Origin
Lomatium mohavense (Coult. & Rose) Coult. & Rose ssp. mohavense is a species of flowering plant in the Apiaceae family. This plant is native to North America and can be found in the western United States, particularly in the Mojave Desert region.
Common Names
Common names for Lomatium mohavense include Mohave lomatium, Mohave biscuitroot, and Mohave desertparsley.
Uses
The roots of Lomatium mohavense have been used traditionally by Native American tribes for a variety of medicinal purposes, including treating respiratory illnesses, stomachaches, and fever. The plant contains compounds that have antiviral and antibacterial properties and may help boost the immune system. However, further research is needed to validate these traditional uses.
General Appearance
Lomatium mohavense is a perennial herb that grows up to 60 centimeters in height. The plant has divided leaves that are up to 12 centimeters long and are hairless. The flowers of Lomatium mohavense are yellow and are arranged in umbels. The plant produces fruit in the form of oblong, flattened, and hairy seeds.
Growth Conditions for Lomatium mohavense
Lomatium mohavense is a herbaceous perennial plant native to the Mojave Desert of southern California and western Arizona in the United States. It belongs to the Apiaceae family, commonly known as the carrot family.
Light Requirements:
Lomatium mohavense requires full sun to partial shade for its growth. It thrives under bright sunlight, which helps the plant reach its maximum height. However, it can tolerate partial shade and grow moderately well under lower light conditions as well.
Temperature Requirements:
Lomatium mohavense grows well in hot and dry conditions. It is drought-resistant and can survive in arid areas where temperatures often exceed 100°F (38°C). The plant can also tolerate cold temperatures down to 10°F (-12°C) and survive sudden frosts and snowfalls.
Soil Requirements:
Lomatium mohavense prefers well-drained, gravelly soils that are rich in organic matter. It thrives in sandy or loamy soils that have a pH level between 5.5 to 6.5. The plant can tolerate nutrient-poor soils but requires periodic watering to maintain its moisture levels.
In conclusion, Lomatium mohavense requires a well-drained soil that is neutral to slightly acidic. The plant also needs full to partial sunlight and can tolerate hot and cold temperatures.
Cultivation Methods for Lomatium mohavense
Lomatium mohavense, also known as Coult. & Rose, is a herbaceous perennial plant that grows best in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It prefers full sunlight but can also tolerate partial shade. The plant usually grows up to 2 feet tall and spreads up to 1 foot wide.
You should prepare the soil well before planting by mixing in organic matter like compost and manure. Plant Lomatium mohavense seeds in the late winter or early spring, about 1/8 inch deep in the soil. Water the soil immediately after planting and maintain consistent moisture until the seeds germinate.
Watering Needs for Lomatium mohavense
Lomatium mohavense requires moderate watering. It is drought-tolerant but cannot sustain prolonged dry spells. Water the plant once a week during dry weather, depending on the soil type and moisture level. Ensure that the soil is not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Fertilization of Lomatium mohavense
Lomatium mohavense does not require regular fertilization. However, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering. Avoid applying too much fertilizer as it can lead to excessive growth and reduce the plant's drought tolerance.
Pruning Lomatium mohavense
Pruning is not necessary for Lomatium mohavense, but you can remove the dead flowers and stems to maintain the plant's appearance. Cut back any diseased or damaged foliage to prevent the spread of diseases. You can also prune the plant to your desired shape and size, but avoid cutting back more than one-third of the growth in a single pruning session.
Propagation of Lomatium mohavense (Coult. & Rose) Coult. & Rose ssp. mohavense
Lomatium mohavense, also known as Mohave lomatium, is primarily propagated by seed but can also be propagated by root division.
Propagation by seed
Seed propagation is the most common method for growing Lomatium mohavense. The seeds require stratification, in which they are exposed to moist, cool temperatures for a period of time to break their dormancy. The seeds can be sown directly in the ground in fall or early spring, or they can be started indoors and transplanted outside when temperatures become suitable, about 50°F (10°C) or higher. The seeds should be planted about 1/8 inch deep and spaced about 6 inches apart. Germination typically occurs within two to six weeks.
Propagation by root division
Root division involves dividing the plant's root system into smaller sections, each with their own stem and leaves. This method can be used for the propagation of established Lomatium mohavense plants. To divide the plant, first, remove it from the soil and gently separate the roots into sections, being careful not to damage the roots. Each section should have at least one healthy stem and several roots. Replant the sections into the ground or into pots filled with well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and place the plants in a shaded area until they have established themselves.
Disease and Pest Management for Lomatium mohavense
Lomatium mohavense is relatively hardy and not prone to many diseases and pests. However, it is still important to monitor the plant for any signs of damage or disease.
Pests
The most common pests that may affect Lomatium mohavense are aphids and spider mites. These pests can cause significant damage to the leaves and stems of the plant if left unchecked.
To control aphids and spider mites, a simple home solution is to spray the plant with a mixture of water and dish soap. This can be done once a week until the pests are no longer present. In severe infestations, a commercial insecticidal soap or neem oil can be applied.
Diseases
Fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot are the most common diseases that may affect Lomatium mohavense.
To prevent powdery mildew, it is important to keep the plant well-ventilated and not overcrowded. If powdery mildew does occur, remove any infected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide spray. To prevent root rot, avoid overwatering and ensure that the soil is well-draining.
In summary, monitoring Lomatium mohavense for pests and diseases and implementing appropriate control measures in the early stages can help maintain the health and longevity of the plant.
