Overview
Oxytropis deflexa (Pallas) DC. ssp. sericea (Torr. & Gray) Cody is a perennial plant species that belongs to the family Fabaceae, commonly known as the pea family. It is also commonly known as silky crazyweed or silky oxytrope and is native to North America.
Appearance
The plant has a unique appearance with a small taproot and a woody base. Its stem reaches up to 30-70 cm in height and has small leaflets with silky hairs. The leaves are pinnately compound with 7-21 leaflets, which are lance-shaped and have pointed tips. The flowers bloom between June and August, and they are bright pink in color with a yellow banner. The fruit of the plant is a hairy pod that contains one seed.
Uses
Oxytropis deflexa ssp. sericea has some medicinal properties and has been traditionally used by Native American tribes to treat various ailments. For example, it has been used to treat stomach and respiratory ailments, and as a poultice for skin problems. However, it is essential to note that the plant is toxic and can cause severe health problems if consumed in large amounts. Therefore, it is not recommended to use this plant for medical purposes without consulting a healthcare professional.
In addition to its medicinal uses, Oxytropis deflexa ssp. sericea has ecological importance as it is a nitrogen-fixing plant. It forms mutualistic relationships with soil bacteria that convert atmospheric nitrogen into a usable form that can be utilized by other plants. As a result, it helps to improve soil quality, making it an essential component of sustainable agriculture practices.
Conclusion
Oxytropis deflexa ssp. sericea or the silky crazyweed is a unique and ecologically important plant species that has been used traditionally for medical purposes. However, it is also essential to note that the plant is toxic and should not be consumed without professional guidance.
Light Requirements
Oxytropis deflexa ssp. sericea is a plant species that can thrive under full sunlight or partial shade. It can tolerate direct sunlight, but it also grows well in areas with filtered sunlight. When grown in high light conditions, it can produce more flowers and seeds compared to shaded areas.
Soil Requirements
The plant can adapt to different types of soil, but it prefers well-drained and sandy soils with a slightly alkaline pH. It can also grow in soils that are high in calcium carbonate and other minerals. To ensure proper growth, the soil must have good drainage and adequate moisture retention capacity. Soil that is too acidic or waterlogged can negatively affect the plant's growth and may lead to root rot.
Temperature Requirements
Oxytropis deflexa ssp. sericea is a cold-hardy plant that can grow in subalpine and alpine habitats. The plant can tolerate low temperatures, with the ideal temperature ranging between 60°F to 70°F (15°C to 21°C), while it can still grow in temperatures as low as -30°F (-34°C). During winter, the plant goes dormant and survives under a layer of snow. In spring, the plant starts growing again as the snow melts.
Water Requirements
Growing Oxytropis deflexa ssp. sericea requires moderate watering, and the plant can tolerate drought. However, during growing seasons, weekly watering or more frequent watering may be necessary to promote healthy growth. The plant is adapted to the dry mountain environment; it possesses deep roots that can reach groundwater reserves. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be harmful to the plant's growth and survival.
Cultivation Methods
Oxytropis deflexa (Pallas) DC. ssp. sericea (Torr. & Gray) Cody, commonly known as silky crazyweed, is a hardy perennial that can grow up to 20 cm tall. It prefers full sun exposure and well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH (6.0 -7.0) for optimal growth.
The plant can be propagated by seed or through division, with division being the preferred method as it ensures the plant's characteristics are maintained.
Watering needs
Oxytropis deflexa (Pallas) DC. ssp. sericea (Torr. & Gray) Cody requires moderate watering during the growing season, with the soil drying out between watering sessions. Overwatering can cause root rot, while underwatering can cause the plant to wilt and eventually die.
Fertilization
Fertilization is generally not necessary for Oxytropis deflexa (Pallas) DC. ssp. sericea (Torr. & Gray) Cody as it can thrive in poor soils. However, the addition of a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season can help boost the plant's growth and health.
Pruning
Pruning of Oxytropis deflexa (Pallas) DC. ssp. sericea (Torr. & Gray) Cody should be done during the dormant season. The aim should be to remove any dead or damaged parts of the plant to encourage new growth. The plant's naturally attractive shape should be maintained by shaping it to promote bushiness.
Propagation of Oxytropis deflexa (Pallas) DC. ssp. sericea (Torr. & Gray) Cody
Oxytropis deflexa (Pallas) DC. ssp. sericea (Torr. & Gray) Cody, commonly known as silky crazyweed, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the legume family (Fabaceae). Silky crazyweed has an attractive appearance with its gray-green leaves, purple-pink flowers, and silky hairs on the stems and foliage. The plant is native to western North America and can be found in alpine and subalpine meadows, shrublands, and rocky slopes.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method used to propagate Oxytropis deflexa ssp. sericea. Silky crazyweed produces seeds in pods that should be collected when they are dry and brown. The seeds should be stored in a cool, dry place until the following spring.
Before sowing the seeds, they should be scarified to improve germination. Scarification can be done by nicking the seed coat or rubbing the seeds between two sandpapers lightly. The seeds can then be sown directly into the garden or started indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. It is recommended to soak the seeds overnight before planting them.
Root Division Propagation
Oxytropis deflexa ssp. sericea can also be propagated through root division. This method involves dividing the root ball from an established plant into smaller sections and planting them separately.
Root division should be done in the spring when new growth has started. Carefully dig up the plant and divide the root ball into smaller sections, making sure that each section has enough roots and shoots. The smaller sections can then be planted in their desired location, making sure to keep the soil moist until they have established.
Propagation of Oxytropis deflexa ssp. sericea can be an excellent way to expand your garden or share this beautiful plant with others. With proper care, propagation can be successful using either seed or root division methods.
Disease Management
Oxytropis deflexa ssp. sericea is relatively disease-resistant, and the most common diseases affecting this plant are fungal infections.
Fungal Diseases: Fungal diseases can cause discoloration and spots on the leaves and stem of the plant. Gray mold, anthracnose, and rust are common fungal diseases that affect plants. One way to manage fungal diseases is by keeping the plant dry. Make sure the plant is planted in well-drained soil, and avoid over-watering. Additionally, removing dead or diseased plant matter can help prevent the spread of fungal diseases.
Pest Management
Aphids: Aphids suck sap from the plant and secrete a sugary substance that attracts ants. Aphids can be managed by washing them off the plant with a strong stream of water or by using an insecticidal soap.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the foliage of the plant, leaving tiny yellow or white spots. Spider mites can be managed by regularly washing the plant with a strong stream of water or by using insecticidal soap.
Leafhoppers: Leafhoppers are small, wedge-shaped insects that suck sap from plant leaves and inject toxins into the plant, causing yellowing or browning of the foliage. Leafhoppers can be managed by removing weeds and non-planted vegetation around the plant, as they serve as a breeding ground for leafhoppers. Additionally, using insecticidal sprays or a homemade garlic insecticide can also help manage leafhoppers.
