Origin
Perityle bisetosa, also known as Huauchinango Ragweed, is a plant species belonging to the family Asteraceae. It is native to Mexico, specifically found in the states of Hidalgo, Puebla, San Luis Potosí, and Veracruz.
Common names
The plant is commonly known as Huauchinango Ragweed, Southwest Prickleleaf, and Needleleaf Thoroughwort.
Uses
Perityle bisetosa is commonly used in traditional medicine to treat respiratory problems such as coughs, asthma, and bronchitis. It is also used to treat stomachaches, indigestion, and diarrhea. The roots are used as a purgative and to induce vomiting. In addition, the plant has been used as a natural remedy to relieve the symptoms of fever.
Appearance
Perityle bisetosa is a perennial herb that grows up to 1.5 meters tall. It has thin, spiky leaves that are up to 10 centimeters long. The leaves and stems are covered in fine hair, giving the plant a velvety texture. The flowers bloom in clusters at the end of the stems and are small and yellow in color. The plant produces a fruit that is small and dry with a single seed.
Light Requirements:
Perityle bisetosa requires full sunlight for optimal growth and reproduction. It can tolerate partial shade but flowering and fruiting may be reduced under these conditions. This plant is well-adapted to thrive in the high intensity sunlight of its native desert habitats.
Temperature Requirements:
Perityle bisetosa is adapted to grow in the hot and arid environments of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It can tolerate temperatures that range from 32°F to 104°F (-0°C to 40°C), but grows best in warm conditions between 50°F to 90°F (10°C to 32°C). This plant is adapted to survive drought conditions and prefers dry, well-draining soils.
Soil Requirements:
Perityle bisetosa grows in well-drained sandy and gravelly soils with a pH range of 6.5 to 8.5. It can tolerate poor soils and is commonly found in disturbed habitats such as roadsides, rocky slopes, and washes. However, it can also grow in more fertile soils if drainage is good. Organic matter in the soil should be kept low to avoid waterlogging and promote healthy root growth.
Cultivation
Perityle bisetosa is a perennial that thrives in well-draining soil and full sun. Ideal soil conditions for this plant is a mix of sand, loam, and clay that is slightly acidic with a pH of 6.0-6.5. It is best to cultivate this plant in a location that receives a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Propagation of Perityle bisetosa can be achieved using seeds or stem cuttings. Seeds should be sown in the early spring or fall after the last frost, while stem cuttings can be taken from mature plants during the growing season.
Watering Needs
This plant is drought-tolerant and requires little watering once established. During the growing season, it is recommended to water the plant deeply once a week to encourage healthy root growth. It is important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Fertilization
Perityle bisetosa is not a heavy feeder and requires minimal fertilization. During the spring, it is recommended to apply a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10. Avoid fertilizing during the fall and winter months, as the plant is dormant during this time.
Pruning
To encourage bushier growth and prevent legginess, it is recommended to pinch back the stem tips during the growing season. Additionally, removing spent flowers can help promote additional blooming. During the fall and winter, it is best to leave the plant alone and avoid any pruning.
Propagation of Perityle bisetosa (Torr. ex Gray) Shinners
Perityle bisetosa (Torr. ex Gray) Shinners, commonly known as Hairy Rock Daisy or Hairy Tansyaster, is a perennial plant native to the western United States. It is a member of the Asteraceae family and can grow up to 2 feet tall. Propagation of Perityle bisetosa can be done through various methods.
Seed Propagation
Perityle bisetosa can be propagated from seeds. The seeds can be collected from mature dry plants and stored for future use. Sow the seeds in well-draining soil and water thoroughly. The germination process can take up to four weeks in warm soil conditions. Once the plants reach a suitable height, they can be transplanted outdoors.
Cuttings Propagation
Perityle bisetosa can also be propagated using cuttings. Stem cuttings should be taken during the growing season, before the plant blooms. Cuttings should be 3-4 inches long and have several leaves on them. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a pot filled with well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and in a warm location. Once the cuttings have developed roots, transplant them outdoors.
Division Propagation
Propagation of Perityle bisetosa can also be done by dividing the plants. This method involves separating the root clumps into several smaller sections. This should be done during the plant's dormant stage, usually in the fall or early spring. Replant the divided sections in well-draining soil and water thoroughly.
Disease and Pest Management for Perityle bisetosa
Perityle bisetosa (Torr. ex Gray) Shinners or Hachita Blue Grama is a low-growing and drought-resistant plant that is commonly grown in gardens and landscapes. However, it can still be affected by certain diseases and pests that can impact its growth and overall health. Here are some common issues and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Bacterial blight: This disease is caused by the bacterium Pseudomonas syringae and can cause water-soaked lesions on the leaves and stems, eventually leading to necrosis. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected plant parts and avoid overhead watering, which can splash the bacteria onto other plants. Applying copper-based fungicides can also help prevent the spread of this disease.
Fungal leaf spots: Perityle bisetosa can be affected by various fungal leaf spot diseases, including Cercospora leaf spot and Septoria leaf spot. These diseases cause circular or irregular-shaped spots on the leaves, and severe cases can cause defoliation. To manage fungal leaf spots, remove and destroy infected plant parts and avoid overhead watering. Applying fungicides containing copper, mancozeb or chlorothalonil can also help control these diseases.
Pests
Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. To manage aphids, remove them by hand or spray them with a strong stream of water. Natural enemies like lady beetles and lacewings can also be introduced to control aphids.
Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling on the leaves, as well as webbing on the plant. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with water to remove the webbing and use a miticide to control the population.
Whiteflies: These small, winged insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause yellowing leaves and stunted growth. To manage whiteflies, use yellow sticky traps to capture adults and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the population.
