Overview
Perityle bisetosa is a flowering plant species belonging to the family Asteraceae. It is commonly known as Hualtaco or Hoary Tackstem. The plant is native to North America and is found in the southwestern states of the United States, including Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico. The species is considered a subshrub or shrublet, generally found in deserts and dry, rocky slopes.
General Appearance
Perityle bisetosa var. scalaris is a small, compact shrub, usually growing up to a height of 30 cm. It has multiple, divergent stems that are covered with short, soft hairs or scales that give the branches a hoary appearance. The elliptic-shaped leaves are also covered in dense, short hairs, and function as ground cover for the plant. The leaves are around 1-2 cm in length and 0.5-1 cm in width.
The plant produces small, yellow, daisy-like flowers, usually measuring 1 cm in diameter. The flowering period for the species occurs from April to June. It is one of the first species to bloom in the spring after winter rains, with the flowers providing an early source of nectar for bees and butterflies. After flowering, the plant produces seeds that have special hooks that allow them to attach themselves to clothing or fur, allowing for improved seed dispersion during the windy season.
Uses
Perityle bisetosa var. scalaris has limited medicinal uses, with the leaves being used to treat various infections and ailments. The Hopi tribe used the roots of the plant for treating colds, coughs, and chest pains. The flowers were used for making yellow dye for textiles.
Furthermore, the plant is useful in ecosystem restoration due to its ability to grow on arid lands and improve soil stability. It also serves as a forage plant for insects, providing a habitat for pollinators and other beneficial insects.
Light Requirements
Perityle bisetosa var. scalaris requires full sun exposure to grow and flourish. It is highly adapted to thrive in areas of direct sunlight throughout the day. Therefore, it is recommended to plant the species in areas where it receives at least six hours of direct sunlight.
Soil Requirements
The species grows well in well-drained soils with a moderately to high level of fertility. Perityle bisetosa var. scalaris prefers sandy or loamy soils with a pH range of 6.1 to 7.8. The species is also highly tolerant of drought conditions, but it is necessary to water the plant from time to time to promote its growth.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows best in areas with a warm climate. It can survive in temperatures ranging from 15°C to 38°C, but it grows optimally in temperatures between 25°C and 35°C. Thus, in areas that experience low temperatures, there is a need to plant the species in containers to keep the plant warm during cold seasons.
Air Humidity Requirements
Perityle bisetosa var. scalaris can grow in areas with high levels of humidity, but it grows optimally in areas with moderate humidity levels. The species can thrive in areas with humidity levels ranging from 30% to 80%. In areas with low humidity levels, it is recommended to mist the plant from time to time to increase the moisture level around the plant.
Cultivation Method
The plant Perityle bisetosa var. scalaris A. Powell is native to the southwestern region of the United States. It is relatively easy to cultivate and can be grown both outdoors and indoors in containers. If grown outdoors, it should be planted in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, in a spot with full sun to partial shade exposure. The plant prefers warm temperatures and doesn't tolerate frost.
Watering Needs
The watering requirements of Perityle bisetosa var. scalaris A. Powell vary depending on the growing conditions. In hot and dry climates, the plant requires frequent watering to thrive. In contrast, in cool and humid conditions, the frequency of watering can be reduced. It is essential to avoid overwatering, as waterlogged soil can cause root rot. The soil should be allowed to dry slightly between waterings.
Fertilization
Fertilization of Perityle bisetosa var. scalaris A. Powell should be done in the growing season from spring to fall. The plant can benefit from a balanced fertilizer rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. However, over-fertilization should be avoided as it can harm the plant and lead to poor growth.
Pruning
Perityle bisetosa var. scalaris A. Powell doesn't require pruning as it maintains its shape naturally. However, occasional removal of dead or damaged foliage can improve the plant's appearance and encourage healthy growth. It is best to use clean and sanitized pruning equipment to avoid spreading diseases to the plant.
Propagation of Perityle bisetosa (Torr. ex Gray) Shinners var. scalaris A. Powell
Perityle bisetosa (Torr. ex Gray) Shinners var. scalaris A. Powell, commonly known as Snake River brickellbush, is a popular ornamental plant ideal for dry garden landscapes. The plant can be propagated from seed, stem cuttings, or through division.
Propagation from Seed
The easiest and most common way to propagate P. bisetosa is through seed. Seeds can be obtained from mature plants, harvested in fall, and sown immediately or stored for later use. Seeds should be planted in a well-draining, sandy soil mix in a pot or directly in the garden bed. Adequate moisture and sunlight are essential for germination and growth. Seedlings should be transplanted into the garden bed after they have reached at least 2 inches in height.
Propagation from Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings can also be used to propagate P. bisetosa. Cuttings should be taken from softwood growth in the summer, ideally in early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler. The cuttings should be at least 3-4 inches long and should be dipped in a rooting hormone to encourage root development. The cuttings should be inserted in pots or a well-draining soil mix in a garden bed and kept moist. Roots should develop in approximately 6-8 weeks, and the cuttings can be transplanted into their permanent garden location.
Propagation through Division
P. bisetosa can also be propagated through division. The plant should be dug up and the root ball should be divided, making sure each division has sufficient roots and stems. Each division should be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist until established. Division can be done in the spring or fall, and is best done every 3-4 years to help rejuvenate the plant.
Disease Management
Perityle bisetosa is relatively disease-resistant, but it may still be susceptible to some fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot. To prevent or manage these diseases, it is important to ensure proper cultural practices.
Fungal diseases often thrive in humid environments, so it is essential to maintain good air circulation. This can be achieved by spacing plants appropriately, trimming back overhanging branches, and avoiding overwatering. In addition, removing infected leaves and debris, practicing crop rotation, and treating plants with fungicides may also help prevent or manage these diseases.
Pest Management
Perityle bisetosa is mostly pest-resistant, but there are still some pests that may impact its growth and performance. These pests include mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids.
Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects that typically cluster in protected areas, such as leaf axils, where they feed on plant sap. Infestations can cause yellowing, stunted growth, and leaf drop. To manage mealybugs, physically removing them or applying insecticidal soap or oil sprays can help control populations
Spider mites are also sap-sucking pests that can cause yellowing and speckling on leaves. They are typically found on the undersides of leaves and thrive in hot, dry conditions. To control spider mites, increasing humidity, regularly washing foliage, and using insecticidal soap can be effective.
Aphids are another common pest that feeds on plant sap and can cause leaves to curl and distort. To manage aphids, physically removing them, introducing natural predators, such as ladybugs, or using insecticidal sprays can help control populations.
