Origin:
Lesquerella arctica (Wormsk. ex Hornem.) S. Wats. ssp. calderi (Mulligan & Porsild) Hultén is a subspecies of the Lesquerella arctica plant species, which is native to the Arctic and alpine regions of North America, including Alaska, Canada, and Greenland. This subspecies specifically is found in northwestern North America, particularly in the Yukon Territory and the Northwest Territories.
Common Names:
Lesquerella arctica ssp. calderi is commonly known as Calder's Bladderpod, in reference to Canadian botanist Douglas Calder who first described this subspecies in 1979.
Uses:
The plant contains high levels of hydroxy fatty acids, which makes it a potential source of oil for industrial and pharmaceutical applications. Additionally, the plant has been used by indigenous peoples in the region for medicinal purposes, including treating coughs and colds.
General Appearance:
Lesquerella arctica ssp. calderi is a low-growing perennial plant that typically reaches a height of 5-15 cm. It has small, yellow flowers that bloom from May to August, and a distinctive fruit that resembles a bladder or pouch. The leaves are hairy and gray-green, and the plant grows in dense clusters in harsh, rocky terrain.
Light Requirements
Lesquerella arctica ssp. calderi requires full sunlight to grow properly. It cannot survive in shady areas or locations with low light intensity. Direct sunlight is the ideal condition for the plant's growth and development.
Temperature Requirements
The plant requires a cool climate to grow. It grows best in areas with a mean annual temperature of 1 to 7 degrees Celsius. It can tolerate sub-freezing temperatures, but cannot tolerate temperatures above 20 degrees Celsius. The plant also requires an adequate amount of chilling hours to complete its dormant period.
Soil Requirements
The plant thrives in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. A pH range of 4.5 to 7.5 is ideal for the plant's growth. The plant prefers soils that are moderately acidic to neutral. It can survive in sandy, clay, or loam soils, but the soil should not be too heavy or waterlogged. The plant requires good soil aeration and drainage for its root system.
Cultivation Methods for Lesquerella arctica ssp. calderi
Lesquerella arctica ssp. calderi, also known as Calder's Bladderpod, is a rare plant species that requires specialized care. It is a cold-hardy perennial that prefers well-draining soil with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 8.0. The seeds of this plant require stratification to germinate. Therefore, it is best to sow the seeds in the fall and let them overwinter. Alternatively, the seeds can be stratified artificially by placing them in a moist towel in the fridge for six weeks before sowing them in the spring.
Watering Needs for Lesquerella arctica ssp. calderi
Calder's Bladderpod requires moderate watering, especially during the growing season. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. This species is susceptible to root rot, so it is essential to avoid overwatering. During the winter months, watering can be reduced, and the plant can be allowed to dry out slightly.
Fertilization for Lesquerella arctica ssp. calderi
Calder's Bladderpod does not require heavy fertilization. In fact, too much fertilizer can be harmful to this plant. It is recommended to fertilize once in the spring with a low-nitrogen, slow-release fertilizer. Additionally, incorporating organic matter such as compost into the soil can help improve soil fertility without risking overfertilization.
Pruning for Lesquerella arctica ssp. calderi
Calder's Bladderpod does not require pruning as it naturally grows into a compact mound shape. However, dead or diseased foliage can be trimmed at any time of year. It is important not to remove more than a third of the plant at a time to avoid shocking it.
Propagation of Lesquerella arctica ssp. calderi
Lesquerella arctica ssp. calderi can be propagated by seeds or cuttings. The following are the plant's propagation methods:
Seed Propagation
The optimum time to sow Lesquerella arctica ssp. calderi seeds is during spring or early summer. The seedlings require well-draining soil and a sunny location to grow. Start by preparing a seedbed with loose soil and spread the seeds evenly. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and press lightly for good contact. Maintain a consistent level of moisture, but do not overwater. The seeds will germinate within 2-3 weeks and can be transplanted to a permanent location after a year's growth.
Cutting Propagation
Lesquerella arctica ssp. calderi can also be propagated through cuttings. This method is useful for maintaining the characteristics of a particularly desirable plant. Collect cuttings from healthy and disease-free plants during the early summer. Use sharp and sterilized shears to make a clean cut below the leaf node. Remove the leaves from the bottom 2/3 of the stem and dip the cuttings in a rooting hormone. Place the cuttings in a well-draining soil mixture and keep them moist. After a few weeks, the cutting will take root and can be transplanted to a growing area.
Disease Management
Lesquerella arctica ssp. calderi can be susceptible to several diseases such as root rot, powdery mildew, and bacterial leaf spot.
To manage root rot, avoid overwatering and ensure adequate drainage. Remove infected plants to prevent the disease from spreading.
Powdery mildew can be controlled by practicing good sanitation, pruning infected areas, and applying fungicides. Additionally, proper plant spacing can improve air circulation and reduce humidity, which can also help prevent powdery mildew.
Bacterial leaf spot can be managed by keeping the plant properly fertilized and avoiding overhead watering. Affected plant parts should be removed and destroyed.
Pest Management
Lesquerella arctica ssp. calderi can be susceptible to pests such as aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies.
Aphids can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. It is also helpful to encourage natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings.
Spider mites and whiteflies can be managed through regular monitoring and early detection. Insecticidal soap and neem oil can also be effective, as well as introducing beneficial insects such as predatory mites and parasitic wasps.
Proper cultural practices such as removing weeds and debris can make the plant less appealing to pests, and planting companion plants that repel pests may also be helpful.
