Origin
Lomatium dasycarpum, also known as woollyfruit biscuitroot, is a species of perennial herb in the parsley family, Apiaceae. It is native to western North America, including the Great Basin and the western United States.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as woollyfruit biscuitroot, woolly biscuitroot, foothill lomatium, and Indian parsnip.
Uses
Lomatium dasycarpum has been used medicinally by native American tribes to treat various ailments, including coughs, colds, and sore throats. The root was also used as a food source, either boiled or roasted, and was consumed either alone or with other foods. The plant's seeds were also used as a flour substitute or mixed with water to make a drink.
General Appearance
The plant grows up to 3 feet tall and has a large taproot. The stem is stout and hairy, with leaves that are large and divided into several leaflets. The inflorescence is a large, umbel-shaped cluster of small yellow flowers. The plant's fruit is a woolly, flattened, and broadly oval-shaped schizocarp, with each part containing a single seed.
Light Requirements
Lomatium dasycarpum requires full sun to grow properly. It is not recommended to grow it in shaded areas since it needs enough light to support its metabolic activities. The ideal location to grow Lomatium dasycarpum is in an area with 6-8 hours of direct sunlight every day.
Temperature Requirements
Lomatium dasycarpum is capable of growing in a variety of temperatures. However, in cold weather conditions, it tends to adapt and grow slower than usual. Higher temperatures are more preferred as it expedites growth. The optimal temperature range for Lomatium dasycarpum to grow is between 13°C to 27°C (55°F to 80°F).
Soil Requirements
Lomatium dasycarpum grows well in many types of soil, but it prefers sandy and well-drained soils. It prefers a pH range between 5.5-7.5. Soil with good drainage allows the plant to establish a strong root system and prevents root rot. It is recommended to add fertilizer to the soil at the beginning of the growing season to support healthy growth.
Cultivation methods for Lomatium dasycarpum
Lomatium dasycarpum, commonly known as woollyfruit biscuitroot, is a herbaceous perennial that requires little maintenance and is easy to grow.
It thrives in a variety of soil types, including clay, loam and sandy soils. However, it prefers well-drained soils, and the soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.0.
You can propagate this plant by seeds or division. If growing from seeds, sow them in the fall after the first frost. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and water regularly until the seeds germinate. Division can be done in the spring, and you can replant the divisions in well-fertilized soil.
Watering needs for Lomatium dasycarpum
Lomatium dasycarpum is drought tolerant and can survive extended periods without water. However, if you want your plant to thrive, water it regularly. It is best to water deeply, and then allow the soil to dry out before watering again.
The frequency of watering will depend on the soil type, weather conditions, and age of the plant. Newly planted seedlings require more frequent watering than established plants.
Fertilization for Lomatium dasycarpum
Lomatium dasycarpum does not require much fertilizer, and an annual application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring is usually enough. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to weak growth and reduced flowering.
It is also a good idea to add compost to the soil every year to improve soil fertility and structure.
Pruning Lomatium dasycarpum
Pruning is not necessary for Lomatium dasycarpum. However, you can remove dead or damaged stems in the fall to improve the plant's overall appearance and reduce the risk of disease.
Once the plant finishes flowering, leave the flowers on the plant to allow the seeds to mature and drop to the ground. This will allow the plant to self-seed and produce new plants, ensuring a healthy population for years to come.
Propagation of Lomatium dasycarpum
Lomatium dasycarpum can be propagated both by seeds and by root division.
Propagation by Seeds
The seeds of Lomatium dasycarpum can be sown directly in the garden in the fall or spring. The seeds should be sown shallowly, just under the soil surface, and watered lightly to keep the soil moist until germination. Germination can take several weeks to several months depending on the temperature and moisture conditions.
Alternatively, the seeds can be started indoors in late winter or early spring, about 8 weeks prior to the last frost date. The seeds should be sown in pots or cells filled with a well-draining seed starting mix. Keep the soil moist and warm, and provide bright light to ensure healthy growth. When the seedlings are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into the garden.
Propagation by Root Division
Lomatium dasycarpum can also be propagated by root division. This method should be done in the fall or early spring, when the plant is dormant. Using a sharp and clean gardening tool, carefully divide the root ball into sections, each with its own set of roots and foliage. Replant the sections immediately, keeping the soil moist until new growth appears.
Disease and Pest Management for Lomatium dasycarpum (Torr. & Gray) Coult. & Rose
Lomatium dasycarpum, commonly known as woolly-fruited lomatium, is a hardy herbaceous plant that is naturally resistant to many pests and diseases. However, under certain conditions, the plant may still be vulnerable to some diseases and pests. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes dark brown or black spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected plants and ensure adequate spacing between the plants to improve air circulation. Avoid overhead watering, as this can promote fungal growth.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes a white, powdery film on the leaves. To manage powdery mildew, apply a foliar spray of neem oil or sulfur. Maintain good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to prevent the disease from spreading.
Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that causes the roots to rot, leading to wilting and ultimately plant death. To manage root rot, ensure the plant is grown in well-draining soil and avoid over-watering. Remove and destroy infected plants.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small insects that suck the sap from the leaves and stems of the plant, causing stunted growth and curling of the leaves. To manage aphids, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Encourage natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings in the garden.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the sap from the leaves, causing yellowing and wilting of the leaves. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Ensure the plant is well-watered to prevent drought stress, which can make the plant more susceptible to spider mites.
Cutworms: Cutworms are caterpillars that chew through the stems of the plant, causing wilting and death. To manage cutworms, handpick and destroy the caterpillars. Use physical barriers like collars made of cardboard around the base of the plant to prevent cutworms from reaching the stems.
By implementing these disease and pest management strategies, you can keep your Lomatium dasycarpum plants healthy and thriving.
