Origin and Common Names
Lotus salsuginosus Greene var. brevivexillus Ottley is a species of flowering plant that is native to the western regions of the United States, specifically Arizona, California, and Nevada. This plant is commonly known as the alkali milkvetch or saltwort milkvetch due to its ability to grow in saline soil where other plants cannot.
General Appearance
The alkali milkvetch is a perennial plant with a height ranging from 20 to 70 centimeters. It has a distinct taproot that is known to grow up to 3 meters deep, which helps it survive in harsh environmental conditions. The stems are erect, woody at the base, and covered in dense silky hairs. The leaves are pinnately compound with numerous small leaflets that are linear in shape and about 3 to 10 millimeters long. The flowers are small, pink to purple, and arranged in a compact raceme at the end of the stem. The fruit is a legume that contains small, dark brown seeds.
Uses
The alkali milkvetch has several uses, primarily in the areas of soil stabilization and ecological restoration. Its deep taproot helps to bind the soil, preventing erosion in areas with saline soil. In addition, its ability to grow in harsh environments makes it a useful plant for restoring degraded habitats. Some Native American tribes also used parts of this plant for medicinal purposes, including as a remedy for respiratory ailments and to treat pain.
Light Requirements
The Lotus salsuginosus Greene var. brevivexillus Ottley plant typically grows in full sunlight exposure. It cannot grow in shady areas as it needs ample sunlight for photosynthesis and adequate growth. The plant will thrive in areas with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is native to California's desert regions and can tolerate high temperatures of up to 110°F (43°C). However, it cannot survive frost, and temperatures below 32°F (0°C) may kill off the plant. Therefore, the plant is best grown in areas with high temperatures, and the growing season should be monitored carefully to prevent frost damage.
Soil Requirements
The Lotus salsuginosus Greene var. brevivexillus Ottley plant prefers sandy soils with low to moderate fertility levels. The soil must be well-drained as the plant is susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils. Additionally, the soil's pH must range from slightly acidic to neutral, typically within the range of 6.0 to 7.5. The plant is also adapted to grow in soils with high salt concentrations, making it ideal for coastal areas with high salinity levels.
Cultivation Methods
Lotus salsuginosus Greene var. brevivexillus Ottley is best propagated from seeds. The seeds must be scarified or nicked with a knife to break their hard exterior and allow water to infiltrate the seed. The seeds should then be sown in sandy soil and kept moist. The seedlings should emerge within two to four weeks typically. The ideal time to plant is in the spring or fall, and the plant must be grown in full sun to partial shade.
Watering Needs
The Lotus salsuginosus Greene var. brevivexillus Ottley plant must be watered generously during the first year of growth. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. As the plant matures, it becomes more drought-resistant. However, it still needs regular watering, especially during prolonged dry spells. The watering frequency depends on the environment and soil. Generally, the plant requires a deep watering once a week
Fertilization
The Lotus salsuginosus Greene var. brevivexillus Ottley plant does not require frequent fertilization. The plant's natural habitat is in low-nutrient soil, and over-fertilization can harm the plant's growth and development. However, you may apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once a year during the plant's growing season.
Pruning
The Lotus salsuginosus Greene var. brevivexillus Ottley plant requires minimal pruning. You can remove any dead, damaged, or diseased stems with sharp pruning shears. Additionally, removing some of the lower stems can focus more growth to the top of the plant and make the plant appear more attractive. However, this step is optional.
Propagation of Lotus salsuginosus Greene var. brevivexillus Ottley
Lotus salsuginosus Greene var. brevivexillus Ottley is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the pea family Fabaceae. It is native to North America and is commonly found in salt and alkaline soils, and it can be propagated by both sexual and asexual methods.
Sexual propagation
Lotus salsuginosus Greene var. brevivexillus Ottley can be propagated through seeds. Seed propagation is best done during the fall season when the soil temperature is still warm but not as hot as during the summer. The seeds should be sown in a well-prepared seedbed, where the soil is moist but not waterlogged. The seeds should be sown at a depth of about 0.5 inches and spaced 6 to 12 inches apart depending on the expected growth of the plant. The seedlings should emerge in two to four weeks, and they should be thinned once they start to grow to prevent overcrowding.
Asexual propagation
Lotus salsuginosus Greene var. brevivexillus Ottley can also be propagated asexually through vegetative means. The most common method of vegetative propagation is through stem cuttings. Stem cuttings should be taken during the early spring from the previous year's growth. The cuttings should be about 3 to 4 inches long and should be taken from the tips of the stems. The cuttings should be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist until they develop roots and establish themselves. Additionally, Lotus salsuginosus can spread by rhizomes which grow underground and sprout new plants.
Disease Management
The Lotus salsuginosus Greene var. brevivexillus Ottley is susceptible to fungal and bacterial diseases that can affect its growth and development. Here are some common diseases that might affect the plant and measures to manage them:
Fungal Diseases:
Phytophthora Root Rot - This disease affects the roots of the plant, causing them to rot and decay. To manage this disease, use well-draining soil and avoid overwatering the plant. Remove and destroy infected plants to prevent the spread of the disease.
Powdery Mildew - This fungal disease appears as a white, powdery substance on the leaves of the plant. It can be managed by ensuring proper air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering. Use of fungicides can also be effective in controlling the disease.
Bacterial Diseases:
Crown Gall - This disease causes the formation of dense, tumor-like growths on the plant's stem and roots. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected plants. Avoid injury to the plant's roots and stem and use pathogen-free soil for planting.
Bacterial Blight - This disease causes brown-colored spots on the leaves of the plant, which later become yellow and fall off. Manage the disease by removing and destroying infected plants and avoiding long periods of leaf wetness. Use of copper-based fungicides can also be effective for the treatment of the disease.
Pest Management
Several pests can also attack the Lotus salsuginosus Greene var. brevivexillus Ottley and cause damage to the plant. Here are some common pests and ways to manage them:
Insects:
Leafhoppers - These insects feed on the leaves of the plant, causing them to turn yellow and fall off. Manage leafhoppers by using insecticides and regularly inspecting the plant for signs of damage.
Spider Mites - These tiny insects suck the sap from the leaves of the plant, causing them to curl and turn yellow. Manage spider mites by using insecticides and maintaining proper humidity levels around the plant.
Mammals:
Deer - These mammals can feed on the leaves and flowers of the plant, causing significant damage. Control deer by using physical barriers, such as fencing, or using deer repellents.
Gophers - These rodents can feed on the roots of the plant, causing them to die. Control gophers by using traps or baits and regularly checking for signs of damage.
