Origin
Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. var. dispar (A. Nels.) Barneby, commonly known as Disparate Locoweed or Meadow Locoweed, is a herbaceous plant species from the pea family Fabaceae. The plant is native to North America, where it grows widely in grasslands, meadows, and open forests.
Common Names
The common name Disparate Locoweed refers to the unevenly spaced leaflets on the plant's compound leaves. Other common names include Field Oxytrope, Prairie Locoweed, and Purple Locoweed.
Uses
Despite its toxicity, Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. var. dispar has some medicinal properties. Native American tribes have used the plant to stimulate labor, treat headaches, and relieve pain. Moreover, the plant is also used in traditional veterinary medicine as a vermifuge against internal parasites. However, due to the plant's toxicity, these uses should only be undertaken under the guidance of a qualified healthcare practitioner.
General Appearance
Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. var. dispar is a perennial herb that typically grows up to 45 cm in height. The leaves are compound, with 9–15 elliptical to oblong leaflets that are unequal in size. The flowers of the plant are purple and arranged in a dense spike-like inflorescence at the tip of the stem. The fruit of the plant is a pod that is 10-18 mm long containing several seeds. The plant's roots are long and tapering, and extensive underground branches help to anchor the plant in the soil.
Light Requirements
Oxytropis campestris var. dispar typically grows in areas with sun exposure ranging from partial to full sunlight. Therefore, it requires bright light conditions to thrive. This plant species can adapt to partial shading, and it can also tolerate full sunlight exposure. When grown in areas with lower light levels, the plant tends to produce fewer flowers and foliage.
Temperature Requirements
Oxytropis campestris var. dispar can grow in a wide range of temperatures. However, the ideal temperature range for this plant species is between 20 to 25°C during the day and around 15°C at night. In regions with hot summers, the plant grows well in areas with moist soils. During the winter season, the plant becomes dormant, and it can tolerate temperatures as low as -15°C.
Soil Requirements
The plant species requires well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal soil pH for Oxytropis campestris var. dispar growth ranges between 6.0 and 6.5. The soil should be slightly alkaline and not too acidic. It is essential to ensure that the soil is not waterlogged, as stagnant water can lead to root rotting and hinder the growth of the plant. This plant species can grow in various soil types, including loam, sand, and clay soils. However, it tends to grow best in sandy soils with a good drainage system.
Cultivation Method for Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. var. dispar (A. Nels.) Barneby
The Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. var. dispar (A. Nels.) Barneby is a tough plant and can grow even in harsh climates. However, it prefers full sunlight and well-drained soil. The ideal soil pH range for this plant is between 6.5-7.5. For optimal growth, plant the Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. var. dispar (A. Nels.) Barneby in the early spring or the fall.
Watering Needs for Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. var. dispar (A. Nels.) Barneby
Since the Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. var. dispar (A. Nels.) Barneby is a drought-tolerant plant, be careful not to overwater it. Water it only when the soil is dry to the touch. During the growing season, water it once a week. However, in winter, water it occasionally only when the soil dries out completely. Water at the roots rather than the leaves to avoid fungal diseases.
Fertilization for Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. var. dispar (A. Nels.) Barneby
To enhance the growth of the Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. var. dispar (A. Nels.) Barneby, add a slow-release, balanced fertilizer. In late winter, before the growing season, sprinkle two tablespoons of the fertilizer around the base of the plant. Repeat this process every six weeks until late summer. Avoid using too much fertilizer, as it can cause root damage.
Pruning Techniques for Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. var. dispar (A. Nels.) Barneby
Pruning of the Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. var. dispar (A. Nels.) Barneby is not necessary since it has a natural growth habit. However, if you want to maintain its shape or size, prune it lightly in late winter or early spring. Remove any dead, diseased or damaged branches by cutting them back to the healthy wood. Also, remove any crossing branches or those that interfere with shape. Avoid over-pruning, as it can damage the plant.
Propagation of Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. var. dispar (A. Nels.) Barneby
Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. var. dispar (A. Nels.) Barneby can be propagated through both seed and vegetative means.
Seed Propagation
Seeds can be collected from mature seedpods in late summer and dried. They can then be stored in a cool, dry place until ready to be planted. To prepare the seeds for planting, they should be scarified to break the seed coat and allow for better water absorption. This can be done by soaking the seeds in hot, but not boiling, water for several hours or by rubbing them lightly with sandpaper. After scarification, the seeds can be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until germination, which can take anywhere from 2-6 weeks. Once seedlings have emerged, they can be transplanted into larger containers or directly into the garden.
Vegetative Propagation
Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. var. dispar (A. Nels.) Barneby can also be propagated through division of the roots or stem cutting propagation. Division should be done in the spring or fall, when the plant is not actively growing. The plant can be gently lifted from the ground, and the roots separated using a sharp, sterile tool. Each division should have several buds or shoots, and can be planted in a new location immediately.
For stem cutting propagation, cuttings should be taken from new growth in the spring or early summer. Cuttings should be 4-6 inches long and taken from the tips of the plants. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in a rooting hormone before placing it in a well-draining soil mix. The cuttings should be kept moist and in a bright, but indirect, light until roots have formed. Once roots have formed, the new plants can be transplanted into larger containers or directly into the garden.
Disease and Pest Management for Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. var. dispar (A. Nels.) Barneby
Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. var. dispar (A. Nels.) Barneby is a plant that is fairly resistant to diseases and pests if grown in its native habitat. However, when grown in other regions, the plant may encounter a few pests and diseases that can affect its health and growth. Therefore, it is important to manage these pests and diseases to ensure the plant's survival and productivity.
Common Diseases that Affect Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. var. dispar (A. Nels.) Barneby
1. Root Rot- This disease is caused by fungi that live in the soil. It occurs when the soil is too wet and does not allow for proper drainage. Symptoms of root rot include wilting, yellowing, and stunted growth. To manage this disease, it is important to ensure that the soil is well-drained and that the plant is not overwatered. Additionally, the use of fungicides can help prevent and manage the disease.
2. Powdery Mildew- This disease is caused by a fungus that creates a powdery white substance on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. It can lead to wilting and stunted growth. To manage this disease, ensure that the plant is not overwatered and avoid wetting the leaves when watering the plant. Additionally, pruning infected plant parts can help contain the spread of the disease. The use of fungicides can also be effective in managing powdery mildew.
Common Pests that Affect Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. var. dispar (A. Nels.) Barneby
1. Aphids- These are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They can cause stunted growth and wilting of the plant. To manage aphids, the use of insecticidal soap or neem oil can be effective in killing the pests. Additionally, introducing natural predators such as ladybugs can help control the infestation.
2. Spider Mites- These are tiny pests that feed on the leaves of the plant. They can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. To manage spider mites, the use of insecticidal soap or neem oil is effective in killing the pests. Additionally, increasing the humidity around the plant and regular misting can help prevent infestations.
In conclusion, managing pests and diseases is crucial for the survival and productivity of Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. var. dispar (A. Nels.) Barneby. By following the tips and strategies provided above, the plant can thrive and grow healthy.
