Overview
Phlox colubrina Wherry & Constance, also known as Snakeoot or Cleft phlox, is a flowering plant in the family Polemoniaceae. This plant is known for its medicinal uses, as well as its ornamental value in gardens and landscapes.
Origin
Phlox colubrina is native to eastern North America, particularly in the southeastern United States. This plant grows naturally in open woods, prairies, and rocky slopes.
Common Names
Aside from its scientific name, Phlox colubrina is commonly known as Snakeoot or Cleft phlox. The name 'Snakeoot' refers to the belief that its root was a cure for snake bites, while 'Cleft phlox' pertains to its forked petals.
Uses
Phlox colubrina has many uses, particularly in traditional medicine. Its roots and leaves have been used by Native American tribes to treat various ailments such as infections, burns, and fevers. It has also been used as a natural remedy for snake bites and other venomous bites.
Aside from its medicinal uses, Phlox colubrina is also valued for its ornamental purposes. Its attractive flowers, which come in a range of colors such as pink, purple, and white, are popular in gardens and landscaping. It is also known to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, making it a valuable addition to any garden.
General Appearance
Phlox colubrina is a perennial herbaceous plant that typically grows up to 90 cm tall. Its leaves are lance-shaped and arranged alternately along the stem. Its flowers are typically funnel-shaped, with five petals that are forked at the end, giving them a cleft appearance. The flowers are arranged in clusters at the end of the stem and bloom from summer to early fall. It produces a fruit capsule which contains numerous seeds.
Light Requirements
The Phlox colubrina Wherry & Constance plant requires full sun to partial shade to grow successfully. It is essential to place it in an area where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers a well-drained soil, which is rich in organic matter. A pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 works best, and the soil must not be too wet. To improve soil condition, mix organic compost, or humus, into the planting hole.
Water Requirements
Phlox colubrina is a moisture-loving plant, but the soil must not be too wet, or it can cause root rot. A well-draining soil ensures that the excess water drains off, and the roots absorb enough water. It is best to water the plant deeply but infrequently, once a week during the growing season.
Temperature Requirements
The Phlox colubrina plant grows best in temperate regions and is often found in the Rocky Mountains. It is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8. It requires a specific temperature range of 65 to 75°F (18 to 24°C) to thrive.
Fertilizer Requirements
The plant does not need much fertilizer, but a fertilizer with balanced nutrients, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20, can help boost its growth. Apply the fertilizer in early spring once the plant starts to show new growth.
Cultivation methods
Phlox colubrina is a hardy perennial plant that grows well in full sunlight. This plant can withstand low temperatures and can survive in USDA Hardiness Zones 3-8. It prefers well-drained soil with a pH of 6-7.5 and can be propagated through root division or seeds.
Watering needs
Phlox colubrina requires moderate watering during its growing season, which is from spring to fall. It needs about 1 inch of water per week, but the soil should not remain waterlogged as this can cause root rot. Ensure that the soil dries up to a depth of 2-3 inches before watering again.
Fertilization
Fertilization should be carried out in early spring, just before new growth emerges. Use a balanced fertilizer with an equal ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply the fertilizer according to the manufacturer's instructions, and water it in well. Avoid over-fertilizing as this can lead to leggy growth and reduced flowering.
Pruning
Pruning is required to maintain the shape and health of the Phlox colubrina plant. It should be done in early spring before new growth emerges or after flowering. Deadhead the flowers by removing spent blooms to encourage new growth and prolong flowering. If the plant becomes leggy, pinch back the tips of the stems to promote bushy growth. Cut back the entire plant to the ground after the first frost in fall to rejuvenate the plant for the next growing season.
Propagation of Phlox colubrina Wherry & Constance
Phlox colubrina Wherry & Constance can be propagated using various methods such as seeds, stem cuttings, and division.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds should be collected from the Phlox colubrina plant when they are ripe, which is usually in late summer or early fall. The seeds can be sown in a seed tray filled with well-draining soil. Press the seeds slightly into the soil and cover it with a thin layer of soil. Water it gently and place it in a warm, bright place. The seeds will germinate in a few weeks, and after the seedlings have grown, they can be transplanted into individual pots or the ground.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are the simplest and easiest method to propagate Phlox colubrina. Take stem cuttings of about 5-6 inches long in spring or early summer. Plant them in a container filled with moist soil or directly into the ground. Ensure that the soil is moist and that the cuttings get indirect light. Roots will develop within a few weeks, and new growth will appear shortly after. After new growth has developed, you can transplant the young plants to their permanent location.
Propagation by Division
Division is another method of propagating Phlox colubrina. It involves separating the plant's root clumps into smaller sections, each with a stem and a good root system. This method is best done in early spring before the plant begins to grow actively. Gently dig up the plant and separate it into sections, making sure each section has a viable root system. Replant the sections in prepared soil, water them thoroughly, and ensure that they receive enough light to encourage growth.
Disease Management
Phlox colubrina is vulnerable to various diseases. The most common diseases that affect this plant are powdery mildew, leaf spot, and stem canker.
Powdery mildew: This disease is caused by the fungus Erysiphe cichoracearum. It is characterized by the growth of white powdery patches on the leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage this disease, avoid overhead watering and maintain good air circulation. Fungicides like neem oil and potassium bicarbonate can also be used.
Leaf spot: This disease is caused by the fungus Cercospora phlogis. It produces brown or black spots on the leaves, which eventually lead to defoliation. To manage this disease, remove the infected leaves and maintain good hygiene in the growing area. Fungicides like copper-based products can also be used.
Stem canker: This disease is caused by the fungus Phoma exigua. It affects the stems of the plant, causing them to turn brown and eventually die. To manage this disease, remove the infected plant parts and destroy them. Fungicides like thiophanate-methyl can also be used.
Pest Management
Phlox colubrina is also prone to pest attacks. The most common pests that affect this plant are spider mites, aphids, and thrips.
Spider mites: These are tiny pests that feed on the sap of the plant, causing the leaves to turn yellow and eventually fall off. To manage spider mites, regularly spray the plant with water to wash them away. In severe cases, insecticidal soap or neem oil can be used.
Aphids: These sap-sucking pests can cause stunting of the plant, yellowing of leaves, and distortion of growth. To manage aphids, prune the affected parts of the plant and spray it with a solution of water and dish soap. In severe cases, insecticidal soap or neem oil can be used.
Thrips: These are tiny insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing the leaves to turn gray or silver. To manage thrips, remove the affected plant parts and destroy them. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be used.
