Overview of Machaeranthera pinnatifida (Hook.) Shinners var. scabrella (Greene) Turner & Hartman
Machaeranthera pinnatifida (Hook.) Shinners var. scabrella (Greene) Turner & Hartman, commonly known as the Rocky Mountain tansyaster, is a North American species of flowering plant in the aster family, Asteraceae. The plant is native to the Rocky Mountains of the United States and can be found in various habitats, including dry meadows, sagebrush flats, and rocky ridges.
Appearance of Machaeranthera pinnatifida
The Rocky Mountain tansyaster is a perennial plant that typically grows to a height of 20 to 60 centimeters. The plant has gray-green leaves that are deeply lobed and pinnatifid, meaning they have a feather-like appearance. The flowers are generally blue or lavender and are arranged in clusters at the top of the stems. The plant blooms from July to September.
Common Uses of Machaeranthera pinnatifida
While the Rocky Mountain tansyaster is not widely used in traditional medicine, some Native American tribes reportedly used it to treat various ailments, including respiratory issues and skin irritations. The plant is also cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and is prized for its attractive flowers and foliage.
In addition, the Rocky Mountain tansyaster is an important plant for the local ecosystem as it provides food for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. The plant can be an important source of nectar and pollen for these important creatures, which play a crucial role in maintaining healthy ecosystems.
Conclusion
The Rocky Mountain tansyaster is a beautiful and important plant that is native to the Rocky Mountains of the United States. While it may not have significant traditional uses, it is still an important part of the natural world and is valued for its ornamental qualities and as a source of food for pollinators.
Light Requirements
Machaeranthera pinnatifida var. scabrella requires full sun exposure for optimal growth. The plant can tolerate some shade but will not produce as many flowers or have as dense a foliage as those grown in full sun. A south or west-facing location is ideal for this plant.
Temperature Requirements
Machaeranthera pinnatifida var. scabrella is native to the southwestern United States and can tolerate high temperatures. The plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 9, with a minimum temperature of -30°F (-34°C) and a maximum temperature of 120°F (49°C). The plant can tolerate drought conditions but prefers some occasional watering.
Soil Requirements
Machaeranthera pinnatifida var. scabrella prefers well-drained soils that are slightly sandy or rocky. The plant can tolerate alkaline soils (pH 7.5 to 8.5) and is commonly found growing on rocky slopes and hillsides. Soil should be amended with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility. It is important to avoid over-watering as this can lead to root rot.
Cultivation of Machaeranthera Pinnatifida
Machaeranthera pinnatifida, also known as Desert Okra, is a perennial plant native to North America. To cultivate this plant, you need to start with good quality seeds sourced from a reputable dealer. The plant prefers dry soil with excellent drainage.
Watering Needs
Watering should be done sparingly, ensuring that the soil is not too wet. Overwatering may lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. You can test the moisture level in the soil by using a soil moisture meter or by feeling the top inch of the soil. Water only when the soil is dry.
Fertilization
During the growing season, fertilize the plant every two weeks with a low-nitrogen fertilizer. Machaeranthera pinnatifida requires a balanced fertilizer that contains phosphorus, potassium, and other trace elements.
Pruning
Pruning is recommended to keep the plant in shape. Cut back the plant by half in early spring, and remove any dead foliage. Deadheading spent flowers will encourage the plant to produce more blooms.
Propagation of Machaeranthera pinnatifida (Hook.) Shinners var. scabrella (Greene) Turner & Hartman
Propagation of Machaeranthera pinnatifida (Hook.) Shinners var. scabrella (Greene) Turner & Hartman can be done through different methods, including seeding and vegetative propagation.
Seeding
Seeding is the most common method of propagating Machaeranthera pinnatifida (Hook.) Shinners var. scabrella (Greene) Turner & Hartman. Seed propagation is done by collecting mature seeds from the plant and sowing them in a seed bed, which has been prepared by loosening the soil and adding compost or other organic matter to it. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 1/8 inch and spaced 2 inches apart.
After sowing, the seed bed should be watered lightly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Germination typically takes 2-3 weeks, and once the seedlings have reached a height of 1-2 inches, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the ground.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation of Machaeranthera pinnatifida (Hook.) Shinners var. scabrella (Greene) Turner & Hartman involves taking cuttings from the plant and rooting them to produce new plants. This method is usually used to propagate plants that are difficult to propagate through seed or those that produce few seeds.
The best time to take cuttings is in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Cut a section of stem, about 4-6 inches long, just below a leaf node, and remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting. Dip the end of the cutting into a rooting hormone, then place it into a pot filled with moist soil or a rooting medium.
After planting, keep the cutting in a warm, moist, and light environment. After a few weeks, roots will start to grow from the cutting, and once they are well established, the new plant can be transplanted into a larger pot or directly into the ground.
Disease Management
Machaeranthera pinnatifida is a resilient plant that is not usually affected by diseases. However, it can be susceptible to fungal and bacterial infections under certain conditions. Here are some common diseases that might affect the plant:
- Leaf spot: This disease is caused by fungi and can result in the formation of yellow or brown spots on the leaves. To manage leaf spot, remove infected leaves and apply fungicide.
- Rust: Rust is another fungal disease that can affect Machaeranthera pinnatifida. It appears as orange or yellow spots on the leaves. Rust can be prevented by improving air circulation around the plant and avoiding wetting the leaves. Fungicide can also be used to manage rust.
- Crown rot: This disease is caused by a fungus that attacks the roots of the plant. It can lead to wilting and death of the plant. To manage crown rot, remove infected plants and avoid overwatering the soil.
Pest Management
Machaeranthera pinnatifida is generally resistant to pests. However, there are a few insects that can attack the plant. Here are some common pests that might affect the plant:
- Aphids: Aphids are small insects that suck the sap from the leaves of the plant, causing distortion and yellowing of the leaves. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Ladybugs are natural predators of aphids, so consider introducing them into your garden.
- Mites: Mites are tiny arachnids that can cause stunting and yellowing of the leaves. To manage mites, use a strong stream of water to dislodge them from the leaves. Insecticides can also be used to manage severe infestations.
- Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larvae of moths and butterflies. They can cause defoliation and damage to the plant. To manage caterpillars, handpick them off the plant and apply insecticide if necessary.
