Description of Lomatium dissectum
Lomatium dissectum, commonly known as fernleaf biscuitroot, is a species of flowering plant in the parsley family, Apiaceae. It is a native plant to Western North America and can be found in various habitats, including plains, meadows, and mountain slopes.
General Appearance
The fernleaf biscuitroot grows up to 1 meter tall and has a stout taproot. The leaves are basal and shaped like a fern, with finely dissected leaflets that are 5-25 cm long. The inflorescence is a compound umbel that consists of many small white or yellow flowers. The fruit is a schizocarp with two seeds.
Common Names
Besides fernleaf biscuitroot, Lomatium dissectum is also commonly known as dissected biscuitroot, Indian parsley, and woolyfruit lomatium.
Uses
The fernleaf biscuitroot has various uses in traditional medicine. The Native American tribes used the root as a food source and medicine to treat coughs, colds, flu, and other respiratory illnesses. The root was also used as a poultice to treat wounds, sores, and rheumatism. Besides traditional medicine, fernleaf biscuitroot is also used as a decorative plant in gardens and landscapes.
However, it is prudent to be careful when using the fernleaf biscuitroot as it contains coumarin, which is known to cause liver damage.
Growth conditions for Lomatium dissectum
Lomatium dissectum, commonly known as fernleaf biscuitroot, is a herbaceous perennial plant that is native to North America. It is found in various habitats ranging from valleys to foothills, grasslands, and open forests. Here are some typical growth conditions for this plant:
Light requirements
L. dissectum prefers full sun to partial shade. It thrives in areas where it is exposed to direct sunlight for at least six hours every day. When grown in shaded areas, the plant tends to be lanky and less productive. Therefore, it is advisable to plant it in areas where it can receive ample sunlight.
Soil requirements
The plant can grow on a range of soils, but it prefers well-drained, sandy, or loamy soils. It is also found growing on rocky and gravelly soils. L. dissectum prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils, with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 7.5. The soil should be moderately fertile and rich in organic matter. Good drainage is essential to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Water requirements
L. dissectum is adapted to regions with arid to semi-arid conditions, and it is considered drought-tolerant. Therefore, it requires moderate watering, especially during the growing season, which is from early spring to late summer. Watering should be done deeply and infrequently instead of frequent shallow watering. Overwatering can cause fungal diseases, which can damage the plant.
Temperature requirements
L. dissectum is a hardy plant that can survive in a wide range of temperatures. It is primarily found in areas with a Mediterranean to subalpine climate, characterized by hot summers and cold winters. The plant can tolerate temperatures as low as -20°C in winter and as high as 38°C in summer.
Cultivation Methods for Lomatium dissectum
Lomatium dissectum, commonly referred to as Fernleaf Biscuitroot, can be grown from seed or transplanted from mature plants. It thrives in well-draining soil that is slightly acidic, with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. It grows best in full sun but can tolerate light shade. When planting seeds, they should be lightly pressed into the soil and kept moist until germination, which can take up to six weeks. When transplanting, it is best to do so in the early spring or fall.
Watering Needs for Lomatium dissectum
Lomatium dissectum requires moderate watering. The soil should be allowed to dry out slightly before watering again. When watering, the soil should be soaked to a depth of at least 6 inches. Overwatering can cause root rot, so it is important not to let the plant stand in water. It should also be noted that Lomatium dissectum is drought tolerant once established.
Fertilization for Lomatium dissectum
Lomatium dissectum does not require regular fertilization. In fact, too much fertilizer can harm the plant. If the soil is lacking in nutrients, a balanced fertilizer may be applied in the spring. However, it is best to perform a soil test to determine if additional nutrients are necessary.
Pruning for Lomatium dissectum
In general, Lomatium dissectum does not require pruning. However, if the plant becomes too leggy or unruly, it can be cut back in the early spring before new growth appears. Dead or damaged stems can be removed at any time of the year. It is also recommended to remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
Propagation of Lomatium dissectum
Lomatium dissectum can be propagated both by seeds and by root division. The plant is hardy and adaptable, making it relatively easy to propagate.
Propagation by Seeds
The easiest and most common method of propagating Lomatium dissectum is through seeds. Seeds can be collected from the plant after it has finished blooming and the seed heads have turned brown.
It is essential to collect seeds before they fall from the seed heads. Once the seeds have been collected, they should be cleaned and stored in a cool, dry place until ready for planting.
Sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix in the fall, and allow them to stratify naturally over winter. By the time the spring comes, the seeds will germinate and grow, giving you new plants.
Propagation by Root Division
Another way to propagate Lomatium dissectum is by root division. This method involves carefully digging up an established plant and dividing its root mass into smaller portions.
Make sure to choose a healthy and sturdy plant, and divide the roots during the plant's dormant period, usually in the fall. Replant the smaller root portions in well-draining soil mix with good water retention and drainage, and in a location that receives enough sunlight and has good air circulation. Water the newly-planted roots regularly until they are established.
Propagation by root division is not as common as propagation by seeds, but it can be an excellent way to add to your collection of Lomatium dissectum.
Disease and Pest Management for Lomatium Dissectum
Lomatium Dissectum is a native plant in North America and is known for its medicinal purposes. It is also called fernleaf biscuitroot and belongs to the Apiaceae family. In general, it is a resilient and durable plant, but it can still fall victim to certain pests and diseases. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Lomatium Dissectum and some ways to manage them:
Diseases
Fungal Diseases: The fungus Phytophthora can cause root rot in Lomatium Dissectum. This is a common problem when the plant is grown in soil with poor drainage or in an area that stays wet for long periods. Another fungal disease that affects Lomatium Dissectum is powdery mildew, which is caused by the fungus Erysiphe cichoracearum. Powdery mildew appears as a white, powdery substance on the plant's leaves and can cause them to yellow and curl.
Viral Diseases: There are no known viral diseases that affect Lomatium Dissectum.
Pests
Spider Mites: These pests are tiny arachnids that feed on the plant's sap, which can cause the leaves to turn yellow and brown. They also produce a fine webbing on the plant's leaves. Spider mites thrive in hot and dry conditions and can be managed by spraying the plant with water to increase humidity and by applying an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Leaf Miners: These small insects lay their eggs on the plant's leaves, and when they hatch, the larvae burrow into the leaf, causing visible trails or tunnels. Leaf miners can be managed by handpicking affected leaves or spraying with an insecticidal soap.
Root Maggots: These pests are the larvae of flies that lay their eggs near the plant's roots. When the larvae hatch, they feed on the roots and can cause significant damage to the plant. Root maggots can be controlled by using a floating row cover to prevent adult flies from laying eggs near the plant's roots or by applying an insecticide to the soil around the plant.
By being aware of these common diseases and pests and taking steps to manage them, Lomatium Dissectum can thrive and remain healthy.
