Origin
Machaeranthera bigelovii (Gray) Greene var. bigelovii, commonly known as Bigelow's tansy aster, is a perennial plant species belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is native to the western United States and can be found in Arizona, Nevada, Utah, California, and New Mexico.
Common Names
Bigelow's tansy aster, as Machaeranthera bigelovii is commonly known, is also referred to as the Great Basin bristleweed and Bigelow's desertstar.
Uses
The plant's roots are used for medicinal purposes. The Navajo people have traditionally used the roots to treat stomach aches, while the Paiute have used it as a remedy for fever. Additionally, the plant has been used in the restoration of damaged lands due to its ability to survive in harsh environments with minimal resources.
General Appearance
Machaeranthera bigelovii typically grows up to 4 feet tall and has a woody base. The leaves are narrow with pointed tips and have a green-gray color. The plant blooms from June to October, producing numerous flower heads that are purple or blue. The petals of the flower heads are thin, while the disk flowers are yellow.
Light Requirements
Machaeranthera bigelovii is a sun-loving plant and thrives in full sun or partial shade. The plant requires a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight for optimal growth.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can withstand a wide range of temperatures and is tolerant of both hot and cold weather conditions. However, the optimal temperature range for growth is between 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C).
Soil Requirements
The Machaeranthera bigelovii plant grows well in well-draining soil that is nutrient-rich. The plant prefers soil with a pH range between 6.0 to 7.5. The plant also can tolerate sandy soil and can grow in high altitudes up to 3000 meters above sea level.
Cultivation Methods for Machaeranthera Bigelovii (Gray) Greene var. Bigelovii
Machaeranthera bigelovii (Gray) Greene var. bigelovii, commonly known as Bigelow's tansyaster, is a plant that is relatively easy to grow and cultivate. It grows best in full sun or partial shade and well-draining soil. It can thrive in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils, as long as it has good drainage.
This plant is tolerant of drought conditions and can survive in hot and dry climates. Its hardiness zone is between 4 to 9, making it suitable for many regions in the United States.
Watering Needs for Machaeranthera Bigelovii (Gray) Greene var. Bigelovii
Machaeranthera bigelovii (Gray) Greene var. bigelovii prefers to grow in well-draining soil that is moderately moist. It is important not to overwater the plant, as it can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. Watering should be done deeply but infrequently during the growing season, and the soil should be allowed to dry out between waterings.
In hot and dry climates, the plant may need more frequent watering, especially during the first few months after planting. However, it is important to ensure that the roots do not sit in water for extended periods.
Fertilization for Machaeranthera Bigelovii (Gray) Greene var. Bigelovii
Like many other plants, Machaeranthera bigelovii (Gray) Greene var. bigelovii benefits from regular fertilization. A balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 should be applied once a month during the growing season to encourage healthy growth and blooming.
If the soil is rich in nutrients, fertilization may not be required as frequently. It is important not to over-fertilize, as it can contribute to excessive foliage growth and fewer blooms.
Pruning for Machaeranthera Bigelovii (Gray) Greene var. Bigelovii
Machaeranthera bigelovii (Gray) Greene var. bigelovii requires minimal pruning to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. Deadheading, or the removal of spent blooms, can encourage the plant to produce more flowers.
In the fall, pruning should be done to reduce the height of the plant and remove any dead or damaged branches. This will help the plant to conserve its energy for the next growing season.
Propagation of Machaeranthera bigelovii (Gray) Greene var. bigelovii
Machaeranthera bigelovii (Gray) Greene var. bigelovii, commonly known as Bigelow’s tansyaster, is a beautiful perennial plant found in the western United States. Here are some of the propagation methods for the Machaeranthera bigelovii (Gray) Greene var. bigelovii plant:
Seed Propagation
One of the most common propagation methods for the Machaeranthera bigelovii (Gray) Greene var. bigelovii plant is by seed. You can collect the seed from the plant when the seedpods are dry and brown. You can then plant the seeds in the late fall or early spring in a sunny and well-draining area. The seeds may take a few weeks to germinate, and once the seedlings have developed true leaves, they can be transplanted into the desired location.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation is another method to propagate the Machaeranthera bigelovii (Gray) Greene var. bigelovii plant. You can take a cutting from a healthy plant in the spring or summer. Cuttings should be 3-4 inches long, and should be taken from the tips of the branches. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and place them in a pot or garden bed with well-draining soil. Water the cuttings regularly, and keep them in a shaded area until roots have formed, at which point they can be transplanted into the desired location.
Division Propagation
Division propagation is a simple and effective method to propagate Machaeranthera bigelovii (Gray) Greene var. bigelovii plant. You can divide the plant in the early spring or fall when the plant is dormant. Dig up the entire plant, and then separate the root mass into sections with a sharp, sterile garden tool. Each section should have several stems and roots attached. Replant the divided sections into the desired location, and water them regularly until they establish themselves.
Disease Management
Machaeranthera bigelovii is generally a healthy plant. However, there are several diseases that can affect it adversely. The most common disease that affects this plant is powdery mildew. Powdery mildew causes the leaves to develop small white spots that grow and join together, covering the leaves with a white, powdery substance. To manage this disease, the grower should remove any infected leaves as soon as they are detected and avoid watering the plant from overhead. Additionally, fungicides can be applied to the plant to control the spread of the disease.
Anthrancnose is another fungal disease that can affect this plant. This disease is characterized by the formation of small, dark lesions on the leaves. To manage anthracnose, the grower should remove any infected leaves and use a fungicide to prevent the spread of the disease. Proper sanitation and good cultural practices such as avoiding overhead irrigation can help to prevent the occurrence of anthracnose.
Pest Management
Like other plants, Machaeranthera bigelovii is susceptible to attacks by pests. One of the most common pests is aphids. Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They are usually found on the underside of the leaves and can cause the leaves to curl and turn yellow. To manage aphids, the grower should remove any infected plant parts and use insecticides to control the population of the pests. Insecticidal soap and neem oil are good organic options for controlling aphids.
The plant is also susceptible to spider mites. Spider mites are tiny arachnids that suck sap from the leaves of the plant. They can cause the leaves to appear speckled and yellowed and can also lead to premature leaf drop. Like aphids, they are usually found on the underside of the leaves. To manage spider mites, the grower should use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Additionally, the grower should increase the humidity around the plant by regularly misting it to discourage the breeding of spider mites.
