Overview
Lomatium nevadense (S. Wats.) Coult. & Rose var. parishii (Coult. & Rose) Jepson is a flowering plant species commonly known as Parish's lomatium. This species is native to the western regions of North America, specifically in California, Nevada, and Arizona.
Description
Parish's lomatium is a perennial herb that grows up to a height of 1-2 feet. It has a slender and branching stem that is covered with small hairs. The leaves of this plant are double-pinnate, with long leaflets that have pointed tips and jagged edges. The flowers of this species are small and are clustered in umbels that sit on top of long, slender stalks. The blooms are typically white or pale yellow in color and attract a variety of beneficial insects.
Uses
Indigenous people in the areas where this plant grows have traditionally used it for a variety of medicinal purposes. The roots of Parish's lomatium have been used to treat coughs, colds, and respiratory infections. Additionally, the plant has been used to treat fever, sore throats, and general inflammation. This species is also valuable in supporting the health of native pollinators, as it provides a source of nectar and pollen during the early spring.
Conservation Status
Parish's lomatium is considered a species of special concern in California and is listed as a sensitive species by the Bureau of Land Management. Habitat loss due to human activities such as agriculture and development, as well as competition from invasive species, are among the primary threats to this plant's continued survival. Conservation efforts include monitoring and protection of vulnerable populations and habitat restoration projects.
Light Requirements
The Lomatium nevadense (S. Wats.) Coult. & Rose var. parishii (Coult. & Rose) Jepson requires full sun exposure for optimal growth. It can tolerate partial shade for a short duration, but prolonged shade may negatively affect growth and blooming.
Temperature Requirements
This plant variety can tolerate a wide range of temperatures from cool to hot. It prefers cool to moderately warm temperatures ranging from 15-27°C (59-81°F) during the day and 4-15°C (39-59°F) at night. Extreme heat or cold temperatures can stunt growth and even cause death.
Soil Requirements
The Lomatium nevadense (S. Wats.) Coult. & Rose var. parishii (Coult. & Rose) Jepson prefers well-draining soils with good drainage. The ideal soil type is sandy and loamy soils that are slightly acidic ranging from pH 5.6 to 7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter and nutrients to support optimal growth. This plant variety does not grow well in heavy soils with poor drainage.
Cultivation Methods:
Lomatium nevadense var. parishii is a native plant to California and requires specific conditions to grow. It thrives in full sun to partial shade with well-draining soil and a pH level of 6.5 to 7.5. It is adaptable to various types of soil, including loam, gravelly, or sandy soils.
A deep root system characterizes Lomatium nevadense var. parishii, and it can be challenging to transplant. It is recommended to start from seed in a greenhouse or direct sow to the permanent location in the fall. Germination starts after 30 to 150 days from sowing. Once established, Lomatium nevadense var. parishii can self-seed and propagate by clump division after the third year.
Watering Needs:
Lomatium nevadense var. parishii is drought tolerant and prefers infrequent, deep watering. It can survive on 12 inches of rainfall annually. Avoid overhead watering as it can cause fungal diseases on foliage. A layer of mulch around the base of the plant can conserve moisture and suppress weed growth.
Fertilization:
Lomatium nevadense var. parishii is a low-maintenance plant that does not require fertilization. High-nutrient fertilizers can stimulate excessive vegetative growth that can impact plant health and the quality of the flowers.
Pruning:
Lomatium nevadense var. parishii does not need pruning to maintain its natural shape. However, removing spent flowers can improve the plant's appearance and prevent unwanted self-seeding. Cut back the entire plant after seed production to promote new growth and prevent woody stems.
Propagation of Lomatium nevadense var. parishii
Lomatium nevadense var. parishii, commonly known as Parish's lomatium, is a herbaceous perennial plant that is native to California. It grows in rocky and sandy soils and can reach up to 3 feet in height. The plant produces yellowish-green flowers in the spring and summer, which are followed by small fruits.
Propagation Methods
Lomatium nevadense var. parishii is propagated through seeds or cuttings. Below are the details of each propagation method:
Seeds
The seeds of Lomatium nevadense var. parishii can be sown directly into well-prepared garden soil in the fall or early spring. The soil should be kept moist until the seeds germinate, which can take up to a few weeks. It is important to note that the seedlings may take up to 3 years to reach maturity.
If starting the seeds indoors, it is recommended to sow them in trays or pots filled with a well-draining potting mix. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil, kept moist, and placed in a warm and bright area. Once the seedlings have grown to a sufficient size, they can be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the garden soil.
Cuttings
Lomatium nevadense var. parishii can also be propagated through stem cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is in the late summer to early fall when the plant has completed its flowering cycle.
The stems should be cut to a length of about 4-6 inches and the lower leaves should be removed. The cuttings can be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and the cuttings in a warm and bright environment until they have rooted.
Once the cuttings have established roots, they can be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the garden soil.
Overall, propagating Lomatium nevadense var. parishii can be challenging and requires patience. But with proper care and attention, this plant can be successfully propagated through either seeds or cuttings.
Disease Management
Lomatium nevadense var. parishii is susceptible to a variety of diseases, including powdery mildew, leaf blight, and root rot.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems of the plant. Manage this disease by practicing good sanitation, removing infected plant debris and leaves, and applying a fungicide when necessary.
Leaf Blight: Leaf blight appears as brown or black spots on the leaves of the plant, and may lead to defoliation. Manage this disease by removing infected leaves and improving air circulation around the plant.
Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, causing them to turn brown, soft, and mushy. To manage root rot, avoid overwatering the plant and improve soil drainage.
Pest Management
There are several pests that may attack Lomatium nevadense var. parishii, including spider mites, aphids, and thrips.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the sap from leaves, causing them to appear stippled or discolored. To manage spider mites, remove infested leaves and stems, and spray the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing leaves to curl and yellow. Manage aphids by removing infested leaves and stems and applying a horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.
Thrips: Thrips are small, slender insects that feed on the leaves and flowers of the plant. Manage thrips by pruning heavily infested areas and treating the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
