Origin
Mulgedium spicatum auct. non (Lam.) Small, commonly known as Spikenard, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to North America. It can be found growing in the eastern parts of the United States and Canada.
Common Names
Spikenard is known by many other names depending on the region where it grows. Some common names include: spiny-headed burreed, water chestnut, and bur-reed.
Uses
Indigenous people and early settlers in North America have used Spikenard for centuries for its medicinal properties and its edible root. It was commonly used by Native Americans as a pain reliever, an anti-inflammatory agent, and as a traditional treatment for diarrhea. The root of the plant was also used as a food source by Native Americans, who would roast or boil it to soften its tough exterior. Today, Spikenard is still used in alternative medicine to treat ailments such as inflammation, coughs, and rheumatism.
General Appearance
Spikenard is a tall, sturdy plant that can grow up to 6 feet or more in height. Its long, green leaves grow up to 2 feet long, and its flowers bloom in clusters of small, pale pink or white blossoms. The plant produces small seeds that are enclosed in a spiky seed head. The root of the plant is tuberous and can grow up to a foot long.
Light requirements
Mulgedium spicatum auct. non (Lam.) Small typically grows in areas with full sun exposure or partial shade. It can tolerate direct sun exposure but may require some shade during the hottest times of the day. In unfavorable light conditions, its growth may be stunted, and the plant may not bloom.
Temperature requirements
This plant is often found in regions with cold climates, so it can tolerate below-freezing temperatures. Optimal temperatures for growth range from 50 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. In extremely hot conditions, the plant may require frequent watering to prevent wilting. However, in extreme cold conditions, the plant may become dormant.
Soil requirements
Mulgedium spicatum auct. non (Lam.) Small can grow in various soil types, including sandy, loamy or clayey soils. The soil must be well-draining, as it does not tolerate stagnant water. The pH of the soil should fall between 5.5 to 7.5, which is slightly acidic. This range provides the necessary nutrients for growth. Adequate soil moisture is essential for proper growth, so regular watering should be maintained.
Cultivation Methods for Mulgedium spicatum
Mulgedium spicatum is a plant that prefers full sunlight and can tolerate partial shade, especially in hotter regions. When planting, ensure that the spacing between plants is about 18 inches apart. The soil should be well-draining, moist, and fertile, with a pH ranging between 6.0 and 7.5. It is advisable to plant during the fall or spring season, as it favors cooler temperatures.
Watering Needs of Mulgedium spicatum
The plant enjoys regular watering, and the soil should not be allowed to dry out. It is best to water the plant deeply twice a week instead of shallow watering daily. A layer of mulch around the plant's base can limit the soil's moisture evaporation rate while keeping the roots cool.
Fertilization of Mulgedium spicatum
The plant's nitrogen requirements will be met if the soil is amended with compost before planting. During the growing season, one can use balanced fertilizer that is low in nitrogen. Over-fertilization can cause the plant to flop over, so it is recommended to fertilize the plant sparingly to keep it healthy.
Pruning of Mulgedium spicatum
Deadhead the flowers once they fade to prevent the plant from self-seeding and ensure more blooms. If the plant becomes too tall and leggy, it can be cut back to about one-third of its size after flowering. This rejuvenates the plant and induces a new flush of growth. If the plant grows large, one can also divide it in the spring season to control its size and rejuvenate it further.
Propagation of Mulgedium spicatum
Mulgedium spicatum, also known as Spiked Goldenrod, is a perennial plant that is native to North America. It is a hardy plant that can thrive in a wide variety of growing conditions. If you are interested in growing Mulgedium spicatum, there are several propagation methods that you can use.
Seed Propagation
The easiest way to propagate Mulgedium spicatum is by seed. You can collect seeds from mature plants in the fall, and store them in a cool, dry place until you are ready to plant them. In the spring, plant the seeds in a sunny site with well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and the seedlings will emerge in a couple of weeks.
Division
You can also propagate Mulgedium spicatum through division. This is done by separating the plant at the roots into smaller clumps and replanting them. The best time to do this is in the spring or fall. Dig up the plant and cut it into several sections, making sure that each section has enough roots and green shoots. Replant the sections in prepared soil and water them thoroughly.
Cuttings
A third method of propagation for Mulgedium spicatum is through cuttings. Take a 4-6 inch cutting from a healthy plant in the spring or early summer. Strip the lower leaves off the stem, leaving only the top two or three leaves. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone and plant it in moist soil. Keep the soil moist and in 3-4 weeks, roots will develop and the cutting will start to grow new leaves.
Disease and Pest Management for Mulgedium spicatum
Mulgedium spicatum, commonly known as spiked top clover or narrowleaf rabbit tobacco, is a naturalized perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is widely distributed in North and Central America, where it grows in fields, pastures, roadsides, and open woods. While it is generally resistant to diseases and pests, it may sometimes be vulnerable to certain pathogens and insects that can cause significant damage to the plant.
Common diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Mulgedium spicatum is powdery mildew. This fungal disease appears as a white or grayish powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant, and can lead to stunted growth and reduced vigor. To manage powdery mildew, it is recommended to improve air circulation around the plant, avoid overhead watering, and apply fungicides according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Another disease that may affect Mulgedium spicatum is leaf spot. This fungal disease causes circular or irregular spots on the leaves that turn brown and may eventually lead to defoliation. To manage leaf spot, it is essential to remove and destroy infected plant debris, avoiding overhead watering, and applying fungicides as recommended.
Common pests
While Mulgedium spicatum is not typically vulnerable to pests, it may sometimes be affected by spider mites. These small arachnids feed on plant sap, causing yellowing, wilting, and browning of the leaves. To manage spider mites, it is recommended to improve air circulation around the plant, avoid over-fertilizing, and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to the affected areas.
Another pest that may attack Mulgedium spicatum is the flea beetle. These small, shiny insects feed on the leaves and stems of the plant, causing small holes and pits. To manage flea beetles, it is recommended to use row covers or sticky traps to prevent them from reaching the plant, or to apply insecticides according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Overall, disease and pest management for Mulgedium spicatum requires careful monitoring and prompt action to prevent serious damage to the plant. By following good cultural practices, using appropriate chemical controls, and choosing disease and pest-resistant varieties, it is possible to maintain healthy and productive plants.
