Origin
Oxytheca parishii Parry ssp. abramsii (McGregor) Munz, commonly known as Abrams' oxytheca, is a California native species discovered in the North American continent.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Abrams' oxytheca in honor of LeRoy Abrams, an American botanist, or Parish Valley oxytheca, named after Samuel Bonsall Parish, a physician, and amateur botanist, who was the first to discover the species in San Bernardino County, California.
Uses
Oxytheca parishii Parry ssp. abramsii is attractive to native pollinators, was used historically as a natural remedy for various ailments such as burns, scabies, and rashes. The plant has also been utilized to treat respiratory conditions such as tuberculosis and asthma. It is also a significant food source for various species of wildlife such as ground squirrels and rodents.
General Appearance
Oxytheca parishii Parry ssp. abramsii has a compact, mat-forming growth habit with stems reaching around 3 inches in length. The plant produces small green leaves ranging in size from 2–5 mm with a glabrous surface. The species' inflorescences range in pinkish-white to purple with ovoid fruits that are less than 2mm long and are covered in glandular hairs. The plant thrives in rocky or sandy soils in California's Mojave and Sonoran Deserts, Colorado, and Utah.
Light Requirements
Oxytheca parishii Parry ssp. abramsii generally requires full sunlight to grow properly. It can tolerate some partial shade, but its growth rate may be affected in such conditions. When grown indoors, it is essential to place the plant in a location that receives a significant amount of natural light.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to the deserts of California and Baja California and can tolerate high temperatures and arid conditions. It can grow in areas where temperatures range from 30-120°F (-1 to 49°C) and can tolerate occasional frosts. In colder months, it may enter a period of dormancy, during which it may experience a reduced growth rate or shed its leaves.
Soil Requirements
Oxytheca parishii Parry ssp. abramsii prefers dry and well-draining soil that is sandy or has a rocky texture. A soil mixture with a high sand content is ideal for this plant. It can grow in soil with a lower pH between 5.5 and 6.5, and it can tolerate mildly alkaline soils with a pH of up to 8.5. However, it is essential to ensure that the soil is not too wet as this may cause root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Oxytheca parishii Parry ssp. abramsii (McGregor) Munz is a drought-tolerant plant that can grow in various soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. It prefers well-drained soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. This plant can thrive in full sun, but it can also tolerate partial shade. It's important to note that this plant is native to California and may not be suitable for growing in other regions.
Watering Needs
Oxytheca parishii Parry ssp. abramsii (McGregor) Munz requires moderate watering during its growing season. It's important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. The plant can go for extended periods without water due to its drought-tolerant nature. When watering, ensure that the soil is well-drained to prevent waterlogging, which can be detrimental to the plant.
Fertilization
Oxytheca parishii Parry ssp. abramsii (McGregor) Munz doesn't require heavy fertilization. It gets its nutrients from the soil. However, the occasional application of a small amount of organic fertilizer during the growing season can help to promote healthy growth.
Pruning
Pruning of Oxytheca parishii Parry ssp. abramsii (McGregor) Munz isn't necessary, as it maintains a compact growing habit. However, if you want to shape the plant or control its growth, you can prune it lightly in the late winter or early spring before the growing season. Avoid pruning too much, as this can affect the plant's natural shape and growth habit.
Propagation of Oxytheca parishii Parry ssp. abramsii
Oxytheca parishii Parry ssp. abramsii can be propagated by various methods, including:
Seed Propagation
Seeds are the preferred method of propagation for Oxytheca parishii Parry ssp. abramsii. Sow seeds in well-draining soil mix with a little sand. If sowing seeds in pots, keep them in a cool shady spot. The germination period typically takes two to three weeks, but can take longer.
Division
Oxytheca parishii Parry ssp. abramsii can be multiplied by dividing mature plants into smaller sections. This method is best done in spring or early fall. Dig up the plants and carefully separate them into two or three clumps. Replant the separated clumps immediately.
Cuttings
Oxytheca parishii Parry ssp. abramsii can also be propagated from stem cuttings. Take cuttings from new growth in the spring or summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone, and plant them in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist, and place the cuttings in a cool, shady spot until new roots develop.
Disease Management
Oxytheca parishii Parry ssp. abramsii (McGregor) Munz is relatively disease-resistant, but there are a few diseases that can affect the plant.
Botrytis blight: This fungal disease causes brown or black spots on the leaves, stem, and flowers. To manage it, remove and destroy any infected plant parts, provide good air circulation around the plant, and avoid overwatering.
Root rot: Overwatering or poorly-draining soil can cause fungal infections that lead to root rot. To prevent this, make sure the soil is well-draining and allow it to dry out slightly between waterings.
Mildew: Powdery mildew can occur in humid or damp conditions and appears as a white or gray powdery substance on the leaves and stems. To manage it, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant.
Pest Management
Oxytheca parishii Parry ssp. abramsii (McGregor) Munz is also relatively pest-resistant, but there are a few pests that can be problematic.
Aphids: These small insects can cluster on the undersides of leaves and cause yellowing or distorted growth. To control them, use insecticidal soap or a strong stream of water to wash them off the plant.
Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing or bronzing of the leaves and produce fine webbing. To manage them, use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to suffocate them.
Thrips: These small insects cause silvering of the leaves and can spread viruses. To control them, use neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Regular monitoring of the plant can help spot any problems early and prevent them from becoming more severe.
