Overview
Pediomelum hypogaeum (Nutt. ex Torr. & Gray) Rydb. var. hypogaeum is a perennial flowering plant commonly known as the underground prairie clover. It belongs to the legume family, Fabaceae.
Origin
The plant is native to the central and western parts of North America, primarily in the great plains region of the United States.
Appearance
The underground prairie clover typically grows up to 30 centimeters tall. The plant has a woody, upright stem and a taproot system. The leaves are pinnately divided and have a fern-like appearance. The small, pea-like flowers of the plant are pinkish-purple in color and grow in dense, cylindrical clusters on top of the stem. The flowers bloom in mid-spring to summer.
Uses
The underground prairie clover is an important plant in the ecosystem as it supports pollinators, like bees and butterflies. The plant also serves as a food source for wildlife, including deer and rabbits.
In addition to its ecological importance, the underground prairie clover has medicinal properties, particularly in Native American traditional medicine. The roots of the plant are used to treat a range of ailments, including stomach-ache, cough, and sore throat.
Light Requirements for Pediomelum hypogaeum
Pediomelum hypogaeum is a sun-loving plant, and requires full sunlight exposure for optimal growth. The plant should be planted in an area that receives a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight per day. Lack of sunlight can lead to stunted growth and reduced flower production.
Temperature Requirements for Pediomelum hypogaeum
Pediomelum hypogaeum is a cool-season plant that prefers moderate temperatures. The recommended temperature range for this plant is between 55°F and 75°F (13°C to 24°C). Extreme temperatures may damage the plant, and it is important to protect it from frost during the winter months.
Soil Requirements for Pediomelum hypogaeum
Pediomelum hypogaeum grows best in well-draining, sandy or sandy loam soils with a pH range of 6.5 to 8.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter and should have good water retention capacity to ensure consistent soil moisture. The plant does not tolerate waterlogged soils, and it is important to avoid overwatering. This plant is adapted to grow in soil with low fertility, but can benefit from light applications of nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers.
Cultivation Methods
Pediomelum hypogaeum (Nutt. ex Torr. & Gray) Rydb. var. hypogaeum, commonly known as the plains nuttingshuttle, grows well in most soil types. However, it prefers well-draining soils and full sun to partial shade. Sow the seeds directly into the soil in early spring after the last frost.
It's important to note that this plant is slow-growing, so you need to be patient while cultivating it. It's ideal for naturalized landscapes, roadside planting, and forage. The plant can also be propagated through stem cuttings taken in summer.
Watering Needs
Pediomelum hypogaeum prefers moderate watering, so avoid over-watering the plant. In its natural habitat, it can thrive in areas receiving around 20 inches of rain per year. Therefore, it's advisable to water the plant once every week during the growing season and once every two weeks during the dormant season.
However, you should water the plant thoroughly to encourage deep rooting.
Fertilization
Fertilization is not necessary once the plant is well-established. However, if you decide to fertilize, avoid overdoing it, as too much nitrogen can lead to decreased seed production.
If you must fertilize, use a slow-release fertilizer applied in early spring.
Pruning
If you want to promote bushier growth, you can pinch back the growing tips of the plant in the first year of growth. After the second year, pruning is unnecessary. However, if you need to prune, do it during the dormant season.
Remove dead or diseased stems, and cut back any uneven growth. Avoid cutting too much of the plant's growth, as this could lead to decreased seed production and stunted growth.
Propagation of Pediomelum hypogaeum var. hypogaeum
Pediomelum hypogaeum var. hypogaeum is a North American native plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family, also known as the legume family. Its common name is the nuttall's prairie clover. It's a drought-tolerant perennial and has a deep root system that allows it to grow in a variety of soils and conditions. The plant grows up to 3 feet tall and has greenish-white flowers that bloom in the summer.
Propagation by Seed
Propagation of Pediomelum hypogaeum var. hypogaeum is most commonly done through the use of seeds. The best time to plant seeds is in the fall through winter, as this allows the seeds to undergo stratification. This means that the seeds are exposed to the cold temperatures of winter for a set amount of time, which allows them to germinate more readily in the following spring. Seeds can also be planted in the spring after the last frost, but this method requires scarification of the seed coat to help with germination.
Seeds should be planted at a depth of 1/4 to 1/2 inch in well-draining soil. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged, until germination occurs. The seedlings can then be thinned and transplanted.
Propagation by Cuttings
Pediomelum hypogaeum var. hypogaeum can also be propagated by cuttings. This method is less common and can be more difficult to achieve success, but it can result in quicker establishment of new plants. Cuttings should be taken in the spring or early summer from the stems of the plant that are actively growing. The cuttings should be approximately 3-6 inches long and have at least one node.
Once the cuttings are taken, they should be dipped in a rooting hormone and planted in well-draining soil. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, and the cuttings should be kept in a shaded area. After several weeks, new growth should be visible, and the plant can be transplanted into a permanent location.
Disease and Pest Management for Pediomelum hypogaeum
Pediomelum hypogaeum is a plant species that is prone to certain diseases and pests which can damage and stunt its growth. It is essential to understand the common diseases and pests that might affect this plant and the ways to efficiently manage them to ensure an optimal yield.
Common Diseases
The most common diseases affecting Pediomelum hypogaeum are fungal in nature. These include root and stem rot, dry rot, and leaf spot diseases. Root and stem rot typically occur when the plant is overwatered or when the soil doesn't drain well. To manage it, avoid overwatering, ensure the soil has good drainage, and remove diseased parts of the plant.
Dry rot disease is characterized by the transport of spores from infected parts of the plant to healthy parts through water, wind, or insects. To manage it, prune infected areas, avoid overhead watering, and allow sufficient space between plants to allow for air circulation.
Leaf spot disease is caused by fungal pathogens infecting the leaves. It appears as small spots on the foliage, which eventually lead to yellowing, withering, and shedding of the leaves. To manage it, prune infected areas, avoid overhead watering, and remove fallen debris or leaves around the plant.
Common Pests
Common pests affecting Pediomelum hypogaeum include aphids, spider mites, and nematodes.
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the plant, causing yellowing and distortion of the leaves. To manage them, introduce natural predators such as ladybugs, prune diseased areas, and spray insecticidal soap or neem oil on the plants.
Spider mites are tiny arachnids that cause yellowing, webbing and stunting of the plant. To control them, spray with water or neem oil, maintain high humidity levels, and avoid using chemical pesticides as they can increase their resistance.
Nematodes are microscopic worms that live in the soil and can cause plant infections leading to root rot and stunted growth. To manage them, use nematode-resistant varieties, practice crop rotation, apply organic matter to the soil, or use nematicides if the infestation is severe.
By following these management practices, it is possible to reduce the risk of diseases and pests, control their spread, and improve the yield and overall health of Pediomelum hypogaeum.
