Origin and Common Names
Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. ssp. varians (Rydb.) Cody, more commonly known as the field locoweed, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to North America, and it can commonly be found in the western United States, including Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, and Colorado.
The plant has a variety of common names, including locoweed, white locoweed, prairie locoweed, poisoned-weed, and crazyweed.
Appearance
The field locoweed has an upright growth habit, with stems that can grow up to 30 cm in height. The leaves are pinnately compound and consist of 11-19 small leaflets. The plant produces showy flowers that are white, pink, or purple and arranged in clusters at the top of the stem. The fruit is a pod that contains a few seeds.
The plant’s appearance can be striking, with its showy flowers and compound leaves. However, it is important to note that the plant is toxic and can cause serious harm when consumed by animals and humans.
Uses
The field locoweed has been used traditionally by some indigenous tribes for medicinal purposes. It has been said to have pain-relieving and calming properties. However, it is important to note that the plant is toxic and should not be consumed without proper preparation and dosage guidance from a qualified healthcare practitioner.
The plant’s toxicity has been a concern for ranchers and livestock owners since the plant is toxic to cattle and other livestock. Ingesting too much of the plant can lead to a condition called “locoweed poisoning,” which can cause serious health problems in animals. As a result, control measures have been employed to limit the plant’s spread and minimize its negative effects on livestock.
In summary, Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. ssp. varians (Rydb.) Cody is a perennial plant native to North America, with a variety of common names, including the field locoweed. The plant has a striking appearance, with pinnately compound leaves and showy flowers. However, it is important to note that the plant is toxic and can cause serious health problems in animals and humans. While the plant has been used traditionally for medicinal purposes, its toxicity has led to concerns about its impact on livestock, and control measures have been employed to limit its spread.
Growth Conditions of Oxytropis Campestris (L.) DC. ssp. Varians (Rydb.) Cody
Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. ssp. Varians (Rydb.) Cody is a unique plant that grows in the western part of North America. Here are the typical growth conditions required for this plant:
Light
Oxytropis campestris requires full sunlight to grow properly. In areas where there is limited sunlight, the plant may become weak and can have stunted growth. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that the plant is located in an area where it can receive enough sunlight for at least six hours a day.
Temperature
The plant requires a temperate climate to grow healthily. It can survive in temperatures as low as -20°C (- 4°F) and as high as 30°C (86°F). During the winter, the plant becomes dormant and experiences cyclical freezing and thawing in the soil. In contrast, it starts to grow in the spring when the temperature rises above freezing levels. In the summer, the plant may need some form of shade or protection from the sun to prevent heat stress and dehydration, which is especially crucial in hot and dry climates.
Soil Requirements
Oxytropis campestris has specific soil requirements to grow correctly. The plant prefers well-drained, sandy, silty or gravelly soil that is slightly acidic with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. The soil should have adequate levels of nutrients, including nitrogen and phosphorous, which are essential for the plant's growth. Additionally, the soil should be moist, but not waterlogged, as the plant cannot tolerate water-logged soils. It is therefore necessary to ensure that the soil is adequately drained and retains the right amount of moisture.
By following the above growth conditions of Oxytropis Campestris (L.) DC. ssp. Varians (Rydb.) Cody, the plant can grow healthy and produce satisfactory yields.
Cultivation
Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. ssp. varians (Rydb.) Cody, commonly known as the alpine locoweed, is a perennial plant that thrives in rocky or gravelly soils in alpine tundra, subalpine meadows, and mountain slopes. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. It grows well in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 8.
Propagation from seeds is the preferred method of growing Oxytropis campestris ssp. varians. The seeds require stratification to break dormancy. This involves placing the seeds in moist sand or vermiculite and refrigerating at 40°F to 45°F for six weeks before sowing them in the spring. You can also purchase seedlings and transplant them in the garden after all danger of frost has passed.
Watering Needs
Oxytropis campestris ssp. varians is a drought-tolerant plant that does not require frequent watering. However, newly planted seedlings need regular watering until they establish a strong root system. Water the plants deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce the frequency during fall. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Fertilization
The alpine locoweed is a nitrogen-fixer and does not require additional fertilizer. Too much fertilizer can lead to excessive vegetative growth and reduced flower production. However, you can amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility and structure.
Pruning
Oxytropis campestris ssp. varians does not require pruning for healthy growth. However, you can deadhead the spent flowers to promote continuous blooming and prevent self-seeding. Cut back the stems to the ground in late fall after the first killing frost to prevent diseases and pest infestations during winter.
Propagation of Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. ssp. varians (Rydb.) Cody
Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. ssp. varians (Rydb.) Cody can be propagated through different methods such as seed germination, division, and cuttings.
Seed Germination
Seeds of Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. ssp. varians (Rydb.) Cody can be collected when they are ripe. The seeds can be stored in a cool and dry place until they are ready to be sown. For germination, the seeds can be placed in a potting mix that is well-draining and has good aeration. The seeds should be sown on the surface of the soil and covered lightly. The potting mix should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Seeds typically germinate within a few weeks at a temperature of around 20-25°C.
Division
Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. ssp. varians (Rydb.) Cody can be propagated through division of established plants. The best time to divide the plants is in the spring or early fall when the plant is not actively growing. The plant can be gently lifted from the soil and the root system can be divided into smaller sections. Each section should have some roots and shoots. The divided plants can be transplanted into well-draining soil and watered thoroughly.
Cuttings
Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. ssp. varians (Rydb.) Cody can be propagated through stem cuttings. The best time to take stem cuttings is in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. The cuttings should be taken from healthy, disease-free plants. The stem cuttings should be approximately 4-6 inches long and have at least two sets of leaves. The lower leaves should be removed and the stem should be dipped in rooting hormone. The stem cuttings should be placed in a well-draining potting mix and kept moist. The cuttings can be covered with a plastic bag or dome to maintain humidity. The cuttings should root within a few weeks and can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden.
Disease Management
Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. ssp. varians (Rydb.) Cody is not typically susceptible to many diseases. However, one common disease that may affect this plant is powdery mildew.
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white or gray powder on the leaves of the plant. To manage this disease, it is important to keep the plant well-ventilated to prevent the buildup of moisture on the leaves. In addition, the use of fungicides may be necessary if the infection is severe.
Pest Management
The most common pests that may affect Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. ssp. varians (Rydb.) Cody are aphids and spider mites.
Aphids are small insects that feed on the sap of the plant, leading to stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To manage aphids, natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings can be introduced to the area. Additionally, insecticidal soap or neem oil may be used to control infestations.
Spider mites are also small insects that feed on the sap of the plant, leading to discoloration and browning of the leaves. To manage spider mites, it is important to keep the plant well-watered and well-hydrated. In addition, the use of miticides may be necessary if the infestation is severe.
