Origin
Lesquerella gordonii (Gray) S. Wats. var. densifolia Rollins, commonly known as Gordon’s bladderpod, is a flowering plant native to the southwestern United States. It is primarily found in the arid regions of Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, and Mexico.
Common Names
Aside from Gordon’s bladderpod, Lesquerella gordonii is known by different common names, including Gordon’s brassbutton, Gordon’s bladderpod mustard, and sandiago.
Uses
Lesquerella gordonii is known for its oil-rich seeds. Its seeds contain lesquerolic acid, which is used in the production of industrial lubricants, plastics, and other industrial products. Aside from its industrial use, this plant is also known for its medicinal properties. The plant has shown potential in inhibiting certain cancer cells, as well as treating skin and respiratory diseases.
General Appearance
Lesquerella gordonii is a small herbaceous perennial plant that grows up to 30 cm in height. It has green leaves that are covered with fine hairs. The plant produces yellow flowers that bloom from March to May. It produces small round fruits after flowering.
Light Requirements
Lesquerella gordonii (Gray) S. Wats. var. densifolia Rollins commonly grows in open, sun-drenched areas, where it requires full sunlight to perform photosynthesis. This species does not thrive in shaded or partially shaded areas. Therefore, it is best suited for outdoor cultivation where there is adequate sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Lesquerella gordonii (Gray) S. Wats. var. densifolia Rollins grows well in warm seasonal temperatures. It is native to the Southwestern United States, where summers are warm, and winters are mild. The optimal temperature range for this species is between 20°C and 30°C during the day and 10°C to 18°C at night. At temperatures above 35°C, plant growth slows down, and it may cause damage to the plant. During the colder months, a temperature range of 4°C to 7°C is ideal for this species.
Soil Requirements
Lesquerella gordonii (Gray) S. Wats. var. densifolia Rollins thrives in well-drained, sandy loam soils. The species prefers soils that are slightly acidic with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. This species does not perform well in clay soils that are heavy and waterlogged. The soil should be rich in organic matter and have adequate amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Additionally, the soil should be porous to facilitate proper aeration and drainage, which are essential for the healthy growth of this species.
Cultivation Methods:
Lesquerella gordonii var. densifolia Rollins thrives in dry to medium moisture and well-drained soils with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH level. The plant prefers full sunlight but can tolerate light shade. It is a short-lived perennial that grows up to 12 inches high and 10 inches wide. The plant is tolerant of drought, heat, and cold.Watering Needs:
The plant is drought-tolerant but requires regular watering during the first growing season to establish its roots. After this time, the plant can survive on rainfall alone. However, occasional deep watering during prolonged periods of drought can benefit the plant's growth and development. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is crucial to ensure that the soil dries out between each watering.Fertilization:
Lesquerella gordonii var. densifolia Rollins does not require frequent fertilization. However, a light application of balanced fertilizer in early spring can promote healthy growth and flowering. Avoid overfertilizing as it can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowering.Pruning:
The plant does not require frequent pruning. However, removing spent flowers and dead foliage can improve the plant's overall appearance and promote new growth. Additionally, a light pruning in early spring can help maintain the plant's shape and prevent it from becoming overly leggy. Avoid pruning during the fall or winter as it can damage the plant and reduce its cold hardiness.Propagation Method of Lesquerella gordonii (Gray) S. Wats. var. densifolia Rollins
Lesquerella gordonii (Gray) S. Wats. var. densifolia Rollins can be propagated through seeds or vegetative cuttings. However, propagation through seeds is the most common method for this plant.
Seed Propagation:
To propagate Lesquerella gordonii (Gray) S. Wats. var. densifolia Rollins through seeds, the following steps can be followed:
- Collect mature seeds from the plant during late summer or early fall.
- Clean the seeds and store them in cool, dry conditions.
- In early spring, sow the seeds in a seed tray or directly into the ground.
- Ensure that the soil is well-draining and rich in organic matter.
- Germination usually occurs within 14-21 days under favorable conditions.
- Transplant the seedlings to their permanent location once they have grown to a suitable size.
Vegetative Propagation:
Vegetative propagation of Lesquerella gordonii (Gray) S. Wats. var. densifolia Rollins can be done through stem cuttings. The following steps can be followed:
- Collect a healthy stem cutting from the parent plant during the growing season.
- Ensure that the cutting has at least 2-3 nodes and is about 4-6 inches long.
- Remove the leaves from the lower end of the cutting.
- Dip the cut end in rooting hormone to encourage root growth.
- Plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix or directly into the ground.
- Ensure that the cutting is kept moist but not waterlogged.
- The cutting should start rooting within 3-4 weeks under favorable conditions.
- Transplant the cutting to its permanent location once it has grown to a suitable size.
Disease and Pest Management for Lesquerella gordonii var. densifolia Rollins
Lesquerella gordonii var. densifolia Rollins, a flowering plant native to the southwestern United States, can be susceptible to a variety of diseases and pests. Here are some common issues that can affect the plant, along with tips on managing them:
Diseases
One significant disease that can impact Lesquerella gordonii var. densifolia Rollins is powdery mildew. This fungal disease appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves, flowers, and stems of the plant, often causing them to distort and die.
To help prevent powdery mildew from infecting your plants, ensure they receive adequate water and that air can circulate freely around them by spacing them out appropriately. If an infection does occur, you can apply fungicides containing sulfur or copper to the affected plants to help manage the disease. Additionally, removing any heavily infected plant material can help prevent further spread of the problem.
Pests
Several pests can pose a threat to Lesquerella gordonii var. densifolia Rollins, including aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites.
Aphids and whiteflies are small, sap-sucking insects that can quickly multiply and damage the plant. You can manage aphid and whitefly infestations by introducing natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings. Additionally, washing the plants with a strong jet of water can help dislodge these pests.
Spider mites, on the other hand, can be more challenging to control. These tiny pests live on the undersides of leaves and cause them to yellow and dry out. To manage spider mites, you may need to use an insecticidal soap or neem oil. Alternatively, predatory mites can be introduced to help control spider mite populations.
Regularly monitoring your plants for signs of disease and pest problems is essential in maintaining healthy Lesquerella gordonii var. densifolia Rollins. Along with creating a favorable growing environment, early detection, and applying the appropriate pest and disease management techniques, your plants can thrive and continue to produce beautiful flowers.
