Malvella leprosa (Ortega) Krapov.
Malvella leprosa is a species of flowering plant in the Malvaceae family. It is also commonly known as tiny checker-mallow, sandhill-checkermallow, and Ortega's checker-mallow.
Origin
This plant is native to southwestern USA and northern Mexico. It is found in various habitats, including deserts, sandy riverbanks, and disturbed soils.
Appearance
Malvella leprosa grows as an annual or perennial herb that reaches up to 50 cm in height. It has a branching stem covered with fine hairs and sticky glands. The leaves are alternate, deeply lobed, and covered with fine hairs that give them a grayish-green color. The flowers are small and have five white to pale pink petals, which are occasionally streaked with pink veins. They bloom from April to August, and the fruits consist of a group of follicles that contain numerous small seeds.
Uses
Malvella leprosa has some medicinal properties and has been traditionally used to treat skin irritations and digestive problems. It is also an ornamental plant that can be grown in gardens and serves as a food source for pollinators.
Light Requirements
Malvella leprosa requires full sunlight for optimal growth and flowering. It can tolerate partial shade, but too much shade can reduce flower production and overall plant growth.
Temperature Requirements
Malvella leprosa is native to arid and semi-arid regions and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It can withstand temperatures as low as 20°F (-6°C) for short periods of time and temperatures as high as 110°F (43°C). However, it prefers temperatures between 60°F (15°C) and 95°F (35°C) and can grow and flower best in these conditions.
Soil Requirements
Malvella leprosa prefers well-draining soils rich in organic matter. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, as long as they are well-draining. The ideal soil pH range for this plant is between 6.0 and 7.5. It can tolerate slightly acidic or alkaline soils but may not grow as well in extreme pH conditions.
Cultivation Methods
Malvella leprosa (Ortega) Krapov. is a plant that can be grown both indoors and outdoors. It prefers to grow in well-draining soil in a place that gets full to partial sunlight. For outdoor planting, select a location with fertile soil, and for indoor planting, use a container large enough to allow the roots to spread. Planting should be done in early spring, and the soil should be kept moist until the plant becomes established.
Watering Needs
Malvella leprosa (Ortega) Krapov. should be watered regularly but not excessively. The soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between watering sessions, as overwatering can cause root rot. Water the plant deeply once or twice a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the dormant season.
Fertilization
Fertilization is essential for the growth and development of Malvella leprosa (Ortega) Krapov.. Apply a balanced fertilizer during the growing season once a month. Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer during the dormant season to avoid stimulating new growth, which can be vulnerable to cold temperatures.
Pruning
Malvella leprosa (Ortega) Krapov. needs a little pruning to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Remove any dead or diseased stems and shape the plant to a desirable size. Pruning promotes bushier growth, which is desirable for ornamental purposes.
Propagation of Malvella leprosa
Malvella leprosa, commonly known as bushmallow or bushy five eyes, belongs to the family Malvaceae. It is a perennial herb that is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. The plant is aesthetically pleasing and can be propagated by several methods.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation by seeds is the most common method for reproducing Malvella leprosa. Collect mature seedpods and place them in a dry location until they open on their own. Collect the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place until ready to propagate. Sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix, lightly cover them with soil, and keep them moist. Ensure that the pots are kept in a warm and well-lit area, and the seedlings should emerge within two to three weeks.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation through cuttings is the quickest way to produce new Malvella leprosa plants. Cut a stem with several leaves from a mature plant, maintaining a length of at least four inches. Strip the leaves off the bottom half of the cutting, dip it in rooting hormone, and insert into a moist rooting medium. Keep the cutting well-watered and shield it from direct sunlight. New growth will emerge from the cutting in a couple of weeks.
Propagation by Division
Propagation through division is appropriate for mature Malvella leprosa plants that have already been established. Dig up the parent plant and separate the root ball into several sections, ensuring that each section has a portion of the stem. Replant the divisions in soil that has been prepared with organic material, and water well. Place the plants in a protected area away from direct sunlight, and they will start producing new foliage within a week or two.
Disease Management
Malvella leprosa is susceptible to several diseases that can affect the growth and development of the plant. Some of the common diseases that may affect this plant include foliar and stem diseases caused by fungi or bacteria. The best way to manage these diseases is through preventive measures such as proper plant care and maintenance.
One of the essential preventive measures is to ensure the plant is grown in well-drained soil and at the appropriate temperature to avoid waterlogging and temperature stress that may trigger the growth of fungi and bacteria. Additionally, regular pruning and thinning of the plant's canopy can help increase airflow and reduce humidity that may create a conducive environment for fungal and bacterial diseases.
In case the plant is infected with fungal or bacterial disease, it is essential to remove and destroy the affected plant parts as soon as possible to avoid further disease spread. Furthermore, applying fungicides and bactericides may also help control the disease spread. However, it's essential to read and follow the instructions on the chemical labels to avoid toxicity and environmental pollution.
Pest Management
Malvella leprosa is also susceptible to pests that may pose a significant risk to the plant's growth and productivity. Some of the common pests that may attack this plant include aphids, spider mites, and thrips. To manage these pests, you need to identify the symptoms and signs of infestation as early as possible.
One of the most effective ways to manage pests in Malvella leprosa is through the use of biological control measures such as introducing beneficial organisms like predatory mites, ladybugs, and lacewings that feed on the pests. Additionally, you can use insecticidal soaps, horticultural oils, and neem oil to control the pest population.
However, it's essential to read and follow the instructions on the product label to avoid toxicity and environmental pollution. Additionally, you should avoid using broad-spectrum pesticides that may kill both beneficial and harmful pests, thus disrupting the ecosystem balance.
