Overview of Pylostachya carteri (Small) Small
Pylostachya carteri is commonly known as Carter's groundnut or Wild potato. It is a member of the Fabaceae family and is native to southeastern North America, including Florida and Georgia. It is a perennial plant that can grow up to 2-3 feet tall and spread up to 1-2 feet wide. It has unique growth habits, such as tuberous roots, and produces underground peanut-like seeds.
General Appearance of Pylostachya carteri (Small) Small
Pylostachya carteri has a typical legume appearance with compound pinnate leaves that possess a medium to dark green color. It produces erect stems of 2-3 feet tall covered with few or no leaves. It bears small, yellowish flowers on spikes, which can appear from summer until fall. Still, the fruit is not as noticeable as its underground seeds, which have a curved shape and a size of up to 1.5 inches long.
Uses of Pylostachya carteri (Small) Small
The seeds of Pylostachya carteri are edible as they promote excellent taste and nutritional benefits that a typical peanut will provide. The local people of southeastern North America have been eating the seeds for ages. Its tuberous roots can be harvested, boiled, and consumed by the locals. The pylostachya carteri can also be used for erosion control because its deep-rooting system stabilizes the soil in areas where it grows.
Pylostachya carteri has medicinal uses as it possesses antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been utilized to treat medical procedures such as sores, skin infections, and rheumatism by the locals of southern North America.
It can also be cultivated as an ornamental plant in flower gardens. However, it is less commonly grown than other ornamental legumes because of its subterranean seeds. Pylostachya carteri is easily grown from seed and prefers moist, well-drained soils in partial shade.
Conclusion
Pylostachya carteri (Small) Small is a legume with unique characteristics such as subterranean peanut-like seeds and tuberous roots. It is an edible, ornamental plant used for medicinal and soil conservation purposes. It is easily grown from seeds and requires moist, well-drained soils to thrive.
Light Requirements
Pylostachya carteri requires a lot of direct sunlight to grow properly. It is recommended to place the plant in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day. Without adequate sunlight, the plant may not flower and grow as well as it should.
Temperature Requirements
Pylostachya carteri thrives in warm temperatures and is suitable for USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11. The plant requires temperatures above 60°F (15°C) and cannot tolerate frost. During the winter months, it is best to keep the plant indoors at a temperature range of 60°F to 70°F (15°C to 21°C).
Soil Requirements
Pylostachya carteri can grow in a variety of soils, but it prefers well-draining soils that are slightly alkaline with a pH range of 7.0 to 8.0. The soil should be moist, rich in organic matter, and have good drainage to prevent root rot. It is recommended to add compost or other organic matter to improve the soil quality before planting.
Cultivation Methods
Pylostachya carteri (Small) Small, commonly known as Carter's pylostachya, is a perennial shrub that can grow up to 3 feet tall. It can be grown outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 8 through 11. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It is important to ensure that the soil does not become too waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot. The plant can be propagated through stem cuttings or seeds, with stem cuttings being the preferred method to ensure genetic similarity to the parent plant.
Watering Needs
Carter's pylostachya should be watered regularly during the growing season, which is typically from spring to fall. However, it is important not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot. The frequency of watering depends on the weather conditions and the soil type. In general, the plant should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. During the winter dormant season, the plant should be watered sparingly to avoid wetting the soil excessively.
Fertilization
Carter's pylostachya should be fertilized in the early spring with a balanced fertilizer. This will help to promote vigorous growth and flowering. During the growing season, the plant can be fertilized once a month with a diluted fertilizer solution. It is important not to over-fertilize the plant, as this can lead to excessive vegetative growth at the expense of flowering.
Pruning
Carter's pylostachya does not require regular pruning, but it can be pruned after flowering to maintain its shape and size. Pruning should be done with clean, sharp pruning shears. Any dead or diseased branches should be removed, and any crossing or rubbing branches should be pruned to prevent damage to the plant. It is important not to prune the plant too heavily, as this can reduce its vigor and flowering in the following season.
Propagation of Pylostachya carteri (Small) Small:
Pylostachya carteri (Small) Small, commonly known as Carter's pylostachya or Carter's rattlesnake-master, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to the southeastern United States and is found in various habitats, including pine savannas, sandhills, and dry open woods.
The propagation of Pylostachya carteri can be done through two methods, namely seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed Propagation:
Seeds of Pylostachya carteri can be collected from the mature flower heads of the plant. The ideal time for seed collection is during the fall when the flowers have matured and are starting to dry out. Collect the flower heads from the plant and place them in a paper bag to dry out further. After the flower heads have completely dried, shake the bag to release the seeds. Separate the seeds from other plant debris and store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place until they are ready to be planted.
The seeds of Pylostachya carteri require a period of stratification before they can germinate. To stratify the seeds, place them in a plastic bag with a moist substrate such as vermiculite or sphagnum moss. Keep the bag in the refrigerator for four to six weeks. After this period, the seeds are ready to be sown into the prepared planting bed.
Vegetative Propagation:
Vegetative propagation of Pylostachya carteri can be done through division. Using a sharp spade, dig up a mature clump of the plant. Gently separate the clump into smaller sections, making sure that each section has at least one or two stems and a healthy root system. Plant each section into the prepared bed or container.
Another method for vegetative propagation is through stem cuttings. Take stem cuttings from the plant during the spring or summer. Cut a 4- to 6-inch stem section from the parent plant, making sure to include a few leaves on the stem. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone and plant it in a container filled with moist potting soil. Keep the container in a warm, humid location with moderate light until the new plant has established roots.
Overall, Pylostachya carteri can be easily propagated through seed and vegetative propagation methods. By choosing the right method for your needs, you can enjoy this attractive plant and its interesting flower heads in your garden or landscape.
Disease Management for Pylostachya carteri
Pylostachya carteri (Small) Small is a tough and resilient plant that is generally not affected by diseases if grown in its ideal conditions. However, there are a few diseases that can affect this plant:
- Crown Rot: This is a fungal disease that can affect Pylostachya carteri plants. If you notice the leaves wilting and turning yellow, and the base of the plant becoming soft and black, it is likely that your plant is affected by Crown Rot. To manage this disease, remove all affected parts of the plant, and discard them. You can also root your plant in a sterile soil mix.
- Leaf Spot: This is a fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves of the plant. If not managed, Leaf Spot can cause the leaves to fall off. To manage this disease, remove all infected leaves, increase the plant's air circulation, and avoid overhead watering. You can also apply a fungicide that is labelled for use on Pylostachya carteri plants.
Pest Management for Pylostachya carteri
Pylostachya carteri (Small) Small is generally not plagued by pests, but there are a few that can affect this plant:
- Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that are hard to see with the naked eye. If you notice tiny yellow or white spots on your plant, or if the leaves turn yellow or fall off, it is likely that your plant is affected by Spider Mites. To manage this pest, use a cloth to wipe the leaves of your plant, or use a strong jet of water to blast the spider mites off. You can also apply an insecticidal soap or neem oil to the plant.
- Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white, sap-sucking insects that leave behind a white, mealy residue. If you notice the leaves turning yellow or falling off, and if you see the white, cotton-like mealy residue on your plant, it is likely that your plant is affected by Mealybugs. To manage this pest, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove the mealybugs from the plant. You can also apply an insecticidal soap or neem oil to the plant.
