Overview of Machaeranthera canescens (Pursh) Gray ssp. glabra (Gray) B.L. Turner
Machaeranthera canescens, also known as hoary tansyaster, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to North America, specifically found in the western United States and parts of Canada.
Common names
The common names that are used to refer to this plant include hoary tansyaster, tansyaster, hoary aster, and purple aster.
General appearance
The hoary tansyaster plant grows up to a height of 60 cm and has a spread of about 90 cm. It has narrow, lanceolate leaves that are grayish-green in color and are covered with fine hairs. The plant produces multiple stems that are densely packed with flowers. The flowers are about 2.5 cm in diameter and are purple or blue in color. The flowers have yellow centers and are arranged in clusters that form at the ends of the stems.
Uses of Machaeranthera canescens
The hoary tansyaster plant has a few traditional medicinal uses. It is believed to possess anti-inflammatory properties and can be used to treat gastrointestinal disorders and coughs. The plant is also commonly used in landscaping and gardening as it is drought-tolerant and easy to grow. Its showy display of purple flowers during the blooming season makes it an attractive plant to have in any garden.
Overall, Machaeranthera canescens is a hardy plant that adds beauty to its surroundings while also having some medicinal uses. Its tolerance to drought and its ease of cultivation make it a popular choice for those looking to add some color to their gardens.
Light Requirements
Machaeranthera canescens ssp. glabra prefers full sunlight. The plant can withstand some partial shade, but it will not thrive in areas where it receives less than six hours of sunlight per day. Insufficient sunlight can result in weak and spindly growth, and decreased flowering.
Temperature Requirements
Machaeranthera canescens ssp. glabra is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. However, the plant grows best in temperatures that range between 50 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Younger plants are more sensitive to cold temperatures, and can be damaged or killed by frost. The plant can withstand drought-like conditions, but can become stressed if temperatures exceed 95 degrees Fahrenheit.
Soil Requirements
Machaeranthera canescens ssp. glabra prefers well-drained, loamy soil that is slightly acidic to neutral in pH. The soil must also be nutrient-rich and contain adequate amounts of organic matter. The plant can grow in poor soil, but it may not thrive or flower well. Excessive moisture can lead to rot and other fungal diseases, so the soil must have good drainage.
Cultivation
Machaeranthera canescens (Pursh) Gray ssp. glabra (Gray) B.L. Turner, commonly known as Hoary Tansyaster, is a hardy perennial plant that is native to North America. The plant prefers a sunny spot with well-drained soil for cultivation and can tolerate harsh conditions such as drought, heat, and cold temperatures. Hoary Tansyaster can be propagated through seeds or cuttings.
Watering
Hoary Tansyaster is a drought-tolerant plant that requires less watering compared to other perennial plants. It's crucial to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot or cause fungal diseases. Water the plant deeply once a week and only when the topsoil is dry. Allow the soil to dry out between watering to avoid waterlogging.
Fertilization
Hoary Tansyaster does not require too much fertilization. Use a slow-release fertilizer during the spring season to provide the necessary nutrients to the plant. Avoid fertilizing the plant during the growing season since this could lead to excess foliage production instead of flowers.
Pruning
Pruning the Hoary Tansyaster is essential to maintain the plant's shape and keep the plant healthy. Prune the plant before winter to prevent disease and promote new growth in the next growing season. Cut the flowers once they fade and remove any dead or weak stems to encourage healthy growth. Cut the plant down to the ground in late winter to early spring when new growth appears.
Propagation of Machaeranthera canescens (Pursh) Gray ssp. glabra (Gray) B.L. Turner
Machaeranthera canescens (Pursh) Gray ssp. glabra (Gray) B.L. Turner, commonly known as hoary tansyaster, is a herbaceous perennial plant native to North America. It is a hardy plant that adapts well to different growing conditions and is relatively easy to propagate.
Propagation by Seed
Propagation of hoary tansyaster by seed is the most commonly used method. Seeds can be sown directly into the soil in late fall or early winter. Alternatively, the seeds can be stratified indoors for about four weeks before being sown in the spring. The ideal soil temperature for germination is around 60-70°F. The seeds usually germinate within 7-10 days.
Propagation by Division
Dividing mature plants is another method of propagating hoary tansyasters. This method is done in late spring or early summer when the plant reaches full maturity. Propagation by division is more common when the plant has grown too large for its space, and the gardener wants to maintain its size. When dividing, it's best to use a sharp, sterile knife to cut through the roots. Make sure each divided portion has an equal distribution of healthy roots and leaves.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation of hoary tansyaster by stem cuttings is a less common method but still practical. Cuttings should be taken in late spring to early summer from the new growth shoots. About 4-6 inch cuttings should be taken and then dipped in rooting hormone to encourage rooting. Place the cuttings in a potting mix in a shaded area and mist daily until the roots develop. Once the roots have developed, transplant the cuttings onto the ground.
Disease Management
Machaeranthera canescens (Pursh) Gray ssp. glabra (Gray) B.L. Turner is generally a healthy plant if grown in optimal conditions. However, there are a few diseases that may affect this plant:
1. Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease that affects many plants, including Machaeranthera canescens (Pursh) Gray ssp. glabra (Gray) B.L. Turner. It appears as a white or gray powder-like substance on the leaves and stems. To manage powdery mildew, remove the infected leaves and provide adequate air circulation around the plant. Fungicides can also be used if the disease is severe.
2. Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that causes orange or brown spots on the leaves and stems of Machaeranthera canescens (Pursh) Gray ssp. glabra (Gray) B.L. Turner. To manage rust, remove the infected leaves and provide adequate air circulation around the plant. Fungicides can also be used if the disease is severe.
3. Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes black or brown spots on the leaves of Machaeranthera canescens (Pursh) Gray ssp. glabra (Gray) B.L. Turner. To manage leaf spot, remove the infected leaves and provide adequate air circulation around the plant. Fungicides can also be used if the disease is severe.
Pest Management
Machaeranthera canescens (Pursh) Gray ssp. glabra (Gray) B.L. Turner is relatively resistant to pests. However, there are a few pests that may affect this plant:
1. Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of Machaeranthera canescens (Pursh) Gray ssp. glabra (Gray) B.L. Turner. They can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong stream of water or use insecticidal soap.
2. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny, reddish-brown insects that feed on the plant's sap, causing discoloration and loss of leaves. To manage spider mites, remove the affected leaves and increase the humidity around the plant. Insecticides can also be used if the infestation is severe.
3. Caterpillars: Caterpillars can feed on the leaves of Machaeranthera canescens (Pursh) Gray ssp. glabra (Gray) B.L. Turner, causing holes and defoliation. To manage caterpillars, pick them off by hand or use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) insecticide.
Regular inspection of the plant and good cultural practices, such as proper watering and fertilization, can help prevent the occurrence of diseases and pests on Machaeranthera canescens (Pursh) Gray ssp. glabra (Gray) B.L. Turner.
