Origin and Common Names
Monardella candicans Benth., also known as the hoary monardella, is a species of flowering plant in the mint family (Lamiaceae). This plant is native to the western United States and is commonly found in rocky areas and dry slopes. The hoary monardella has several common names, including silver monardella, coyote mint, and mountain pennyroyal.
Appearance
The hoary monardella is a small, perennial plant that grows up to 1 to 2 feet tall. It has thin, gray-green leaves that are covered in fine hairs, giving them a hoary appearance. The leaves are lance-shaped and grow up to 2 inches long. The flowers of the hoary monardella are small, purple, and grow in clusters at the top of the stems. They bloom from late spring through early fall. The hoary monardella has a deep taproot and spreads through underground rhizomes, forming dense patches of foliage.
Uses
The hoary monardella has several uses in traditional Native American medicine. It was used by the Yokuts tribe to treat stomach pains and fever, and by the Kawaiisu tribe to treat headaches and colds. The hoary monardella is also valued by gardeners for its low-maintenance nature and attractive appearance. It is often used in rock gardens and as a groundcover in dry, sunny areas. As a member of the mint family, the hoary monardella produces a pleasant, minty aroma when its leaves are crushed, making it a popular choice for aromatherapy and potpourri. Additionally, this plant can attract bees, hummingbirds, and other pollinators to the garden.
Light Requirements
Monardella candicans Benth. thrives in full sunlight, making it an ideal choice for gardens, meadows, or natural landscaping in California. This plant can tolerate some shade, but the growth may not be as vigorous or the flowering as dense.
Temperature Requirements
Monardella candicans Benth. is native to California, where it predominantly grows in coastal areas, inland valleys, and foothills. This plant can tolerate a range of temperatures, but it prefers warm temperatures and generally does not grow well in areas with extended periods of frost or ice. The plant's natural distribution ranges from USDA hardiness zone 8 to 11, with temperature lows of -12.2°C (10°F).
Soil Requirements
Monardella candicans Benth. prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant can grow in a range of soil types, including sandy loam, clay loam, and gravelly soils, but it does not tolerate soils that are excessively wet or poorly drained. A pH range between 6.0 and 7.5 is ideal for healthy plant growth.
Cultivation
Monardella candicans, commonly known as the hoary monardella, is a California native perennial plant. It is a drought-tolerant, drought-deciduous, and cold-hardy plant, suitable for xeriscape gardens. The plant prefers full sun exposure with well-draining soil, and it thrives in USDA hardiness zones 8-10. It forms a low-growing mound of fuzzy gray-green leaves that emit minty fragrance.
Watering Needs
Hoary monardella is a drought-tolerant plant that requires very low water needs once established. During the growing season, it needs occasional deep watering (once a week) for better blooming. However, watering should be minimized during the winter dormant period to simulate natural drought conditions.
Fertilization
Hoary monardella does not require high levels of fertilization. Too much nitrogen can lead to excessive foliage growth, reducing the amount of flowers. It is recommended to use a slow-releasing organic fertilizer in early spring when new growth appears.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for hoary monardella; however, deadheading the spent flowers is recommended to prolong the blooming period and prevent self-seeding. Additionally, trimming the plant in late winter or early spring can promote new growth and a compact habit.
Propagation of Monardella Candicans Benth.
Monardella candicans Benth. can be propagated either through seed or through vegetative means such as cuttings and division.
Propagation through Seed
The plant produces tiny seeds that have a short viability period. It is recommended to collect fresh mature seeds in late summer or early fall. To improve germination rates, the seeds can be stratified in the refrigerator for at least four weeks before sowing. The stratified seeds can then be sown in a well-draining, sterile potting mix and kept moist under bright, indirect light with a temperature range of 18-22°C (64-72°F). Germination usually occurs within two to four weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted once they have a few true leaves.
Propagation through Cuttings
Another propagation method for Monardella candicans Benth. is through stem cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is in late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing. Cut a 6-8 cm (2-3 inch) stem tip with a sharp, sterile knife, and remove all the leaves except the top two pairs. Dip the cutting in rooting hormone and insert it into a moist, sterile potting mix. Cover with a plastic bag or dome to maintain high humidity levels and prevent moisture loss. Place the pot in a shaded area and keep the soil moist. The cutting should root within four to six weeks, after which it can be transplanted to a larger pot or into the garden.
Propagation through Division
Monardella candicans Benth. can also be propagated through division, which involves separating the plant into smaller pieces with their own set of roots and shoots. This method is best done in the early spring before new growth starts, or in the fall after blooming has finished. Dig up the plant and gently tease apart the root ball using a sharp, sterile knife or garden fork. Each division should have a few healthy roots and shoots. Replant in well-draining soil and keep moist until new growth appears.
Disease Management:
Monardella candicans Benth. is generally a hardy plant that is not susceptible to severe diseases. However, there are some common diseases that can affect this plant if proper care is not taken.
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that frequently affects the leaves of the Monardella candicans Benth. plant. It appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves and can cause them to turn yellow and distort. To manage powdery mildew, it is important to avoid watering the leaves. Watering should be done at the base of the plant, and the leaves should be kept dry. Also, it is important to provide adequate air circulation by spacing the plants, which will help to reduce humidity levels and prevent the disease from spreading.
Cercospora leaf spot is another fungal disease that results in the formation of circular or irregular-shaped brown spots on leaves. This disease can be prevented by pruning and destroying infected leaves and avoiding overhead watering. Fungicides can also be employed to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pest Management:
Monardella candicans Benth. can also be affected by pests such as spider mites, aphids, and thrips. These pests can cause significant damage to the plant if left unmanaged.
Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the sap of the plant and can cause discoloration, wilting, and death of the plant. To manage spider mites, you can spray the plant with a strong stream of water or use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. It is also important to maintain adequate humidity levels and provide adequate air circulation to prevent the infestation from flourishing.
Aphids are another common pest that can affect Monardella candicans Benth. plants. These small insects can be eliminated by washing them away with a strong stream of water or by using insecticidal soap or neem oil. It is important to act quickly when an infestation is noticed to prevent the spread of the pests.
Thrips are another pest that feeds on the flowers and leaves of the plant. They can cause discoloration and malformation of the leaves. To manage thrips, you can use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil, or you can introduce natural predators such as lacewings or ladybugs.
Introducing beneficial insects such as ladybugs, lacewings, or parasitic wasps is generally a good practice that can help in the management of pests and diseases. For severe infestations or diseases, it is recommended that you contact a professional pest control service for assistance.
