Lessingia glandulifera Gray: A Plant with Multiple Uses
Lessingia glandulifera Gray, commonly called sticky lessingia, is a herbaceous, drought-tolerant plant species that belongs to the sunflower family (Asteraceae). The plant is named after the German botanist Christian Friedrich Lessing and is native to California, Oregon, and Baja California regions of Mexico.
Appearance
The sticky lessingia is a compact, robust plant that generally grows up to 1-2 ft in height and spreads about 2-3 ft wide. The plant has deep green leaves that are about 1 inch long and coated with a sticky, glandular substance. It produces numerous, small, lavender-blue flowers that bloom from late summer until fall.
Common Names
Lessingia glandulifera Gray is known by many common names like sticky lessingia, chocolate-tips, and glandular lessingia. The plant is called 'sticky' lessingia due to the sticky, resinous coating that covers the leaves and stems of the plant.
Uses
The sticky lessingia has many ecological, cultural, and medicinal uses. The plant plays a vital role in the ecosystem as it provides food, habitat, and nesting material for various native birds, butterflies, and insects. The plant's sticky coating also protects it from herbivores and prevents it from losing moisture during hot and dry weather.
Native American communities have used the sticky lessingia for its medicinal properties as a remedy for coughs, colds, and other respiratory ailments. The sticky coating of the plant was applied to the skin as a poultice to relieve pain and treat wounds and burns.
The sticky lessingia also has significant potential as a garden plant due to its drought-tolerant nature and charming lavender-blue flowers. The plant is ideally suited for rock gardens, meadows, and other naturalized landscapes that mimic its natural habitat.
In conclusion, Lessingia glandulifera Gray is a versatile and important plant that provides ecological, cultural, medicinal, and ornamental value. Its unique sticky coating, lavender-blue flowers, and drought-tolerant nature make it a valuable addition to any garden or naturalized landscape.
Light Requirements
The Lessingia glandulifera Gray plant thrives in areas with full sun exposure. It is known to be a sun-loving plant and requires no less than six hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth. When planted in shaded areas, the plant may stretch excessively, resulting in weak and spindly growth.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species typically grows in areas with mild temperatures. The ideal temperature range for Lessingia glandulifera Gray is between 18°C to 24°C. Extreme temperatures, such as frost and high temperatures above 32°C, are not favorable for the plant. When exposed to such conditions, the plant may exhibit stunted growth and discoloration of the leaves.
Soil Requirements
The Lessingia glandulifera Gray plant prefers well-drained, sandy soils rich in organic matter. The soil pH should range between neutral to slightly acidic levels of 5.5 to 7.0. The plant is sensitive to waterlogged conditions, so avoiding heavy, poorly-drained soils is crucial.
The use of fertilizers should be limited to prevent over-fertilization, which could interfere with the plant's growth patterns. Organic manure or compost may be used to facilitate soil improvement and provide necessary nutrients for the plant's growth.
Cultivation Methods
Lessingia glandulifera Gray is primarily cultivated in full sunlight and well-drained soil. It can grow in various soil types, including loam, sand, and clay. The plant has a moderate resistance to drought and poor soil quality.
Planting of Lessingia glandulifera Gray should be done in spring or fall since the plant thrives in cool temperatures and moderate humidity. The seeds of this plant can be sown directly or in seedling trays before transplanting.
Watering Needs
Lessingia glandulifera Gray requires moderate watering and can readily tolerate mild drought. Overwatering or waterlogged soil can lead to root decay and ultimately kill the plant. It is advisable to water the plant at the base and avoid direct foliage watering, which can lead to fungal infections.
Fertilization
The plant requires minimal fertilization, and compost application during planting and topdressing annually would be sufficient. It is crucial to avoid over-fertilization as this can damage the plant.
Pruning
Lessingia glandulifera Gray requires minimal pruning and only involves removing dead or damaged foliage. The plant grows to approximately 2-3 ft tall and 1-2 ft wide, making it a compact plant. Consequently, the plant naturally takes on a neat, compact shape and pruning is mostly done for aesthetic purposes.
When pruning, it is advisable to use sterilized tools to minimize damage and avoid the spread of disease. Pruning is best done after flowering, and the stems can be cut back by 1/3 of their original height.
Propagation of Lessingia glandulifera Gray
Lessingia glandulifera Gray, also known as sticky lessingia, is a California native plant commonly used in landscaping due to its low water requirements and colorful flowers. There are different methods for propagating the plant, including:
Seed propagation
One of the easiest and most common ways of propagating L. glandulifera is through seeds. The plant produces small, brown seeds that can be collected when they are fully mature, usually from late summer to early fall. The seeds can be sown directly in the soil or in pots filled with well-draining soil. Since the seeds require light to germinate, they should be planted on the soil surface, and gently pressed to ensure good soil contact. Germination usually occurs in 7 to 14 days, provided that the soil remains moist.
Division
L. glandulifera can also be propagated through division. This method involves dividing the clumps of the mother plant into smaller sections using a sharp knife or garden spade. The ideal time for division is during the plant's dormancy period in the winter or early spring. The new sections should be planted in soil that is well-drained and kept moist until they establish a strong root system.
Cuttings
Another method of propagation is through cuttings. This method can be a bit more challenging, but it allows for the propagation of plants with desirable characteristics. Cuttings should be taken from the mother plant during the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. The cuttings should be about 3 to 4 inches long and taken from the top of the plant. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting and dip it in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a container filled with a well-draining potting mix and keep it in a warm, humid location until a strong root system develops.
Disease Management
Lessingia glandulifera Gray is generally a robust plant that is resistant to most diseases that affect other species. However, certain diseases may still affect it. One of the most common diseases that affect Lessingia glandulifera Gray is fungal diseases. Fungi that commonly attack this plant include powdery mildew, rust, and stem and root rot. Proper sanitation, regular monitoring, and prompt intervention are essential in managing these diseases.
To control powdery mildew, ensure proper air circulation around the plant, and avoid watering on the foliage. Remove and destroy infected parts of the plant, and apply a fungicide. For stem and root rot, practice irrigation management and avoid overwatering the plant.
In managing rust, remove and destroy infected parts of the plant and prune any overlapping branches. Regular application of fungicides may also help control the disease.
Pest Management
Lessingia glandulifera Gray is also susceptible to infestation by certain pests, including aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests primarily infest the leaves, causing them to yellow and wilt.
To control aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies, consider using natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings. You can also spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Avoid over-fertilizing the plant, as this can attract pests.
Regular monitoring and cleaning of the plant are crucial in preventing these pests from infesting the plant. Additionally, avoid planting Lessingia glandulifera Gray near other plants that are known to attract pests.
