Origin
Perideridia gairdneri (Hook. & Arn.) Mathias ssp. borealis Chuang & Constance, commonly known as northern yampah, is a species of plant in the Apiaceae family. The plant is native to North America, and it can be found growing in the northern parts of California, the Pacific Northwest, and western Canada.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as northern yampah, mountain sweet-cicely, and ranger's buttons.
Uses
The Northern Yampah has been traditionally utilized by indigenous people as an edible and medicinal plant. The roots of the plant are rich in carbohydrates and have been used as a food source by indigenous people in northwestern North America. The plant has also been used as a medicinal herb, where the roots have been used as a treatment for numerous ailments, such as colds, coughs, and fevers. Furthermore, the plant has been employed to stimulate breast milk production in women.
General Appearance
The Northern Yampah has an average height of 1-3 feet, with stems that grow upright and branched. The leaves of the plant are divided into several finger-like segments, giving it a lacy appearance. The Northern Yampah blooms from May to August, producing clusters of small white or whitish-green flowers that resemble an umbrella. The plant fruit consists of two small seeds that grow in separate chambers.
The Northern Yampah grows in open coniferous forests, meadows, and subalpine areas. The plant requires moist to wet soils and grows best in partial shade. Although the Northern Yampah is not commonly cultivated, it can be grown from seed in a shaded environment.
Light Requirements
Perideridia gairdneri ssp. borealis typically grow in areas with full sun exposure. The plant requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth. However, it can tolerate partial shade.
Temperature Preferences
The plant is native to North America, particularly in regions where the summer is hot and the winter is cold. The ideal temperature for P. gairdneri ssp. borealis to thrive ranges from 15°C to 25°C during the day and 0°C to 10°C at night. When exposed to extremely high temperatures, the plant stops growing.
Soil Requirements
The plant grows well in well-drained, loam and sandy soil. It can also tolerate slight alkaline or slightly acidic soils. The plant does not thrive in wet soils or soils that do not have proper drainage. It requires regular watering but prefers soils with moderate moisture levels rather than those that are too wet or too dry.
Cultivation Methods
Perideridia gairdneri ssp. borealis, also known as Northern Yampah or Gray's Yampah, can be grown from seeds outdoors. Plant them in well-drained soil in an area with partial to full sun exposure. It is best to sow the seeds in early spring, just as the soil begins to warm up. Keep in mind that these plants are slow-growing and take several years to reach maturity.
If you prefer to use transplants instead of seeds, make sure they are healthy and well-established before planting them outdoors. You can start them indoors in winter and gradually move them outside as the weather warms up.
Watering Needs
Northern Yampah prefers moist but well-draining soil. Water regularly, especially during hot, dry spells or when the soil feels dry to the touch. However, be careful not to overwater the plant, as it is susceptible to root rot. Additionally, to avoid fungal diseases and mildew, avoid watering from above and instead water directly onto the soil around the plant.
Fertilization
Perideridia gairdneri ssp. borealis does not require regular fertilization. However, if you want to encourage growth or correct nutrient deficiencies, you can fertilize the plant once or twice per year. Use a balanced fertilizer with macro-nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Additionally, applying organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure can be beneficial for the plant's growth and health.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Northern Yampah, but you can remove dead or diseased foliage as needed. Additionally, if you wish to limit the plant's size or promote bushier growth, you can pinch back the tips of the stems in early summer. However, remember that Perideridia gairdneri ssp. borealis is a slow-growing plant, so it may take several years to recover from severe pruning.
Propagation of Perideridia gairdneri (Hook. & Arn.) Mathias ssp. borealis Chuang & Constance
Perideridia gairdneri (Hook. & Arn.) Mathias ssp. borealis Chuang & Constance, commonly known as Sierra yampah, is a herbaceous perennial wildflower that is native to North America. It is a plant that typically grows in moist, shady areas, and its propagation is not difficult.
Seed Propagation
Perideridia gairdneri can be propagated through seeds, which can be collected from mature plants. The seeds need to be sown in well-draining soil during the fall or winter months. The soil should be moist, but not saturated, and the seeds must be covered lightly with soil. Once planted, they should be kept in a shaded area and watered regularly until germination occurs, which usually takes around 1-2 weeks. The seedlings can be transplanted into their permanent location once they have developed their first set of true leaves.
Division Propagation
Division is another propagation method for Sierra yampah. It involves separating mature plants into smaller pieces and replanting them. Division is best carried out during spring or early fall when the plant is dormant. First, the plant should be dug up carefully, and its root system should be divided into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has sufficient roots and shoots. The divided parts should be replanted in well-draining soil at the same depth as it was previously grown. They should be watered adequately and kept away from direct sunlight until the roots have established.
Cutting Propagation
Propagation by cuttings is feasible but time-consuming for Perideridia gairdneri. It involves taking cuttings from the parent plant and rooting them. The best time to take cuttings is during the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Cuttings should be around 4-6 inches in length and taken from the upper portion of the stem. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cut end should be dipped into rooting hormone before planting in moist, well-draining soil in partial shade. It is essential to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged, and protect the cuttings from excessive heat or cold until they have formed roots and started to grow.
Disease Management:
Perideridia gairdneri ssp. borealis is susceptible to a few diseases that can impact its overall health and productivity. The common diseases that affect this plant include root rot, powdery mildew, and leaf blight.
Root rot: Root rot can occur when the soil is constantly moist, especially in poorly drained soil. To avoid this, it is recommended to plant the seedlings in well-drained soil and avoid overwatering. In case you notice signs of root rot, it is advisable to remove the affected parts and keep the soil dry to stop the spread of the disease.
Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew can affect the leaves of Perideridia gairdneri ssp. borealis, making them appear white or grayish. To manage powdery mildew, it is recommended to keep the plant dry and ensure good air circulation. In case you notice signs of powdery mildew, you can use a fungicide to control the spread of the disease.
Leaf blight: Leaf blight is characterized by the appearance of dark spots on the leaves, which can eventually lead to the death of the plant. To manage this, it is advisable to remove the affected parts of the plant and control the humidity around the plant to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pest Management:
Perideridia gairdneri ssp. borealis is not usually affected by pests, but a few insects can occasionally attack the plant. The most common pests that affect this plant include aphids, slugs, and snails.
Aphids: Aphids are small insects that appear in large numbers, sucking the sap from the leaves, and weakening the plant. You can control aphids by washing them off with a strong stream of water or spraying the plant with insecticidal soap.
Slugs and snails: Slugs and snails can damage the leaves of Perideridia gairdneri ssp. borealis, causing holes and chewed edges. To manage these pests, you can use slug bait around the plant or create a physical barrier around the plant using materials like copper tape.
