Overview of Phlox kelseyi Britt. var. ciliata (Brand) Wherry
Phlox kelseyi Britt. var. ciliata (Brand) Wherry is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the family Polemoniaceae. This plant is a subalpine and alpine species that is native to the western region of North America, particularly in the US states of Montana, Wyoming, Idaho, and Colorado.
Common Names
Common names for Phlox kelseyi Britt. var. ciliata (Brand) Wherry include Kelsey's phlox and fringed phlox.
Appearance of Phlox kelseyi Britt. var. ciliata (Brand) Wherry
Phlox kelseyi Britt. var. ciliata (Brand) Wherry is a perennial plant that grows up to 10 cm tall. The plant typically forms a basal rosette of leaves that are up to 2.5 cm long and 0.5 cm wide. The leaves are evergreen and lance-shaped with a pointed tip.
The flowers of Phlox kelseyi Britt. var. ciliata (Brand) Wherry are pink to lavender in color and have five petals with fringed edges. The flowers cluster together at the top of the stem and bloom from May to July.
Uses of Phlox kelseyi Britt. var. ciliata (Brand) Wherry
Phlox kelseyi Britt. var. ciliata (Brand) Wherry is primarily used as an ornamental plant in rock gardens, alpine gardens, and native plant gardens.
It is also a valuable plant for pollinators, attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Some Native American groups used the plant for medicinal purposes, such as treating stomach problems and wounds. However, it is not recommended to use this plant for medicinal purposes without consulting an expert.
Light Requirements
Phlox kelseyi Britt. var. ciliata requires full sun exposure to thrive. The plant needs at least six hours of direct sunlight every day.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers cool to moderate temperatures and can grow in cold climate regions. It usually grows in areas with temperatures ranging between 55 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
Soil Requirements
The plant does well in well-drained soils that are slightly acidic. A good soil mix consists of sandy soils with organic matter. The soil pH needs to be between 5.0-7.0 for optimal growth. It also needs adequate moisture to prevent the plant from drying out.
Cultivation
Phlox kelseyi Britt. var. ciliata (Brand) Wherry is a hardy perennial plant that does well in well-drained soils with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5. This plant requires full sunlight exposure of at least 6 hours per day for healthy growth. It can be propagated from the seed and cuttings.
Watering Needs
The plant requires enough water. Ensure that the soil is moist but not water-clogged at all times to achieve the best results. To keep the moisture levels even, water the plant once a week with 1 inch of water, and monitor the soil continually. During summer, watering the plant twice per week is recommended to avoid dry conditions.
Fertilization
Fertilize Phlox kelseyi Britt. var. ciliata (Brand) Wherry quarterly with a balanced fertilizer at a time when the soil is moist. During blooms, use a phosphorus and potassium-rich fertilizer. Excess nitrogen can cause the plant to grow too quickly, resulting in a weak stem and fewer flowers.
Pruning
Phlox kelseyi Britt. var. ciliata (Brand) Wherry requires pruning annually to maintain the plant's shape and promote healthy growth. Prune the plant after blooming to remove spent flower stems and maintain the plant's aesthetic value. You can also cut the plant down to the soil level in late winter to encourage new growth from the base.
Propagation of Phlox kelseyi Britt. var. ciliata (Brand) Wherry
Phlox kelseyi Britt. var. ciliata (Brand) Wherry is propagated by several methods:
Seed Propagation
Phlox kelseyi Britt. var. ciliata (Brand) Wherry can be easily grown from seeds. The seeds can be sown directly into the soil or started indoors in seed trays. The best time to sow the seeds is in the spring or fall. Before sowing, the seed must be stratified for two weeks in the refrigerator. The seedlings will emerge in 14 to 28 days from sowing. It is better to transplant the seedlings when they have two sets of true leaves.
Division
Phlox kelseyi Britt. var. ciliata (Brand) Wherry can also be propagated by division. The best time to divide the plant is in late spring or early fall. The plant should be dug up carefully and gently divided into smaller clumps using a sharp, sterilized knife or garden spade. Each clump should have several shoots and healthy roots. The divided plants can be replanted immediately or potted and grown until they are established before planting.
Cuttings
Phlox kelseyi Britt. var. ciliata (Brand) Wherry can also be propagated by stem cuttings. Softwood cuttings should be taken in early summer from the new growth. The cuttings should be 3 to 4 inches long and have 2 to 3 sets of leaves. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end into rooting hormone. The cuttings should be planted in a well-drained compost mix and placed in a shaded area. Keep the soil moist until the cuttings have rooted, which should take about 2 to 3 weeks.
Disease Management
Phlox kelseyi Britt. var. ciliata (Brand) Wherry is a relatively disease-resistant plant, but it can still be affected by certain diseases:
Phytophthora Root Rot
Phytophthora is a soil-borne pathogen that infects the roots of the plant, causing wilting, yellowing, and root decay. To manage this disease, ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering. Do not plant in areas with a history of Phytophthora and use a fungicide to control outbreaks.
Botrytis blight
Botrytis blight is a fungal disease that typically affects plants in cool and moist conditions. It can cause leaf spots, stem rot, and wilting. To manage this disease, practice good sanitation by removing and disposing of infected plant parts. Use fungicides to control outbreaks.
Pest Management
Phlox kelseyi Britt. var. ciliata (Brand) Wherry is relatively pest-resistant but can still be affected by certain pests:
Aphids
Aphids are common pests that suck sap from the plant, causing leaf curling and distortion. To manage this pest, introduce natural predators like ladybugs or use insecticidal soap.
Spider mites
Spider mites are common pests that feed on the plant's sap, causing yellowing and wilting. To manage this pest, increase humidity around the plant, avoid over-fertilizing, and use miticides.
Thrips
Thrips feed on the plant's leaves and flowers, causing discoloration and distortion. To manage this pest, use sticky traps and apply an insecticide to control outbreaks.
