Origin
The Lycopus americanus Muhl. ex W. Bart. var. longii Benner, commonly known as the Long's Bugleweed, is a perennial plant native to the eastern regions of North America, from Florida to Maine.
Common Names
Aside from Long's Bugleweed, this plant is also commonly known as American Water-horehound, Water Hoarhound, and Cut-leaved Water-horehound.
Uses
The Lycopus americanus var. longii has several medicinal uses. The Native Americans used this plant as a natural remedy for a variety of ailments, including heart palpitations, excessive menstrual bleeding, and nervous disorders. It is also used as a diuretic, to promote sweating, and as a natural sedative to relieve anxiety and aid sleep. Additionally, this plant is used as a natural remedy for coughs and colds.
General Appearance
The Lycopus americanus var. longii is a flowering perennial plant that can grow up to 40 inches tall. The leaves are toothed and narrow, and the plant produces small white flowers from May to October. It flourishes in wetlands, swamps, and other moist areas, and is commonly found in low-lying areas near streams and rivers. The plant roots spread widely and are shallow, making it a useful tool for soil retention.
Light Requirements
Lycopus americanus Muhl. ex W. Bart. var. longii Benner is a shade tolerant plant. It can grow in partial shade and full shade. However, the plant may not thrive in direct sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is native to North America and can survive in a wide range of temperatures. It can tolerate cold temperatures in winter, and the plant can survive in temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit (-40 degrees Celsius). In contrast, Lycopus americanus Muhl. ex W. Bart. var. longii Benner can survive in high temperatures ranging between 60 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit (15.5 to 29.5 degrees Celsius).
Soil Requirements
Lycopus americanus Muhl. ex W. Bart. var. longii Benner prefers moist soils. It can grow in a range of soil types, including clay, sandy, and loamy soils. However, well-drained soils are essential for this plant to thrive. The soil should also be rich in organic matter, and the pH should range between 5.5 to 7.5.
Cultivation Methods
The Lycopus americanus Muhl. ex W. Bart. var. longii Benner plant is native to North America and can grow in wetlands, forests, and along streams or ponds. When cultivating this plant, it is essential to create a similar environment for growth. The plant requires soil that is slightly acidic to neutral, rich in organic matter, and well-draining. Lycopus americanus Muhl. ex W. Bart. var. longii Benner is a shade-loving plant and is ideal for planting in areas that receive partial or filtered sunlight.
Watering Needs
The Lycopus americanus Muhl. ex W. Bart. var. longii Benner plant is a water-loving plant and requires regular watering. During the growing season, the soil around the plant should be kept moist, but not waterlogged, to avoid root rot. Watering can be reduced during the winter months, as the plant goes dormant.
Fertilization
Lycopus americanus Muhl. ex W. Bart. var. longii Benner does not require heavy fertilization. Applying organic compost or a slow-release fertilizer in the early spring can be beneficial in promoting growth and improving soil quality.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Lycopus americanus Muhl. ex W. Bart. var. longii Benner, as it has a low growth habit. However, removing dead or yellow leaves can improve the plant's appearance and prevent disease.
Propagation of Lycopus Americanus Muhl. ex W. Bart. var. Longii Benner
Lycopus americanus Muhl. ex W. Bart. var. longii Benner, commonly known as Long's Bugleweed, can be propagated through various methods. Care must be taken to ensure that the new plants are healthy and disease-free.
Seed Propagation
Long's Bugleweed can be propagated from seeds. The seeds must be collected from healthy plants and sown in a well-draining soil mix. The seeds are very small and must not be covered with too much soil. They should be lightly sprinkled on the surface and watered regularly. Seedlings will emerge in a few weeks and can be transplanted once they have grown true leaves.
Division
The plant can also be propagated through division. This method involves separating the plant into smaller pieces and replanting them. This should only be done with established and healthy plants. The roots should be dug up carefully and the plant divided into smaller pieces. Each piece should have enough roots and healthy foliage. The new plants should be planted in well-draining soil and watered regularly until established.
Cuttings
Cuttings can also be taken from Long's Bugleweed. The cuttings should be taken from healthy and disease-free plants. The cuttings should be taken from the tips of the plants, dipped in rooting hormone, and placed in a well-draining soil mix. The cuttings should be watered regularly and kept in a humid environment until they have rooted and can be transplanted to individual pots or directly in the ground.
Disease Management
Lycopus americanus Muhl. ex W. Bart. var. longii Benner can be susceptible to several diseases, including:
- Leaf Spotting: This disease is caused by various fungal pathogens and is characterized by the presence of brown or black spots on the leaves. To manage the disease, affected leaves should be removed and destroyed. Fungicides can also be used to prevent the spread of the disease.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease forms a powdery white coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage the disease, affected parts should be removed and destroyed. Fungicides can also be used to prevent the spread of the disease.
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by various fungal pathogens that attack the roots of the plant, causing them to rot. To manage the disease, remove diseased plants and destroy them. Ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering.
Pest Management
Lycopus americanus Muhl. ex W. Bart. var. longii Benner can also be susceptible to some pests, such as:
- Aphids: These small insects feed on sap from the leaves, causing them to curl and deform. To manage the pests, affected plants can be sprayed with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests feed on the plant's sap, causing the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. To manage them, rotate the location of the plant and keep the leaves moist with a humidifier or sprayer.
- Cutworms: These caterpillars can cut through the stem of the plant and cause wilting or death. To manage them, remove them from the plant by hand or use Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) pesticide to control them.
