Origin
Monardella undulata Benth. var. frutescens Hoover, also known as Bushy Coyote Mint, is a species of flowering plant in the mint family Lamiaceae. It is native to California, specifically in the Transverse Ranges and the Channel Islands. This species can be found in areas with elevations ranging from 1000 to 3500 feet.
Common Names
The common name for Monardella undulata Benth. var. frutescens Hoover is Bushy Coyote Mint. It is sometimes referred to as Chaparral Coyote Mint or Solidago-leaved Coyote Mint.
Uses
Bushy Coyote Mint has a long history of traditional medicinal uses by Native American tribes. The plant is believed to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. It has been used to treat ailments such as toothaches, headaches, and respiratory issues. Bushy Coyote Mint can also be used as a natural insect repellent.
General Appearance
Bushy Coyote Mint is a woody shrub that can grow up to 2-3 feet tall and wide. It has serrated leaves that are dark green and hairy. The plant produces purple or lavender flowers in late spring to early summer. These flowers attract a variety of pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The plant also emits a pleasant minty aroma when its leaves are crushed.
Light Requirements:
Monardella undulata Benth. var. frutescens Hoover is a plant that thrives well in full sun or partial shade conditions. In regions with hot summers, it is preferable to plant the species in partially shaded regions to prevent wilting and drying up of the plant. However, regions with cooler summers can support full sun conditions.
Temperature Requirements:
The plant grows well in a range of temperatures that vary from moderate to hot. In California, the plant can adapt to temperatures ranging from 5°C (40°F) to 35°C (95°F). In the winter months, the plant requires moderate temperatures, while in the summer, higher temperatures keep the plant blooming.
Soil Requirements:
Monardella undulata Benth. var. frutescens Hoover needs well-drained soils to thrive properly. The soil must not be allowed to become waterlogged, as this will lead to the plant's death. The plant prefers neutral or slightly alkaline soils, with a pH between 6.5-7.5. The plant requires adequate organic matter in the soil, good aeration, and sufficient nutrients to support proper growth.
Cultivation
Monardella undulata Benth. var. frutescens Hoover, commonly known as Chaparral Coyote Mint, is a drought-tolerant plant native to California. It is a perennial shrub that grows up to 2 to 3 feet tall and 2 to 4 feet wide, making it an excellent choice for low hedging or container gardening. It thrives in well-draining soil and full sun exposure, but it can tolerate partial shade in hotter regions.
Watering Needs
Since it is a drought-tolerant plant, it does not require frequent watering. It is best to water it deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry between each watering session. In hot summers, you should water it once every two weeks, and during winters, you should water it only when the soil is completely dry.
Fertilization
During the growing season, you can fertilize the Chaparral Coyote Mint with a balanced fertilizer (NPK 10-10-10), once a month. However, over-fertilization can result in excessive foliage growth and a decreased number of flowers.
Pruning
To maintain its shape and vigor, the Chaparral Coyote Mint requires yearly pruning in late winter. You should remove all the dead and diseased wood, cutting it down to the base. The plant has a natural tendency to become woody, and pruning will help it rejuvenate and produce more healthy and vigorous growth. You can also pinch off the tips of the new growth to encourage bushiness and more flowers.
Propagation Methods for Monardella undulata Benth. var. frutescens Hoover
Propagation of Monardella undulata Benth. var. frutescens Hoover can be done through seed propagation, stem cutting, and division of the plant. All of these methods require proper care and attention for successful growth and development.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Monardella undulata Benth. var. frutescens Hoover must be sown in a well-draining soil mix that is moist but not waterlogged. The seeds must be sown at a shallow depth of about ¼ inch and kept in a warm, bright location. The soil must be kept moist, but not wet, and the seeds will germinate within 2-3 weeks. Once the seedlings have grown to about 2-3 inches tall, they can be transplanted to a larger container, or directly to the ground.
Stem Cutting
Stem cuttings are a fairly easy and effective way to propagate Monardella undulata Benth. var. frutescens Hoover. Choose a healthy stem that is about 4-6 inches long, and cut it just below a leaf node. Remove all the leaves except for the top few, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Place the cutting in a well-draining soil mix and keep it moist but not waterlogged. The cutting should root in about 2-3 weeks, and can then be transplanted to a larger container or directly to the ground.
Division
The plant can also be propagated through division, which involves separating the plant into smaller sections. Carefully dig up the plant and separate the roots into sections, ensuring that each section has a good amount of roots and foliage. Replant the sections in well-draining soil, and keep them moist but not waterlogged. The new plants will take a few weeks to adjust, but should start growing vigorously after that.
Disease and Pest Management for Monardella undulata Benth. var. frutescens Hoover
Monardella undulata Benth. var. frutescens Hoover is a vulnerable plant species that is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can cause serious damage if left unaddressed. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that may affect Monardella undulata Benth. var. frutescens Hoover and how to manage them:
Diseases
Fungal Diseases: Monardella undulata Benth. var. frutescens Hoover is prone to fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew, rust, and root rot. Powdery mildew appears as a white, powdery substance on the leaves, while rust is characterized by orange, red, or brown spots on the leaves. Root rot causes the plant to turn yellow and eventually die. To manage fungal diseases, avoid overhead watering and water the plant at its base. Ensure proper air circulation around the plant and remove any infected parts to prevent the spread of disease. Fungicidal sprays can also be used to manage the disease.
Viral Diseases: The Tobacco mosaic virus and Tomato spotted wilt virus are the common types of viral diseases that may affect Monardella undulata Benth. var. frutescens Hoover. Viral diseases spread through pests like aphids or weakened tissues in the plant and don't have a specific cure. Once the infection occurs, the affected plant should be removed and destroyed to avoid spreading it.
Pests
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that are one of the most common pests in Monardella undulata Benth. var. frutescens Hoover. They cause damage by piercing the plant's cells to extract sap, leaving small yellow dots on its leaves that lead to drying out and death. Regular pruning and cleaning of infected plant parts and foliage reduce the risk of infection. Alternatively, insecticidal soap or a synthetic insecticide can be applied to the plant to control the pest.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars feed on Monardella undulata Benth. var. frutescens Hoover leaves resulting in significant damage to the plant. Handpicking the insect and destroying them can help to manage infection. Alternatively, Bacillus thuringiensis spray can also be applied to control the pest.
Leafhoppers: These insects are hazardous to Monardella undulata Benth. var. frutescens Hoover because they carry and transmit viruses and cause yellowing of the leaves. They may be controlled through the use of insecticides specially formulated for leafhoppers or purchasing and releasing beneficial insects known to prey on leafhoppers.
In conclusion, managing the diseases and pests that may affect your Monardella undulata Benth. var. frutescens Hoover is necessary to maintain plant health. Regular removing of infected parts, cleaning and pruning, early identification with appropriate methods to control pests and diseases can help to preserve the plant's glory.
