Origin
Oxytropis lambertii Pursh var. articulata (Greene) Barneby, commonly known as the Arctic locoweed, is a plant species native to the Arctic regions of North America, including Alaska, Canada, and Greenland.
Common Names
Arctic locoweed is known by several common names in different regions, including "Arctic crazyweed," "Arctic woollypod," and "Lambert's locoweed."
Uses
The Arctic locoweed has been traditionally used by several Native American tribes to treat various ailments, including snake bites, menstrual problems, and colds. However, the plant contains toxic alkaloids that can cause neurological damage to grazing animals, and it is currently considered a threat to livestock in some regions.
General Appearance
The Arctic locoweed is a perennial herb that grows up to 40 cm tall and has a deep taproot that allows it to survive in the harsh Arctic conditions. The plant has large, pinnate leaves that are covered in dense, silvery hairs, and produces dense clusters of small, pinkish-purple flowers on a spike-like inflorescence. The flowers are followed by elongated, hairy pods that contain the plant's seeds.
Light Requirements
Oxytropis lambertii Pursh var. articulata requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It is tolerant of some shade but may not flower as profusely in shaded areas. It is important to note that too much shade can result in leggy, weak stems.
Temperature Requirements
Oxytropis lambertii Pursh var. articulata is native to high elevations and is well-adapted to cold temperatures. It is able to tolerate extreme fluctuations in temperature. However, it prefers cooler temperatures in the range of 50-70 degrees Fahrenheit. It is important to protect the plant from excessively hot temperatures as it may cause wilting and damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
Oxytropis lambertii Pursh var. articulata prefers well-drained soils with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. It is tolerant of a range of soil types but does best in soils that are nutrient-rich. Adding compost or organic matter to the soil can improve drainage and provide necessary nutrients. Avoid planting the species in heavy clay soils as it may cause root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Oxytropis lambertii Pursh var. articulata (Greene) Barneby is a hardy perennial plant that grows in rocky, sandy, or gravelly soils. The plant prefers well-drained soils and full sun. It is important to keep the soil moist during the first few weeks after planting.
When planting, make sure to dig a hole that is two to three times wider than the root ball. Place the plant in the hole and fill with soil. Tamp the soil gently and water thoroughly. Mulching around the base of your plant can help control weeds and keep the soil moist.
Watering Needs
Oxytropis lambertii Pursh var. articulata (Greene) Barneby requires moderate watering. The plant should be watered regularly, but you should avoid overwatering as this can lead to rotting roots. The plant should be watered deeply at least once a week, especially during hot and dry weather.
It is also important to keep the soil moist during the first few weeks after planting to help the plant establish itself.
Fertilization
Oxytropis lambertii Pursh var. articulata (Greene) Barneby does not require heavy fertilization. An application of a balanced fertilizer such as a 10-10-10 formula once in the spring can be beneficial. Avoid overfertilizing, as this can lead to excessive growth and can even damage the plant.
Pruning
Pruning should be done sparingly with Oxytropis lambertii Pursh var. articulata (Greene) Barneby. The plant is naturally bushy, and pruning is primarily done for shaping purposes or to remove any damaged or dead growth. The best time to prune is in the early spring before new growth appears. During this time, it is easy to identify any dead or damaged branches or growth and remove them without causing any harm to the plant.
In conclusion, taking good care of Oxytropis lambertii Pursh var. articulata (Greene) Barneby is relatively easy. With proper cultivation methods, moderate watering, light fertilization, and occasional pruning, your plant can thrive and add beauty to any garden.
Propagation of Oxytropis lambertii Pursh var. articulata (Greene) Barneby
Oxytropis lambertii Pursh var. articulata (Greene) Barneby is a beautiful small plant with purple to blue flowers. Propagation of this plant can be done by various methods such as seed propagation, division, and stem cuttings.
Seed Propagation
The easiest and most common method of propagating Oxytropis lambertii Pursh var. articulata is through seed propagation. The seeds can be directly sown in the ground after the last frost to ensure proper germination. Before planting, treat the seeds with hot water to break dormancy. The soil must be well-draining and of high quality for successful germination. Water regularly and avoid allowing the soil to dry out. The seedlings will appear within three to five weeks after sowing.
Division
Oxytropis lambertii Pursh var. articulata can also be propagated through division. The best time to divide the plant is in early spring before new growth appears. Dig up the plant and gently pull the roots apart using a sharp and clean tool ensuring that each division has at least one rhizome and a few leaves. Replant the divisions in potting soil and maintain adequate moisture levels.
Stem Cuttings
Propagating Oxytropis lambertii Pursh var. articulata through stem cutting is a bit tricky and requires a bit of skill. Take a 3-4 inch cutting from the plant's stem in early summer when the plant is actively growing. Remove all but the topmost leaves and dip the cuttings into rooting hormone. Plant the cuttings into moist potting soil and cover them with plastic wrap to maintain humidity levels. Place the pot in a bright, indirect light area and maintain moisture levels by watering as needed, and avoid letting the soil dry out. New growth will appear within four to six weeks, and the rooted plant can be repotted into a larger container or planted in the garden when the roots are strong enough.
Disease and Pest Management for Oxytropis lambertii Pursh var. articulata (Greene) Barneby
Oxytropis lambertii Pursh var. articulata (Greene) Barneby is normally resistant to most pests and diseases. However, some pests and diseases might affect this plant, and as a gardener, here are some tips on how to manage them:
Diseases
One of the most prominent diseases that might affect Oxytropis lambertii Pursh var. articulata (Greene) Barneby is the root rot disease. This disease is caused by fungi, and it usually affects the plant's roots. To manage this disease, it's essential to take preventative measures like proper irrigation, good drainage, and ensuring that the plants are in well-drained soil or potting mix. One should also avoid overwatering or watering the plants during the late afternoon or evening.
Another common disease that might affect Oxytropis lambertii Pursh var. articulata (Greene) Barneby is the stem rot disease. This disease is also caused by fungi, and it can cause extensive damage to the plant's stems. To manage this disease, one should remove all the affected parts of the plant and ensure that the plant gets adequate ventilation and sunlight.
Pests
Oxytropis lambertii Pursh var. articulata (Greene) Barneby is resistant to most pests, but some might cause damage to the plant. Some of these pests include the mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids. To manage these pests, one should use insecticides that are safe for use on the plant, and always follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Another common pest that might affect Oxytropis lambertii Pursh var. articulata (Greene) Barneby is the leafhopper. This pest can cause extensive damage to the plant's leaves by sucking sap from them. To manage this pest, one should use insecticides that are safe for use on the plant and ensure that the plant is adequately hydrated.
In conclusion, it's essential to keep an eye on Oxytropis lambertii Pursh var. articulata (Greene) Barneby for any signs of diseases or pests and take preventative measures to avoid damage. With proper care and attention, your plant can grow healthy and strong.
