Overview
Lomatium tomentosum (Benth.) Coult. & Rose is a species of flowering plant in the Apiaceae family. It is commonly known as woolly lomatium or woolly biscuitroot. The plant is native to California, Oregon, and Nevada in the United States.Appearance
Woolly lomatium is a low-growing perennial herb that typically grows up to 20cm tall. The plant has a stout taproot and is covered in a dense layer of soft, woolly hairs. The leaves are finely divided, with numerous small leaflets that are arranged in a fern-like formation. The flowers are small and yellow, and are borne in umbels on long stems that rise above the foliage.Uses
Woolly lomatium has a long history of use by Native American tribes. The plant's edible root was traditionally harvested and consumed, either raw or cooked. The roots were also used to make a medicinal tea that was used to treat a variety of ailments, including respiratory infections and stomach problems. In addition, the plant was used for its antiseptic properties, and the leaves and stems were applied topically to wounds and sores. Today, woolly lomatium is primarily grown as an ornamental plant, prized for its attractive foliage and cheerful yellow flowers. It is often used in rock gardens, as a ground cover, or as a border plant. The plant's deep taproot makes it drought-tolerant and well-suited to dry, sunny locations.Growth Conditions for Lomatium tomentosum (Benth.) Coult. & Rose
Lomatium tomentosum, commonly known as woolly lomatium, is a perennial plant that is native to North America. This herbaceous species typically grows in open grasslands, meadows, and sandy or rocky areas with well-draining soil.
Light Requirements
Lomatium tomentosum prefers full sun to partial shade for optimum growth and development. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can hinder its growth and reduce flower production.
Temperature Requirements
Lomatium tomentosum can thrive in a wide range of temperature conditions. However, it prefers a temperate climate, with moderate temperatures between 60°F to 80°F during the growing season. This plant can tolerate some frost, but prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can damage or kill it.
Soil Requirements
Lomatium tomentosum prefers well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy and gravelly soils. This plant can also tolerate some drought, but it requires regular watering during hot and dry weather to ensure healthy growth.
Cultivation Methods
Lomatium tomentosum is a perennial plant that grows well in full sun or partial shade with well-drained soil. It is tolerant of various soil types, including sandy and clay soils. The plant can be propagated through seeds and should be sown in the fall or early spring.
Watering Needs
Lomatium tomentosum is drought tolerant and does not require frequent watering. However, during extended periods of dry weather, the plant should be watered deeply to help it survive.
Fertilization
Lomatium tomentosum does not require frequent fertilization as it can grow well in nutrient-poor soils. However, adding a slow-release, all-purpose fertilizer in the spring can help improve the plant's growth and health.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Lomatium tomentosum as it has a natural, bushy habit that does not require shaping. However, if the plant becomes leggy or overgrown, it can be lightly pruned in the early spring to promote new growth.
Propagation of Lomatium tomentosum
Lomatium tomentosum, also known as woolly lomatium, is a perennial herb native to western North America. It grows up to 3 feet tall and has a yellow-green flower. Propagation of this plant can be done through seeds or vegetative methods like division and cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds can be collected from the plant after it flowers and ripens. Sow the seeds in the soil in fall or early spring. It is recommended to sow the seeds in well-drained soil at a depth of approximately 1/8 inch. The soil should be kept moist but not wet throughout the germination period which takes around two to four weeks. When the seedlings are large enough, they can be transplanted to the permanent location.
Propagation by Division
Propagation by division involves separating basal rosettes from the mother plant. It should be done during the early spring when new growth emerges. Carefully lift the parent plant from the soil and separate the young plants from the base. Transplant the young plants to a new spot with well-draining soil and good sun exposure. Water the newly transplanted plants until they establish roots and begin to grow on their own.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings can be done by taking the stem cutting from the parent plant. The cutting should be done during the early summer when the stems are still green and supple. Cut a stem measuring at least 4 inches long, strip the leaves off the bottom half of the stem, and dip the cut off end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting about an inch deep in a pot filled with moist soil and cover with a plastic bag to prevent moisture loss. Place the pot in a bright location out of direct sunlight and ensure constant moisture until new growth appears.
Disease and Pest Management for Lomatium tomentosum (Benth.) Coult. & Rose
Lomatium tomentosum (Benth.) Coult. & Rose is susceptible to various pests and diseases, some of which can cause significant damage to the plant. The following are common diseases and pests that affect this plant and the methods of managing them.
Common Diseases
Canker: This fungal disease causes the formation of small, sunken lesions on the stem. As the disease progresses, it can girdle the stem, leading to wilting and death of the plant. To manage this disease, promptly remove and destroy all infected plant debris, avoid planting in areas with poor drainage, and maintain good air circulation by spacing plants appropriately.
Leaf Spot: This bacterial disease causes circular or irregular spots on the leaves. In severe cases, the leaves may turn yellow and defoliate. To manage this disease, remove and destroy all infected plant debris, avoid overhead watering, and maintain good air circulation by spacing plants appropriately.
Root Rot: This fungal disease causes the roots to rot, resulting in poor plant growth, wilting, and death. To manage this disease, plant in well-draining soil, avoid overwatering, and promptly remove and destroy any infected plants.
Common Pests
Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects suck sap from the plant, leading to stunted growth and distorted leaves. To manage aphids, introduce natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings, spritz the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge them, or apply insecticidal soap.
Spider Mites: These tiny pests are barely visible to the naked eye and cause a speckled appearance on the leaves. They suck sap from the plant, leading to yellowing, stunted growth, and eventually, defoliation. To manage spider mites, increase humidity around the plant by misting it regularly, apply neem oil or insecticidal soap, or introduce natural predators like predatory mites.
Thrips: These tiny, slender insects cause deformed leaves, buds, and flowers by rasping and sucking plant tissue. To manage thrips, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil, introduce natural predators like predatory mites or lacewing larvae, or set up sticky traps.
By regularly monitoring your Lomatium tomentosum plant and promptly addressing any pest or disease issues, you can ensure the health and longevity of your plant.
