Origin and Common Names
Oxytropis sordida auct. non (Willd.) Pers. p.p., commonly known as "dirty locoweed" or "woolly locoweed," is a species of perennial herbaceous plant in the Fabaceae family. It is native to western North America, including regions of Canada and the United States such as Alberta, Arizona, Montana, and Wyoming.General Appearance
This plant typically grows to be between 8 and 24 inches tall. It has hairy stems and leaves that are circular to oblong in shape, with a bluish-green coloration. The flowers are typically purple to pink or white in color, and they grow in clusters at the end of the stems. The fruits are small pods that contain multiple seeds.Uses
Despite its toxic properties, Native American tribes have traditionally used Oxytropis sordida for medicinal purposes, such as treating respiratory ailments and skin conditions. However, it is important to note that the plant is highly toxic to livestock, causing severe neurological damage and even death in animals that consume it. As a result, ranchers and farmers typically attempt to eradicate Oxytropis sordida from their land.Light Requirements
Oxytropis sordida typically grow in full sunlight to partial shade. However, most plants grow well in open areas with good access to sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows well in a temperature range of 8–18 °C. During hot and dry periods, the plant goes dormant until the next rainy season. The plant seldom survives in extreme temperatures, both high and low.
Soil Requirements
The species is quite adaptive and can grow in a variety of soils. Oxytropis sordida may grow in sand, loam, sandy loam, and clay loam soil, however, they prefer well-drained soil. It does best when grown in soils that are slightly alkaline to neutral, with a pH range around 6.0 to 7.5.
Cultivation Methods
The Oxytropis sordida plant can be grown both indoors and outdoors. If you plan to grow it indoors, ensure that it is placed in a bright spot with partial sunlight. If you plan to grow it outdoors, ensure that it is planted in a well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients and is slightly acidic. A cooler climate is ideal for this plant, and it grows well in USDA Zones 2 to 7. Plant the seeds in the spring or the fall and maintain a distance of at least 18 inches between each plant.
Watering Needs
It is crucial to water the Oxytropis sordida plant regularly to ensure that the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. This plant does not tolerate drought and can quickly wilt if it does not receive sufficient water. However, overwatering can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. The frequency of watering depends on the climate and the location of the plant. In warmer climates, the soil dries out faster, and the plant may need to be watered more often. Conversely, cooler climates may require less frequent watering.
Fertilization
The Oxytropis sordida plant responds well to organic fertilizers. You can use compost or well-rotted manure as a soil amendment to provide the plant with essential nutrients. Alternatively, you can use a balanced fertilizer with an equal ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (N-P-K). Fertilize the plant twice a year – once in the early spring, and once after the first flowering cycle. However, be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth and reduce blooming.
Pruning
Regular pruning is not necessary for the Oxytropis sordida plant. However, if the plant looks untidy or is growing too tall, you can trim it back in the late fall or early spring. Trim off any dead or diseased foliage, and be sure to use clean and sharp pruning tools to avoid damaging the healthy parts of the plant. Pruning can stimulate new growth and encourage a more compact and bushy appearance.
Propagation of Oxytropis sordida
Oxytropis sordida is a plant species that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of climatic conditions. Propagation of Oxytropis sordida can be done through several methods, including seed sowing, division, and root cuttings.
Seed sowing
Oxytropis sordida can be propagated through seeds, which are produced in pods that develop after flowering. These pods should be harvested when they start to split open. The seeds should be separated from the pods and stored in a cool, dry place until sowing time. For optimal germination, the seeds should be scarified by nicking the hard coat or soaking in hot water for several hours before planting in a well-draining soil mix. Sow the seeds in a seed tray, and keep it in a well-lit area. The seedlings should emerge within a few weeks, and they can be transplanted outdoors after 6-8 weeks.
Division
Another method of propagation for Oxytropis sordida is division. It involves separating the clumps of established plants into smaller sections and planting them in new locations. Spring is the best time to divide plants, and it should be done when they are actively growing. To divide, gently remove the plant from the soil, and separate the clumps from the root crown. Replant the divisions in a well-draining soil mix, ensuring that the soil is moist and firm around the roots.
Root cuttings
Propagation of Oxytropis sordida can also be done through root cuttings, which are taken from established plants. The best time to take cuttings is in early spring. Select healthy roots with a diameter of about 1 cm and a length of 10-15 cm. Cut the roots into sections of 5-7 cm in length and plant them horizontally in a well-draining soil mix, ensuring that the top of the cutting is level with the soil surface. Keep the soil moist and warm, and new shoots should emerge within a few weeks.
Disease Management
Oxytropis sordida auct. non (Willd.) Pers. p.p., commonly known as Locoweed, may suffer from various diseases that can affect the health and productivity of the plant. Here are some common diseases that are likely to affect the plant and the management strategies to control them:
Leaf Spots
Leaf spots are common fungal diseases that affect Oxytropis sordida plants. They are usually caused by the fungi Ascochyta pisi and Mycosphaerella pinodes. The spots are circular and can appear on both leaves and stems. They may turn brown or black and have a yellowish halo around them.
To manage leaf spots, it is advisable to prune off and remove all the infected parts of the plant. You can also apply fungicides, especially copper-based fungicides.
Root Rots
Root rots are fungal diseases that attack the root systems of Oxytropis sordida plants. They are caused by soil-borne pathogens like Phytophthora and Fusarium. Root rot diseases can lead to the wilting and eventual death of the plant.
To manage root rots, you need to avoid over-irrigation of the plant. Ensure that the soil is well-drained and avoid waterlogging. You can also use fungicides like Trichoderma harzianum and Bacillus subtilis to control root rots.
Pest Management
Aside from diseases, Oxytropis sordida is prone to pest attacks, which can interfere with its growth and productivity. Here are some common pests that can affect the plant and the management strategies to control them:
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that are common pests of Oxytropis sordida. They feed on the sap from the plant, which can lead to stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and curling.
To manage aphids, you can spray the plant with water to dislodge them. You can also use insecticidal soaps or neem oil to control them.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the sap from leaves, causing them to yellow and wilt. They can also produce webbing on the leaves.
To manage spider mites, you can use insecticidal soaps or neem oil. You can also prune and remove the heavily-infested leaves.
Cutworms
Cutworms are the larvae of several moth species. They hide during the day and come out at night to munch on the stems of plants, causing stunted growth and wilting.
To manage cutworms, you can use biological controls like Bacillus thuringiensis. You can also use physical barriers like collars around the stems of the plants to prevent the larvae from reaching the stem.
By following these pest and disease management strategies, you will be able to ensure that your Oxytropis sordida plants grow and thrive throughout their life cycles.
