Overview
Mentzelia multiflora (Nutt.) Gray var. integra M.E. Jones, also known as manyflower stickleaf or manyflower blazingstar, is a flowering plant that is native to the Western United States and Northern Mexico. This plant has a variety of uses and a unique appearance that sets it apart from other plants.
General Appearance
Mentzelia multiflora var. integra M.E. Jones is a biennial or perennial herb that grows to be 6-36 inches tall with multiple branches. It has a taproot system and its stems and leaves are covered in sticky hairs. The leaves are alternate, oblong, and toothed. The flowers, which bloom from June to September, are bright yellow and have 5-9 petals. The fruits are oval-shaped capsules that contain numerous small seeds.
Common Names
Manyflower stickleaf is the most commonly used name for this plant, but it is also known by manyflower blazingstar, manyflower mentzelia, baby-stars, baby-eyes, and desert evening primrose.
Uses
The Native American tribes of the Western United States used M. multiflora var. integra for medicinal purposes to treat a variety of ailments such as rheumatism, earaches, and bruises. The seeds were also ground into a flour and used for making bread. Today, this plant is mostly used as an ornamental plant in gardens due to its unique appearance and bright yellow flowers.
Light Requirements
Mentzelia multiflora grows best in full sun to partial shade. It is commonly found in areas with high light intensity, such as open slopes, meadows, and rocky outcrops.
Temperature Requirements
Mentzelia multiflora thrives in a range of temperatures. It prefers warm temperatures and is commonly found in areas with temperatures ranging from 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit in the growing season. However, it can also tolerate cooler temperatures as low as 45 degrees Fahrenheit.
Soil Requirements
Mentzelia multiflora prefers well-drained, sandy or loamy soils. It does not tolerate wet or poorly drained soils. The plant is commonly found growing in rocky, gravelly soil types, especially those derived from volcanic rocks.
The plant can tolerate slightly alkaline soils and can grow in shallow soils with low levels of organic matter. Soil fertility is not critical, and the plant can grow well in nutrient-poor soils.
Cultivation methods
Mentzelia multiflora (Nutt.) Gray var. integra M.E. Jones is an herbaceous plant that grows well in full sun and well-drained soils. The plant requires regular watering during the growing season and can be propagated through division or seed.
Watering needs
The plant has moderate watering needs and should be watered regularly during the growing season. It is important to avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. It is also important to allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering again as the plant does not tolerate waterlogged soils.
Fertilization
The plant can benefit from regular fertilization during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be applied every four to six weeks. It is important to avoid overfertilization as this can lead to a buildup of salts in the soil and cause root burn.
Pruning
Mentzelia multiflora (Nutt.) Gray var. integra M.E. Jones does not require regular pruning, but it can be beneficial to remove any dead or damaged foliage. The plant can also be pruned back after flowering to encourage new growth and a more compact shape. It is important to use clean, sharp pruning tools to avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation methods for Mentzelia multiflora (Nutt.) Gray var. integra M.E. Jones
Mentzelia multiflora (Nutt.) Gray var. integra M.E. Jones, commonly known as the Rocky Mountain Blazingstar, is a biennial or short-lived perennial plant that belongs to the family Loasaceae. It is native to the western United States and is commonly found in areas with rocky and gravelly soils. The plant has bright yellow flowers that bloom in the summer and fall. If you want to propagate the plant, there are several methods you can use.
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is one of the most common methods of growing Mentzelia multiflora var. integra. The plant produces a large number of seeds which can be collected when the seed pods turn brown and dry. Once you have collected the seeds, plant them in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. The seeds will start to germinate within a few weeks.
Cuttings
To propagate Mentzelia multiflora var. integra using cuttings, start by taking cuttings from the stem of the plant in spring or summer. Use a clean, sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears to make a clean cut. Remove the lower leaves of the cutting, leaving only a few at the top. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone and plant it in a container filled with a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and place the container in a warm, bright location. The cuttings will start to develop roots in a few weeks.
Division
Division is another method of propagating Mentzelia multiflora var. integra. This method involves digging up the plant and separating it into smaller sections. To do this, wait until the plant is dormant in the fall or early spring and carefully dig up the entire root ball. Use a sharp knife or scissors to divide the root ball into smaller sections, making sure each section has a healthy root system and some leaves. Replant the sections in a well-draining soil mix and keep the soil moist. The new plants will start to grow in a few weeks.
Overall, Mentzelia multiflora var. integra is an easy plant to propagate. Whether you choose to propagate it from seeds, cuttings or division, with proper care and attention, you can enjoy the beauty of this plant in no time.
Diseases and Pests that Affect Mentzelia multiflora
Mentzelia multiflora is a rugged plant that can withstand high temperatures and drought-like conditions, and pests are not usually a significant problem. However, some diseases and pests can still affect its growth and yield.
Common Diseases
One common disease that can affect M. multiflora is powdery mildew. It is a fungal disease that appears as a white powder, often on the leaves, and can spread rapidly. To control powdery mildew, it is essential to maintain good air circulation and manage the humidity around the plant. Fungicide sprays that contain sulfur or copper can also be effective. Another disease that can occur is verticillium wilt, which is caused by a soil-borne fungus. To prevent this disease, avoid planting M. multiflora in a field that has a history of verticillium wilt and use certified disease-free seeds.
Common Pests
One pest that can cause damage to M. multiflora is the spider mite. It is a tiny, sap-sucking insect that feeds on the underside of leaves, causing yellowing and stunted growth. To control spider mites, it is important to keep the plant well-hydrated and increase the humidity around the plant. Natural predators, such as ladybugs and lacewings, can also help keep spider mite populations in check. Another pest that can infest M. multiflora is the moth larvae of the Mamestra configurata. These larvae feed on the leaves and flowers, causing significant damage. To manage this pest, remove any infested plants and dispose of them properly.
It is important to monitor M. multiflora regularly for signs of diseases and pests and take appropriate measures to control them. Maintaining a healthy growing environment and choosing disease-resistant varieties can also contribute to successful pest and disease management.
