Overview
Oxytropis besseyi (Rydb.) Blank. var. argophylla (Rydb.) Barneby is a perennial plant species found in the western parts of the United States, specifically in the Rocky Mountains and the Great Basin.
Common Names
Oxytropis besseyi (Rydb.) Blank. var. argophylla (Rydb.) Barneby is commonly known as silverleaf crazyweed or simply silverleaf oxytrope.
Appearance
The plant is characterized by its silvery-green, hairy foliage and elongated stem that reaches up to 40 cm in height. The leaves are pinnately compound, with 5-7 leaflets per leaf and are silver-gray in color with silky hairs. The flowers are pea-shaped and are arranged on spikes, with colors ranging from light to dark purple. The plant usually blooms from June to August.
Uses
Oxytropis besseyi (Rydb.) Blank. var. argophylla (Rydb.) Barneby is typically used as forage for livestock, and as a source of food for native fauna. The plant has also been used medicinally by some Native American tribes as a poultice for treating various ailments such as wounds, burns, and respiratory problems. However, the plant is known to contain several toxic compounds that can cause serious harm, and caution should be taken when handling or ingesting the plant.
Light Requirements
Oxytropis besseyi var. argophylla thrives in full sun to partial shade. It grows best in areas that receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It can withstand freezing temperatures and prefers a cool climate. The optimal range of temperature for the plant growth is between 5°C-25°C (41°F-77°F).The plant is also drought-tolerant, making it suitable for xeriscaping conditions.
Soil Requirements
Oxytropis besseyi var. argophylla grows in a well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0. The plant prefers sandy or gravelly soil with a high content of organic matter. The soil should not be compacted or waterlogged.
Cultivation
Oxytropis besseyi (Rydb.) Blank. var. argophylla (Rydb.) Barneby, commonly known as Bessey's Locoweed, is a hardy plant that can grow in a range of soils, from sand to clay, as long as it is well-draining. It prefers full sun exposure.
The plant usually grows to a height of 8-20 inches and a width of 12-24 inches, depending on the growing conditions. It is a leguminous plant, and nitrogen-fixing bacteria in the roots help it access soil nitrogen that is otherwise unavailable to the plant.
Watering Needs
During the growing season, Bessey's Locoweed needs regular watering to ensure the soil stays moist but not waterlogged. It is best to water it early in the day, so the foliage has enough time to dry before nightfall.
However, in the winter, watering should be reduced to prevent root rot. It is best to let the soil dry out slightly before watering it again.
Fertilization
Bessey's Locoweed is a moderate feeder and responds well to fertilization. You can use a balanced fertilizer with equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, applied once in early spring and again in early summer.
The plant can also benefit from an application of compost and organic matter yearly. However, it is essential to make sure that the soil is well-draining and does not become waterlogged.
Pruning
Bessey's Locoweed does not need to be pruned regularly to maintain its shape, but deadheading after flowering can promote bushier growth. This is done by removing the spent flowers at the base of the spike.
If the plant has become too leggy, it can be pruned back to one-third of its original height in late winter or early spring. This will help stimulate new growth and prevent the plant from becoming woody.
Propagation of Oxytropis besseyi (Rydb.) Blank. var. argophylla (Rydb.) Barneby
Oxytropis besseyi (Rydb.) Blank. var. argophylla (Rydb.) Barneby, commonly known as Bessey's locoweed, is a perennial plant species found in the western United States. The plant is native to dry, rocky soils and can be propagated by several methods including seed, rhizome cuttings, and division.
Seed Propagation
The most common propagation method for Oxytropis besseyi is through seed. The plant produces small seeds that can be planted directly in the ground or in pots, in the fall or early spring. The seeds require a period of cold stratification to simulate winter conditions before germinating in the spring. The soil should be well-draining and kept moist until the seedlings emerge.
Rhizome Cuttings
Oxytropis besseyi also propagates well through rhizome cuttings. In the fall, when the plant is dormant, rhizomes can be cut into sections with at least one node and planted in a well-draining soil mix. Water and keep moist, and the new plants should emerge in the spring.
Division
The final propagation method for Oxytropis besseyi is through division. This method is usually used to divide a mature plant that has become too large for its space. In the fall or early spring, the plant can be dug up and separated into individual sections that can be replanted in a well-draining soil mix. Water and keep moist, and new growth should appear in the spring.
Disease and Pest Management for Oxytropis besseyi var. argophylla
Oxytropis besseyi var. argophylla, also known as silvery crazyweed, is a hardy perennial herbaceous plant that is native to the Rocky Mountain region of North America. Like any other plant, it may be susceptible to various diseases and pests. Here are some common ones:
Diseases
One of the most common diseases that can affect Oxytropis besseyi var. argophylla is powdery mildew. This fungal disease causes white or gray powdery patches on the leaves, making them look sickly and reducing the plant's vigor. To manage powdery mildew, you can remove affected leaves and spray the plant with a fungicide according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Another disease that can cause problems is root rot. This happens when the soil is too moist, and the roots start to rot, causing the plant to wilt and die. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering.
Pests
One of the most disruptive pests for Oxytropis besseyi var. argophylla is aphids. These tiny insects suck sap from the plant's leaves, causing them to wilt and turn yellow. To manage aphids, you can use beneficial insects like ladybugs or spray the plant with insecticidal soap.
Another potential pest is spider mites. These tiny arachnids can cause leaf discoloration and webbing, which can damage the plant's appearance. To manage spider mites, you can increase humidity around the plant or spray it with a miticide.
To keep Oxytropis besseyi var. argophylla looking beautiful and healthy, you must keep it adequately watered, fertilized, and pruned. Regular inspection and prompt action against any diseases or pests are necessary to maintain the plant's overall health.
