Origin and Common Names:
Pediomelum hypogaeum (Nutt. ex Torr. & Gray) Rydb. var. subulatum (Bush) J. Grimes, commonly known as the Indian breadroot or groundnut, is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to the Great Plains region of North America, specifically found in the states of Kansas, Nebraska, Colorado, Montana, Wyoming, South Dakota, North Dakota, and Texas. Some of the common names it is known by include prairie turnip, timpsila, breadroot, and buffalo beans.
Uses:
The Indian breadroot has long been a staple food of the indigenous people of the Great Plains. The plant's starchy taproot was traditionally harvested, dried, and ground into a flour. This flour was then mixed with water to form a nutritious dough that was used to make a variety of foods, including cakes, biscuits, soups, and stews. The Indian breadroot also has medicinal properties, and the root extracts have been used to treat a variety of ailments such as coughs, fevers, and digestive disorders.
General Appearance:
The Indian breadroot is a perennial herb that can reach a height of up to 2 feet. It has a taproot that can grow up to 3 feet deep in the ground. The plant's leaves are alternate and pinnately compound, with each leaf made up of 11-25 leaflets. The flowers are white or pinkish-purple in color and are produced in clusters at the end of the stems. The fruit is a legume that is cylindrical in shape and contains several seeds.
Light Requirements
Pediomelum hypogaeum var. subulatum is a sun-loving plant and requires full sunlight to grow properly. The plant may not reach its full potential if it is grown in shady conditions. It can tolerate some shade but should be planted in a location that gets at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day.
Temperature Requirements
Pediomelum hypogaeum var. subulatum is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It grows best in USDA hardiness zones 4-8 and can withstand temperatures as low as -30°F (-34°C) in the winter. The plant thrives in hot summer temperatures, with daytime temperatures between 70-90°F (21-32°C).
Soil Requirements
Pediomelum hypogaeum var. subulatum prefers well-draining soils that are sandy or gravelly. The plant can tolerate soils that are low in nutrients and pH levels ranging from 6.0-8.4. It is adapted to drought conditions and can grow in soils that have low moisture levels, but it will grow best in soils that are kept moist but not waterlogged.
Cultivation Methods
Pediomelum hypogaeum var. subulatum is a small, hardy plant that is easy to cultivate. It grows best in full sun and well-drained soil. The plant is adapted to grow in rocky or sandy soils, and it is found in arid regions across the western United States. It can be propagated by seed or by root cuttings.
Watering Needs
Pediomelum hypogaeum var. subulatum is drought-tolerant and does not require regular watering. However, during hot summers, it may benefit from occasional watering to keep the soil moist. Overwatering can cause root rot and damage the plant, so it's essential to let the soil dry out between waterings.
Fertilization
Pediomelum hypogaeum var. subulatum does not require regular fertilization. However, if the soil is poor and lacks essential nutrients, adding a balanced fertilizer before planting can benefit the plant's growth. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers as it can encourage excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
Pruning
Pediomelum hypogaeum var. subulatum does not require pruning. However, removing dead or damaged stems and leaves can improve the plant's appearance and overall health. It's best to do any pruning in the spring before new growth appears.
Propagation of Pediomelum hypogaeum var. subulatum
Pediomelum hypogaeum var. subulatum, also known as Bush's Scurfpea, is a native plant to the western United States that grows in dry and rocky soils. Propagating this plant can be done using different methods:
Seed Propagation
The most common propagation method for Pediomelum hypogaeum var. subulatum is through seeds, which can be collected from the plant during the fall season when the seedpods are mature. The seeds should be stored in a cool and dry place until they are ready for sowing the following spring. Before sowing, the seeds should be scarified to break the hard seed coat and allow for faster and more uniform germination. This can be done either mechanically (abrasion, nicking, or cutting) or chemically (soaking in concentrated sulfuric acid for a brief period).
After scarification, the seeds can be sown directly in the garden bed or in containers filled with a well-draining potting mix. They should be covered lightly with soil and kept moist until germination, which usually occurs within 2-3 weeks. Once the seedlings appear, they can be thinned to provide enough space for growth and development.
Vegetative Propagation
Pediomelum hypogaeum var. subulatum can also be propagated vegetatively through stem cuttings, although this method is not as common or as successful as seed propagation. The best time to take cuttings is during the early summer when the plant is actively growing. Cuttings should be taken from healthy and mature stems, about 4-6 inches long, and with at least two nodes.
The cuttings should be dipped in a rooting hormone powder and planted in a container filled with a well-draining potting mix. The container should be covered with a plastic bag or a plastic dome to maintain high humidity and prevent moisture loss. The cuttings should be kept in a warm and bright location but away from direct sunlight to avoid leaf scorch. Roots should start forming within 2-3 weeks, and once the cuttings are well-rooted, they can be transplanted into individual containers or in the garden bed.
Propagation of Pediomelum hypogaeum var. subulatum can be rewarding and enjoyable, especially when propagating from seed. This plant can add interest and texture to the garden bed with its unique foliage and flowers.
Disease Management
Pediomelum hypogaeum var. subulatum is typically a hardy plant that is relatively resilient to many diseases, but can still be affected by a few common ailments. One of the primary diseases that can affect this plant is root rot, which can be caused by over-watering or poor drainage. To prevent this, ensure that the soil is well-draining, and avoid over-watering the plant. If you notice signs of root rot, such as yellowing foliage or wilting leaves, dig up the plant and inspect the roots. Remove any mushy or discolored roots, clean the remaining healthy roots, and replant in fresh, well-draining soil.
Another common disease that can affect this plant is powdery mildew, which is a fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves. To prevent powdery mildew, avoid overcrowding plants, and ensure adequate spacing and ventilation. If you notice signs of powdery mildew, remove affected leaves and dispose of them, or use a fungicide to treat the plant.
Pest Management
While Pediomelum hypogaeum var. subulatum is typically not heavily affected by pests, it can still be vulnerable to a few common insects. One of the primary pests that can affect this plant is the spider mite, which is a tiny insect that can suck the juices from the leaves, causing discoloration, wilting, and stunted growth. To prevent spider mites, avoid over-watering the plant, which can create a humid environment that is conducive to their growth. You can also use a mild insecticidal soap solution to help control spider mites.
Another common pest that can affect this plant is the aphid. Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can feed on the sap from the leaves and stems, causing distortion and damage to the plant. To prevent aphids, avoid over-fertilizing the plant, which can attract them. You can also use a strong jet of water to dislodge aphids from the plant or use an insecticidal soap to help control them.
