Origin
Lomatium mohavense (Coult. & Rose) Coult. & Rose, commonly known as Mohave desert parsley, belongs to the family Apiaceae and is native to the western United States. It is typically found in sandy and rocky soils in open, dry areas at elevations ranging from 500 to 4,000 feet.
Common Names
Mohave desert parsley is also known by several other names, including woolly lomatium and woolly-headed lomatium due to the fine hairs that cover the stem and inflorescence of the plant.
Uses
The roots, stems, and leaves of Mohave desert parsley have been traditionally used by Native American tribes for medicinal and food purposes. The root was often chewed or made into a decoction to treat coughs and colds, while the leaves and stems were used in cooking as a seasoning and to flavor soups and stews. The plant has also been used by modern herbalists to help treat respiratory ailments and rheumatism.
General Appearance
Mohave desert parsley is a perennial herb that can grow up to 1 meter (3 feet) tall. The leaves are green and divided into multiple segments, giving the plant a fern-like appearance. The small white or yellow flowers are arranged in umbels at the top of the plant and bloom from March to June. The plant has a taproot and is covered in fine hairs, giving it a woolly appearance.
Growth Conditions for Lomatium mohavense
Lomatium mohavense, also known as Mohave desertparsley, is a herbaceous perennial plant that is native to the Mojave Desert of California, Nevada, and Arizona.
Light Requirements
The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a range of light conditions. It can grow in areas with direct sunlight or in areas with filtered light.
Temperature Requirements
Lomatium mohavense can tolerate a range of temperatures. It prefers a warm climate with temperatures ranging from 60 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant can tolerate temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers a well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.5 to 8.5. It can tolerate a range of soil types including sandy, loamy, or gravelly soils. The plant is adapted to grow in areas with low water availability and can tolerate drought conditions.
It is important to note that Lomatium mohavense is a protected species in some states. If you intend to grow this plant, make sure to obtain it from a reputable source and not from the wild.
Cultivation methods
The Lomatium mohavense plant can be propagated from seeds or by transplantation of matured plants into the soil. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil and kept moist until they germinate, which can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. The ideal temperature for germination is between 60-70°F. Transplanting is the preferred method for mature plants, as it increases the chances of survival and establishment in the new soil.
Watering needs
Watering should be done regularly, but care should be taken not to overwater as this can lead to root rot. The plant prefers a well-draining, sandy soil that does not hold too much water. A good rule of thumb is to water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and then reduce watering to once every two weeks during the dormant season.
Fertilization
Lomatium mohavense does not require much fertilizer, but it can benefit from a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season. Additionally, adding organic matter to the soil can help improve its overall health and ability to retain moisture. It is best to avoid using fertilizer during the dormant season as it can lead to excessive growth that may be vulnerable to frost damage.
Pruning
Pruning is not essential for Lomatium mohavense, but it can help maintain its shape and promote bushier growth. The plant can be pruned back in the fall or early winter, after it has gone dormant. This allows for new growth in the spring and helps keep the plant from becoming too leggy or sparse. However, care should be taken not to prune too heavily, as this can weaken the plant and make it more susceptible to disease and pests.
Propagation of Lomatium mohavense (Coult. & Rose) Coult. & Rose
Lomatium mohavense (Coult. & Rose) Coult. & Rose, commonly known as Mohave lomatium, is a native herbaceous plant that grows in the southwestern United States. Propagation of this plant can be done through different methods.
Propagation through Seed
The most common method of propagation for Lomatium mohavense is through seed. Seeds can be collected from mature plants by carefully shaking or rubbing the seed heads into a container. Once collected, seeds can be stored in a cool, dry place until they are ready to be planted. It is important to note that seed dormancy is common in Lomatium species, and seeds may require stratification or scarification to germinate.
To stratify the seeds, they can be placed in a damp paper towel and stored in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for several weeks. Scarification can be achieved by rubbing the seeds with sandpaper or nicking them with a knife to break their outer coat. After stratification or scarification, seeds can be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until they germinate.
Propagation through Division
Lomatium mohavense can also be propagated through division of mature plants. To do this, the plant should be dug up and carefully separated into smaller clumps. Each clump should have several healthy roots and shoots. These smaller clumps can then be planted in a prepared soil mix and watered regularly until they establish.
Propagation through Cuttings
Propagation through cuttings is a less common method for Lomatium mohavense. However, it can be done by taking stem cuttings from healthy, mature plants in the spring or early summer. The cuttings should be 4-6 inches long and have several leaves. The leaves on the lower half of the cutting should be removed, and the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone before being planted in a soil mix. Cuttings should be kept moist and warm until they develop roots and new growth.
Overall, propagation of Lomatium mohavense can be achieved through seed, division, or cuttings. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, but with proper care and attention, all can be successful.
Disease and Pest Management for Lomatium mohavense
Lomatium mohavense, commonly known as Mohave lomatium, is a wildflower native to the southwestern United States. Like any other plant, Mohave lomatium is susceptible to diseases and pests that can damage its growth and yield. Here are some common diseases and pests that may affect Mohave lomatium and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Mohave lomatium may encounter various diseases that can damage the plant's foliage and stems. Some of the most common diseases that affect Mohave lomatium include:
1. Root Rot
Root rot is a fungal disease caused by Phytophthora that affects the roots of Mohave lomatium. It results in stunted growth, wilting, and yellowing of leaves, leading to plant death. To manage root rot, maintain good soil drainage, avoid overwatering, and practice crop rotation.
2. Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white or gray powdery coating on the foliage of Mohave lomatium. It can cause leaves to yellow and drop prematurely. To manage powdery mildew, remove infected foliage and provide proper air circulation. Fungicides can also be used as a preventative measure.
Pests
Mohave lomatium is also susceptible to various pests that can damage the plant's leaves, stems, and roots. Some common pests that may affect Mohave lomatium include:
1. Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of Mohave lomatium, causing leaves to curl and wilt. They can also transmit viruses that can cause significant yield losses. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil spray, as well as introducing natural predators like ladybugs.
2. Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny, eight-legged arachnids that can cause leaves to yellow and drop. They create webbing on the leaves and are difficult to spot with the naked eye. To manage spider mites, use insecticidal soap or neem oil spray, as well as introducing natural predators like ladybugs.
By being aware of the common diseases and pests that may affect Mohave lomatium and implementing the appropriate control measures, you can ensure the optimal growth and health of your plants.
