Nototrichium viride Hbd. var. oblongifolium Sherff: A Unique Herb with Multiple Uses
Nototrichium viride Hbd. var. oblongifolium Sherff, commonly known as Green alkaliweed, is a pretty and hardy herb that belongs to the family Amaranthaceae. It is native to North America and can be found in several states, including Nevada, California, and Utah.
General Appearance
Green alkaliweed is an herbaceous plant that can grow up to 60 cm tall. It has a fleshy taproot, and the stem is branched from the base, bearing numerous branches. The bright green leaves are oblong to spatulate in shape, up to 6 cm long and 1.5 cm wide, with no hairs on the surface. The inflorescence is a spike, emerging from terminal or axillary branches, with white or pinkish flowers that bloom from May to September.
Common Names
Nototrichium viride has several common names, including Green alkaliweed, Oblong-leaved alkaliweed, Great Basin alkaliweed, and Western alkaliweed.
Uses
Green alkaliweed has been used for various purposes such as land reclamation, phytoremediation, and as a forage for domestic livestock. It is tolerant of high levels of sodium, boron, and other minerals present in alkaline soils. The herb has been used to treat ailments such as cold and fever, arthritis, and pulmonary diseases in some Native American tribal medicine.
Besides its medicinal and ecological benefits, Green alkaliweed is also a popular ornamental plant, grown for its attractive foliage and flowers in gardens, rockeries, and pots. Its ability to withstand drought and saline soils makes it an ideal plant for xeriscaping, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions.
In conclusion, Nototrichium viride Hbd. var. oblongifolium Sherff is a versatile herb that offers several benefits to humans and the environment. Its attractive appearance, ecological resilience, and medicinal properties make it a valuable addition to any garden or landscape.
Growth Conditions for Nototrichium viride Hbd. var. oblongifolium Sherff
Nototrichium viride Hbd. var. oblongifolium Sherff, commonly known as green alpine pussytoes, is a perennial plant that is native to high-altitude areas of the western United States. It has silvery-green leaves and small, yellowish-white flowers that bloom in early summer.
Light Requirements
Green alpine pussytoes require full sun to partial shade to grow and thrive. They are native to alpine and subalpine areas with high light levels, so they are adapted to bright, intense sunlight. In areas with very hot summers, they may benefit from some shade during the hottest part of the day.
Temperature Requirements
Green alpine pussytoes are adapted to cold temperatures and are hardy in USDA zones 4-8. They can tolerate temperatures as low as -30°F (-34°C) and are able to survive in snow-covered areas for long periods of time. In warmer areas, they may go dormant during the hottest part of the summer and then resume growth in the fall.
Soil Requirements
Green alpine pussytoes prefer well-draining, rocky soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (between 5.5 and 7.0). They are adapted to the nutrient-poor soils found in alpine areas and do not require high levels of fertilization. However, they do benefit from a light application of organic matter or compost before planting.
Overall, green alpine pussytoes are hardy and adaptable plants that can thrive in a range of conditions, as long as they have enough light, cold temperatures, and well-draining soil. With proper care, they can be a beautiful addition to any garden or alpine landscape.
Cultivation methods
Nototrichium viride Hbd. var. oblongifolium Sherff is a perennial plant that prefers well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. It can grow up to 20 inches tall and 12 inches wide, so make sure to plant it in a space with enough room for growth.
When planting, loosen the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches, and amend with organic matter to improve fertility and drainage. Dig a hole slightly larger than the rootball, and set it into the hole about an inch deeper than it was growing previously. Water thoroughly after planting.
Watering needs
Nototrichium viride Hbd. var. oblongifolium Sherff prefers to have consistently moist soil, but be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot and other problems. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather and the condition of the soil.
Watering in the morning or evening when temperatures are cooler will help prevent water loss through evaporation. Mulching around the base of the plant will also help retain moisture in the soil.
Fertilization
Nototrichium viride Hbd. var. oblongifolium Sherff doesn't require much fertilizer, but a light feeding in the spring can help promote healthy growth. Use a balanced, organic fertilizer, applying according to the package instructions.
Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can cause rapid growth and weak stems that are more susceptible to disease and pests.
Pruning
Pruning is not essential for Nototrichium viride Hbd. var. oblongifolium Sherff but can be done in the late summer or early fall. Cut back any dead or damaged stems to encourage growth and bushiness. Pinching back the stems by about an inch can also help promote fuller growth.
Avoid pruning in the spring and early summer, as this can remove flower buds and reduce blooming.
Propagation of Nototrichium viride Hbd. var. oblongifolium Sherff
Nototrichium viride Hbd. var. oblongifolium Sherff can be propagated through various methods such as seeds, stem cuttings, and division.
Seeds
Seeds of Nototrichium viride Hbd. var. oblongifolium Sherff can be sowed directly into the soil or in a seed tray filled with potting mix. The seeds should be sowed at a depth of 1-2 cm and covered lightly with soil. Keep the soil moist until germination, which usually takes 3-4 weeks. After the plant has grown to a sizable height, it can be transplanted to another location if necessary.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings from Nototrichium viride Hbd. var. oblongifolium Sherff can be taken from the stem tips. These cuttings should be 8-10 cm in length and should contain at least two nodes. Remove all the leaves except for the top two and dip the bottom end of the cutting in rooting hormone. Place the cutting in a pot filled with potting mix and keep the soil moist. The cutting will root and grow into a new plant in a few weeks.
Division
Division is another method of propagating Nototrichium viride Hbd. var. oblongifolium Sherff. Divide the plant when it has become too large for its container. Carefully remove the plant from the pot or ground and separate the rootball into multiple sections. Each section should have at least three leaves and some roots. Replant the sections in individual pots or in the ground and keep the soil moist until new growth appears.
Disease Management
Nototrichium viride Hbd. var. oblongifolium Sherff is generally healthy and disease-resistant if grown in suitable environmental conditions. However, in certain situations, it can be susceptible to some diseases. The most common diseases that may affect the plant are:
- Root Rot: Over-watering or poorly drained soils can lead to root rot that can ultimately kill the plant. To prevent this, ensure that the soil is well-drained and avoid over-watering the plant.
- Leaf Spot: This disease is caused by fungal infections and appears as brown or black spots on the leaves. To manage leaf spot, remove the affected parts of the plant and apply fungicide to prevent its spread.
- Bacterial Blight: This disease appears as water-soaked spots on the leaves, eventually turning brown and drying out the leaves. To manage bacterial blight, remove the affected parts of the plant and apply copper-based fungicide to prevent its spread.
Pest Management
Nototrichium viride Hbd. var. oblongifolium Sherff is not usually susceptible to pests. However, there are some pests that may affect the plant, and they include:
- Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from leaves, causing them to curl and turn yellow. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage aphids.
- Spider mites: They are tiny, spider-like insects that cause yellowing of the leaves and the formation of webbing on the plant's surfaces. To manage spider mites, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Thrips: They are small insects that cause damage to leaves, flowers, and fruits. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control thrips infestation.
