Origin
Lomatium angustatum (Coult. & Rose) St. John is a flowering plant in the Apiaceae family that is native to North America. Its distribution ranges from California to British Columbia, and it is commonly found in dry, rocky habitats such as grasslands and sagebrush communities.
Common Names
Lomatium angustatum is commonly known as the fernleaf biscuitroot, narrow-leaved biscuitroot, or Nevada biscuitroot, among other names. The name "biscuitroot" refers to the fleshy taproot of the plant that was historically used as a food source by Native American tribes.
Uses
The root of Lomatium angustatum has traditionally been used by various Native American groups for medicinal purposes such as treating coughs and colds, sore throats, and other respiratory ailments. It was also used as a diuretic and to treat wounds and infections.
Additionally, the root has a starchy, biscuit-like flavor and was commonly roasted or boiled to make a nutritious food source during times of scarcity. The plant is still used today in traditional medicine and as a food source by some Indigenous communities.
General Appearance
Lomatium angustatum is a perennial herb that typically grows between 20-80 cm tall and has fine, fern-like leaves that are green to grayish-green in color. The leaves are divided into many small leaflets, giving them a delicate and lacy appearance. The plant produces an umbel of small white or yellow flowers on a tall stem that emerges from the center of the leaf clump.
The root of Lomatium angustatum is large, thick, and fleshy, often reaching a length of up to 50 cm. It may be branched or unbranched and is usually either yellow or white in color.
Light Conditions
Lomatium angustatum requires full sun to partial shade to grow. The plant can grow well even under a moderate amount of shade, but it requires enough light to produce flowers and fruits.
Temperature Conditions
The plant can tolerate a wide temperature range, growing in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 8. Ideal growth temperatures for Lomatium angustatum range from 45°F to 78°F (7°C to 26°C). In areas with high temperatures, the plant requires sufficient moisture to avoid wilting.
Soil Requirements
Lomatium angustatum prefers well-drained soils that are moist and fertile. It can grow well in a variety of soil types, including sand, loam, or clay. However, the plant requires a slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5-7.0) to grow properly. It is also important to note that the plant has a deep taproot, which means it requires deep soil to accommodate its root system.
Cultivation methods for Lomatium angustatum
When it comes to cultivating Lomatium angustatum, it is essential to remember that this plant thrives in a sunny location. It requires well-drained soil that is not too rich in nutrients, and a pH level between 6.5 and 7.5. The plant can be propagated using seeds or by dividing clumps of the root. If growing from seeds, it is recommended to sow them in the spring or fall, and light-firmly press the seeds into the soil.
Watering needs of Lomatium angustatum
Lomatium angustatum needs adequate hydration to grow correctly. However, it is crucial not to overwater the plant, as it can lead to root rot. During the growing season, it is recommended to provide water when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. Watering should be done deeply, ensuring that the entire root system is hydrated.
Fertilization of Lomatium angustatum
Fertilization is an essential part of growing Lomatium angustatum. However, excess fertilizer can lead to bushy growth and poor blooms. It is recommended to apply slow-release granular fertilizer that is high in phosphorus once every four weeks during the growing season. It is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions for application.
Pruning Lomatium angustatum
Pruning Lomatium angustatum is not necessary but can be done to promote bushier growth and better blooms. It is recommended to prune the plant when it has finished blooming, by removing the spent flower stalks. It is essential to do this carefully so as not to damage the new growth at the base of the plant.
Propagation Methods for Lomatium angustatum
Lomatium angustatum can be propagated through several methods, including seed collection and direct sowing, as well as vegetative propagation through rhizome division and stem cuttings.
Seed Collection
Seeds of Lomatium angustatum can be collected in late summer or early fall. The seed heads should be allowed to dry on the plant until they turn brown and split open, revealing the seeds. The seeds can be collected by gently shaking the plants and catching them in a container, or by cutting the seed heads and placing them in a paper bag to dry further. Once the seeds are collected, they can be stored in a cool, dry place until spring.
Direct Sowing
Direct sowing is another method of propagating Lomatium angustatum. This can be done by scattering the seeds over a prepared seedbed in the fall or the early spring. The seeds should be lightly covered with soil and kept moist until they germinate, which can take up to a month. It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged during this time.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation of Lomatium angustatum can be done through rhizome division or stem cuttings. Rhizome division involves digging up a mature plant and carefully dividing the rhizomes into sections, each with at least one shoot or bud. The sections can then be planted in individual pots or directly in the ground and kept moist until they establish roots.
Stem cuttings can also be taken from a mature plant in the spring or summer. The cuttings should be taken from the upper portions of the stem and should be at least 4 inches long. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be placed in a container filled with a well-draining soil mix. The container should be kept moist, and the cuttings should establish roots in four to six weeks.
Disease Management for Lomatium angustatum
Lomatium angustatum is generally a disease-resistant plant. However, certain plant diseases still commonly affect this plant, mainly fungal diseases such as leaf spot and powdery mildew. To manage these diseases, plant owners should practice good sanitation measures, which include pruning infected parts of the plant, disposing of them properly, and regularly cleaning tools.
To prevent fungal diseases, Lomatium angustatum owners should avoid overhead watering and ensure good air circulation around the plant. In case of severe infections, owners can use fungicides as a last resort to protect their plants. It is advisable to consult with a local agriculture expert before using any fungicide on Lomatium angustatum.
Pest Management for Lomatium angustatum
Pests generally do not pose a significant threat to Lomatium angustatum. However, some common pests that may attack this plant include aphids, spider mites, and thrips. These pests can cause cosmetic damage, reduce plant health, and transmit viral diseases to the plant.
To manage pests, Lomatium angustatum owners should regularly inspect their plants and keep the plants healthy by providing adequate moisture and fertilizers. Non-chemical control methods, such as using blasts of water, pruning infested plant parts, and using sticky traps, can effectively manage pests. Owners can also use chemical control methods such as insecticides, but should consult with a local agriculture expert before using any chemicals on Lomatium angustatum.
