Overview:
Orthocarpus lithospermoides Benth. var. bicolor (Heller) Jepson, commonly known as the Mojave owls clover or bicolor owls clover, is a beautiful flowering plant that belongs to the Orobanchaceae family. This plant is native to western North America, mainly found in Arizona, California, Nevada, and Utah. It grows in various habitats, such as rocky slopes, meadows, and woodlands, in the lower montane zone and the valley floors.
Appearance:
The bicolor owls clover has a unique appearance that stands out among other plants. It typically grows up to 60 centimeters tall and has an inflorescence that is a cluster of tiny flowers. The flowers are pinkish-purple, tubular in shape, and 5-7 millimeters long. The leaves are green, oval-shaped, and grow opposite to each other along the stem. The plant has a sparse branching structure, and the stem is covered with tiny white hairs.
Uses:
The Mojave owls clover has been historically used by Native Americans for medicinal purposes. The plant contains potent antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that are useful in treating various ailments such as respiratory disorders, infections, and skin irritations. It is also believed to have properties that can help in reducing fever and relieving pain.
In recent times, the bicolor owls clover is popularly grown as an ornamental plant due to its unique flowers and striking appearance. It is also favored by pollinators such as bees and butterflies and is often used as a natural addition to pollinator gardens.
Cultivation:
The bicolor owls clover can be propagated through seeds. It is a low maintenance plant that requires moderate watering and good sunlight. The plant is well suited for rock gardens and can grow in soil with good drainage. It is also deer-resistant and can tolerate drought.
Light Requirements
Orthocarpus lithospermoides Benth. var. bicolor (Heller) Jepson requires full sunlight to grow properly. The plant thrives in bright, direct sunlight for extended periods of time, and typically does not do well in shaded areas or low light conditions. It is important to keep the plant in a location with ample access to natural light.
Temperature Requirements
Orthocarpus lithospermoides Benth. var. bicolor (Heller) Jepson grows best in moderate temperatures. The plant prefers a daytime temperature range of 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 23°C) and a nighttime temperature range of 50°F to 60°F (10°C to 15.5°C). Extreme heat or cold can negatively affect the plant's growth and survival.
Soil Requirements
Orthocarpus lithospermoides Benth. var. bicolor (Heller) Jepson requires well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. The plant thrives in soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. It is important to keep the soil evenly moist, but not too wet, as this can lead to root rot. Adding organic matter to the soil can help increase its overall health and fertility, allowing for optimal growth of the plant.
Cultivation:
Orthocarpus lithospermoides Benth. var. bicolor (Heller) Jepson, commonly known as white owl clover, is a native plant found in California and Nevada. It prefers well-draining soil and full sunlight to thrive. The ideal time to plant this species is in the early to midspring after the chance of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up. Before planting, it is recommended to prepare the soil by removing any weeds or debris and loosening the soil to a depth of at least 6 inches.
Watering Needs:
White owl clover prefers moderate watering. Excessive watering may cause root rot, while inadequate watering may lead to stunted growth. It is essential to water the plant deep enough to moisten the roots, but not soak them. A regular watering schedule is recommended, especially during hot and dry weather conditions.
Fertilization:
Orthocarpus lithospermoides Benth. var. bicolor (Heller) Jepson does not require much fertilization to thrive. However, a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20, can be used during the growing season to support growth and flowering. It is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions and not over-fertilize the plant.
Pruning:
White owl clover does not require much pruning since it is a small and compact plant. However, it is recommended to deadhead the spent flowers regularly to promote new growth and prolong the blooming period. Pruning can also be done to shape the plant, remove any damaged or dead stems, and improve air circulation.
Propagation of Orthocarpus lithospermoides Benth. var. bicolor (Heller) Jepson
Orthocarpus lithospermoides Benth. var. bicolor (Heller) Jepson, commonly known as "Bicolored owl's-clover", can be propagated through both vegetative and seed propagation methods.
Seed Propagation
The most common way to propagate Bicolored owl's-clover is through seed propagation. The seeds can be collected in late summer, typically between August and September. The seeds can be dried in the sun for several days, after which they can be stored in a cool and dry place until they are ready to be planted.
Once the seeds are ready to be planted, they can be sown either indoors or outdoors. If sowing indoors, it is recommended to start the seeds in the late winter or early spring, typically between February and April. The seeds should be sown in flats or seed trays filled with well-draining planting mix. Water the soil regularly to keep it evenly moist. The seeds should germinate within a few weeks.
If sowing outdoors, seeds should be sown in the spring, typically between March and May. The seeds should be sown in an area that receives full sun and has well-draining soil. Rake the soil to create a smooth surface, then sow the seeds evenly across the soil. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and water gently to keep the soil moist.
Vegetative Propagation
Orthocarpus lithospermoides Benth. var. bicolor can also be propagated through vegetative propagation methods. This involves taking stem cuttings from established plants and rooting them to create new plants. Stem cuttings should be taken in the late spring or early summer, typically between May and June.
To take a stem cutting, select a healthy stem from an established plant. Use a sharp, clean pair of scissors or pruning shears to cut a 3-4 inch section of stem. Remove any leaves or flowers from the lower half of the stem, leaving only a few leaves at the top. Dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone, then plant the stem in a well-draining planting mix. Keep the soil moist and the cutting in a warm and bright location. After a few weeks, the cutting should develop roots and can be transplanted into a larger pot or into the garden.
Disease Management
Orthocarpus lithospermoides Benth. var. bicolor is susceptible to several diseases that can affect the plant's growth and yield. Here are some common diseases that affect this plant and ways to manage them:
1. Root Rot
Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, causing them to wither and die. The plant may show stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and wilting. Management methods for this disease include ensuring proper drainage in the soil and avoiding overwatering. Also, you can use fungicides to control the spread of the disease.
2. Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is another fungal disease that can affect Orthocarpus lithospermoides Benth. var. bicolor. It appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves and stems of the plant. The leaves may also turn yellow or brown and fall off. The prevention and management of this disease include avoiding overhead watering, reducing humidity around the plant, and using fungicides.
Pest Management
Orthocarpus lithospermoides Benth. var. bicolor is also susceptible to pests, which can cause damage to the plant. Here are some common pests that affect this plant and ways to manage them:
1. Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the plant, causing the leaves to curl and become distorted. They also excrete a sticky substance on the plant, which can attract other pests and diseases. To control their population, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil, which are both effective against aphids.
2. Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny arachnids that feed on the plant's sap, causing it to turn yellow or brown. They also produce fine webbing on the plant. To manage this pest, you can use horticultural oil, which suffocates and kills spider mites.
3. Thrips
Thrips are small, slender insects that suck the sap from the plant, causing it to become distorted. They also transmit several diseases that can affect the plant's growth. To control their population, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil, which are both effective against thrips.
