Origin
Mirabilis californica Gray var. cedrosensis (Standl.) J.F. Macbr. is a subspecies of Mirabilis californica, which is native to California, Nevada, and Baja California. It is commonly found growing in coastal scrub, chaparral, and woodland habitats.
Common Names
Common names for Mirabilis californica Gray var. cedrosensis include Cedros Island wishbone bush and Cedros Island mirabilis.
Uses
This plant has traditional medicinal uses by the Native Americans to treat ailments such as headaches, stomachaches, and urinary tract infections. In addition, the flowers of the plant are pollinated by hummingbirds and other flying insects, making it an attractive addition to gardens and landscaping.
General Appearance
Mirabilis californica Gray var. cedrosensis is a sub-shrub that typically grows up to 2-3 feet tall. Its leaves are gray-green and can be up to 3 inches long. The flowers of the plant are trumpet-shaped and can be up to 2 inches in length. The petals are typically white or cream-colored with a yellow center. The plant blooms from May to September.
Light Requirements
Mirabilis californica Gray var. cedrosensis (Standl.) J.F. Macbr. requires full sun exposure. This plant can tolerate partial shade, but it may affect their blooming period.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can thrive well in areas with a warm climate. Mirabilis californica Gray var. cedrosensis (Standl.) J.F. Macbr. can withstand heat and drought conditions, making them ideal to grow in regions with arid or semi-arid environments. The plant can withstand temperatures up to 40°C (104°F) and tolerate frost during the winter season.
Soil Requirements
Mirabilis californica Gray var. cedrosensis (Standl.) J.F. Macbr. prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. The plant can grow in different soil types, including sandy, loamy, and rocky soils, as long as they are well-draining. The soil should be moderately fertile with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. Adding organic matter like compost and mulch will improve soil nutrients and moisture retention.
Water Requirements
Mirabilis californica Gray var. cedrosensis (Standl.) J.F. Macbr. is a drought-tolerant plant that requires low to moderate watering. The plant prefers infrequent and deep watering, which means that the soil should be allowed to dry out between watering sessions. In areas with low rainfall, the plant may require supplemental watering during the growing season.
Cultivation
The Mirabilis californica Gray var. cedrosensis (Standl.) J.F. Macbr. is a relatively resilient plant that thrives in a dry environment with well-draining soil. It is best grown in regions with a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The plant can grow up to 18 inches tall and 12 inches wide, making it ideal for rock gardens, borders, and containers.
When planting, make sure to choose a location with full sun exposure. Dig a hole that is twice as wide and deep as the plant's root ball. Backfill the hole with soil mixed with compost or well-rotted manure. Water the plant thoroughly after planting and keep the soil moist for the first two weeks until it becomes established.
Watering Needs
Once established, the Mirabilis californica Gray var. cedrosensis (Standl.) J.F. Macbr. requires minimal watering. The plant is drought-tolerant and does well in dry conditions. Water the plant deeply once a week during the hot summer months and reduce watering during the winter months.
Be careful not to overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot and other diseases. Check the soil moisture level before watering, and only water when the soil is dry to the touch.
Fertilization
The Mirabilis californica Gray var. cedrosensis (Standl.) J.F. Macbr. does not require regular fertilization. However, adding a slow-release fertilizer, such as a balanced 10-10-10 NPK formula, during the growing season can promote healthy growth and blooming.
Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers as they promote leaf growth at the expense of flowers.
Pruning
The Mirabilis californica Gray var. cedrosensis (Standl.) J.F. Macbr. does not require regular pruning. However, removing spent flowers regularly can promote continuous blooming throughout the growing season.
If the plant becomes leggy or straggly, pruning back up to one-third of the plant's height after flowering can promote bushier growth the following season.
Propagation of Mirabilis californica Gray var. cedrosensis (Standl.) J.F. Macbr.
Mirabilis californica Gray var. cedrosensis (Standl.) J.F. Macbr. can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. The following are the methods for propagating this plant:
Propagation through Seeds
The most common method of propagating this plant is through seeds. The seeds should be collected from the plant during the late summer or early fall. They should be left to dry for a few days before being planted. The seeds should then be sown in a well-draining potting mix and kept slightly moist. Germination usually occurs within 2 to 3 weeks.
Propagation through Cuttings
Mirabilis californica Gray var. cedrosensis (Standl.) J.F. Macbr. can also be propagated through stem cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is during the spring or summer when the plant is actively growing. Cuttings also have a higher success rate when taken from new growth. Cuttings should be 4-6 inches long and should be removed below a node. Remove any leaves from the bottom half of the cutting and dip it in rooting hormone. The cutting should then be planted in a well-draining potting mix and kept moist until roots develop, usually within 4 to 6 weeks.
Propagation through division is not recommended for Mirabilis californica Gray var. cedrosensis (Standl.) J.F. Macbr.
Disease and Pest Management for Mirabilis californica Gray var. cedrosensis (Standl.) J.F. Macbr.
Mirabilis californica Gray var. cedrosensis (Standl.) J.F. Macbr. is generally healthy and disease-resistant, but like any other plant, it is susceptible to certain pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common diseases and pests that affect this plant and the ways to manage them:
Diseases
Bacterial Blight: Bacterial blight is a common bacterial disease caused by the pathogen Pseudomonas syringae. The disease is characterized by water-soaked spots on the leaves, followed by the development of yellow halos. To manage bacterial blight, it is important to remove infected plant material, avoid overhead watering, and sterilize pruning tools after each use.
Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease caused by pathogens such as Phytophthora or Rhizoctonia. Symptoms of root rot include wilting, yellowing, and stunted growth. To manage this disease, it is crucial to avoid overwatering, provide adequate drainage, and use well-draining soil.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of plants. They cause stunted growth, wilting, and distorted leaves. To manage aphids, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil, or introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny, eight-legged arachnids that feed on plant sap, causing yellowing and speckling on the leaves. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a solution of water and neem oil, or blast the leaves with water to dislodge the mites.
Thrips: Thrips are small, slender insects that feed on plant sap, causing a silvering or bronzing of the leaves. To manage thrips, remove infested plant material, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil, or introduce natural predators like predatory mites.
Regular monitoring of the plant for signs of disease or pest infestation is crucial to catch the problem early and prevent it from spreading. It is also important to maintain good growing conditions, including proper watering and fertilization, to keep the plant healthy and resilient to pests and diseases.
