Overview
Lomatium dissectum (Nutt.) Mathias & Constance var. multifidum (Nutt.) Mathias & Constance is a flowering plant in the family Apiaceae, commonly known as fernleaf biscuitroot or lacy biscuitroot. It is native to western North America, from the Pacific Northwest to California.
General Appearance
This perennial herb can grow up to 1 meter tall and has a woody root that can reach several meters long. The fern-like leaves are finely divided into small segments, giving the plant a delicate appearance. The stems are thick and hollow, and can be hairy or smooth. The greenish-white flowers form in umbrella-shaped clusters at the top of the stems and bloom from April to July.
Uses
The roots of Lomatium dissectum var. multifidum have been used for various medicinal purposes by Native American tribes. It is believed to have antibiotic, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties, and has been used to treat respiratory infections, arthritis, and other ailments.
The plant is also an important food source for wildlife, especially elk and bighorn sheep. The seeds and roots were also traditionally used as food by Native American tribes.
Cultivation
Lomatium dissectum var. multifidum grows best in well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It is drought-tolerant and can be propagated by seed or by dividing the roots.
It is a popular plant in native gardens and can be used as a ground cover, in rock gardens, or in naturalized meadows. Care should be taken not to overwater the plant, as it is susceptible to root rot.
Overall, Lomatium dissectum var. multifidum is a visually striking and culturally significant plant with a wide range of uses and benefits.Light Requirements
Lomatium dissectum (Nutt.) Mathias & Constance var. multifidum (Nutt.) Mathias & Constance requires full sunlight for optimal growth. It can tolerate some shade, but having access to direct sunlight is crucial. If grown indoors, it is important to place the plant near a window that receives ample sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Lomatium dissectum (Nutt.) Mathias & Constance var. multifidum (Nutt.) Mathias & Constance can tolerate a wide temperature range. It can grow in USDA Hardiness Zones 3-9, which corresponds to an average annual temperature range of -40°F to 20°F (-40°C to -7°C). As long as the plant is not exposed to extreme temperatures, it should thrive.
Soil Requirements
Lomatium dissectum (Nutt.) Mathias & Constance var. multifidum (Nutt.) Mathias & Constance requires well-drained soil with a pH between 5.8-6.8. It has a low tolerance for wet conditions and will not thrive in waterlogged soil. Sandy or loamy soil types are preferred, and the addition of organic matter can improve soil quality.
Cultivation of Lomatium dissectum var. multifidum
Lomatium dissectum var. multifidum is native to the western part of North America and grows well in USDA plant hardiness zones 4 to 9. It prefers well-draining soil with a pH of 6 to 8 and full to partial sun exposure. This plant is well adapted to dry conditions, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping.
Watering Needs of Lomatium dissectum var. multifidum
During the growing season, water Lomatium dissectum var. multifidum deeply once a week. In the dormant period, it is essential to reduce watering and keep the soil slightly moist. Overwatering can cause root rot, which can lead to the plant's demise, so it's important not to keep the soil overly wet.
Fertilization of Lomatium dissectum var. multifidum
Lomatium dissectum var. multifidum is a low-maintenance plant and does not require a lot of fertilizer. In fact, excess fertilizer can encourage vegetative growth and result in fewer flowers. When you do choose to fertilize, use an all-purpose fertilizer in the spring, before the plant begins to grow.
Pruning Lomatium dissectum var. multifidum
Pruning is not essential for Lomatium dissectum var. multifidum. However, if you want to encourage bushier growth, you can shear the plant back to 6 inches in the springtime. Pruning can also help to remove any dead or damaged foliage and prevent disease spread.
Propagation of Lomatium dissectum var. multifidum
Lomatium dissectum (Nutt.) Mathias & Constance var. multifidum (Nutt.) Mathias & Constance, commonly known as fernleaf biscuitroot, is a perennial herb that belongs to the carrot family (Apiaceae). This plant is known for its fern-like foliage and small, white or yellowish flowers that bloom on tall, slender stalks.
Propagation of Lomatium dissectum var. multifidum can be done through both seed and vegetative methods.
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Lomatium dissectum var. multifidum is through seed. This plant produces small, dry fruits that contain a single seed. The fruits are typically harvested when they have turned brown and are starting to split open. The seeds can be stored in a cool, dry place until they are ready to be planted.
Before planting, the seeds should be scarified or stratified to help with germination. Scarification involves scratching or nicking the surface of the seed coat to allow water to penetrate, while stratification involves exposing the seeds to cold temperatures to simulate winter conditions. Once scarified or stratified, the seeds can be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until they germinate.
Vegetative Propagation
In addition to seed propagation, Lomatium dissectum var. multifidum can also be propagated through vegetative methods such as division or root cutting. Division involves digging up the plant and separating it into smaller sections, each with its own set of roots and foliage. Root cutting involves taking a small section of the plant's root and planting it in a well-draining soil mix.
It is important to note that propagating Lomatium dissectum var. multifidum through vegetative methods can be challenging and may not always be successful. It is also important to use proper sanitation techniques when working with plants to prevent the spread of disease.
Disease Management
Lomatium dissectum var. multifidum is susceptible to several diseases, including:
- Root rot: Root rot is caused by soil-borne fungi and generally affects plants growing in poorly-drained soil. Symptoms include yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and wilting. To manage root rot, ensure good soil drainage and avoid over-watering.
- Fungal leaf spot: Fungal leaf spot appears as dark, water-soaked lesions on leaves. The lesions may have a yellow halo around them. To manage fungal leaf spot, remove infected leaves and ensure good air circulation around the plant.
- Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes leaf spots and brown patches on stems. To manage anthracnose, remove infected plant material and ensure good air circulation around the plant.
Preventing disease is the most effective method of disease management. Avoid over-watering, provide good air circulation around the plant, and remove infected plant material promptly.
Pest Management
Lomatium dissectum var. multifidum is generally not affected by many pests, but here are a few to watch out for:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can suck the sap from plant leaves and stems. If aphids are present, they can be managed with insecticidal soap or a jet of water to knock them off the plant.
- Spider mites: Spider mites are arachnids that can infest plants and spin fine webs. They can be managed by spraying the plant with water to remove the mites and by introducing predatory mites.
- Cabbage loopers: Cabbage loopers are green, caterpillar-like insects that can feed on the leaves of Lomatium dissectum var. multifidum. They can be managed with Bacillus thuringiensis (BT), an organic insecticide.
Regularly inspecting the plant for pests is the most effective method of pest management. If insects are present, identify them and choose an appropriate control method.
