Overview: Monardella villosa Benth. ssp. subserrata (Greene) Epling
Monardella villosa Benth. ssp. subserrata (Greene) Epling is a unique sub-shrub that belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae). The plant is native to California, United States, where it is found in the dry foothills and valleys. The species has several common names, including Coyote Mint, Purple Monardella, and Coyote Mint Pycnanthemum.
Appearance
Monardella villosa Benth. ssp. subserrata is a compact perennial sub-shrub that grows up to 2 feet tall and wide. The plant is distinguished by its purplish-pink flowers, which bloom in mid-summer to fall. The foliage of the plant is aromatic and composed of ovate to oblong-shaped, toothed leaves that are up to 1 inch long. The plant's stems and leaves are covered with fine hairs that give it a soft, velvety texture.
Uses
Monardella villosa Benth. ssp. subserrata is widely used by indigenous peoples in California for its medicinal and culinary properties. The plant's leaves and flowers are commonly used to make teas that are believed to help alleviate headaches and stomach upsets. The plant is also used to make perfumes and as an insecticide. Coyote Mint is an attractive plant that is often used for ornamental landscaping in California native gardens. The plant is a valuable source of nectar for pollinators, making it a popular choice for bee gardens.
Light Requirements
The typical growth conditions for Monardella villosa Benth. ssp. subserrata involve full sun exposure. The plant requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to grow and thrive. This subspecies does not tolerate shade well, and prolonged periods of low light may lead to stunted growth or leaf drop.
Temperature Requirements
Monardella villosa Benth. ssp. subserrata is native to the hot and arid regions of southern California. As such, it can withstand high temperatures, up to 100°F (38°C), and it prefers warm weather in general. However, it also can tolerate cooler temperatures down to 30°F (-1°C) in winter. The plant does not do well in areas with frost or extended periods of cold weather.
Soil Requirements
This subspecies of Monardella villosa Benth. requires well-drained soil that is low in nutrients. It prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH, between 5.5 and 7.5. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, including sandy soil, clay soil, and loamy soil. However, the plant does not tolerate wet soil or poor drainage, and it may be susceptible to root rot in such conditions.
Cultivation Methods
Monardella villosa Benth. ssp. subserrata (Greene) Epling, also known as Coyote Mint, is a drought-tolerant perennial plant that prefers full sun or partial shade with well-draining soil. It can be propagated through seed or cuttings, and should be planted in the spring or fall for best results. The ideal temperature for growth is between 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Watering Needs
Coyote Mint is a drought-tolerant plant and only requires watering once a week during the growing season. It is essential to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. The soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between watering to prevent waterlogging.
Fertilization
Coyote Mint does not require regular fertilization, as it can grow well in nutrient-poor soil. However, if you wish to fertilize the plant, it is best to use a low-nitrogen, slow-release fertilizer in the spring. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can cause excessive growth and may reduce flowering.
Pruning
Coyote Mint can be pruned regularly to promote bushy growth and encourage flowering. Deadheading spent flowers can also help to extend the blooming season. In the fall, it's recommended that you cut back the plant to a few inches above the ground to promote healthy growth in the following spring.
Propagation of Monardella villosa Benth ssp. subserrata (Greene) Epling
Monardella villosa Benth. ssp. subserrata (Greene) Epling, commonly known as Coyote mint, is a herbaceous, perennial plant that belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is a highly aromatic plant with leaves that exude a mint-like scent when crushed. Coyote mint is usually propagated through several methods:
Seed Propagation
The easiest and most common method of propagating Coyote mint is through seeds. The plant produces small, black, and shiny seeds that can be collected once they are fully formed. The seeds can be sown directly in the soil or in a seedbed. If sowing directly outdoors, it should be done in late fall or early spring, while starting them indoors in late winter is also an option.
It is important to note that the seeds should not be covered with soil as they need light to germinate, and the soil should be well-drained. After sowing, keep the soil moist and warm, and germination should occur within 2-4 weeks. Transplant the seedlings to their permanent location once they are large enough to handle and have a few sets of true leaves.
Vegetative Propagation
Coyote mint can also be propagated vegetatively through stem cuttings or root division. Stem cuttings are best taken from young stems in summer, and each cutting should have at least two sets of leaves. Remove the bottom set of leaves, dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone, and plant in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and in a warm, shaded area and roots should start to develop within 3-4 weeks.
Root division is another option, which involves dividing the plant's roots into smaller sections and replanting them in new locations. It is best done in early spring or fall when the plant is dormant or has just come out of dormancy.
Regardless of the propagation method used, take care to provide adequate moisture and sunlight for optimal growth, especially during the first months following planting, until the plant is well established. Avoid overwatering or allowing the soil to become waterlogged, which can cause root rot.
Common Diseases of Monardella villosa Benth. ssp. subserrata
Monardella villosa Benth. ssp. subserrata is known to be susceptible to fungal and bacterial diseases. This can cause serious damage to the plant if not managed properly.
One of the most common diseases affecting Monardella villosa is root rot. This disease is caused by soil-borne fungi and causes the plant to wilt and eventually die. To avoid root rot, ensure that the soil is well-drained, and do not overwater the plant. It is also important to remove any infected plants immediately to avoid spreading the disease.
Another common disease is powdery mildew, which is caused by the fungal pathogen Erysiphe cichoracearum. This disease appears as powdery, white spots on the leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage this disease, prune the plant to improve air circulation and reduce humidity around the plant.
Common Pests of Monardella villosa Benth. ssp. subserrata
Monardella villosa Benth. ssp. subserrata is also susceptible to pest infestations, which can cause damage to the plant and reduce yield. Some common pests are:
Spider mites: These pests suck the sap from the leaves, causing yellowing and wilting. Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to control their population.
Aphids: These sap-sucking insects feed on the leaves, causing curling and distortion. Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to control their population. Introducing natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings can also help control aphids.
Thrips: These insects feed on the leaves, flowers, and buds, causing silvering and distortion. Prune heavily infested parts of the plant and apply a pesticide to control their population.
To prevent pest infestations, it is important to keep the surrounding area clean and free from weeds. Regularly inspect the plant for any signs of pest activity and take action immediately if an infestation is detected.
