Lesquerella arctica (Wormsk. ex Hornem.) S. Wats. var. purshii S. Wats.
Lesquerella arctica (Wormsk. ex Hornem.) S. Wats. var. purshii S. Wats. is a plant species in the family Brassicaceae. It is also commonly known as Arctic mustard or Arctic lesquerella. It is native to the Arctic and alpine regions of North America such as Alaska, Nunavut, and Greenland. It prefers to grow in rocky, sandy, or gravelly soils in tundra and subalpine habitats.
General Appearance
Lesquerella arctica var. purshii S. Wats. is a small, perennial plant that grows up to 15 cm in height. It has a basal rosette of leaves that are oblong or spatulate in shape, and covered in dense, white hairs. The stem is also covered in dense, white hairs and can have a reddish or purplish tinge. The plant produces small, white to pinkish flowers that bloom from June to August. The fruit is a small, hairy capsule that contains many small seeds.
Uses
Lesquerella arctica var. purshii S. Wats. has several potential uses. It is an important forage plant for caribou, muskox, and other Arctic herbivores. The seeds of the plant contain high levels of oil and can be used as a potential source of biofuel. The plant also contains compounds that have potential for medicinal use, such as anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties.
In conclusion, Lesquerella arctica var. purshii S. Wats. is a small, perennial plant that grows in the Arctic and alpine regions of North America. It has a basal rosette of leaves, small white to pinkish flowers, and produces small hairy capsules containing many small seeds. The plant has several potential uses, including as an important forage plant for Arctic wildlife, a source of biofuel, and potential medicinal properties.
Light Requirements
Lesquerella arctica (Wormsk. ex Hornem.) S. Wats. var. purshii S. Wats. is native to the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions of North America. As such, it thrives in full sun and requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day for optimal growth. It is not drought-tolerant and needs consistent moisture.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers cool to cold temperatures, with the ideal range between 45 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Lesquerella arctica (Wormsk. ex Hornem.) S. Wats. var. purshii S. Wats. can withstand freezing temperatures so long as there is enough snow cover to protect the foliage. However, the plant cannot grow in extreme heat.
Soil Requirements
Lesquerella arctica (Wormsk. ex Hornem.) S. Wats. var. purshii S. Wats. grows best in well-drained soil that is slightly acidic with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. The plant needs a nutrient-rich soil to thrive. Therefore it requires application of organic matter and fertilizers periodically.
Cultivation of Lesquerella arctica var. purshii
Lesquerella arctica var. purshii is a perennial plant that is native to the Great Plains region of North America. It is typically found growing in dry, rocky soils and is hardy to USDA zones 4-8. Here are some guidelines for cultivating this plant:
Planting
The best time to plant Lesquerella arctica var. purshii is in the spring, after the threat of frost has passed. You can grow this plant from seed or by transplanting seedlings. When planting, choose a well-draining soil and a location that receives full sun. Space seedlings or seeds about 12 inches apart.
Watering
This plant prefers dry soil conditions, so you should avoid overwatering it. Water it deeply once a week or so during the growing season and decrease watering in the winter. The soil should be allowed to dry out between waterings. If you notice any yellowing of the leaves, it may be a sign of overwatering.
Fertilization
Lesquerella arctica var. purshii does not require much fertilization, as it does well in poor soils. However, you can add a slow-release fertilizer such as a granular, all-purpose organic fertilizer to the soil before planting. You can also add a phosphorus-rich fertilizer to stimulate root growth.
Pruning
You may need to prune Lesquerella arctica var. purshii after the blooming season to remove any dead or damaged foliage. This will help the plant maintain its shape and encourage new growth. However, this plant does not require extensive pruning and is generally low maintenance.
Propagation of Lesquerella arctica var. purshii
Lesquerella arctica var. purshii, commonly known as Pursh's Bladderpod, is a low-growing, perennial plant species that is native to the northern regions of North America.
Propagation by seed
The most common method of propagating Lesquerella arctica var. purshii is by seed. Seeds should be planted in the fall, after they have gone through a process of stratification. A good mix of sand and natural soil is suitable for seed germination. The sowing depth should be 1-2mm. In general, the seeds of Lesquerella arctica var. purshii require a cool, moist environment to germinate, and it is recommended to set the pot in a shady area during the summer when the seeds are ready to germinate.
Propagation by cuttings
Lesquerella arctica var. purshii can also be propagated by cuttings. Although stem cuttings are not always successful, leaf cuttings have proven effective in some situations. The cuttings should be taken during the growing season and placed in a good rooting medium. Root hormone powder can be added to increase the chances of successful rooting. After the cuttings have been planted, they should be kept in a humid environment with plenty of light until they are established.
Propagation by division
The final method of propagation for Lesquerella arctica var. purshii is by division. This method involves dividing an established plant into smaller portions, which can be planted in new locations. The best time to divide the plant is during the growing season, when the plant is actively producing new growth. Simply dig up the plant and divide it into sections, making sure each section contains some roots. Replant the sections in their desired locations and water well.
Disease Management
Lesquerella arctica var. purshii is susceptible to various fungal, bacterial and viral diseases. The most common diseases that affect this plant include:
- Black rot: This disease is caused by the fungus Alternaria brassicae and appears as circular black spots on the leaves. Timely applications of fungicides such as azoxystrobin or pyraclostrobin can help manage the disease.
- Downy mildew: This disease is caused by the fungus Peronospora parasitica and appears as a grayish-white fuzzy growth on the leaves. Management of this disease involves controlling humidity levels and avoiding overhead irrigation.
- Verticillium wilt: This disease is caused by the fungus Verticillium dahliae and causes wilting of the leaves. There is no effective treatment for this disease, but plant resistance and crop rotation can help manage the disease.
Pest Management
Lesquerella arctica var. purshii is also susceptible to insect pests such as aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests can cause significant damage to the plant and reduce yields. Management of these pests involves the following:
- Aphids: These pests suck the sap from the leaves, causing wilting and yellowing. Control measures include using insecticidal soaps, neem oil, or releasing natural enemies like ladybugs and lacewings.
- Spider mites: These pests feed on the sap of the plant, causing stunted growth and discoloration of leaves. Control measures include using insecticidal soap, neem oil or releasing predatory mites like Phytoseiulus persimilis.
- Whiteflies: These pests suck the sap from the leaves, causing wilting and yellowing. Use insecticidal soap, neem oils and yellow sticky traps can offer control.
Regular monitoring and identifying pests and diseases at early stages of infestation can help manage them effectively. Additionally, maintaining proper nutrition and irrigation schedules can bolster plants to withstand pest and disease pressures.
