequate space to grow. It does not do well when crowded and requires room for its roots to spread. Transplanting the plant to a bigger pot or moving it outdoors can help to promote growth.
Watering Needs
The plant needs regular watering to keep the soil moist. However, it does not tolerate excessively wet soil, which can lead to root rot. It is important to allow the soil to dry out partially between watering sessions.
The frequency of watering may vary depending on the season, the climate, and the soil type. Watering should be reduced during the winter and increased during the summer. The plant may also require more frequent watering if it is exposed to direct sunlight or if the air is dry.
Fertilization
Lepidium lasiocarpum Nutt. var. orbiculare (Thellung) C.L. Hitchc. requires periodic fertilization to encourage healthy growth. A balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be applied every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Over-fertilization can harm the plant, so it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and not exceed the recommended dosage. It is also important to avoid fertilizing the plant during the dormant season or when it is stressed due to environmental factors.
Pruning
The plant does not require much pruning. However, removing dead or damaged leaves can help to promote new growth and prevent diseases. Pruning can also help to shape the plant and prevent it from becoming too leggy.
Pruning can be done at any time of the year, but it is best to avoid doing it during the dormant season when the plant is not actively growing. Use sharp, clean scissors or shears to make clean cuts and avoid damaging the plant's stems and branches.
Propagation of Lepidium lasiocarpum Nutt. var. orbiculare
Lepidium lasiocarpum Nutt. var. orbiculare (Thellung) C.L. Hitchc., commonly known as globe pepperwort or globe-fruited pepperweed, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. The plant is native to the western United States and can be propagated through various methods.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation by seed is the most common method of propagation for Lepidium lasiocarpum Nutt. var. orbiculare. The plants can be grown both indoors and outdoors from seeds. Sow the seeds in late winter or early spring at a depth of 1/8 inch and a spacing of 12 inches. The seeds require light for germination, so cover them with a fine layer of soil. It takes approximately two weeks for the seeds to germinate. It's important to note that the seedlings thrive in full sun and well-draining soil.
Propagation by Division
The division is another method of propagating Lepidium lasiocarpum Nutt. var. orbiculare. The ideal time for division is during the early spring when the plant is starting to grow. Dig up the clump and divide it into several smaller plants, making sure each new plant has a good root system. Make sure to keep the newly divided plants moist and in a shaded location until they are established.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is possible but is typically more challenging. The best time to take cuttings is early autumn when the plant is going into dormancy. Take 2 to 3-inch cuttings from the stem tips and remove the leaves from the lower half of each cutting. Dip the cuttings in a rooting hormone and plant them in a mixture of peat moss and sand. It takes approximately four weeks for the cuttings to root, after which they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Disease Management
Lepidium lasiocarpum Nutt. var. orbiculare (Thellung) C.L. Hitchc. is generally quite resistant to diseases. However, in favorable conditions, it may still be susceptible to fungal, bacterial, or viral infections.
Fungal Diseases: Fungal diseases that may affect this plant include powdery mildew, root rot, and leaf spot. To manage fungal diseases, it is essential to remove the infected plant parts, avoid overhead watering, and improve air circulation around the plant. Fungicides may also be used but should be applied cautiously, following instructions carefully.
Bacterial Diseases: Bacterial diseases, including bacterial leaf spot and wilts, can be managed by removing the infected plant parts, avoiding overhead watering, and maintaining good plant hygiene. Some copper-based bactericides may be used, but, as with fungicides, they should be applied carefully and following instructions.
Viral Diseases: Virus diseases are primarily transmitted through insects and other pests, making it challenging to manage them. Infected plants should be removed and destroyed to prevent the spread of the disease. There is no cure for viral infections.
Pest Management
Lepidium lasiocarpum Nutt. var. orbiculare (Thellung) C.L. Hitchc. may be affected by a range of pests, including insects, mites, and slugs. It is essential to manage these pests effectively to ensure the plant's health and productivity.
Insects: Insects that commonly affect this plant include aphids, spider mites, and flea beetles. Insecticidal soaps, horticultural oils, or neem oil can be used to manage these pests. Beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and lacewings, can also be introduced to control insect populations.
Mites: Spider mites are a common problem for Lepidium lasiocarpum Nutt. var. orbiculare (Thellung) C.L. Hitchc. plants. Regular monitoring can help detect infestations early. Insecticidal soaps, horticultural oils, or neem oil can be used to manage these pests.
Slugs: Slugs can damage the plant by feeding on young leaves and stems. Reducing moisture levels around the plant and placing slug traps can help manage these pests. Alternatively, copper barriers or diatomaceous earth can be used to prevent slugs from crawling onto the plant.
Overall, it is crucial to maintain good plant health, proper irrigation, and sanitation practices to prevent pest and disease infestations. Early detection and prompt management of any problems can help maintain a healthy and productive Lepidium lasiocarpum Nutt. var. orbiculare (Thellung) C.L. Hitchc. plant.
