Origin
Lotus salsuginosus Greene ssp. brevivexillus (Ottley) Munz, commonly called Short-stemmed deervetch, is a flowering plant species that is native to North America, mainly found in the western United States and northwestern Mexico.
Common Names
Lotus salsuginosus Greene ssp. brevivexillus is commonly known by various names such as Short-stemmed deervetch, Salt marsh bird's-foot trefoil, and Desert lotus.
Uses
Lotus salsuginosus Greene ssp. brevivexillus has some traditional medicinal uses like tea made from the plant can be used for fever, colds, and flu. It is also used to treat intestine-related diseases like diarrhea due to its astringent property. The flowers and leaves of the plant were also used to treat dysentery and tuberculosis by Native Americans.
Short-stemmed deervetch is an excellent source of food for livestock, as it is known to be highly nutritious and palatable. It is also used to prevent soil erosion because its roots help to hold the soil in place.
General Appearance
Short-stemmed deervetch is a perennial herb with a woody base and hairy stems. It grows up to 4-6 inches tall with a spread of 1-2 feet. The leaves of the plant are feather-like, with 6 to 8 leaflets, and the small yellow flowers grow in clusters at the end of the stems. The fruits of the plant are small, hairy, and pods. Short-stemmed deervetch thrives in moist, saline soils, such as marshes, coastal areas, and salt flats.
Growth Conditions for Lotus salsuginosus Greene ssp. brevivexillus (Ottley) Munz
Light: This plant species requires full sun exposure for optimal growth. It cannot tolerating shading and will have stunted growth if exposed to too much shade. Therefore, it is recommended to plant it in areas with direct sunlight.
Temperature: Lotus salsuginosus Greene ssp. brevivexillus (Ottley) Munz is adapted to arid and semi-arid environments, indicating its high tolerance to high temperatures. This plant can grow well in temperatures ranging from 25-40°C. However, it cannot tolerate low temperatures or frost, so it is best to avoid planting it in colder regions.
Soil: This plant species grows well in sandy or gravelly soils with good drainage. It requires low to moderate soil moisture levels, making it challenging to thrive in extremely dry environments. In addition, the soil should not be too fertile as soils with high nutrient content can affect plant growth and affect its ability to fix nitrogen. Soil pH must be within the range of 6.0 to 8.0 for optimal growth.
Overall, Lotus salsuginosus Greene ssp. brevivexillus (Ottley) Munz thrives in harsh growing conditions such as the arid and semi-arid regions. With proper soil and water management practices in addition to adequate sunlight and temperatures, the plant can grow to its full potential.
Cultivation methods
Lotus salsuginosus Greene ssp. brevivexillus (Ottley) Munz, commonly known as Salt Marsh Bird's-Beak, is a plant species native to areas around the San Francisco Bay. To cultivate the plant, it is best to start with seeds. Being a native plant species, it requires a specific habitat and environment to grow healthily.
The first step in cultivating this plant is to select an ideal site. The site must receive full sun exposure and must have well-drained soil. Salt Marsh Bird's-Beak plant grows well in coastal areas with sandy soil or areas with heavy clay soil that is high in organic content. Once the site is selected, prepare the soil by removing weeds and adding compost or organic fertilizer.
After soil preparation, sow the seeds in the prepared soil. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and water thoroughly. Germination will take place within two to three weeks if the temperature is between 60°F to 70°F. Once the seedlings are 2- 3 inches tall, transplant them into the desired location.
Watering needs
Salt Marsh Bird's-Beak requires regular watering, especially during the early stages of growth. However, it is crucial not to overwater as it can lead to root rot. The plant must be watered once or twice a week, providing enough water to ensure the soil is moist, but it does not become saturated. Once the plant is established, it can grow under natural conditions and does not require frequent watering.
Fertilization
Lotus salsuginosus Greene ssp. brevivexillus (Ottley) Munz, being a native plant, does not require frequent fertilization. However, adding compost or organic fertilizer during the soil preparation stage can help the plant to establish quickly. Natural fertilizers like bone meal or fish emulsion can be added during the growing season to ensure healthy growth. It is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions while using fertilizers, as overuse can lead to plant damage.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Salt Marsh Bird's-Beak. However, it is advisable to remove any dead or yellow leaves from the plant. It can be done by pinching or cutting the leaf at the base. Deadheading the flowers can help produce more blooms and also prevent self-seeding. Ensure that the plant is not pruned during the flowering season, as it may reduce the number of blooms.
Propagation Methods for Lotus salsuginosus Greene ssp. brevivexillus (Ottley) Munz
Lotus salsuginosus Greene ssp. brevivexillus (Ottley) Munz, also known as the shortpod cryptanth, is a native California plant that belongs to the pea family, Fabaceae. The plant is herbaceous and spreads through underground rhizomes, making it potentially invasive. To propagate the plant, one must follow specific methods.
Propagation by Seed
Propagation by seed is the easiest and most economical way to propagate Lotus salsuginosus. The seeds should be collected when the pods are dry but before they split open. The seeds are then cleaned and stored in a cool, dry place for up to six months before planting. If planting outdoors, seeds can be sown directly into the soil in fall or early spring. The seeds require light to germinate, so they should be pressed into the soil but not covered. If planting indoors, the seeds should be started in trays with a soilless mix and placed under fluorescent lights for 12 to 16 hours per day until seedlings emerge, after which they should be transplanted into individual containers.
Propagation by Rhizome Division
The division of the rhizomes is another method to propagate Lotus salsuginosus, but it requires more care and expertise. The rhizomes should be divided in the fall or early spring when the plants are dormant. The rhizomes should be dug carefully with a garden fork and separated into smaller pieces with a sharp knife, being careful not to damage the growing points. The newly divided rhizomes should then be planted in a new location or potted in a soilless mix. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged until new growth emerges.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by stem cuttings is also possible, but it is less likely to be successful. Cuttings should be taken in the early summer when the plant is actively growing. Cuttings should be taken from the tips of the stem and should be 3-4 inches long. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and placed in a soilless mix. The cuttings should be kept moist and misted daily until new growth emerges.
Propagation of Lotus salsuginosus Greene ssp. brevivexillus (Ottley) Munz is a relatively simple process and can be achieved through multiple methods. With proper care and attention, the plant can thrive and make a beautiful addition to any garden or landscape.
Disease Management
One of the common diseases that can affect Lotus salsuginosus Greene ssp. brevivexillus (Ottley) Munz is powdery mildew. This fungal disease shows up as a white, powdery substance on leaves and stems of the plant. To manage this disease, it is recommended to keep the plant well-ventilated and avoid overhead watering. Remove any infected leaves and dispose of them properly to prevent further spread. Additionally, fungicides can be applied to control the spread of powdery mildew.
Leaf spot is another disease that can impact Lotus salsuginosus Greene ssp. brevivexillus (Ottley) Munz. This disease is characterized by circular brown or black spots on plant leaves. To manage this disease, remove any infected leaves and make sure that there is adequate space between plants to promote airflow. Fungicides can also be used to control the spread of leaf spot.
Pest Management
The most common pests that might attack Lotus salsuginosus Greene ssp. brevivexillus (Ottley) Munz are spider mites and aphids. Spider mites can cause yellowing and stippling of leaves, while aphids can cause distorted leaves and stunted growth. To manage these pests, use an insecticidal soap or oil spray on the plant to control their population. Ladybugs can also be introduced in the garden to naturally control aphids. Additionally, it is recommended to keep the plant well-watered and fertilized to improve its overall health and resistance to pests.
