Origin
Lotus argophyllus (Gray) Greene ssp. ornithopus (Greene) Raven, commonly known as Birdfoot Deervetch, is a native plant to North America and can be found across the southwestern states of the United States, including Arizona, California, Nevada, Texas, and Utah.
Common Names
Birdfoot Deervetch is also commonly known as Grant Deervetch, Silvery Lotus, and Silvery Deervetch.
Uses
Birdfoot Deervetch has various uses. As a nitrogen-fixing plant, it contributes to the soil fertility. It is also used as food for wildlife, including deer, bighorn sheep, and rabbits. Native American tribes have traditionally utilized the plant for medicinal purposes, such as healing skin diseases and gastrointestinal issues. Besides, it is a popular ornamental plant, thanks to its silver-green foliage and a profusion of yellow-orange flowers that bloom in spring and early summer.
General Appearance
Birdfoot Deervetch is an herbaceous perennial plant that can grow up to 2 feet in height. It has a sprawling habit and forms thick mats of silver-green leaves that are finely divided into narrow leaflets. The leaves are covered in fine white hairs, giving them a silvery appearance. The flowers are clustered at the end of the stems and are bright yellow-orange, with the petals forming a bird's foot shape, hence the common name. The fruits are small, green, and slightly curved pods that contain seeds.
Light Requirements
Lotus argophyllus ssp. ornithopus typically grows well in full sunlight. The plant tolerates some shade, but its flowers and leaves tend to be less abundant and smaller in size when grown under shady conditions. Therefore, it is best to grow this species in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
Lotus argophyllus ssp. ornithopus is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, where the climate is characterized by hot summers and mild winters. As such, this plant can tolerate high temperatures, up to 110°F, and drought conditions. However, it prefers cooler temperatures, around 70°F, and moderate moisture levels.
Soil Requirements
This plant grows well in well-draining soils that are sandy or gravelly in texture. It can tolerate soils that are slightly acidic to slightly alkaline, with a pH range of 6.5 to 8.5. Additionally, this species is adapted to grow in soils that are low in nutrients and organic matter, as it is capable of fixing nitrogen from the atmosphere through a symbiotic relationship with soil bacteria.
Cultivation
The plant Lotus argophyllus (Gray) Greene ssp. ornithopus (Greene) Raven can be grown in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It requires full sun exposure and can tolerate cold temperatures and drought. The plant can be propagated by seeds or cuttings, and it is recommended to plant them during the fall or spring season.
Watering Needs
The Lotus argophyllus plant requires moderate watering. It is important to avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot. It is recommended to water the plant once a week, but this frequency can vary depending on the climate and soil conditions. It is advisable to monitor the soil moisture level and adjust the watering frequency accordingly.
Fertilization
Fertilization is important for the growth and development of the Lotus argophyllus plant. It is recommended to use a balanced fertilizer that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. The plant should be fertilized during the growing season, which is typically from early spring to late summer. It is advisable to follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding the application of fertilizer, as over-fertilization can harm the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is an important aspect of maintaining the health and shape of the Lotus argophyllus plant. It is recommended to prune the plant during the dormant season, which is usually during the winter. The pruning should remove dead or broken branches, as well as promote the growth of new stems and leaves. It is important to use clean, sharp pruning tools to avoid damaging the plant. Pruning should be done with care as the plant can be sensitive to stress.
Propagation of Lotus argophyllus (Gray) Greene ssp. ornithopus (Greene) Raven
Lotus argophyllus (Gray) Greene ssp. ornithopus (Greene) Raven is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the legume family. It is commonly known as Silver bush lupine or Mouse-eared bird's foot trefoil. Propagating the plant is possible through various methods such as by seed or division.
Propagation by Seed
Propagating Lotus argophyllus using seed is the most common method. Seeds can be collected from mature plants and sown during the late fall or early spring when the soil is moist. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 3-4 times their size and about 6-10 inches apart. Germination usually takes place within 7 to 14 days. The seedlings can be transplanted when they reach a height of at least 3 inches.
Propagation by Division
The other method of propagating Lotus argophyllus is through division. This method involves dividing the root ball into smaller sections and replanting them. The best time to divide the plant is during the early spring when new growth starts to appear. Dig the plant carefully and separate the roots into sections. Each section should have a healthy root system and a few shoots. Replant the divisions in a well-drained soil mix. Make sure to keep the newly transplanted plants moist and in a shaded area for the first few weeks until new growth is established.
Disease Management
Lotus argophyllus (Gray) Greene ssp. ornithopus (Greene) Raven is generally a hardy plant but can be susceptible to various diseases. Here are some common diseases and ways to manage them:
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes small, circular, dark spots on the leaves of the plant. These spots might merge together, and the infected leaves might turn yellow and fall off. To manage this disease, remove all infected foliage and destroy them. Make sure to avoid overhead watering, as this can lead to the spread of this disease.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that creates a powdery white substance on the leaves of the plant. This disease can weaken the plant by restricting photosynthesis. To manage this disease, you can use a fungicide that contains sulfur. Additionally, remove any infected foliage and practice proper ventilation to reduce humidity levels.
Root Rot
Root rot is a fungal disease that can be caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil. The roots of infected plants might turn brown or black, and the plant might wilt and die. To manage this disease, you should remove all infected plants and improve drainage in the soil. Do not overwater the plant, and make sure the soil drains well.
Pest Management
Lotus argophyllus (Gray) Greene ssp. ornithopus (Greene) Raven can also be attacked by various pests. Here are some common pests and ways to manage them:
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can be identified by their pear-shaped bodies. They often gather in large numbers on the undersides of the leaves or at the growing tips, sucking the sap from the plant and causing stunted growth. You can control aphids by regularly spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Caterpillars
Caterpillars are larvae of butterflies and moths that can consume the foliage of the plant. Diagnosing the damage is important to identify the type of caterpillar. To reduce the damage, handpicking or deploying biological methods like the use of Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), an insecticidal bacteria, is recommended.
Thrips
Thrips are tiny insects that feed on the leaves and flowers of the plant, causing leaves to become distorted. Persistent infestations might decrease the yield of your plant. You can remove and destroy affected plant parts or deploy biological control methods like releasing predatory mites.
