Origin and Common Names
Malacothamnus fasciculatus (Nutt. ex Torr. & Gray) Greene var. nesioticus (B.L. Robins.) Kearney, also commonly referred to as Island bushmallow, is a California native plant found exclusively on San Clemente Island, a remote and rugged island off the coast of Southern California.
Description
Malacothamnus fasciculatus var. nesioticus is a shrub that typically grows to be one to two meters tall and wide. Its leaves are small and narrow, measuring no more than a couple of centimeters in length, with a densely hairy texture. The Island bushmallow is known for its pink or lavender flowers, which appear in spring and summer, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. These flowers produce small, woody fruit capsules containing tiny seeds.
Uses
The indigenous people of San Clemente Island, the Tongva, historically used the Island bushmallow for medicinal purposes, including treating stomach ailments and sore throats. Additionally, the plant's fibrous stems were used to make cordage.
Today, Malacothamnus fasciculatus var. nesioticus is primarily used in landscaping and habitat restoration projects due to its drought-tolerant nature and attractive flowers, which make it a popular ornamental plant in gardens and natural landscapes. The Island bushmallow's ability to stabilize soils and its nitrogen-fixing properties also make it a valuable plant for restoration efforts on degraded lands.
Growth Conditions of Malacothamnus fasciculatus var. nesioticus
Malacothamnus fasciculatus var. nesioticus is a drought-tolerant plant, commonly found in the Channel Islands of California. It is a subshrub that can reach up to 3 meters in height and is adapted to grow in a Mediterranean climate.
Light Conditions
This plant needs full sun exposure to thrive. In its natural habitat, it grows in open areas with full sun exposure. Therefore, it is recommended to plant it in an area with at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. If planting indoors or in a shaded area, it may not grow to its full potential.
Temperature Requirements
Malacothamnus fasciculatus var. nesioticus prefers a moderate to warm climate, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate a minimum temperature of -7°C. However, freezing temperatures for a prolonged period can damage or kill the plant.
Soil Requirements
This plant can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. It prefers well-draining soil that does not retain water, as the plant is susceptible to root rot. In its natural habitat, it grows in rocky or sandy soils. The soil pH should be neutral to slightly acidic, between 6.0 and 7.5.
Cultivation
Malacothamnus fasciculatus var. nesioticus grows well in sandy or rocky soil and prefers full sun exposure. This plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but cannot survive in extreme heat or frost. It is recommended to grow it in areas where the temperature ranges from 10°C to 37°C. The ideal pH level for the soil is 5.5 to 7.5, which is slightly acidic to neutral.
Planting Malacothamnus fasciculatus var. nesioticus is relatively easy as it only requires minor preparation of the soil. Dig a hole twice as wide as the plant pot, fill it with well-draining soil, and place the plant in the hole. After planting, gently press the soil around the roots and water it generously. This shrub can also be propagated through seeds or cuttings.
Watering Needs
Malacothamnus fasciculatus var. nesioticus needs moderate watering and should not be overwatered. The soil must be allowed to dry out slightly in between waterings. The plant requires less water during the winter months when it goes dormant. Overwatering can lead to root rot or other fungal diseases.
Fertilization
The plant benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. A slow-release fertilizer can be applied once a year in the spring. Alternatively, a balanced fertilizer can be applied every two to four weeks during the growing season to encourage growth and flowering. It is recommended to avoid over-fertilization as it can lead to excessive foliage growth and reduced flowering.
Pruning
Pruning Malacothamnus fasciculatus var. nesioticus is not necessary, but it can help shape the plant and promote bushier growth. The best time to prune is during the winter when the plant is dormant. Dead or damaged branches should be removed immediately to prevent the spread of disease. It is recommended to use sterilized pruning tools to prevent the transmission of any pathogens.
Propagation of Malacothamnus fasciculatus var. nesioticus
Malacothamnus fasciculatus var. nesioticus can be propagated through both seed and cuttings.
Propagation from Seeds
Seeds should be collected when they are ripe and have turned brown. The collected seeds should be cleaned and stored in a cool, dry place until sowing. Prior to sowing, seeds should be scarified either by manually scratching the seed coat or by soaking them in hot water for 24 hours. Sow the seeds in well-draining soil in fall or early winter. Keep the soil moist and place the pots in a shaded area. Germination can occur in 4 to 6 weeks.
Propagation from Cuttings
Softwood cuttings of Malacothamnus fasciculatus var. nesioticus can be taken in spring or early summer. The cuttings should be approximately 5 to 7 inches long and should be taken from healthy, disease-free plants. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting, dip the cut end in rooting hormone, and place the cutting in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and place the pots in a shaded area until the cuttings have rooted (approximately 4 to 6 weeks). After rooting, the cuttings can be transplanted to their permanent location in the garden.
Disease Management
Malacothamnus fasciculatus var. nesioticus is generally resistant to most plant diseases. However, it is susceptible to root rot caused by the soil-borne fungus Armillaria mellea. To prevent the occurrence of this disease, it is important to plant the shrubs in well-draining soil and avoid over-watering. Fungal pathogens such as powdery mildew and Botrytis cinerea may occasionally infect the plant. These diseases can be managed by maintaining good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering, especially during the cooler months.
Pest Management
The most common pests that may infect Malacothamnus fasciculatus var. nesioticus are spider mites and mealybugs. Spider mites are tiny arachnids that feed on the leaves, causing yellowing and eventually, leaf drop. To manage spider mites, it is recommended to keep the plant well-hydrated and to use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects that attach themselves to the plant's stem and leaves, feeding on sap and secreting honeydew which attracts ants and encourages the growth of sooty mold. To manage mealybugs, it is important to prune and dispose of any infested plant material and to use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Caterpillars and thrips may also infest Malacothamnus fasciculatus var. nesioticus. Caterpillars may eat through leaves and stems, causing significant damage to the plant. To manage caterpillars, it is recommended to handpick and remove them from the plant. Thrips are tiny insects that feed on plant sap, causing a silvery discoloration of the leaves. They can be managed by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Regular monitoring of the plants is essential to detect and manage any pest infestations early. Early detection means early management which can prevent extensive damage to the plant and reduce the use of chemical insecticides. It is also important to keep the plants healthy and well-nourished to help them withstand any insects or diseases that do infect them.
