Parosela nana (Torr. ex Gray) Heller: Description
Parosela nana, also known as dwarf parosela, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to the western United States, particularly found in the states of California, Nevada, and Utah. The plant is known for its unique appearance, medicinal properties, and as an effective habitat for the native wildlife.
General Appearance
Parosela nana has a woody base and grows up to 30 cm tall. The plant's leaves are hairy, alternate, and linear, with entire to slightly serrated margins and a dull green color. The flowers grow in clusters of five to ten at the end of the stems. The flower heads are small and are about 3 to 7 mm wide with pale yellow ray flowers and brownish-yellow disc flowers. The fruits are small achenes with pappus, used for dispersion through the wind.
Common Names
Parosela nana is commonly known as dwarf parosela, dwarf false tarragon, and shortjack. The plant is also referred to as "Te Ta Wa" by the Paiute Native American group, meaning "growing on rocks."
Uses
The Paiute Native Americans have used Parosela nana as a medicinal plant to help alleviate fever, stomach aches, and other ailments. The plant is also beneficial to the wildlife, as it provides a necessary shelter, habitat, and food source for the insects and small animals. Additionally, Parosela nana can be used in landscaping as a ground cover or for erosion control.
Light Requirements
Parosela nana grows well in bright and indirect sunlight. It does not require constant exposure to direct sunlight. Hence, it can be grown indoors near a bright window or in a partially shaded outdoor location.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives in temperatures ranging from 50 °F to 80 °F. It is important to avoid exposing Parosela nana to temperatures below 45 °F or above 85 °F as it may cause stress and damage to the plant. Therefore, maintaining an average room temperature, or slightly cooler if outdoors, is ideal for its growth.
Soil Requirements
The ideal soil for Parosela nana is loose, well-draining, and rich in nutrients. A mixture of peat, perlite, and vermiculite provides good aeration and drainage, allowing roots to grow properly. A slightly acidic soil pH ranging between 5.5 to 6.5 is most suitable for this plant. Additionally, the soil must be kept moist and not water-logged to avoid root rot, which negatively impacts the plant’s growth.
Cultivation Methods for Parosela Nana
Parosela nana is a desert annual that requires exposure to full sun. This plant grows best in well-draining soil, and can be grown from seed or cuttings. Make sure to keep the soil moist until the seedlings are established, then gradually reduce the amount of water you provide.
Watering Needs for Parosela Nana
Parosela nana plants require regular watering during the growing season. However, you should always be careful to avoid over-watering as this plant can easily rot in overly moist soil. Water the plant deeply and allow the soil to dry out before watering again. During dry periods, it may be necessary to water more frequently to prevent the plant from wilting.
Fertilizing Parosela Nana
Parosela nana thrives in soil that is rich in nutrients. A balanced fertilizer can be applied to the soil before planting to help ensure that the plant has the nutrients it needs to grow. You can also use a liquid fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season, which can help promote healthy growth.
Pruning Parosela Nana
Parosela nana does not typically require pruning. However, if the plant becomes overgrown or leggy, you can pinch back the stem tips to encourage bushier growth. You can also remove any dead or diseased leaves or flowers to improve the appearance of the plant and prevent the spread of disease.
Propagation of Parosela Nana
Parosela nana (Torr. ex Gray) Heller, commonly known as dwarf yellow stonecrop, is a succulent perennial plant belonging to the Crassulaceae family. The plant is native to the western part of North America and is known for its ability to thrive in hot and dry environments.
Propagation Methods
The following are the commonly used propagation methods for Parosela nana:
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Parosela nana can be carried out through seeds. The plant produces small, black, and rounded seeds that can be sown during the spring season. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil and kept moist until they germinate. The plant's growth rate is slow, and it could take up to two years for the plant to reach full maturity.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation is a quicker way of propagating Parosela nana. This method involves taking a stem cutting from the parent plant, allowing it to dry for a couple of days before planting it in soil. The cutting should be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist until it roots. The ideal time for vegetative propagation is during the spring season when the plant is actively growing.
Division Propagation
Division propagation involves dividing the parent plant into smaller sections, each with its roots and stem. This method can be used to propagate mature Parosela nana plants. The ideal time for division propagation is during the early spring season. The divided sections should be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist until they establish roots.
Propagation of Parosela nana plant is an exciting and rewarding process. Whether you choose to use seeds, vegetative propagation, or division propagation, remember to provide the plant with well-draining soil, adequate moisture, and sunshine for it to thrive.
Disease Management
Parosela nana is a hardy plant that is generally resistant to diseases. However, it may still become susceptible to foliar diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. Powdery mildew is a white, powdery fungal growth that appears on leaves, while rust manifests as yellow or orange-brown pustules on the underside of leaves.
To manage powdery mildew, remove infected plant parts, spray with a neem oil solution, ensure proper air circulation and avoid overhead watering. For rust, remove infected leaves, increase air circulation, and avoid overcrowding plants. Spray with a copper fungicide if necessary.
Pest Management
Parosela nana may encounter pests like spider mites, whiteflies, and aphids. Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the sap of leaves, causing them to curl and distort. Whiteflies are small, white insects that damage plants by sucking sap and transmitting viruses, while aphids are tiny insects that also suck sap, causing leaves to curl and yellow.
To manage pest infestations, keep plants healthy, avoid over-fertilizing, and remove weeds. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to feed on pests. Wash the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge pests. If necessary, use an insecticidal soap or oil to control pests.
