Overview
Lithophragma glabrum var. ramulosum (Suksdorf) Boivin is a perennial herbaceous plant of the Saxifragaceae family. This plant is native to western North America, where it grows in woodlands and forests.
Common Names
The common names of Lithophragma glabrum var. ramulosum include Matted prairie-star, Wild potato, and Whiteleaved alumroot.
Appearance
The plant usually grows up to 30 cm tall. It has shiny green leaves with lobed edges that grow from a basal rosette. The inflorescence is a cluster of small, white or pink flowers that bloom from April to July. The flowers are hermaphroditic, meaning that they have both male and female organs and are pollinated by insects. The fruit is a capsule with many small seeds.
Uses
Lithophragma glabrum var. ramulosum has been used for medicinal purposes by various native American tribes. The roots were used to treat diarrhea, stomach aches, and urinary tract infections. The plant is also used as a food source by some indigenous groups. The leaves and roots can be eaten raw or cooked.
Light Requirements
Lithophragma glabrum Nutt. var. ramulosum (Suksdorf) Boivin is a shade-loving plant. It prefers to grow in areas with dappled sunlight or partial shade. The plant cannot tolerate direct sunlight for extended periods.
Temperature Requirements
The plant usually grows in temperate climates with temperatures ranging from 10°C(50°F) to 24°C(75°F). It thrives in areas with mild temperatures and does not tolerate extreme heat or cold. Temperatures below 0°C (32°F) can kill the plant, while temperatures above 29°C (85°F) can cause wilting and stunted growth.
Soil Requirements
Lithophragma glabrum Nutt. var. ramulosum (Suksdorf) Boivin grows best in well-drained soils with a neutral or slightly acidic pH level. The plant cannot grow in waterlogged soils. It requires a nutrient-rich soil with high levels of organic matter, such as wood chips and leaf litter. The plant can also grow in sandy or rocky soils as long as the soil is well-drained.
Cultivation Methods
Lithophragma glabrum Nutt. var. ramulosum (Suksdorf) Boivin, commonly known as Smooth Prairie Star, is a beautiful perennial herb native to western North America. To cultivate this plant, first obtain seeds or young transplants from a reputable nursery or plant dealer. The best time to plant or transplant is in late fall or early spring, when the weather is cooler and moist soil conditions prevail.
Choose a location that is well-drained, with full sun to partial shade conditions. The soil should be fertile, rich in organic matter, and slightly acidic. Mix compost or well-rotted manure into the soil before planting to promote healthy growth.
Space the young transplants or sow seeds about 12-15 inches apart, and water them well after planting. Cover the soil with a layer of mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Keep the soil moist but not overly saturated during the growing season.
Watering Needs
Lithophragma glabrum Nutt. var. ramulosum (Suksdorf) Boivin requires moderate watering during its growing season. Water the plant deeply but infrequently, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot and other fungal diseases. During hot, dry periods, increase the frequency of watering to prevent drought stress.
Fertilization
The best way to fertilize Lithophragma glabrum Nutt. var. ramulosum (Suksdorf) Boivin is by using a slow-release granular fertilizer mixed into the soil or applied as a top dressing around the base of the plant. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply the fertilizer once a year in early spring and water thoroughly afterwards to allow the nutrients to penetrate the soil.
Pruning
Pruning Lithophragma glabrum Nutt. var. ramulosum (Suksdorf) Boivin reduces its height and promotes bushier growth. Wait until late fall or winter, when the plant is dormant, to prune. Cut back the stems to about 2-3 inches above the soil line, removing any dead, damaged, or diseased growth. This will also encourage new growth the following spring.
Propagation of Lithophragma Glabrum Nutt. Var. Ramulosum (Suksdorf) Boivin
Lithophragma glabrum Nutt. var. ramulosum (Suksdorf) Boivin, commonly called barestem springbeauty, is a herbaceous perennial plant that can be propagated through various methods such as seed sowing, division, and stem cuttings.
Seed Sowing
Seeds of Lithophragma glabrum Nutt. var. ramulosum can be sown directly outdoors in the fall or early spring, or indoors in the spring. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil and covered with a thin layer of soil. They should be watered regularly and kept in a sunny or partially shaded area. The seedlings should be transplanted into their permanent location in late spring or early summer, once they are big enough to handle.
Division
The plant can also be propagated through division. This method is best done in the fall when the plant is dormant. The clump of the plant should be dug up carefully and divided into sections, ensuring that each section has some roots and stems. The sections should be replanted in well-draining soil, watered regularly, and kept in a partially shaded area until they are established.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings of Lithophragma glabrum Nutt. var. ramulosum can be taken in the summer when the plant is actively growing. Cuttings should be taken from healthy stems that are not flowering and rooting hormone can be used to promote root growth. The cuttings should be planted in well-draining soil, kept moist, and place in a shaded area until roots have established.
Overall, Lithophragma glabrum Nutt. var. ramulosum is a relatively easy plant to propagate and can be reproduced through seed sowing, division, and stem cuttings.
Disease Management
Lithophragma glabrum Nutt. var. ramulosum (Suksdorf) Boivin is susceptible to various diseases that can affect its growth and yield. The common diseases that affect this plant include:
- Powdery mildew: This disease is characterized by the formation of white powdery substance on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage this disease, it is advisable to prune the infected parts and dispose of them appropriately. Fungicides can also be applied to control the disease.
- Fusarium wilt: This disease causes yellowing of the leaves and sudden collapse of the plant. To manage this disease, it is essential to practice crop rotation, avoid planting in soil that had previously been infected, and use disease-resistant varieties.
- Leaf spot: This disease is characterized by the formation of small round spots on the leaves of the plant. To manage this disease, it is necessary to remove the infected leaves and apply fungicides.
Pest Management
Aside from diseases, Lithophragma glabrum Nutt. var. ramulosum (Suksdorf) Boivin is also susceptible to various pests that can affect its growth and yield. The common pests that affect this plant include:
- Aphids: These insects feed on the sap of the plant, which can lead to stunted growth. To manage aphids, it is advisable to employ biological control methods such as the use of ladybugs or lacewings, as well as insecticidal soaps or oils.
- Slugs and snails: These pests can cause damage to the leaves of the plant. To manage them, it is necessary to employ physical control methods such as the use of traps or handpicking them at night when they are active.
- Spider mites: These pests suck the sap of the plant, which can cause yellowing of the leaves. To manage spider mites, it is advisable to increase humidity around the plant and use insecticidal soaps or oils.
