Overview: Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. ssp. melanocephala Hook.
Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. ssp. melanocephala Hook. is a subspecies of Oxytropis campestris, a plant belonging to the legume family (Fabaceae). This plant is native to the western regions of North America, including Canada and the United States. It is commonly known as Black-head wild blueflower, Melanocaphala Oxytrope, Black-headed-bunch-flower, Black-headed Oxytrope, Melanocaphala Oxyrotrope, and Plains Loco.
Appearance:
Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. ssp. melanocephala Hook. is a perennial plant that grows up to 20 cm in height. It has a taproot that can penetrate deep into the soil. The stem of the plant is hairy, and it bears alternate and trifoliate leaves. The leaves are broad and oval-shaped, each with three leaflets that are dark green in color. The flowers are small, about 1 cm long and grow in dense clusters. The blossoms are typically dull pink or pale purple and occasionally white.
Uses:
Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. ssp. melanocephala Hook. has been used traditionally by indigenous peoples for medicinal purposes. For example, decoctions made from the plant have been used to treat kidney diseases such as nephritis and hematuria. The plant extracts have also been shown to have antibacterial properties against some pathogenic strains. Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. ssp. melanocephala Hook. is also used for landscaping purposes and is attractive to pollinators.
However, some subspecies of Oxytropis campestris are known to contain the alkaloid swainsonine, which can be toxic to livestock if ingested in sufficient quantities. Therefore, farmers should take care when utilizing Oxytropis campestris as pastureland.
Light Requirements
Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. ssp. melanocephala Hook. requires full sun to flourish. The plant prefers at least six hours of direct sunlight each day and cannot grow properly in shady areas.
Temperature Requirements
Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. ssp. melanocephala Hook. is a hardy perennial that is adapted to a wide range of temperatures. The plant can tolerate frost and heat. In general, the ideal temperature for the plant's growth ranges from 15-20°C. However, it can also grow at temperatures as low as -40°C and as high as 35°C.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained soils that are slightly acidic to neutral. The ideal soil pH for the plant ranges from 6.0 to 7.0. The soil should also be moderately fertile and high in organic matter. Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. ssp. melanocephala Hook. prefers soils that are not waterlogged, as the roots may rot in such conditions. The plant can grow in a wide range of soils, but it grows best in sandy or loamy soils.
Cultivation Methods for Oxytropis Campestris (L.) DC. ssp. Melanocephala Hook.
Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. ssp. melanocephala Hook. is a hardy plant that can thrive in a variety of soil types, including alkaline and acidic soils. This plant prefers full sun to partial shade and requires at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. The plant can be propagated through seeds or through division of established plants.
Watering Needs for Oxytropis Campestris (L.) DC. ssp. Melanocephala Hook.
Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. ssp. melanocephala Hook. has moderate water needs. The plant should be watered regularly, preferably once a week, or more frequently during hot and dry weather conditions.
Fertilization for Oxytropis Campestris (L.) DC. ssp. Melanocephala Hook.
Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. ssp. melanocephala Hook. does not require heavy fertilization. It can be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer, typically once a year during the growing season.
Pruning for Oxytropis Campestris (L.) DC. ssp. Melanocephala Hook.
Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. ssp. melanocephala Hook. is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal pruning. The plant can be pruned in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged foliage and to promote healthy growth. The stems can also be cut back after flowering to maintain the plant's shape.
Propagation of Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. ssp. melanocephala Hook.
Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. ssp. melanocephala Hook. can be propagated by various methods. These include seed propagation, division, and vegetative propagation.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. ssp. melanocephala Hook. can be planted directly into the soil in spring, or stratified over winter and planted in the spring. Seedlings should emerge within 1-2 months. It is important to note that fresh seeds will germinate better than older ones.
Division
Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. ssp. melanocephala Hook. can be propagated by division of the rootball. This method involves carefully digging out the plant and separating the roots into several pieces. Each divided root section should have at least one viable growth point. After division, the plant can be replanted in the preferred location or potted for later transplanting.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation of Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. ssp. melanocephala Hook. is accomplished by stem, leaf, or root cuttings. The best time for stem cuttings is in early summer, when the plants are actively growing. Leaf and root cuttings can be taken in the autumn after the foliage has died back. Cuttings should be taken from healthy plants and planted in a well-draining soil mix.
Overall, with the right growing conditions, Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. ssp. melanocephala Hook. can be easily propagated by seed, division, or vegetative propagation.
Disease and Pest Management for Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. ssp. melanocephala Hook.
Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. ssp. melanocephala Hook. is generally a low-maintenance plant that is not highly susceptible to diseases and pests. However, some factors can cause problems that may require management to maintain plant health and vigour. Here are some common issues and the ways to manage them:
Diseases
Crown Rot
Crown rot is a common fungal disease that affects the root system of plants. Affected plants usually show signs of wilt, stunted growth, yellowing of leaves and in severe cases, death. To control the disease, it is essential to avoid over-watering the plant and to ensure good drainage. Diseased plants should be removed to avoid spreading of the disease.
Virus Diseases
Several viral diseases such as alfalfa mosaic virus, bean yellow mosaic virus, and cucumber mosaic virus can affect Oxytropis campestris. Symptoms include distortion of leaves and stunted growth. To manage these viral diseases, infected plants should be removed and destroyed. It is also essential to control the populations of aphids and other insect vectors that spread the virus.
Pests
Aphids
Aphids are small insects that feed on plant sap. When they infest Oxytropis campestris, they cause distorted growth, yellowing of leaves and reduction in plant vigour. One way to manage aphids is to physically remove them from the plant using a strong jet of water. Insecticidal soap and neem oil can also be used to control aphid populations.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on plant sap, causing the leaves to turn yellow and become stippled. Heavy infestations can cause leaves to drop prematurely. To manage spider mites, the plants should be regularly inspected, and infested leaves should be removed. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be used to control spider mites.
Cutworms
Cutworms are the larvae of several species of moths that feed on plant stems. They cut through the stems at the soil level, causing the plant to wilt and die. To manage cutworms, it is essential to remove weeds and debris that may provide a breeding ground for the pests. A collar made from cardboard or paper can also be placed around the base of the plant to protect it from the cutworms.
