Overview
Lesquerella lyrata Rollins, also known as L. fendleri (A. Gray) S. Watson, is a plant species belonging to the Brassicaceae family. It is an herbaceous perennial plant native to North America that grows in deserts, open rocky or gravelly slopes, sandy plains, and mesas. This plant has many common names, including Fendler's bladderpod, Lyrate bladderpod, and lyrate lesquerella.
General Appearance
The L. lyrata plant is a low-growing shrub, reaching a height of 10 to 40 cm. Its stems are woody at the base, with hairy branches that produce small oval-shaped leaves with wavy margins and are hairy in texture. The plant's leaves usually appear deeply lobed and have a lyre shape, which gives the plant its common name lyrate bladderpod. This plant produces yellow flowers and small fruits resembling a bladder-like structure.
Uses
Lesquerella lyrata has a significant potential as an industrial crop because of its oilseeds that can produce hydroxy fatty acids, used in the production of lubricants, plasticizers, and other industrial products. The fatty acids present in the oilseeds are also used in the production of biodiesel. The seeds are also nutritious, and its oil has been used in Native American traditional medicine to treat stomach problems, skin infections, and wounds.
Moreover, L. lyrata is a drought-tolerant plant that can be used for landscaping, land reclamation, and erosion control in arid regions. As a native plant species, it also serves as a food source for wildlife such as bees and butterflies.
The plant's leaves and flowers are also valued for their ornamental value in landscaping gardens and parks. The plant can grow well in well-drained soils, but it requires full sun and regular watering for optimal growth.
Light Requirements
Lesquerella lyrata typically requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. In areas with hot, intense sunlight, partial shade is recommended to prevent leaf scorching. Insufficient light can cause the plant to become leggy and weak, reducing overall growth and flowering.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Lesquerella lyrata is between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. This perennial plant tolerates moderate frost but is semi-evergreen in areas with mild winters. Hot, dry weather can cause the plant to go dormant, reducing its overall growth and flowering.
Soil Requirements
Lesquerella lyrata requires well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It prefers a rocky or sandy soil type containing a moderate amount of organic matter. The plant is highly tolerant of drought and salt but can suffer from root rot in poorly drained soils. It is recommended to amend the soil with organic matter to improve drainage and overall soil quality.
Cultivation Methods
Lesquerella lyrata Rollins is a plant that can be easily grown in different types of soils, such as sandy or clayey soils, as long as they provide good drainage and are well-draining. As for the optimal growing conditions, the plant prefers full sun exposure and mild temperatures, around 60-70°F. In terms of planting, it is recommended to sow the seeds directly in the soil in mid-spring or early fall.
Watering Needs
The amount of water required by Lesquerella lyrata Rollins is moderate, meaning that it neither prefers too much watering nor too little. Over-watering can lead to waterlogging and root rot, while under-watering can cause the plant to wither and dry out. The plant needs to be watered once or twice a week, depending on the climate and the soil type. A general rule of thumb is to water deeply, soaking the soil until it is moist, but not saturated.
Fertilization
Lesquerella lyrata Rollins is not a heavy feeder, and therefore, fertilization is not a mandatory step in its cultivation. However, if you want to provide your plant with some extra nutrients, you can add a slow-release, balanced fertilizer at planting time or during the growing season. It is essential not to over-fertilize, as this can also harm the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is not a necessary action when it comes to Lesquerella lyrata Rollins. However, it is recommended to remove any dead or damaged leaves or stems to promote new growth and maintain the plant's overall health and appearance. If you wish to shape the plant or control its size, you can do so in the early spring before the plant starts to bloom.
Propagation of Lesquerella lyrata Rollins
Lesquerella lyrata Rollins, also known as American oilseed, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. Propagation of this plant can be done through various methods including seed propagation, stem cuttings, and division.
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is the most common and preferred method of propagating Lesquerella lyrata Rollins. The seeds of this plant can be collected from the mature fruits, which usually develop after the plant has flowered. The collected seeds should be cleaned and dried before sowing.
For seed sowing, the seeds should be planted in seedling trays filled with well-drained soil and should be covered lightly with soil. The trays should be kept in a warm, well-lit area until the seeds germinate. Once the seedlings reach about two inches in height, they can be transplanted to a well-prepared garden bed.
Stem cuttings
Propagation of Lesquerella lyrata Rollins can also be done through stem cuttings. This method involves taking cuttings from a healthy plant, usually about four to six inches long with several leaves. The cuttings should be taken from the softwood region of the plant.
The cuttings should be dipped in a rooting hormone and then planted in a pot filled with well-draining soil. The pot should be kept in a warm, brightly lit area and should be watered regularly. After a few weeks, the cuttings will develop roots and can be transplanted into a garden bed.
Division
Division is another method of propagating Lesquerella lyrata Rollins. The plants should ideally be divided in spring or fall when the plant is dormant. The plant should be carefully dug out of the soil, and the root ball should be divided into smaller sections with a sharp and sterile knife.
The divided sections should be planted in well-draining soil in a garden bed. The plants should be kept well-watered and should be protected from harsh weather conditions until they are established in their new environment.
Disease and Pest Management for Lesquerella lyrata Rollins Plant
Lesquerella lyrata Rollins, commonly known as the lyrate bladderpod, is a hardy plant that is native to North America. While it is generally disease-resistant, there are a few common diseases and pests that can affect this plant. Here are some tips on how to manage them:
Common Diseases
Lesquerella lyrata Rollins is vulnerable to several fungal diseases, including:
- Root rot: Root rot is caused by over-watering or poor soil drainage, which leads to the roots of the plant becoming water-logged. Symptoms include yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and wilting. To prevent root rot, ensure that the plant is grown in well-drained soil and avoid over-watering.
- Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew presents as a white, powdery substance on the leaves of the plant. It is caused by a fungus that thrives in humid conditions. To manage powdery mildew, ensure proper spacing between plants to improve air circulation and remove any infected leaves. Also, make sure to keep the area around the plant free of debris and water the plant at its base to avoid wetting the leaves.
Common Pests
There are several pests that can attack Lesquerella lyrata Rollins, including:
- Cabbage loopers: Cabbage loopers are green caterpillars that can cause damage to plants by chewing on the leaves. To manage cabbage loopers, try using floating row covers or insecticidal soap.
- Aphids: Aphids are tiny, sap-sucking insects that can cause damage to plants by stunting their growth. To manage aphids, try using an insecticidal soap or spray the plant with a strong blast of water to knock them off the plant.
When managing pests and diseases on Lesquerella lyrata Rollins, it's important to try and manage them with organic methods as much as possible, to avoid harming beneficial insects and pollinators. In addition, proper care, including good soil preparation and sufficient irrigation, can go a long way in preventing diseases and pests from taking hold.
