Origin
Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. var. jordalii (Porsild) Welsh, commonly known as Arctic locoweed, is a species of legume that is native to North America. It primarily grows in the Arctic tundra regions of Alaska and Canada, but can also be found in some areas of Greenland and Russia.
Common Names
Arctic Locoweed, Jordal's Locoweed
Description
Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. var. jordalii (Porsild) Welsh is a perennial flowering plant that is part of the Fabaceae family. It can grow up to 30 centimeters in height and forms a mat-like appearance with numerous stems. The plant has pinnate leaves that are green-grey in color and covered with fine white hairs. The flowers are pink to purple in color and are arranged in a tight cluster at the top of the stem. The pods produced by this plant contain several seeds, and the plant reproduces by seed.
Uses
Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. var. jordalii (Porsild) Welsh contains the alkaloid swainsonine, which can be toxic to livestock if ingested in large quantities. However, the plant has traditionally been used by indigenous peoples for medicinal purposes, including treating respiratory infections and digestive issues. Additionally, it has potential as a natural product for pharmaceutical use due to its alkaloid content.
Light Requirements
Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. var. jordalii (Porsild) Welsh requires full sunlight to grow. It is essential to ensure that the plant is planted in an area where it can receive direct sunlight for at least 6 to 8 hours each day. If planted in a shaded area, the plant growth may be stunted and produce fewer flowers.
Temperature Requirements
The optimum temperature for the growth of Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. var. jordalii (Porsild) Welsh is between 20°C and 30°C. The plant grows well in areas where the temperature does not drop below -10°C. In colder regions, the plant may undergo dormancy during the winter season to cope with freezing temperatures. Conversely, extremely high temperatures can cause the plant to wilt and die.
Soil Requirements
Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. var. jordalii (Porsild) Welsh prefers well-drained soils with a pH range of 5.0 to 7.5. The soil should be sandy or loamy and provide sufficient aeration. Waterlogged soils or soils with poor drainage conditions are unsuitable for the growth of this plant. Incorporating organic matter into the soil can improve its fertility and provide essential nutrients for the plant’s growth.
Cultivation
Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. var. jordalii (Porsild) Welsh is a hardy plant that prefers well-drained soil. It grows best in full sun to partial shade and in soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. When planting, make sure to space the plants at least 12 inches apart.
Watering needs
The plant requires moderate watering as it doesn't like its roots to be too wet. Water only when the soil is almost dry to the touch, and make sure the soil is not water-logged.
Fertilization
Fertilize Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. var. jordalii (Porsild) Welsh during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 or 14-14-14. Apply the fertilizer according to the package instructions, usually every other month. Do not over-fertilize, as this can cause the plant to grow too quickly and become weak.
Pruning
Pruning helps the plant to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. Prune in early spring before new growth appears or in late fall after the plant has finished flowering. Cut back any dead or damaged branches, and prune the plant to promote bushier growth. Make sure to sanitize the pruning tools to avoid introducing disease into the plant.
Propagation of Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. var. jordalii (Porsild) Welsh
Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. var. jordalii (Porsild) Welsh, commonly known as the Arctic locoweed, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Fabaceae family. It is native to the Arctic regions of Canada, Alaska, and Greenland. The plant has attractive purple flowers and is commonly used in landscaping. Here are the propagation methods of Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. var. jordalii (Porsild) Welsh:
Seed propagation
Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. var. jordalii (Porsild) Welsh can be propagated from seeds. Sow the seeds outdoors in the fall or early spring. The seeds require a period of cold stratification to germinate, which can be achieved by storing them in moist sand or peat moss in the refrigerator for six to eight weeks before sowing. Sow the seeds in well-drained soil and cover them lightly with soil. Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged, until the seeds germinate.
Division propagation
Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. var. jordalii (Porsild) Welsh can be propagated by dividing the plant. This method is best done in the spring when the plant is actively growing. Dig up the plant and gently separate the roots into smaller sections. Replant the sections in well-drained soil and water thoroughly.
Cuttings propagation
Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. var. jordalii (Porsild) Welsh can be propagated by cuttings. Take a cutting from a healthy stem of the plant in the spring or summer. Make the cut just below a node (where a leaf meets the stem) and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in well-drained soil. Water thoroughly and keep the soil moist until roots form.
Propagation of Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. var. jordalii (Porsild) Welsh can be done through seeds, division, and cuttings. With proper care and maintenance, the plant can be multiplied and used for landscaping or other horticultural purposes.
Disease management
Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. var. jordalii (Porsild) Welsh is generally a hardy plant, but there are a few diseases that can impact its growth and overall health. Some common diseases that might affect this plant include:
Bacterial wilt
Bacterial wilt is caused by the bacterium Pseudomonas savastanoi and leads to yellowing and wilting of the plant. Affected stems become soft and break easily. To manage bacterial wilt, remove and destroy infected plants. Avoid planting in soil that has previously been affected by the disease. Practice crop rotation and ensure proper drainage to prevent the growth of this bacterium.
Root rot
Root rot is caused by several different fungi and can lead to stunted growth, yellowing foliage, and eventual death of the plant. To manage root rot, ensure proper soil drainage and avoid overwatering. If plants are already infected, remove and destroy the affected plants.
Pest management
While Oxytropis campestris (L.) DC. var. jordalii (Porsild) Welsh is not typically a target for pests, there are a few pests that might cause damage to these plants. Some common pests that might affect this plant include:
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on plant sap. They can cause yellowing or curling of the leaves and can also transmit plant viruses. To manage aphids, blast the affected plants with a strong spray of water to remove them. Ladybugs and lacewings are natural predators of aphids and can also be introduced to manage larger infestations.
Spider mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that suck on plant sap and can cause leaves to appear stippled or discolored. In severe infestations, webbing may also be visible. To manage spider mites, remove and destroy affected leaves and increase humidity around the plant to discourage the pests. Predatory mites and ladybugs are natural predators of spider mites and can also be introduced to manage larger infestations.
