Origin and Common Names
Oxytropis lagopus Nutt. var. atropurpurea (Rydb.) Barneby, commonly known as the Purple Oxytropis or Purple Locoweed, is a perennial herb that belongs to the Fabaceae family. This plant is native to the western United States, particularly found in Colorado, Wyoming, Utah, Idaho, Montana, and Nevada.
General Appearance
The Purple Oxytropis grows up to 8 inches tall and spreads over 1-2 feet wide, forming a mat-like appearance. The leaves are composed of 6-10 oval-shaped leaflets growing up to 1 inch long and covered in fine hairs. The flowers are purple, pink, or violet, growing in clusters on a tall stem above the leaves. The plant produces seed pods containing several black seeds.
Uses
The Purple Oxytropis is not commonly used for medicinal purposes, as it contains an alkaloid that is toxic for animals. However, some Native American tribes have used the plants in low doses for stomach pains and kidney problems. This plant is also used to prevent erosion due to its mat-like growth and nitrogen fixation capabilities. Additionally, it improves soil quality and provides food for wildlife.
Light Requirements
Oxytropis lagopus Nutt. var. atropurpurea (Rydb.) Barneby grows best in full sun to partial shade. It requires at least six hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive, although it can tolerate some shade.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to the western United States and prefers cool to moderate temperatures. It can tolerate cold temperatures down to -20°F (-28°C) during the winter months and hot temperatures up to 90°F (32°C) in the summer.
Soil Requirements
Oxytropis lagopus Nutt. var. atropurpurea (Rydb.) Barneby prefers well-draining, rocky or sandy soil that is slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5-7.0). It does not tolerate waterlogged soil, so good drainage is essential. This plant can grow in poor soil, but it thrives in nutrient-rich soil.
Water Requirements
This plant is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. However, it should be watered deeply once a week during periods of prolonged drought to prevent wilting.
Cultivation methods
Oxytropis lagopus Nutt. var. atropurpurea (Ryb.) Barneby, commonly known as Purple Alpine-Sedge, is a perennial plant that requires well-draining soil, full sunlight, and cool to moderate temperatures. This plant thrives in sandy or loamy soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. It is not a heavy feeder and prefers soil that is not over-fertilized. When planting, it is essential to ensure the roots are thoroughly covered with soil, but the crown should remain above the surface.
Watering needs
Purple Alpine-Sedge benefits from watering 1-2 times a week, especially during the growing season. This plant's watering requirements increase in hot weather or during periods of drought, but you need to ensure that the soil is not waterlogged. If the soil is heavy, the plant can develop root rot, which can be fatal. Therefore, it is essential to maintain proper drainage and avoid overwatering.
Fertilization
This plant requires moderate fertilization. You need to use a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 NPK formula. Check the label instructions before applying. Fertilize the plant once in the spring, and again in early summer. Avoid using too much nitrogen, as it can encourage leaf growth at the expense of flower production.
Pruning
Purple Alpine-Sedge does not require significant pruning, but you can trim off any dead or damaged growth as it occurs. After flowering, it is recommended to cut back the plant to promote vigor and produce bushier growth.
Propagation of Oxytropis lagopus Nutt. var. atropurpurea (Rydb.) Barneby
Oxytropis lagopus Nutt. var. atropurpurea (Rydb.) Barneby, commonly known as Purple Arctic Oxytropis, is a perennial herbaceous plant that can be propagated through various methods. Farmers and gardeners can use these methods to propagate the plant and expand their garden or farm.
Seed Propagation:
One of the most common methods of propagating the Oxytropis lagopus is through seed propagation. The purple arctic oxytropis produces fertile seeds during the flowering season and the seeds can be harvested at that time. The seedlings require a well-drained, sandy soil, and moist conditions for germination and growth. The seeds should be sown in the soil at a depth of 1-2 cm during the fall season. After sowing the seeds, the soil should be watered regularly until the plant grows to maturity.
Division:
The Oxytropis lagopus can also be propagated through division. This method is used when the plant is established and has formed a clump. The root ball can be dug out, and the clump can then be separated into smaller sections. These smaller sections can then be replanted in another location with well-drained soil and moderate sun exposure.
Vegetative Propagation:
Vegetative propagation is another method that can be used to propagate the Oxytropis lagopus. This method involves using plant parts such as stem cuttings and runners for propagation. Stem cuttings should be taken during the spring season, from new growth, and should be planted in a well-drained soil and watered regularly until established. Runners can be taken from the base of the plant, and can be transplanted into a new location.
Overall, the Oxytropis lagopus is a versatile plant that can be propagated through various methods. Farmers and gardeners can use these methods to propagate the plant and expand their garden or farm.
Disease and Pest Management for Oxytropis Lagopus Nutt. Var. Atropurpurea (Rydb.) Barneby
Oxytropis lagopus Nutt. var. atropurpurea (Rydb.) Barneby, commonly known as Purple Arctic Oxytrope, is a perennial flowering plant that is native to North America. While this plant is generally disease and pest resistant due to its high elevation habitat, there are a few pests and diseases that can affect it. Proper management techniques can ensure the health and preservation of these plants.
Common Diseases
Oxytropis lagopus Nutt. var. atropurpurea is susceptible to leaf spot diseases caused by fungi, such as Ascochyta oxytrope and Phoma oxytrope. These diseases often appear as brown or black spots on the leaves and can spread quickly if left untreated. Vegetation can also be affected by root rot diseases such as Pythium and Phytophthora.
Disease Management
The key to managing diseases in Oxytropis lagopus Nutt. var. atropurpurea is to avoid overwatering the plant and ensure proper drainage. Watering should be done as per the requirements of the plant and in a way that leaves the surface of the rootball moist. To prevent the spread of infection, remove the affected plant parts, and avoid excessive fertilization.
Common Pests
Oxytropis lagopus Nutt. var. atropurpurea is often affected by pests such as aphids, spider mites, and thrips. These pests typically attack the underside of the plant leaves and can cause distortion, wilting, and yellowing of the foliage. Additionally, grasshoppers and other chewing insects may feed on the plant, causing extensive damage.
Pest Management
There are several methods to manage pests affecting Oxytropis lagopus Nutt. var. atropurpurea. One of the methods is to regularly inspect the plant and remove any pest infestations using a targeted water jet. For larger infestations, natural insecticides such as neem oil and insecticidal soaps can be used. Introducing natural predators can also be beneficial to help control pest populations.
In conclusion, proper care and management can help prevent disease and pest infestations in Oxytropis lagopus Nutt. var. atropurpurea. This will help ensure that these beautiful flowers continue to thrive in their native habitat.
