Origin:
Physaria integrifolia (Rollins) Lichvar var. integrifolia, commonly known as whole-leaved bladderpod, is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae or mustard family. This plant species is native to western North America, specifically found in the Rocky Mountain and Great Basin regions of the United States.
Common Names:
Aside from whole-leaved bladderpod, Physaria integrifolia has other common names including entire-leaved bladderpod, entire-leaved rockcress, and smooth bladderpod.
Uses:
Indigenous people have used Physaria integrifolia for traditional medicinal purposes. The leaves were boiled to make a tea used to treat respiratory and stomach ailments. Its flowers and leaves were also used for food and considered a delicacy. As an ornamental plant, it is suitable for rock gardens and xeriscaping. Additionally, it is an essential plant for wildlife habitats.
General Appearance:
The plant's stem is gray-green and grows up to 10 inches tall. Its leaves are erect, narrow, thick, and have a waxy texture and a smooth surface. The plant's leaves are described as spatulate-shaped, meaning that they resemble a spatula, and are entirely attached to the stem base. The flowers have four yellow-green petals and grow in bunches at the branch tips. After the flowers fall, the plant produces interesting, bladder-like capsules that are green and round, measuring about 0.4 inches in diameter. These bladder-like capsules serve as protective containers for the plant's seeds.
Growth Conditions for Physaria integrifolia
Light: Physaria integrifolia typically grows in full sun to partial shade environments. Partial shade tends to be preferred in hotter climates where the plant may face unfavorable conditions if exposed to too much direct sunlight.
Temperature: Physaria integrifolia grows best in cool and moist environments. The plant is adapted to grow in temperatures ranging from 35°F to 70°F (1.7°C to 21.1°C) and can survive in a temperature range from -50°F to 100°F (-45.6°C to 37.8°C).
Soil: Physaria integrifolia is adapted to grow in various types of soils such as sandy, loamy, or rocky. However, the soil must be well-draining, because the plant does not tolerate water-logged soils. Additionally, the plant prefers neutral to slightly alkaline soils, with a pH range from 6 to 8.5.
Water: Physaria integrifolia requires moderate watering during its growing season. It is adapted to drier environments, which means that the plant requires less water than other plants. Too much water can harm the plant and cause root rot. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that the soil is adequately drained to prevent excess water from being trapped around the roots.
Nutrients: As a member of the Brassicaceae family, Physaria integrifolia requires moderate to low levels of nutrients to grow. The plant can survive in nutrient-poor soils and does not need fertilization. However, if the soil is deficient in nutrients, a slow-release fertilizer with low levels of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be applied in the early spring.
Other Conditions: Physaria integrifolia requires little maintenance, making it an ideal plant for gardeners looking for low-maintenance species. The plant is relatively disease-free, but may face pest problems such as flea beetles. Additionally, Physaria integrifolia requires severe pruning to stimulate growth; otherwise, the plant may become woody and lose its vigor.
Cultivation
Physaria integrifolia (Rollins) Lichvar var. integrifolia is a hardy perennial plant that can grow in various soil types such as sandy, loam, and clay. The plant prefers full sunlight to partial shade and is best grown outdoors in USDA zones 4 to 8.
To propagate Physaria integrifolia, sow seeds directly in the ground during the fall or after the last frost. Cover the seeds with 1/8 inch of soil and water gently. Seedlings will begin to emerge within 2 weeks.
Watering Needs
Physaria integrifolia is drought-tolerant but requires adequate watering during its first year of growth. Water the plant well during dry spells, especially when newly planted. After the first year, the plant can survive on rainfall alone, but occasional watering during prolonged dry periods will be beneficial to growth and flowering.
Fertilization
Physaria integrifolia does not require regular fertilization. However, fertile soil can promote healthy growth and flowering. Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, once at the beginning of the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
Pruning
Physaria integrifolia requires little to no pruning. Remove damaged or diseased stems during the dormant season to maintain plant health. Deadheading (removing spent flowers) is also not necessary but can improve the appearance of the plant and encourage further blooming.
Propagation of Physaria integrifolia var. integrifolia
Physaria integrifolia var. integrifolia can be propagated through both sexual and asexual propagation methods. However, sexual propagation is relatively more challenging due to its slow growth rate and low seed viability.
Seed propagation
To propagate P. integrifolia var. integrifolia through seed, the seeds should be collected from mature plants in the fall when the seedpods have turned brown and become dry. The seeds can then be sowed in a well-draining seed starting mix, kept moist but not waterlogged, and placed in a sunny location. Germination can take up to six weeks, and young seedlings should be transplanted when they are large enough to handle.
Asexual propagation
The most common asexual propagation method for P. integrifolia var. integrifolia is through stem cuttings taken from mature plants in the early summer. The cuttings should be around 3-4 inches long with at least two nodes and no flowers or seedpods. The lower leaves should be removed, and the base of the stem cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone before being planted in a well-draining potting mix. They should then be kept moist and in a bright location, but not in direct sunlight. Roots should form in 3-4 weeks, and the new plants can be transplanted when they are large enough to handle.
Disease and Pest Management for Physaria integrifolia
Physaria integrifolia (Rollins) Lichvar var. integrifolia is a hardy species of plant, but like any living organism, it is susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some common issues that can plague this plant and ways to manage them:
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affects Physaria integrifolia is root rot. Root rot occurs when the plant is overwatered, which leads to the roots becoming waterlogged and eventually rotting. To prevent root rot, be sure to plant the Physaria integrifolia in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. Another common disease is powdery mildew, which presents itself as a white powdery substance on the leaves. To manage powdery mildew, remove affected leaves and dispose of them properly.
Common Pests
Aphids are a common pest that can affect the Physaria integrifolia. These tiny insects feed on the sap of the plant, causing stunted growth and yellow leaves. To manage aphids, introduce natural predators like ladybugs or use an insecticidal soap. Another common pest is the spider mite, which is difficult to see with the naked eye but leaves a fine webbing on the plant. To manage spider mites, use an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Overall, being vigilant and proactive in disease and pest management is crucial to keeping the Physaria integrifolia healthy and thriving. Regularly inspecting the plant for signs of damage or distress can help catch issues early and prevent them from spreading.
