Overview
Machaeranthera shastensis Gray var. glossophylla (Piper) Cronq. & Keck is a perennial herb native to North America. It belongs to the family Asteraceae and is also known by its common names, Shasta aster and short-tongue machaeranthera.
Appearance
The plant has a basal rosette of leaves and grows up to 3 feet tall. The leaves are ovate to lanceolate in shape and have a dark green color. The flowers are daisy-like and are usually purple, although they can also be blue or white in color. They bloom from late spring to early fall.
Uses
The Shasta aster is a popular ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes. It is often used in wildflower gardens or as a border plant. The plant also has medicinal uses; it is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties and was used by Native Americans to treat sore muscles and inflammation.
Additionally, the Shasta aster is an important plant for wildlife. It attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, and the seeds are a food source for birds.
Growth Conditions for Machaeranthera shastensis Gray var. glossophylla (Piper) Cronq. & Keck
Light: Machaeranthera shastensis Gray var. glossophylla (Piper) Cronq. & Keck requires full sun to grow properly. It can tolerate partial shade, but it must have access to sunlight for at least 6-8 hours a day. Insufficient sunlight can lead to spindly growth and weaker stems.
Temperature: This plant is native to the dry slopes of the Sierra Nevada and Cascade ranges, which means it can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. Machaeranthera shastensis Gray var. glossophylla (Piper) Cronq. & Keck can withstand the hot and arid climates of its natural range, but it can also tolerate moderate frosts and cool temperatures. Ideally, it flourishes in temperatures ranging from 60°F to 90°F.
Soil: Machaeranthera shastensis Gray var. glossophylla (Piper) Cronq. & Keck grows best in well-draining soils. It prefers a sandy or loamy soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. The ideal pH level is between 6.0 and 7.5. The soil must also be rich in organic matter, as this helps to retain soil moisture and promote healthy root growth.
Cultivation
Machaeranthera shastensis Gray var. glossophylla (Piper) Cronq. & Keck can be grown in a variety of soil types, but prefers a well-draining soil. It's best to plant this variety in the spring or fall, in an area with full sun exposure. Plantings should be spaced approximately 12 inches (30 cm) apart.
Watering Needs
Machaeranthera shastensis Gray var. glossophylla (Piper) Cronq. & Keck does well with moderate watering. It's important to allow the soil to dry out somewhat between waterings, as this plant is susceptible to root rot. Watering should be reduced during the winter months.
Fertilization
This plant doesn't require heavy fertilization, but a yearly application of balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring can help with growth and flowering. Avoid over-fertilizing as this may promote excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
Pruning
Machaeranthera shastensis Gray var. glossophylla (Piper) Cronq. & Keck doesn't require any specific type of pruning. However, to encourage dense growth and bushiness, it is recommended to pinch back or shear the plant after the first flush of blooms fade. Deadheading spent blooms can also encourage additional flowering throughout the growing season.
Propagation of Machaeranthera Shastensis Gray var. Glossophylla (Piper) Cronq. & Keck
Machaeranthera Shastensis Gray var. Glossophylla (Piper) Cronq. & Keck, commonly known as Shasta aster, is a beautiful, fast-growing native plant with purple composite flowers that bloom in late summer and fall. It is primarily propagated through seeds or vegetative cuttings.
Propagation through Seeds
The seeds of Machaeranthera Shastensis Gray var. glossophylla can be easily collected from mature flowers. It is best to collect seeds when the fruit heads are dry and fully open. The seeds can then be planted in seed trays or seedbeds with a well-draining soil mix. The trays or beds should be moistened regularly. The seeds can take up to two weeks to germinate, after which they can be transferred to individual pots.
Propagation through Vegetative Cuttings
Propagation through vegetative cuttings is a faster method than propagation through seeds but requires more skill and care. The best time to take cuttings is during the growing season, when the plant is actively growing. Select healthy stems and cut 3-4 inches from the tip. Remove the lower leaves and stems, leaving only the top two sets of leaves. The cuttings can be dipped in rooting hormone powder and planted in soil mix. The soil should be kept moist, and the cuttings should be placed in a shaded area, out of direct sunlight. The cuttings should develop roots in 4-8 weeks and can be transplanted to individual pots.
Propagation of Machaeranthera Shastensis Gray var. Glossophylla (Piper) Cronq. & Keck is relatively easy and can result in many new plants in a short amount of time. However, it is essential to maintain proper care and attention to ensure that the propagation process is successful.
Disease Management
Machaeranthera shastensis Gray var. glossophylla (Piper) Cronq. & Keck is typically a plant that is hardy and resistant to many common diseases. However, there are some diseases that can affect the plant, particularly in conditions of high humidity or in wet, poorly drained soils. The following are some of the common diseases that Machaeranthera shastensis Gray var. glossophylla (Piper) Cronq. & Keck may experience, along with ways to manage them:
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. It is most common in humid conditions. To manage powdery mildew, it is important to provide adequate air circulation around the plant. Prune away any dense foliage that is blocking air movement, and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides can also be effective in managing powdery mildew.
Root Rot
Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, causing them to decay. This disease tends to occur in wet, poorly drained soils. To manage root rot, it is important to ensure that the plant is not overwatered and that it is growing in well-draining soil. Fungicides can also be used to manage root rot, but prevention is the best form of management.
Pest Management
Machaeranthera shastensis Gray var. glossophylla (Piper) Cronq. & Keck is generally resistant to pests, but there are some pests that may still cause problems for the plant. The following are some of the common pests that Machaeranthera shastensis Gray var. glossophylla (Piper) Cronq. & Keck may experience, along with ways to manage them:
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause significant damage to the plant by sucking sap from the leaves. They can be identified by the fine webbing that they spin. To manage spider mites, it is important to regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation. If spider mites are detected early, an insecticidal soap or neem oil can be effective in managing the infestation.
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can appear in large numbers on the plant, causing damage by sucking sap from the leaves. They can be identified by their pear-shaped bodies and long, slender mouthparts. To manage aphids, it is important to keep the plant healthy and well-watered, as healthy plants are better able to resist infestations. Insecticidal soaps and neem oil can also be effective in managing aphids.
