Origin
The Oxytropis leucantha (Pallas) Pers. var. viscida (Nutt.) Boivin, also known as the white locoweed, is a species of flowering plant native to North America, particularly in the western United States and Canada.
Common Names
The plant is commonly referred to as white locoweed due to its white flowers and its association with the poisoning of grazing livestock. It is also known as white rushpea, sticky locoweed, and mountain sweetvetch.
Uses
The Oxytropis leucantha has been used in traditional medicine by Native American tribes to treat various health conditions such as rheumatism, headache, and stomach ailments. However, due to its toxicity, it is recommended that the plant be used with caution and only under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
The plant has also been known to have a negative impact on livestock as it is highly toxic when ingested. Livestock that graze on the plant are at risk of locoism, a neurological disorder that can affect their coordination, balance, and overall health. As such, it is important to keep livestock away from areas where the plant grows.
General Appearance
The Oxytropis leucantha is a perennial herb that can grow up to 20 inches tall. It has a woody stem that becomes woody with age and is covered with sticky hairs. Its leaves are pinnate, with numerous leaflets that are oblong or lanceolate in shape. The plant's flowers are white, pea-like, and grow in clusters on the top of the stem. The fruit is a hairy legume that contains several small seeds.
Light Requirements
Oxytropis leucantha var. viscida is a plant that thrives in full sun to partial shade. Therefore, it requires bright light for optimal growth. The plant typically grows in open, sunny areas such as meadows, grasslands, or open woodlands where it receives enough light to thrive.
Temperature Requirements
Oxytropis leucantha var. viscida is a hardy plant that can tolerate extreme temperatures ranging from hot summers to cold winters. It typically grows in areas with a temperate climate, with temperatures ranging from -10 °C to 30 °C (-14 °F to 86 °F). The plant can also survive in regions with cold temperature extremes of up to -40 °C (-40 °F), making it ideal for growing in colder regions.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-draining soils with a pH ranging between 5.5 to 7.5. It thrives in nutrient-rich soils that are not too wet or too dry. Sandy or rocky soils usually provide adequate drainage and prevent the plant from being overwatered. Additionally, the plant can tolerate short periods of drought, making it ideal for growing in areas with irregular rainfall patterns.
Cultivation
Oxytropis leucantha (Pallas) Pers. var. viscida (Nutt.) Boivin is a perennial herbaceous plant that thrives in full sun, well-drained soils, and moisture-rich environments.
The plant requires a pH range of 6.0-7.5 for optimal growth and needs to be protected from strong winds that can damage its foliage. It can be propagated by seeds or vegetative cuttings and is relatively easy to grow.
Watering Needs
Oxytropis leucantha (Pallas) Pers. var. viscida (Nutt.) Boivin requires moist soil for healthy growth. Regular watering should be done during the growing season to maintain an adequate level of soil moisture.
The frequency and intensity of watering depend on various factors, including the soil type, humidity, and temperature. During the winter dormancy period, the plant requires little or no watering.
Fertilization
The plant requires minimal fertilization as it can thrive well in nutrient-poor soils. However, a small amount of balanced fertilizer can be applied to promote healthy growth, especially during the flowering period.
The application of excessive fertilizer can lead to salt build-up in the soil, resulting in stunted growth and yellowing of foliage.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Oxytropis leucantha (Pallas) Pers. var. viscida (Nutt.) Boivin, as the plant typically grows to a maximum height of 2 feet, and the foliage tends to stay compact.
If there are any yellow or damaged leaves, they can be carefully removed using pruning shears to prevent disease or pest infestation.
The plant requires minimal maintenance, making it an excellent choice for low-maintenance gardens and landscapes.
Propagation of Oxytropis leucantha var. viscida
Oxytropis leucantha var. viscida can be propagated through both sexual and asexual methods.
Sexual Propagation
The plant produces seeds that can be collected and sown in the spring or fall. Before sowing, the seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours to enhance their germination rate. Sow the seeds in a soil mix of peat moss and perlite, and keep the soil consistently moist. The seeds should germinate in around two weeks. Once the seedlings have developed their first true leaves, they can be transplanted into separate containers and grown until large enough to be planted into their permanent outdoor locations.
Asexual Propagation
Oxytropis leucantha var. viscida can also be propagated asexually through division and stem cuttings.
Division: Divide mature plants in the spring or fall by carefully digging up the plant and separating the root clumps. Each clump should have some roots and shoots. The divided sections can then be planted in prepared soil.
Stem Cuttings: Take stem cuttings from healthy, mature plants in the summer. Cut 4- to 6-inch sections of stem that have at least one node. Remove the bottom leaves, dip the cut end in rooting hormone, and stick the stem in a soil mix of peat moss and perlite. Mist the cuttings regularly and keep them in a warm, bright location. The cuttings should develop roots in 4-8 weeks, and can be transplanted into their permanent containers after a few roots have grown.
Disease Management
Oxytropis leucantha (Pallas) Pers. var. viscida (Nutt.) Boivin is generally resistant to many diseases, but some common fungal and bacterial diseases may affect the plant.
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease can lead to leaf spotting, deformation, and defoliation. To manage anthracnose, remove the infected plant debris and provide good air circulation for the plant.
- Rust: Rust appears as yellow-orange spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and apply a fungicide to manage rust.
- Crown Rot: This soil-borne disease can lead to wilting and death of the plant. Remove the infected plant and improve soil drainage to manage crown rot.
Pest Management
Some common pests that may affect Oxytropis leucantha (Pallas) Pers. var. viscida (Nutt.) Boivin are described below.
- Aphids: Aphids can damage the plant by feeding on the sap and causing yellowing and deformation of the leaves. Use an insecticidal soap or a strong stream of water to manage aphids.
- Cutworms: Cutworms can cut through the stem of the plant, causing it to wilt and die. Use a biological control or a pesticide to manage cutworms.
- Spider mites: Spider mites can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Use a miticide to manage spider mites.
