Overview of Lomatium eastwoodiae (Coult. & Rose) J.F. Macbr.
Lomatium eastwoodiae is a herbaceous perennial plant that is native to western North America. It belongs to the Apiaceae family, which is known for its aromatic, hollow stems and having small flowers arranged in umbels.
Common Names of Lomatium eastwoodiae (Coult. & Rose) J.F. Macbr.
The plant is commonly known as Eastwood's biscuitroot or Eastwood's lomatium. It is also sometimes called a desert parsley because of its resemblance to the parsley plant.
Appearance of Lomatium eastwoodiae (Coult. & Rose) J.F. Macbr.
Lomatium eastwoodiae typically grows up to 3 feet tall and has a hairless, wiry stem. The leaves are finely divided and fern-like, with a bluish-green color. The plant also has small, yellowish-green flowers that are circular and arranged in elongated clusters.
Uses of Lomatium eastwoodiae (Coult. & Rose) J.F. Macbr.
The roots of Lomatium eastwoodiae have been used for medicinal purposes by Native American tribes for centuries. The plant has antiviral and antibiotic properties, and the roots were used to treat colds, respiratory infections, and other illnesses. The plant is also used as a food source for some wildlife, such as pronghorns and mule deer.
Light Requirements
Lomatium eastwoodiae, commonly known as Eastwood's biscuitroot, is a sun-loving plant. It requires exposure to full sunlight or partial shade to thrive. The plant may not grow as well in heavily shaded areas, which can affect its growth rate and overall health.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species is considered a hardy perennial and grows best in moderate to cool temperatures. The ideal temperature range for Lomatium eastwoodiae lies between 5°C (41°F) to 27°C (81°F). During the winter season, it can withstand temperatures below freezing. However, extended periods of cold weather can harm the plant's overall health.
Soil Requirements
Lomatium eastwoodiae grows well in well-drained soils that are rich in organic nutrients. It prefers loamy soils that are slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0 to 7.0). The plant is tolerant of dry soils, but it cannot withstand waterlogged soils, which can lead to root rot. Therefore, proper drainage is essential to maintaining healthy growth.
Cultivation of Lomatium eastwoodiae
Lomatium eastwoodiae is a slow-growing perennial that requires well-draining soil and lots of sunshine. When choosing a spot in your garden to plant Lomatium eastwoodiae, look for an area that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight a day. The soil should be sandy to loamy.
Before planting Lomatium eastwoodiae, make sure the soil is loosened and free of weeds. Gently remove any rocks or debris that may interfere with the plant's root system. Dig a hole as deep and wide as the root ball and place the plant into the hole. Backfill the hole with soil and gently tamp the soil down to ensure the plant is level.
Watering Needs of Lomatium eastwoodiae
Lomatium eastwoodiae prefers to be kept slightly dry, so be careful not to overwater. Allow the soil to dry out before watering again. During the summer months, you may need to water more frequently, but still avoid overwatering. An adequate amount of water will help the roots grow deep into the soil, which will make the plant more drought tolerant.
Fertilizing Lomatium eastwoodiae
Lomatium eastwoodiae is a native plant that prefers not to be fertilized. If your soil lacks nutrients, apply a small amount of fertilizer during the plant's early growth stages. Once established, avoid fertilizing Lomatium eastwoodiae.
Pruning Lomatium eastwoodiae
Pruning Lomatium eastwoodiae is unnecessary because the plant grows so slowly. Deadhead any spent flowers or seed heads to encourage the plant to produce more flowers or seeds. As the plant ages, remove any dead or yellowing leaves to keep the plant looking neat and healthy.
Propagation of Lomatium eastwoodiae (Coult. & Rose) J.F. Macbr.
Lomatium eastwoodiae, commonly known as Eastwood's biscuitroot, can be propagated through several methods such as seed propagation, root cuttings, and division of rhizomes.
Seed Propagation
Lomatium eastwoodiae produces ripe seeds in the month of July. These seeds require a period of dormancy in order to germinate. They can be sown directly in garden soil or in containers filled with soilless mix and kept moist. Stratification or exposure to cold temperatures also helps in breaking the seed dormancy. Therefore the best time for seed sowing is fall or early winter, which naturally provides the required stratification conditions. Lightly cover the seeds with soil and keep them moist. The seeds will germinate in the following spring.
Root Cuttings
Another method of propagating Lomatium eastwoodiae is through root cuttings. Take a pencil-sized piece of the root and plant it horizontally in a well-draining soil medium. Keep the cutting moist and wait for the roots to develop. They can be transplanted when they have reached a considerable size.
Division of Rhizomes
Lomatium eastwoodiae can also be propagated through division of rhizomes. Dig up the plant during the dormant period of fall or early winter and divide the root system into several sections. Each section should have a portion of the crown, a few roots and buds. Plant the sections in well-draining soil and keep them moist till they establish themselves.
Disease Management
Lomatium eastwoodiae is generally considered a disease-resistant plant with few issues. However, some diseases can affect the plant and impact its growth and appearance. The following are some common diseases that might affect Lomatium eastwoodiae and ways to manage them:
Fungal Leaf Spots
Fungal leaf spots are small, dark spots that appear on the foliage of the plant. They are caused by fungal organisms that thrive in moist conditions and can spread quickly. To manage fungal leaf spots in Lomatium eastwoodiae, remove the affected leaves immediately and dispose of them properly. Avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation to reduce humidity levels. Fungicides can also be applied to the plant to prevent further spread of the disease.
Crown Rot
Crown rot is a serious fungal disease that affects the crown and roots of the plant. It is caused by various fungi that thrive in wet, poorly-drained soil, and can quickly kill the plant. To manage crown rot, remove any infected parts of the plant and dispose of them properly. Improve soil drainage by adding organic matter to the soil and avoid overwatering the plant.
Pest Management
Lomatium eastwoodiae is also relatively pest-resistant. However, some insects can cause damage to the plant and reduce its overall health. The following are some common pests that might affect Lomatium eastwoodiae and ways to manage them:
Aphids
Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that suck the sap from the foliage of the plant. They can cause stunted growth, leaf distortion, and yellowing of leaves. To manage aphids on Lomatium eastwoodiae, wash the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge the insects. Alternatively, you can apply insecticidal soap or insecticides labeled for aphids to the plant.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny, spider-like insects that feed on the undersides of leaves. They can cause yellowing and stippling of leaves, and in severe cases, can defoliate the plant. To manage spider mites on Lomatium eastwoodiae, wash the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge the insects. Alternatively, you can apply insecticidal soap or insecticides labeled for spider mites to the plant.
Regularly inspecting the plant for signs of disease or pests and taking quick action to manage them can help to keep Lomatium eastwoodiae healthy and attractive.
