Origin
Lomatium bicolor (S. Wats.) Coult. & Rose var. bicolor is a member of the carrot family, Apiaceae. It is native to the western United States, particularly in regions of Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, Utah, Idaho, Oregon, and California.
Common Names
Lomatium bicolor (S. Wats.) Coult. & Rose var. bicolor is commonly referred to as Bicolored Lomatium, Indian Parsnip, Indian Carrot, or Biscuit-Root. The latter name was derived from the plant's edible rootstalks that were collected by Native American tribes as a food source.
Description
Lomatium bicolor (S. Wats.) Coult. & Rose var. bicolor is a perennial herb that can grow up to 3 feet tall. The plant's stems are leafy and bear compound leaves that are twice or thrice pinnately divided. Its inflorescence consists of small yellow flowers that are arranged in an umbel atop a long stem that rises above the foliage. After flowering, the plant produces long, slender fruits that contain seeds. The plant's root system is fleshy and can grow up to 3 feet deep into the soil.
Uses
Lomatium bicolor (S. Wats.) Coult. & Rose var. bicolor has various uses. Native American tribes used the plant's rootstalks as a food source and medicinal plant. The plant has also been used as a remedy for coughs, colds, and other respiratory ailments. Additionally, the plant has been studied for its anti-inflammatory and antibiotic properties. It is also commonly used as an ornamental plant in gardens and natural landscapes.
Light Requirements
Lomatium bicolor prefers full sun exposure for optimal growth. In partial shade or low-light areas, the plant may grow slower and produce smaller leaves and flowers.
Temperature Requirements
Lomatium bicolor thrives in temperate climates with mild to warm temperatures. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60°F and 80°F during the day and no lower than 40°F at night.
Soil Requirements
Lomatium bicolor grows best in well-draining soil that is loamy or sandy, rich in organic matter, and slightly acidic to neutral with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. It can tolerate some drought but prefers consistent moisture in the soil, so it's a good idea to mulch around the plant to retain moisture. The plant is also sensitive to soil compaction, so it's essential to avoid compacting soil around the plant to ensure proper growth and development.
Cultivation Methods
Lomatium bicolor var. bicolor, commonly known as the fernleaf biscuitroot, is a plant species that thrives in full sunlight or partial shade. It is adaptable to various soil types, but the soil should be well-drained to prevent waterlogging and root rot. This plant can be propagated from seed, and it is crucial to transplant them immediately to avoid damaging the roots. Since the plant has a taproot, it is impossible to transplant it successfully once it is established.
Watering Needs
Lomatium bicolor var. bicolor is a drought-tolerant plant that does not require frequent watering. Water the plant immediately after transplanting, and thereafter only when the topsoil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can cause root rot, which can damage or kill the plant. It is best to water this plant in the early morning or late evening when the sun's intensity is low to avoid leaf scorch.
Fertilization
Lomatium bicolor var. bicolor is a low-maintenance plant that does not require special fertilization. However, it would help if you fertilized it annually with a slow-release granular fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth and abundant flowers. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can cause excessive foliage growth and reduce flowering.
Pruning
Pruning Lomatium bicolor var. bicolor is unnecessary since it is a wildflower that grows naturally in meadows and prairies. However, if the plant is becoming an eyesore or has excessive dead stems, you can cut back the dead branches to the base in mid-summer. Trimming the plant will not harm the plant as long as you do not cut into the green stems. Cutting into the green stems can damage the plant and make it more susceptible to pests and disease.
Propagation of Lomatium bicolor var. bicolor
Lomatium bicolor var. bicolor, also known as bi-colored lomatium, is a plant that can be propagated through various methods to increase its population or to maintain its characteristics. The following are some commonly used methods for propagating this plant:
Seed propagation
One of the most straightforward ways to propagate bi-colored lomatium is through seed propagation. You can collect seeds from mature plants and plant them in a seed tray or small pot using good quality compost. Cover the tray with a clear plastic lid to keep the moisture in, which helps the seeds to germinate. The seedlings should appear after approximately four weeks, and you can transfer the plant to a larger pot once it grows bigger.
Division
Another effective method for propagating bi-colored lomatium is by division. You can divide the plant's rootball into two or more parts. To do this, gently remove the plant from its pot and gently separate the roots, ensuring that each division has its own stem and leaves. You can then plant each part into a pot or directly into the ground.
Stem cuttings
Bi-colored lomatium can be propagated using stem cuttings. Select a healthy, mature stem and trim it just below the node. Remove any leaves from the bottom portion of the cutting and plant it in a pot filled with good quality compost. Water the cutting regularly and place it in a shaded area. In a few weeks, the cutting should have rooted and started to sprout new growth.
Tissue culture
Tissue culture is another propagation method that can be used for bi-colored lomatium but requires advanced laboratory techniques. The plant's cells are grown in a nutrient-rich medium under sterile conditions until full-grown plants are formed. This technique is often used by botanical gardens or nurseries to maintain pure genetic lines or to produce large quantities of plants efficiently.
Overall, bi-colored lomatium can be propagated through various methods such as seed propagation, division, stem cuttings, or tissue culture, depending on the expertise and resources available.
Disease Management
Lomatium bicolor (S. Wats.) Coult. & Rose var. bicolor is susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, rust, and stem rot. These diseases can cause yellowing, wilting, and dropping of leaves, stunted growth, and reduced yields. As a helpful assistant, I recommend the following disease management practices:
- Ensure proper spacing of plants to enhance air circulation and reduce humidity levels that encourage fungal growth
- Regularly remove fallen leaves, plant debris, and weeds, which can harbor fungal pathogens
- Drip irrigation or soaker hoses can be used to prevent wetting of the foliage, which can favor fungal growth
- Fungicides such as copper-based products can be applied preventatively or as soon as symptoms are observed
Pest Management
Lomatium bicolor (S. Wats.) Coult. & Rose var. bicolor is known to attract a few insect pests like aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites that can cause significant damage to the plant. These pests pierce and suck on the plant sap, leading to yellowing, wilting, and distortion of leaves. As a helpful assistant, I recommend the following pest management practices:
- Regularly inspect plants for signs of pests and infestations
- Remove and destroy heavily infested plants or plant parts to prevent the spread of pests
- Use insecticidal soaps or oils that suffocate pests while being safe for the plant, humans, and the environment
- Beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings can be introduced to the garden to feed on and control pest populations
