Origin and Common Names
Loeselia matthewsii Gray, also known as Matthews' glowing star, is a native herbaceous perennial plant species in the phlox family (Polemoniaceae) that is endemic to southwestern North America, particularly in Arizona, New Mexico, and Sonora.
General Appearance
The plant has a distinctive appearance, with its thin, wiry stems that grow up to 2 feet tall and produce flowers that are pink to light purple in color. The foliage of the plant forms a basal rosette and is lance-shaped and hairy. The leaves grow up to 3 inches long and 1/4 inch wide, and are usually lighter in color on the underside.
Uses
Loeselia matthewsii has numerous medicinal uses as it contains a variety of chemical compounds like flavonoids and alkaloids. In traditional medicine, the plant has been used for treating various ailments such as pain relief, urinary tract infection, bronchitis, pneumonia, and cough. Similarly, the herb has been used as a remedy for mouth and throat infections like gingivitis, cold sores, and canker sores.
In landscaping, the plant is popularly used in naturalistic and rock gardens and is well suited to xeriscaping due to its low water requirements and tolerance of dry and hot conditions. Additionally, the plant attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies and serves as a food source for several insects and hummingbirds.
Light Requirements
Loeselia matthewsii Gray is a sun-loving plant and requires full sun to grow. It is recommended to grow it in an open area exposed to direct sunlight for about 6-8 hours a day.
Temperature Requirements
Loeselia matthewsii Gray prefers warm temperatures and grows well in a range of 60-85°F (16-29°C). It can tolerate hot and dry conditions but cannot survive in frosty temperatures.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH range between 6.0-7.0. Loeselia matthewsii Gray can grow in all soil types but thrives best in sandy or loamy soil types. It requires good soil drainage to prevent root rot and other related diseases.
Cultivation methods
Loeselia matthewsii Gray or scarlet Jacobinia is a beautiful flowering plant that hails from Mexico, Arizona, and Texas. Cultivating this plant is relatively easy if you adhere to the following:
- Planting – Plant scarlet Jacobinia in well-draining soil that gets ample sunlight.
- Humidity – This plant prefers medium to high humidity levels.
- Temperature – Keep the temperature range between 50°F - 75°F (10°C - 24°C).
- Propagation – Scarlet Jacobinia can be grown from seeds or stem cuttings.
- Light – The plant requires full sun to thrive.
Watering Needs
Scarlet Jacobinia prefers evenly moist soil; however, overwatering can be detrimental to the plant's health. Only water the plant when the soil is dry or if the leaves are wilting. Always ensure that the water drains through the soil.
Fertilization
Feed Scarlet Jacobinia with a balanced fertilizer once every month during the plant's growing season (spring and summer). Dilute the fertilizer to half its strength before application to prevent foliage burn. Avoid fertilizing the plant during the dormant season (fall and winter).
Pruning
Pruning helps to maintain Scarlet Jacobinia's shape and promotes bushier growth with more flowers. Prune the plant immediately after the flowering season and remove any dead, damaged, or diseased parts. You can also pinch off the tips of new growth to promote bushier growth.
Propagation of Loeselia matthewsii Gray
Loeselia matthewsii Gray, commonly known as the San Felipe false calico, is a flowering perennial plant native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. Its brilliant red flowers make it a popular choice among gardeners and horticulturists. If you are interested in propagating Loeselia matthewsii Gray, there are several methods you can use.
Seed Propagation
The easiest and most common way to propagate Loeselia matthewsii Gray is through seed propagation. The best time to collect seeds is in fall, after the flowers have bloomed and the seed pods have formed. Collect the pods before they split open and store them in a cool, dry place until you are ready to plant them in the spring.
Loeselia matthewsii Gray seeds need to be stratified, which means they need to undergo a period of cold temperatures before they will germinate. To achieve this, keep the seeds in a refrigerator for 4-6 weeks before planting them in well-draining soil. Sow the seeds thinly on the soil surface and lightly cover them with a layer of soil or sand. Water them gently, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Germination should occur within 2-4 weeks.
DIVISION
Another way to propagate Loeselia matthewsii Gray is through division. This method works best in the fall, after the plant has finished blooming and is preparing for dormancy. Using a sharp spade, dig up the plant and carefully separate the root ball into smaller sections, making sure each section has a healthy portion of roots and foliage. Replant the new sections in well-draining soil and water them thoroughly. Keep them in a shady area until they have reestablished themselves and then gradually introduce them to full sun.
Cuttings
Cuttings can also be used to propagate Loeselia matthewsii Gray, but this method can be a bit more challenging. Take stem cuttings in late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Cut a stem 4-6 inches long, making sure it has at least one node. Strip the bottom leaves from the stem, leaving one or two at the top, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the stem in well-drained soil, mist it regularly, and keep it in a shaded area until it has rooted.
Whatever method you choose, remember that Loeselia matthewsii Gray prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. With a little care and attention, you can easily propagate this beautiful plant and add it to your garden or landscape.
Disease Management
Loeselia matthewsii Gray is a relatively disease-resistant plant, but it is still susceptible to some diseases. One of the most common diseases that affect this plant is fungi. These can cause leaf spot, blight, and root rot. To manage these diseases, it is important to keep the soil well-drained and avoid waterlogging. It is also essential to ensure that the plant is grown in well-drained soil and avoid overhead watering. In severe cases, fungicides can be used to control these diseases, but it is always best to use preventative measures rather than waiting until the problem is severe.
Pest Management
There are several pests that can harm Loeselia matthewsii Gray. One of the most common pests is spider mites, which can cause discoloration and damage to the leaves. To manage spider mites, it is essential to ensure adequate moisture and humidity levels as they are attracted to dry environments. The use of insecticidal soaps or neem oil can be an effective solution, but care must be taken as these can burn the plant in high concentrations. Another pest that can infest this plant is aphids. These can be controlled using insecticidal sprays or by introducing beneficial insects such as ladybugs or lacewings.
