Overview
Machaeranthera canescens (Pursh) Gray var. viscosa (Nutt.) Piper, also known as the Sticky purple aster, is a North American plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is a herbaceous perennial that typically grows in the western part of the United States and Canada.Appearance
The plant can reach a height of 20 to 60 cm. Its stem is erect, branched, and covered with short hairs or glandular hairs, giving it a sticky feel. The leaves are alternate, linear to lanceolate-shaped, and have a gray-green color. They are also covered with glandular hairs. The flowers of the plant are purple or lavender, and they bloom from June to September. The fruit of the plant is an achene.Common names
The Machaeranthera canescens (Pursh) Gray var. viscosa (Nutt.) Piper is commonly known as the Sticky purple aster or Sticky aster. Other common names include Hoary aster and Hairy aster.Uses
Machaeranthera canescens (Pursh) Gray var. viscosa (Nutt.) Piper has a few medicinal uses. It can be used as a herbal remedy for respiratory problems, such as coughs and colds. Native Americans also believed that the plant could protect one from witchcraft and evil spirits. It is also used as an ornamental plant, grown for its showy flowers. The plant is drought-resistant, making it suitable for xeriscaping and dry gardens. Its leaves and flowers can be used as a dye to produce a yellow color. In conclusion, the Machaeranthera canescens (Pursh) Gray var. viscosa (Nutt.) Piper is a useful plant with various purposes. Its beautiful, purple flowers make it a sought after plant in ornamental gardens, and its medicinal properties make it a valuable plant in natural medicine.Growth Conditions for Machaeranthera canescens var. viscosa
Machaeranthera canescens var. viscosa, commonly known as the sticky aster, is a perennial plant that is native to the western part of North America. This plant can thrive in a variety of growing conditions, but there are some specific factors that can influence its growth and development. Here we discuss the critical growth conditions necessary for the growth of Machaeranthera canescens.
Light Requirements
The sticky aster plant requires full sunlight to grow and thrive. The plant needs to be exposed to at least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day to ensure proper growth and optimum performance. If grown indoors, it's essential to ensure that the plant is placed in a sunny spot or under grow lights that can provide the required light intensity.
Temperature Requirements
The sticky aster plant is adaptable and can tolerate different temperature ranges. However, it thrives best in the temperature range of 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C). High temperatures can cause the plant to wilt, while low temperatures can slow down the plant's growth and development. It's important to ensure that the plant's growing environment maintains a constant temperature to provide the necessary conditions for the sticky aster to thrive.
Soil Requirements
The sticky aster plant can grow in different soil types but prefers well-draining soils. The soil should have good water retention capacity while also allowing for water drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. The ideal soil pH for Machaeranthera canescens var. viscosa is between 6.5 and 7.5. Adding compost or well-decomposed manure to the soil can improve fertile soil structure and provide essential nutrients to the plant.
Conclusion
The sticky aster plant, Machaeranthera canescens var. viscosa, is a versatile plant that can tolerate different growing conditions. However, maintaining optimal light, temperature, and soil conditions will ensure the best growth and development of the plant. Keeping these growth conditions in check will help ensure that the sticky aster plant thrives and produces masses of lovely flowers to beautify the environment.
Cultivation
Machaeranthera canescens var. viscosa, commonly known as Sticky Tansyaster, prefers sandy or gravelly soils and full sun exposure. This plant is native to western North America and can be propagated from seed or cuttings. It can be grown as an annual or perennial plant.
Watering
Sticky Tansyaster requires moderate watering. It is drought-tolerant and can survive in dry soils for extended periods. Watering should be done at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Machaeranthera canescens var. viscosa does not require regular fertilization. However, adding a balanced fertilizer during the growing season can improve the plant's overall health and growth.
Pruning
Pruning is not essential for Sticky Tansyaster, but it can help with shaping and promoting bushier growth. Deadheading spent blooms can also encourage more flowers. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before the new growth begins.
Propagation of Machaeranthera canescens var. viscosa
Machaeranthera canescens, also known as hoary tansyaster, is a wildflower native to the western United States and Canada. It is an attractive, drought-tolerant plant that can be propagated using several methods.
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Machaeranthera canescens is through seed. The plant produces numerous small seeds that can be collected in the fall after the flowers have faded. The seeds should be cleaned and stored in a cool, dry place until ready to use. They can be sown directly into the garden in the spring or started indoors in early spring and transplanted outdoors after the last frost.
Cuttings
Another way to propagate Machaeranthera canescens is through stem cuttings. Take stem cuttings in the early summer when the plant is actively growing. Cut a 3-4 inch piece of stem that has at least two sets of leaves on it. Remove the bottom set of leaves and dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone. Insert the cutting in a pot filled with moist potting mix and cover with a plastic bag to create a humid environment. Place the pot in a bright, indirect light and keep the soil moist until roots develop. Once the cutting has rooted, it can be transplanted into the garden.
Division
Machaeranthera canescens can also be propagated through division. This method is best done in the spring as the plant is coming out of dormancy. Dig up the plant and gently separate the root ball into sections, making sure each section has roots and foliage. Replant the sections in well-draining soil and keep the soil moist until the plants become established.
Conclusion
Propagating Machaeranthera canescens var. viscosa can be done using seeds, stem cuttings, and division. Each method has its advantages, and the choice of which method to use depends on the grower's preference and specific growing conditions. With a little patience and care, this plant can be easily propagated and enjoyed for years to come.
Disease and Pest Management for Machaeranthera canescens (Pursh) Gray var. viscosa (Nutt.) Piper
Machaeranthera canescens (Pursh) Gray var. viscosa (Nutt.) Piper is a native North American plant that is known to be quite resilient when it comes to pest and disease management. However, there are a few common diseases and pests that you should be aware of in order to keep your plant healthy and thriving.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that can affect Machaeranthera canescens is powdery mildew. This fungus appears as a white powder on the leaves and stems of the plant, and can cause the plant to become weak and stunted. To manage powdery mildew, remove any affected plant parts and destroy them. You can also spray a mixture of baking soda and water (1 tablespoon of baking soda to 1 quart of water) on the plant to help control the fungus. Another common disease that can affect Machaeranthera canescens is rust, which appears as brown or red spots on the leaves of the plant. To manage rust, remove any affected plant parts and dispose of them.
Common Pests
One of the most common pests that can affect Machaeranthera canescens is the aphid. These sap-sucking insects can cause the plant to become weak and stunted, and can transmit viruses from plant to plant. To manage aphids, you can spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Another common pest that can affect Machaeranthera canescens is the spider mite. These tiny arachnids suck the sap from the leaves of the plant, causing them to become yellow and speckled. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a strong blast of water to knock them off, and then apply an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Prevention
The key to managing both pests and diseases in Machaeranthera canescens is prevention. Make sure to plant your Machaeranthera canescens in well-draining soil, and allow plenty of air circulation around the plant. Keep the plant well-watered but not waterlogged, as damp conditions can encourage the growth of fungi and other pathogens. Additionally, regularly inspect your plant for signs of pest or disease infestation, and take action to manage the problem as soon as possible to prevent it from spreading.
By following these disease and pest management tips, you can help keep your Machaeranthera canescens healthy and thriving, and enjoy its beautiful blooms for years to come.
