Description of Saussurea angustifolia (Willd.) DC. var. viscida (Hultén) Welsh
Saussurea angustifolia (Willd.) DC. var. viscida (Hultén) Welsh belongs to the family Asteraceae and is a perennial herb that is native to the Western United States, including Alaska and British Columbia.
Common Names
The plant is commonly referred to as the narrow-leaved Alpinestar or the sticky alpinestar.
General Appearance
The plant typically grows up to 20 cm in height and has a basal rosette of narrow leaves. The leaves usually measure up to 10 cm in length and 1 cm in width, with a rough texture. The stems are slender and may be pubescent with dense glandular hairs, which creates a sticky or viscous sensation when touched.
Saussurea angustifolia var. viscida is characterized by its solitary, terminal, lavender-blue to purple flowers, which bloom from July to August. The flowerheads have a diameter of 1-2 cm and are surrounded by several bracts that are covered with glandular hairs like the stems.
Uses
The plant has been traditionally used to treat various ailments by indigenous people, including stomachaches, headaches, and rheumatism. The leaves and flowers are also edible and can be consumed raw or cooked.
Saussurea angustifolia var. viscida is commonly grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive flowers and leaves. It is suitable for rock gardens, alpine gardens, and borders.
Light Conditions
The Saussurea angustifolia var. viscida plant typically grows in areas with high levels of solar radiation. It requires full sun exposure for at least six hours a day to thrive since it is a sun-loving plant. The plant can grow in partial shade, but its growth may be slower, and it may not produce as many flowers.
Temperature Requirements
Saussurea angustifolia var. viscida is a hardy plant that grows well in extreme temperatures. However, it prefers cool temperatures with an average temperature of between 10-20 degrees Celsius. In extreme weather conditions, it can tolerate temperatures as low as -30°C and high as 35 °C. The plant has adapted to the high altitude environment, where the temperatures can change rapidly and frequently.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers soil that is well-draining and rich in organic matter. It can grow in a wide range of soil types such as loamy, sandy, and clay soil, provided they are well-draining. The ideal soil pH for Saussurea angustifolia var. viscida is between 6.5-7.0, slightly acidic to neutral. However, the plant can still survive in soils that have a pH outside this range. As the plant grows in high-altitude regions with low nutrients in the soil, it has adapted to grow in nutrient-deficient areas.
Cultivation Methods
To cultivate Saussurea angustifolia, it is important to provide well-drained soil. The plant prefers a sunny or partially shaded location. It can grow in different types of soil, but loam or sandy soil is ideal. The seeds need a cold stratification period, and it is advisable to sow them in autumn or early spring. After sowing, cover the seeds lightly with soil. It can take up to two months for the seeds to germinate.
Watering Needs
Saussurea angustifolia requires frequent watering. During hot weather, the plant needs to be watered daily, especially in the morning or evening. However, it is important not to overwater it because the plant cannot withstand waterlogging.
Fertilization
Fertilization is not necessary but is recommended to enhance plant growth. Use a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Always follow the instructions on the fertilizer pack and avoid overfertilizing, which can damage the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary as Saussurea angustifolia is a perennial plant that can take care of itself. However, it is advisable to remove any dead leaves or flowers to encourage new growth. Pruning can be done at any time of the year, but it is best to do it during the plant's dormant season.
Propagation of Saussurea angustifolia (Willd.) DC. var. viscida (Hultén) Welsh
Saussurea angustifolia (Willd.) DC. var. viscida (Hultén) Welsh, commonly known as the Narrowleaf saw-wort, is a perennial plant found in the mountainous regions of North America. Propagation of this plant can be accomplished through various methods, including seed propagation, vegetative propagation, and division.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Saussurea angustifolia are collected when the seed heads turn brown and the flowers have fully developed. The seeds can be directly sown in the fall, or stratified, which involves storing the seeds in a cool, moist environment for several weeks before sowing. Stratification helps to break the seed dormancy and enhances the germination rate.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation of Saussurea angustifolia is accomplished through stem cutting. Cuttings of about 4-6 inches in length are collected from mature plants in the spring or early summer. The cuttings must be planted in well-draining soil, and kept in a moist and humid environment until rooting occurs. This method can yield faster results than seed propagation.
Division
Division is another method of propagating Saussurea angustifolia. This method involves separating the root mass of a mature plant into two or more sections. Each section should have an equal number of stems and roots. The separated sections can then be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist until they establish roots.
Disease and Pest Management of Saussurea angustifolia (Willd.) DC. var. viscida (Hultén) Welsh
Saussurea angustifolia (Willd.) DC. var. viscida (Hultén) Welsh, commonly known as the narrow-leaved hawk's beard, is generally a hardy plant. However, like any other plant, it may suffer damage from disease and pests. Therefore, proper disease and pest management are crucial to maintain the plant's health and well-being.
Common Diseases
The most common diseases that affect Saussurea angustifolia plants are fungal diseases, such as rust, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. Rust often causes orange or rusty red discoloration on the foliage, while powdery mildew appears as white or gray powdery patches on the leaves and stems. Leaf spot is marked by brown or black spots on the leaves, which may eventually fall off.
Management:
To manage rust, remove infected leaves and improve air circulation around the plant. For powdery mildew, avoid overhead watering and prune affected areas to increase ventilation. For leaf spot, remove the infected parts of the plant immediately and treat with fungicide if necessary.
Common Pests
The most common pests that affect Saussurea angustifolia plants are aphids, spider mites, and caterpillars. Aphids are tiny insects that suck the plant’s sap, causing stunted growth and deformation. Spider mites are microscopic pests that feed on leaves, causing yellow or brown stippling and webs on the foliage. Caterpillars often feed on the plant's foliage, leaving large holes and damaging the leaves.
Management:
To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or a strong stream of water to blast them off the plant. For spider mites, use a miticide or insecticidal soap and increase humidity levels around the plant. For caterpillars, remove them by hand or treat with an appropriate insecticide.
Overall, it is essential to monitor Saussurea angustifolia plants regularly, provide proper care and maintenance, and be vigilant in identifying and dealing with any disease or pest problems promptly. With proper disease and pest management, it is possible to keep Saussurea angustifolia plants healthy and thriving.
