Overview
Machaeranthera pinnatifida (Hook.) Shinners ssp. pinnatifida is a beautiful, wildflower species that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant is native to the southwestern part of North America, primarily found in the regions of Texas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico. The species is commonly known as the cutleaf tansyaster, as it belongs to the Tansyaster genus.General Appearance
The cutleaf tansyaster is a perennial herb that features a single, upright stem that can grow up to 6 feet tall. The plant has a woody base and multiple branches that support a beautiful, umbrella-like inflorescence. The leaves of the cutleaf tansyaster are slender and deeply lobed, typically measuring between 4 to 6 inches in length. The flowers are daisy-like and can grow up to 2 inches in diameter, featuring a bright blue central disk surrounded by numerous violet-blue ray florets.Uses
The cutleaf tansyaster has a few practical uses, making it a popular choice for gardeners and horticulturists. As a result of their attractive appearance, cutleaf tansyasters are commonly used as ornamental plants, adding a pop of color to any landscaping. The species is especially popular in xeriscaping or water-conserving landscaping designs. Furthermore, this plant is also known to attract pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, making it an excellent choice for ecosystem restoration efforts.Conclusion
Machaeranthera pinnatifida (Hook.) Shinners ssp. pinnatifida is a beautiful plant known for its stunning inflorescence and leaves. While this species has few practical uses, it remains a popular choice for landscaping and ecosystem restoration due to its beauty and ability to attract pollinators. Its cutleaf tansyaster name is a true reflection of its distinct appearance, allowing it to stand out amongst other wildflowers.Light Requirements
Machaeranthera pinnatifida requires full sun to thrive. It requires at least six hours of direct sunlight each day to grow and flower to its full potential.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is native to the central and southwestern parts of the United States, where it grows best in temperatures ranging from 55-75°F. It can tolerate high temperatures up to 90°F but is not frost tolerant. In cold regions, it is best to grow the plant indoors or in a greenhouse during the winter months.
Soil Requirements
Machaeranthera pinnatifida grows best in well-draining, sandy loam soils. It can also grow in rocky or gravelly soils. The soil pH should be between 5.0 and 8.0. The plant is highly adaptable to different soil types, but it does not grow well in heavy clay soils that do not drain well.
Cultivation
Machaeranthera pinnatifida needs to be grown in an area that receives full sun to light shaded areas with well-draining soil. The plant thrives in rocky, sandy, or gravelly soils, making sure to avoid planting in wet or poorly drained soil, as this could lead to root rot.
Watering Needs
Machaeranthera pinnatifida requires low water needs after it is established as it is a drought-tolerant plant. Water the plant sparingly, making sure that the soil is completely dry in between watering sessions. This helps to prevent overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Machaeranthera pinnatifida requires little to no fertilization, as overfertilization can lead to excessive foliage growth, which in turn reduces flower production. However, if you must fertilize, ensure it is done sparingly and only during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer that is low in nitrogen.
Pruning
Machaeranthera pinnatifida does not have to be pruned regularly, but it is advisable to prune any dead or diseased leaves occasionally. Pinching the tips encourages new growth and promotes bushier plants. Prune the plant to maintain its shape and size, and to remove any unwanted growth.
Propagation of Machaeranthera pinnatifida (Hook.) Shinners ssp. pinnatifida
Machaeranthera pinnatifida (Hook.) Shinners ssp. pinnatifida, commonly known as the Cutleaf Tansyaster is a perennial herb that belongs to the Asteraceae family. The plant can be propagated in various ways such as through seeds, stem cuttings, division or transplanting.
Propagation through seeds
The primary method of propagating the Cutleaf Tansyaster is through seeds. The seeds are generally sown in well-draining soil during the spring season. The seeds need to be sown in small pots at a depth of about 0.25 inches and then covered with a layer of soil. They should be kept in a warm, bright location and should be watered daily. After germination, the plants should be transplanted into larger containers or outdoors into the garden. The seedlings take about 2-3 weeks to germinate, and the plants take about 2-3 years to reach maturity.
Propagation through stem cuttings
The Cutleaf Tansyaster can also be propagated through stem cuttings. In this method, the stem of a mature plant is cut into sections of about 6 inches in length. The cuttings should be taken during the early spring or late summer. The bottom end of the cutting should be dipped in a rooting hormone and then planted in a soilless mix. The cuttings should be kept moist until they start to root. Once the roots have developed, the cuttings can be transplanted into pots or the garden.
Propagation through division or transplanting
Propagation through division involves dividing a mature plant's root system into smaller sections that can grow into new plants. This method is typically done in the fall after the plant has finished blooming. The root system should be carefully dug up and divided into sections using a sharp knife or garden shears. Each section should have at least one stem and a good root system. The divided sections can then be transplanted into the garden or into pots.
Disease Management
Machaeranthera pinnatifida is susceptible to several diseases such as powdery mildew, rust, and stem canker.
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease characterized by white, powdery spots on the leaves and stems. To manage powdery mildew, it is essential to remove any infected leaves and stems as soon as possible. Additionally, it is important to ensure good air circulation around the plant, avoid overhead irrigation, and apply fungicides as directed by a horticulturist.
Rust is another fungal disease that affects the plant's leaves and stems. It causes small, yellow-orange spots on the leaves and may lead to premature leaf drop. To manage rust, it is important to promptly remove and dispose of any infected plant debris and apply a fungicide as recommended.
Stem canker is a fungal disease that causes sunken, brown lesions on the plant's stems, which may eventually lead to stem collapse. The best way to manage stem canker is to promptly remove and destroy any infected parts of the plant and avoid overhead watering.
Pest Management
Machaeranthera pinnatifida is also susceptible to damage by several pests, including aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies.
Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that suck sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and distorted leaves. To manage aphids, it is important to regularly check the plant for infestations and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil as directed by a horticulturist.
Spider mites are tiny insect-like pests that suck the sap from the plant's leaves, causing them to turn yellow and have a stippled appearance. To manage spider mites, it is important to regularly check the plant for infestations and apply a miticide as recommended by a horticulturist.
Whiteflies are small, flying insects that suck the sap from the plant's leaves, causing them to turn yellow and die. To manage whiteflies, it is important to remove any highly infested leaves and stems, regularly check the plant for infestations, and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil as directed by a horticulturist.
