Overview
Lomatium orientale Coult. & Rose, commonly known as the oriental biscuitroot, is a member of the Apiaceae family. It is a perennial plant species that is native to North America, specifically the Great Basin and the Rocky Mountains.
Common Names
Aside from the oriental biscuitroot, Lomatium orientale is also known by several other common names, including desert parsley, fernleaf biscuitroot, Indian parsley, Indian carrot, and many others. The common names of this plant may vary from one region to another.
Appearance
The oriental biscuitroot typically grows up to a height of 1-2 feet and has a spread of about 1.5 feet. The plant has a thick stem, which is often hairy, and is branching towards the leaves. The leaves are bipinnately compound and have a fern-like texture. Its inflorescence consists of numerous small, pale-yellow flowers that bloom from May to June. The fruits are oblong, curved, and flat, with smooth surface texture.
Uses
Lomatium orientale has many traditional medicinal uses by Native American tribes. The roots of the plant are used in herbal remedies to treat various ailments such as coughs, colds, and arthritis. The roots contain biologically active compounds that exhibit anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties. The roots are also used as a food source for both humans and wildlife. Several Native American tribes roast, steam, or boil the roots before consuming them. The seeds of the species are also edible and were used by some native tribes as a source of food.
Today, the oriental biscuitroot is cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes. Its delicate and distinctive leaflet makes it very attractive as an ornamental plant. Additionally, it is also grown for its medicinal properties for pharmacies and cosmetics.
Growth Conditions for Lomatium orientale Coult. & Rose
Light Requirements: Lomatium orientale typically thrives in full sun to partial shade, meaning it requires a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight per day. In areas with hot summers, partial shade may be preferable as it can prevent the plant from drying out.
Temperature Requirements: This species is native to North America and can grow in a variety of climates. It is hardy to USDA zones 5-10 and prefers cool to moderate temperatures. The ideal temperature range for Lomatium orientale is between 50-75°F (10-24°C).
Soil Requirements: Lomatium orientale prefers well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. The plant is tolerant of dry soil conditions and can thrive in rocky or gravelly soil. It may struggle in heavy clay soils or soils with poor drainage.
Water Requirements: Lomatium orientale is drought-tolerant, but it still requires regular watering during its growing season. In hot, dry weather, it may require additional watering to prevent it from drying out. It is important to avoid overwatering as this can cause the roots to rot.
Fertilizer Requirements: Lomatium orientale does not require heavy fertilization, but a small amount of slow-release fertilizer can be applied in the early spring to encourage growth. It is important not to over-fertilize as this can cause the plant to become leggy and weak.
Propagation: Lomatium orientale can be propagated by seed or by division in the fall or early spring. Seed should be sown directly into the soil in the fall or early spring. To propagate by division, dig up the plant and carefully separate the roots into smaller sections before replanting.
Cultivation Methods for Lomatium orientale Coult. & Rose
Lomatium orientale Coult. & Rose is a drought-resistant, perennial plant that is native to the western parts of North America. It is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, rocky, and clay soils. It prefers well-drained soils with moderate fertility and is tolerant to acidic soils with a pH range of 5.0 to 8.0.
To cultivate Lomatium orientale Coult. & Rose, start by selecting a sunny location with well-drained soil. Choose a seedling or mature plant from a reliable nursery or garden center. Dig a hole that is slightly larger than the roots of the plant and place it in the hole. Cover the roots with soil and water it thoroughly.
Water the plant regularly until it becomes established. Afterward, it is drought-resistant and requires minimal watering. Additionally, ensure the plant receives sunlight for at least six hours daily.
Watering Needs
Lomatium orientale Coult. & Rose is a drought-resistant plant that can survive in dry conditions. However, it needs regular watering until it becomes established. Water the plant deeply once or twice per week, depending on the soil type and prevailing weather conditions. Watering frequency should be reduced gradually as the plant becomes more drought-resistant over time.
Ensure you do not overwater the plant as it could lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. Additionally, avoid watering the leaves while watering the plant as this could encourage fungal growth.
Fertilization
Lomatium orientale Coult. & Rose is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal fertilization. However, a yearly application of a balanced fertilizer such as a 10-10-10 formula during the growing season could improve its growth and overall health.
The fertilizer should be incorporated into the soil around the base of the plant, and watering should follow immediately after application.
Pruning
Lomatium orientale Coult. & Rose does not require regular pruning. However, it could benefit from the occasional removal of dead or wilted stems and leaves, especially after the flowering season.
The removal of spent flowers could encourage the growth of new stems and flowers. Additionally, pruning could help maintain the plant's shape and prevent overcrowding.
Propagation of Lomatium orientale Coult. & Rose
Lomatium orientale Coult. & Rose is a native perennial herb to the western United States. It is also known as fernleaf biscuitroot or Indian consumption plant. Lomatium orientale can be propagated by seed or root division.
Propagation by Seed
The best time to collect seeds from Lomatium orientale is in the fall after the seeds have matured. The seeds should be stored in a cool, dry place until ready to plant in the spring. Lomatium orientale seeds have a hard seed coat and require scarification to germinate. Scarification can be achieved by soaking the seeds in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, or by rubbing the seeds with sandpaper to break the seed coat. Once scarified, the seeds should be planted in a well-draining soil mixture and kept moist until they sprout. Lomatium orientale seeds should germinate within 2-3 weeks.
Propagation by Root Division
Lomatium orientale can also be propagated by root division, although it is best to do so in the fall when the plant is dormant. To propagate by root division, gently dig up the plant and carefully separate the roots into sections. Each section should have at least one shoot and a portion of the root system attached. The sections can then be replanted in a well-draining soil mixture and watered thoroughly.
Disease and Pest Management for Lomatium Orientale Coult. & Rose
Lomatium orientale Coult. & Rose, commonly known as Indian biscuitroot, is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the carrot family. This plant is generally disease-resistant, but it is not immune to some pests and diseases. It is important to pay attention to any signs of infection or infestation so that proper measures can be taken to manage the situation effectively.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that can affect Lomatium orientale is powdery mildew. It is caused by the fungus Erysiphe cichoracearum, which appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves and stems of the plant. Another common disease is root rot, which is caused by the fungal pathogen Rhizoctonia solani. The disease causes the roots of the plant to rot, making it difficult for the plant to take in water and nutrients.
To manage powdery mildew, it is best to remove the infected parts of the plant and dispose of them properly. Fungicides can also be used to control the spread of the disease. To prevent root rot, it is important to avoid overwatering the plant and to ensure the soil is well-draining. Additionally, fungicide applications can be applied to prevent the disease from spreading.
Common Pests
Lomatium orientale is not typically affected by pests, but it can be susceptible to some insects. The most common pests that can affect the plant are aphids and spider mites. Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that can cause damage by feeding on the plant's sap. Spider mites are tiny insects that cause damage by sucking the juices out of the plant's leaves.
To control aphids and spider mites, it is recommended to use insecticidal soaps or oils. Additionally, natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings can be introduced into the garden to help control the pest population. It is important to monitor the plant regularly to catch any pest problems early and to prevent them from spreading.
Conclusion
Lomatium orientale is a beautiful and hardy plant that is easy to care for and maintain. By paying attention to any signs of disease or pests and taking proper measures to manage them, you can ensure that your Indian biscuitroot remains healthy and thriving. Regular monitoring, proper watering technique, and early pest detection and prevention are all crucial aspects to maintain the health of the plant and keep it free from diseases and pests.
