Overview
Papaver radicatum Rottb. ssp. occidentale Lundstr. is commonly known as Western Arctic poppy. It is a perennial plant that is native to the Arctic regions of North America. It belongs to the family Papaveraceae.
Description
The plant is typically 10-30cm tall and has a basal rosette of leaves that are lobed and dissected. The stem is erect and has a few leaves. The flowers are yellow and have four petals that are typically 2cm in diameter. The fruit is a capsule that is 1-2cm long and contains many small seeds. The plant has a deep root system that helps it survive in the harsh Arctic climate.
Uses
Papaver radicatum Rottb. ssp. occidentale Lundstr. has several uses. The plant has been used by Indigenous communities for its medicinal properties. The roots and leaves of the plant have been used to treat a variety of ailments, such as stomach pains, colds, and coughs. The plant is also used in landscaping as an ornamental plant and is often grown in rock gardens or alpine conditions.
It is important to note that the plant contains several alkaloids that are toxic to humans and animals. Therefore, it should not be ingested or used without proper guidance from a trained professional.
Cultivation
Papaver radicatum Rottb. ssp. occidentale Lundstr. is a hardy plant that is well-adapted to the Arctic climate. It prefers well-drained soils and requires full sun to grow. The plant can be propagated through seed or by dividing mature plants in early spring. The seeds should be planted shallowly in the soil and require a period of cold stratification to germinate.
The Western Arctic poppy is a beautiful and resilient plant that is well-suited for gardens in colder climates. It is valued for its ornamental and medicinal properties and is a delight to see in its natural habitat in the Arctic tundra.
Growth Conditions for Papaver radicatum Rottb. ssp. occidentale Lundstr.
Papaver radicatum Rottb. ssp. occidentale Lundstr., also known as western root poppy, is a perennial herb that is native to the western regions of North America, specifically in the states of California, Oregon, and Washington. This plant typically grows in grassy meadows, rocky slopes, and open woods at elevations ranging from sea level up to 2300 meters.
Light Requirements
Western root poppies thrive in areas with full sun or partial shade. They can grow in both direct and indirect sunlight, but require some shade during the hottest part of the day to prevent the soil from becoming too dry and hot.
Temperature Requirements
The western root poppy typically prefers mild temperatures ranging from about 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F). This plant is adapted to growing in cool climates and can tolerate frost during the winter months. However, temperatures that are too hot can cause the plant to wilt or die.
Soil Requirements
Western root poppies prefer well-draining soils with a pH of 5.5 to 7.5. They grow best in soils that are slightly acidic to neutral. These plants are adapted to growing in rocky or sandy soils that have low fertility. They are also tolerant of salty soils and can grow in areas with mild salinity.
Cultivation Methods
Papaver radicatum Rottb. ssp. occidentale Lundstr. is a hardy perennial plant and prefers to grow in a well-drained, sandy soil. It is best grown in full sun, but it can tolerate partial shade. When planting, space the plants at least 12-18 inches apart, with the crown of the plant level with the soil. Mulch the area around the plant to maintain moisture and protect against weeds.
Watering Needs
This plant prefers well-drained soil, but it still requires regular watering. The soil should be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more often in particularly dry or hot weather. Avoid watering the foliage, as this can encourage the growth of fungus.
Fertilization
Papaver radicatum Rottb. ssp. occidentale Lundstr. requires a moderate amount of fertilizer to grow well. Apply a low-nitrogen fertilizer, such as a 5-10-10 blend, in early spring when the new growth begins. Repeat the application every six weeks until early summer. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers, as this can result in excessive leaf growth at the expense of flowers.
Pruning
Pruning is not essential for this plant, but it can help to prolong the flowering period. When the flowers start to fade, cut the stems back to the base of the plant. This will encourage the plant to produce new growth and flowers. Deadhead the spent blooms regularly to prevent the plant from self-seeding excessively.
Propagation of Papaver radicatum Rottb. ssp. occidentale Lundstr.
The propagation of Papaver radicatum Rottb. ssp. occidentale Lundstr. can be done by either seed or vegetative propagation.
Propagation by Seed
Seeds of Papaver radicatum Rottb. ssp. occidentale Lundstr. can be sown directly in the garden during spring or early fall. Before planting, the soil should be prepared well by loosening it to a depth of at least 6 inches. The seeds should be lightly covered with soil, and the bed should be kept moist until the seedlings emerge. Once the seedlings have 4-6 true leaves, they can be transplanted to their final location.
Propagation by Vegetative Means
Papaver radicatum Rottb. ssp. occidentale Lundstr. can also be propagated by vegetative means. The plant produces adventitious shoots from its roots. These can be dug up, along with some roots, and transplanted either directly to their final location or to a nursery bed. Transplanting should be done during fall or early spring.
The plant can also be propagated through division. This involves dividing the root mass of an established plant into sections, each containing some roots and shoots. The sections can be transplanted to their final location or to a nursery bed.
Disease Management
Papaver radicatum Rottb. ssp. occidentale Lundstr. is susceptible to several diseases, which can have a significant impact on the plant’s growth and reproductive capacity. Some common diseases that affect this plant include:
- Powdery Mildew
- Botrytis Blight
- Septoria Leaf Spot
- Virus Diseases
Powdery Mildew: This disease causes a white powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers, which can reduce photosynthesis in the plant. To manage powdery mildew, remove any infected plant tissues and improve air circulation by pruning and spacing the plants properly. Also, avoid overhead watering and apply fungicides if necessary.
Botrytis Blight: This disease is caused by the fungus Botrytis spp. and can cause a gray mold on the plant’s tissues. To manage Botrytis blight, remove any infected plant tissues and improve air circulation and reduce humidity by providing proper ventilation. Also, apply fungicides preventively.
Septoria Leaf Spot: This disease causes brown spots on the leaves and can cause defoliation in the plant. To manage Septoria leaf spot, practice crop rotation and avoid overhead watering to minimize leaf wetness. Also, apply fungicides if necessary.
Virus Diseases: Several viral diseases can affect Papaver radicatum Rottb. ssp. occidentale Lundstr. The best way to manage these diseases is by preventing their spread. Use sterilized tools to prune and avoid mechanical damage to the plant, which can serve as an entry point for viruses. Also, avoid using infected seeds and plants and control any insect vectors that can transmit the virus.
Pest Management
Pests can also cause significant damage to Papaver radicatum Rottb. ssp. occidentale Lundstr. Some common pests that can affect this plant include:
- Aphids
- Snails and slugs
- Spider Mites
- Thrips
- Wireworms
Aphids: These pests can cause significant damage to the plant’s foliage and transmit viral diseases. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil spray and provide natural predators such as ladybugs.
Snails and Slugs: These pests can cause damage to the plant’s foliage, flowers, and fruits. To manage snails and slugs, remove any hiding places such as debris and improve drainage to prevent the accumulation of excess moisture. Use physical barriers like copper tape or diatomaceous earth, or use bait containing iron phosphate.
Spider Mites: These pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves, leading to the death of the plant. To manage spider mites, use insecticidal soap or neem oil and improve humidity levels by providing ample water and on-site misting.
Thrips: These pests can cause damage to the plant’s flowers, leading to reduced pollination and fruit formation. To manage thrips, use yellow sticky cards, insecticidal soap or neem oil, and maintain good outside sanitation by preventing the accumulation of plant debris.
Wireworms: These pests can cause damage to the plant’s roots and lateral buds. To manage wireworms, reduce their population using insects predators. Also, avoid planting this plant in soil with a high population of wireworms and apply approved insecticides if necessary.
