Introduction
Penstemon crandallii A. Nels. var. atratus (Keck) N. Holmgren is a flowering perennial plant that belongs to the family Plantaginaceae. The plant is native to North America, specifically found in California and Nevada. It is popularly known for its attractive flowers and medicinal uses.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Crandall's Beardtongue, Sierra Penstemon, or Great Basin Penstemon.
Appearance
The plant has a thick basal rosette of green leaves, and the stem is upright, ranging from 1-3 feet tall. The leaves are lance-shaped and covered with fine hairs, and its flowers have a tube-like shape with five petals, which are fused at the base to form a narrow tube. The flowers can be pink or lavender-blue and measure up to 2 inches long. The blooming period can range from May to July.
Uses
Crystalline compounds extracted from the plant are known to possess anti-tumor properties. Additionally, herbalists use the plant's roots to treat coughs and sore throats. The plant is also used as an ornamental plant in gardens for its attractive flowers.
Conclusion
Penstemon crandallii A. Nels. var. atratus (Keck) N. Holmgren is an attractive perennial plant that possesses various medicinal properties. It is popularly used in gardens and herbal medicine and is native to North America, particularly in California and Nevada.
Growth conditions for Penstemon crandallii A. Nels. var. atratus (Keck) N. Holmgren
Light: Penstemon crandallii var. atratus is a sun-loving plant that requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day. It can grow in partial shade, but it may result in weaker stems and fewer flowers.
Temperature: This plant is native to the western United States, including parts of California, Nevada, and Utah. It is adapted to a range of temperatures, from hot summer days to cold winter nights. The ideal temperature range for Penstemon crandallii var. atratus is between 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C) during the growing season.
Soil: Penstemon crandallii var. atratus grows best in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The ideal pH range for this plant is between 6.0 and 8.0. It is tolerant of a wide range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils, as long as they drain well. Good drainage is important because this plant is susceptible to root rot in waterlogged soils.
Cultivation Methods
Penstemon crandallii A. Nels. var. atratus (Keck) N. Holmgren can be cultivated indoors or outdoors. This plant grows best in well-draining soil that has an acidic pH, with a recommended pH range of 6.5-7.5. The ideal temperature range for this plant is 70-85°F. Indoor planters should be at least 6 inches deep while outdoor garden beds should be prepared to a depth of 12-15 inches for root growth.
Watering Needs
This plant requires moderate watering, about once or twice per week. However, the frequency of watering depends on various factors such as the season, humidity, and the soil type. It is important for the soil to be consistently moist but not waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Penstemon crandallii A. Nels. var. atratus (Keck) N. Holmgren benefits from fertilization at least once every two months. Nitrogen-rich fertilizers are recommended, as they promote vegetative growth. However, it is important not to over-fertilize, as this can harm the plant. A slow-release fertilizer application is recommended, following the recommended dosage on the package label.
Pruning
In terms of pruning, it is best to prune this plant shortly after blooming. Prune any weak or damaged stems, cutting them back to the base of the plant. This encourages the growth of new and stronger stems. Additionally, pruning after blooming can help maintain the plant's overall shape and prevent it from becoming too leggy.
Propagation of Penstemon crandallii A. Nels. var. atratus
Penstemon crandallii A. Nels. var. atratus (Keck) N. Holmgren, also known as the Uinta Basin beardtongue, can be propagated through different methods. It is a perennial plant that belongs to the family Plantaginaceae and is native to the western United States.
Propagation by Seeds
One of the most common methods of propagating Penstemon crandallii A. Nels. var. atratus is through seeds. The seeds can be collected once the plant has finished flowering and the seed pods have matured. These can be planted directly into the ground or in pots filled with well-draining soil. It is advisable to add a layer of sand to the soil to improve drainage. The pot or container should be kept in a warm and well-lit area, and the soil must be kept moist but not waterlogged. The seeds will germinate within two to four weeks.
Propagation by Cuttings
Another way to propagate Penstemon crandallii A. Nels. var. atratus is through stem cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Take a six-inch cutting from the stem of the plant with sharp scissors. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder. Stick the cut end into moist soil and place a plastic bag over the cutting to create a humid environment. Keep the soil moist and place the cutting in a well-lit area, but avoid direct sunlight. The cutting will root in four to six weeks.
Propagation by Division
Penstemon crandallii A. Nels. var. atratus can also be propagated through division. This method is best done in the spring or fall when the soil is moist and cool. Dig up the plant and carefully separate the root ball into several smaller clumps, ensuring that each clump has its set of leaves and roots. Plant the clumps back into the ground or in separate pots filled with well-draining soil, ensuring that the soil is kept moist until new growth appears.
Disease Management
Penstemon crandallii A. Nels. var. atratus is generally a hardy plant but can be susceptible to certain diseases. Here are some common diseases that might affect the plant and their management:
Botrytis blight
Botrytis blight, also known as gray mold, can occur in wet or humid conditions. The fungus attacks the foliage, stem, and flowers causing them to turn brown and wilt. To manage botrytis blight, remove infected plant parts and provide good air circulation. Avoid overhead watering and apply fungicide if necessary.
Crown rot
Crown rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots and stem base. Infected plants exhibit stunted growth and wilting. To manage crown rot, avoid overwatering and improve soil drainage. Remove infected plants and avoid planting susceptible species in the same location.
Phytophthora root rot
Phytophthora root rot is a soil-borne disease that affects the roots causing them to decay. Symptoms include yellowing foliage and poor growth. To manage Phytophthora root rot, improve soil drainage and avoid overwatering. Remove infected plants and avoid planting susceptible species in the same location.
Pest Management
Penstemon crandallii A. Nels. var. atratus is generally not bothered by pests. However, here are some common pests that might affect the plant and their management:
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on sap from the foliage. They cause distorted growth and can transmit plant viruses. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge them. Beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings can also help control the population.
Spider mites
Spider mites are tiny insects that feed on the underside of the leaves. They cause stippling and discoloration of the foliage. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge them. Encourage beneficial insects such as predatory mites and spiders to help control the population.
Slugs and snails
Slugs and snails are common pests that feed on the foliage and stem. They cause irregular holes and damage to the plant. To manage slugs and snails, remove debris and avoid overwatering to reduce their habitat. Lay down copper tape around the plant or apply iron phosphate bait to deter them.
