Origin
Lotus strigosus (Nutt.) Greene var. tomentellus (Greene) Isely, commonly known as Woolly Lotus, belongs to the Fabaceae family. This plant is native to North America and can be found in many states and provinces throughout the United States and Canada.Common names
Woolly Lotus is the common name for Lotus strigosus var. tomentellus. Other common names for this plant include Western Bird's-foot Trefoil and Strigose Lotus.Uses
Woolly Lotus has many uses, both medicinal and practical. Native Americans used this plant to treat digestive problems, skin conditions, and sore throats. The leaves and stems of the plant can be used to make tea, which has a sweet and slightly astringent taste. This plant also has practical uses. Woolly Lotus is an important forage plant for livestock, and its seeds are a source of food for birds and other wildlife. The plant's deep root system helps prevent soil erosion and can improve soil health.General appearance
Woolly Lotus is a low-growing perennial herb that can reach up to 1 foot in height. The plant has small, yellow, pea-like flowers that bloom in the summer. The leaves are green and arranged in groups of three, with each leaflet about half an inch long. The stems and leaves of the plant are covered in fine hairs, giving it a woolly appearance. The plant's fruit is a small pod that contains one to three seeds. Woolly Lotus prefers dry, rocky soils and can be found in meadows, prairies, and along roadsides.Light Requirements
The Lotus strigosus (Nutt.) Greene var. tomentellus (Greene) Isely plant requires full sunlight exposure for successful growth. As a result, it is best suited for open areas with minimal shade, and it can grow in direct sunlight conditions without any problems. Lack of adequate sunlight will result in poor plant growth, stunted development, and reduced flower production.
Temperature Requirements
Lotus strigosus (Nutt.) Greene var. tomentellus (Greene) Isely grows well in warm and hot weather conditions. The plant can withstand temperatures ranging from 20-32 degrees Celsius. However, it is important to note that colder temperatures can adversely affect its growth. In areas where temperatures drop below 20 degrees Celsius, it may be necessary to cover the plant with a protective layer during the winter months.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 5.5-7.5. The soil type should also be rich in organic matter, with a good balance between minerals and nutrients. Avoid wet and waterlogged soils as they can cause root rot, stunted growth, and decreased yield. It is also advisable to use a good drainage system to prevent waterlogging during heavy rainfall periods.
Cultivation methods
Lotus strigosus (Nutt.) Greene var. tomentellus (Greene) Isely prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. The plant can be grown from seeds, which should be sown in the spring or fall. It is recommended to scarify the seeds by lightly scratching the surface with sandpaper or a file before planting to improve germination.
Watering needs
Lotus strigosus (Nutt.) Greene var. tomentellus (Greene) Isely requires moderate watering during its growing season, especially during prolonged dry spells. The plant is drought tolerant and can survive without water for short periods. However, overwatering can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. As such, it is essential to water the plant only when the top inch of soil is dry.
Fertilization
Fertilization is not necessary for Lotus strigosus (Nutt.) Greene var. tomentellus (Greene) Isely, as the plant is adapted to low nutrient conditions. However, applying a slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring can help provide essential micronutrients for improved growth and bloom.
Pruning
Pruning of Lotus strigosus (Nutt.) Greene var. tomentellus (Greene) Isely is not necessary, as the plant has a natural mounding habit. However, deadheading spent flowers can promote continued blooming throughout the growing season. Additionally, removing dead or damaged foliage can improve the overall appearance and health of the plant.
Propagation of Lotus strigosus (Nutt.) Greene var. tomentellus (Greene) Isely
Lotus strigosus (Nutt.) Greene var. tomentellus (Greene) Isely, commonly known as soft-hair bird's foot trefoil, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Fabaceae or legume family. The plant is native to North America and can be found growing in dry, open areas, such as prairies and meadows.
Propagation of Lotus strigosus can be done through seeds or vegetative means such as division and stem cuttings.
Seed propagation
The best time to sow Lotus strigosus seeds is in the fall, which will give the seed enough time to stratify over the winter for germination in the spring. If sowing in the spring, stratify the seed for four to six weeks before planting. Seeds should be sown approximately ¼ inch deep and spaced about two inches apart. Germination typically occurs within two to three weeks.
Division
Dividing established Lotus strigosus plants can be done in the spring or fall. Carefully dig up the plant and divide the roots into sections, making sure to include some foliage and root mass in each section. Replant the sections immediately, making sure to keep the soil level at the same depth as before.
Stem cuttings
Stem cuttings can be taken in the spring or early summer. Choose a healthy stem and cut a four to six inch section just below a node. Strip off the leaves from the bottom two-thirds of the stem and plant it in a pot filled with moist peat and perlite or sand. Keep the cutting moist and in a shaded area until roots form, then transplant the cutting to the desired location.
Disease Management
Lotus strigosus (Nutt.) Greene var. tomentellus (Greene) Isely is prone to various diseases caused by fungal, bacterial, and viral pathogens. The following are some of the common diseases that might affect the plant:
- Anthracnose – caused by the fungus Colletotrichum trifolii. Symptoms include circular, sunken lesions on the leaves and stems.
- Root rot – caused by the fungus Phytophthora species. Symptoms include yellowing, wilting, and death of the plant.
- Virus diseases – caused by different viruses such as Bean yellow mosaic virus, Alfalfa mosaic virus, and Tomato spotted wilt virus. Symptoms include stunted growth, yellowing, and deformation of leaves.
To manage these diseases, the following measures are recommended:
- Plant disease-resistant varieties.
- Avoid overhead irrigation and waterlogged conditions.
- Practice crop rotation with non-host crops.
- Control weeds that might harbor disease-causing organisms.
- Sanitize equipment and tools before use.
- Apply fungicides or bactericides according to label directions when necessary.
Pest Management
Lotus strigosus (Nutt.) Greene var. tomentellus (Greene) Isely is also susceptible to insect pests that can cause significant damage to the plant. The following are some of the common pests that might affect the plant:
- Aphids – feed on the sap of the plant, causing yellowing, curling, and distortion of leaves.
- Spider mites – suck the plant sap, resulting in bronzing, yellowing, and defoliation.
- Caterpillars – chew on leaves and stems, causing holes and skeletonizing.
To manage these pests, the following measures are recommended:
- Use insect-resistant varieties.
- Remove plant debris and weeds that might attract pests.
- Practice crop rotation with non-host crops.
- Provide adequate spacing between plants to improve air circulation.
- Apply insecticides according to label directions when necessary.
- Release natural enemies such as lady beetles, lacewings, and parasitic wasps.
