Overview
Oonopsis multicaulis (Nutt.) Greene, also known as many-stemmed oonopsis or sticky plant, is a flowering plant from the sunflower family, Asteraceae. It is a small, native herbaceous perennial plant found in the western United States from Montana to Texas and California.
Appearance
Many-stemmed oonopsis has a height of up to 50 cm. It has soft, hairy leaves that are green in color and elliptical in shape. The plant produces small, yellow flowers that bloom in the late summer and fall season. Each flower head is about 1 cm in diameter, with approximately 6-14 ray flowers and 10-65 disk flowers, surrounded by a sticky, glandular disk.
Common Names
The common names for Oonopsis multicaulis include many-stemmed oonopsis and sticky plant. It is also known as sticky fleabane, gumweed, and rosinweed.
Uses
Oonopsis multicaulis has been historically used as a medicinal plant by Native American tribes for a variety of purposes, such as treating diarrhea, dysentery, coughs, colds, and fevers. It is also used as a poultice to treat wounds, cuts and bruises. In addition, the plant's sticky resin was gathered for use as an adhesive and chewing gum. Today, Oonopsis multicaulis is mainly used as an ornamental plant in gardens, where it attracts bees, butterflies and other pollinators.
Light Requirements
Oonopsis multicaulis requires full sun exposure for optimal growth. It cannot tolerate shade or partial shade, and needs direct sunlight for at least 6 hours per day.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species is native to the western regions of North America, and is well-adapted to a wide range of temperature conditions. However, it generally prefers warm temperatures, with an optimal range of 20-25°C (68-77°F) during the day and 10-15°C (50-59°F) at night. It can tolerate cold temperatures as low as -10°C (14°F) for brief periods, but extended exposure to freezing temperatures can damage or kill the plant.
Soil Requirements
Oonopsis multicaulis can grow in a variety of soil types, but it prefers well-draining, sandy or loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. It cannot tolerate waterlogged or compacted soil, which can lead to root rot and other problems. The soil pH should be neutral to slightly alkaline (pH 6.5-7.5), and the plant can benefit from occasional fertilization with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer that is low in nitrogen.
Cultivation Methods
Oonopsis multicaulis is an adaptable plant that can tolerate a wide range of soil types. However, it grows best in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter and have a slightly acidic to neutral pH level. Ensure that the planting location receives full sunlight for at least six hours a day. Plant the seeds in the early spring or fall. Space the plants 12 to 18 inches apart, depending on the desired spacing. Water the seeds frequently during the germination period, then reduce watering once the plant is established.
Watering Needs
Proper watering is crucial to the healthy growth of Oonopsis multicaulis. Water the plant regularly but avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. During hot and dry periods, increase watering to keep the soil moist. Ensure that the soil drains well to prevent waterlogging, which can damage the plant's roots.
Fertilization
A balanced fertilizer with a 10-10-10 or 14-14-14 NPK ratio is suitable for Oonopsis multicaulis. Apply fertilizer once every two weeks during the growing season, which is typically from early spring to late fall. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can cause excessive vegetative growth at the expense of flowers.
Pruning
Oonopsis multicaulis doesn't require annual pruning since it's a herbaceous plant that dies back to the ground each fall. However, you can deadhead the spent flowers to encourage the growth of new flowers. Pinch the tips of the stems during the early summer to promote bushier growth.
Propagation of Oonopsis Multicaulis
Oonopsis multicaulis, commonly known as Flat-top goldenrod, is a perennial flowering plant native to the western United States. It is a woody-based plant that produces yellow flowers in the fall and grows up to a height of 2-5 feet. Propagation of Oonopsis multicaulis can be done through various methods.
Propagation by Seed
Propagation of Oonopsis multicaulis by seed is one of the easiest methods. The seeds need to be collected from the plant in the fall and sown immediately. The seeds need to be placed on the surface of the soil and covered lightly with soil. The seeds should be kept moist and maintained at a temperature of 70°F to 75°F. Germination should occur within a few weeks, and the plants can be transplanted to pots or planted in the garden.
Propagation by Division
Propagation of Oonopsis multicaulis by division is another method. This method is best done in the spring or fall. The plant needs to be dug up gently and divided into several sections. Each section should have at least one healthy shoot and a portion of the root system. The divisions can be planted in the ground or in pots and kept moist until the new growth appears.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation of Oonopsis multicaulis by cuttings is also possible. This method is best done in the spring or early summer. The cuttings should be taken from new growth and should be about 4 to 6 inches in length. The bottom half of the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a pot or directly in the ground. The cuttings should be kept moist, and new growth should appear within a few weeks.
Conclusion
Overall, propagation of Oonopsis multicaulis can be done through seed, division, or cutting. Each method has its advantages, and the choice of method will depend on the resources available and the skill of the gardener. With proper care and attention, Oonopsis multicaulis can be propagated successfully, and its beautiful yellow flowers can brighten up any garden space.
Disease Management
Oonopsis multicaulis (Nutt.) Greene is generally considered a hardy plant that is not often affected by diseases. However, there are a few diseases that may occasionally affect this plant.
One of the most common diseases that may affect Oonopsis multicaulis is rust. Rust appears as yellow or brown spots on the leaves of the plant and can cause the leaves to become deformed or fall off. To manage rust, remove any diseased leaves or branches and avoid overhead watering, which can promote the spread of the disease. Additionally, fungicides can be applied to prevent the further spread of rust.
Another disease that may affect Oonopsis multicaulis is powdery mildew. Powdery mildew appears as a white or gray powdery substance on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, prune any infected parts of the plant and ensure proper ventilation and air circulation around the plant. Additionally, fungicides can be applied to prevent the further spread of powdery mildew.
Pest Management
Oonopsis multicaulis is not typically bothered by a large number of pests, but there are a few that may occasionally cause problems.
One of the most common pests that may affect Oonopsis multicaulis is aphids. Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of plants, causing distorted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To manage aphids, use a strong stream of water to wash them off the plant, or use insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill them.
Another pest that may affect Oonopsis multicaulis is spider mites. Spider mites are tiny insects that can cause yellowing of the leaves and a fine webbing on the plant. To manage spider mites, use a strong stream of water to wash them off the plant, or use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill them. Additionally, ensuring proper humidity levels around the plant can help prevent spider mites from becoming a problem.
