Overview
Selenia dissecta, also known as cutleaf goldeneye, is a species of flowering plant in the family Asteraceae. It is native to the southwestern United States, including California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, and New Mexico, as well as northern Mexico.
Appearance
The Selenia dissecta plant grows as a woody shrub, reaching a height of up to 3 feet. It has alternate, gray-green leaves that are finely divided and have a delicate fern-like appearance. The plant produces yellow flowers with 8-10 ray flowers and a center of densely packed yellow disk flowers. The flowers bloom from May through September and are heavily visited by bees and other pollinators.
Common Names
Selenia dissecta is commonly known as cutleaf goldeneye, lacy goldeneye, and finetooth goldeneye.
Uses
The leaves and stems of Selenia dissecta have traditionally been used by Native Americans for medicinal purposes such as treating respiratory issues and as a general pain reliever. The yellow flowers attract pollinators and are often used in butterfly and bee gardens or as an ornamental plant in xeriscaped gardens. The plant is also used for erosion control in disturbed areas and helps to stabilize soil.
Light Requirements
Selenia dissecta, also known as Lace hedgehog cactus, requires plenty of sunlight to thrive. This plant requires full sun exposure, meaning it should receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Without proper sunlight, the plant will not be able to photosynthesize properly and produce energy for growth.
Temperature Requirements
The Lace hedgehog cactus is a desert plant and requires warm temperatures to grow properly. It can tolerate temperatures up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and 40 degrees Fahrenheit at night. This plant cannot survive frost, so it is essential to protect it during cold weather.
Soil Requirements
The Lace hedgehog cactus grows well in well-draining soil types with a sandy or rocky texture. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH range between 5.5 and 6.5. The plant prefers dry soil conditions and cannot tolerate excessive moisture. Therefore, it is best to avoid heavy clay or water-retentive soil types. Additionally, the plant benefits from the addition of organic matter such as compost, which can provide beneficial nutrients and improve soil drainage.
Cultivation Methods for Selenia dissecta Torr. & Gray
Selenia dissecta Torr. & Gray grows best in well-draining soil, with a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0. Ensure that the soil has good aeration and consistent moisture levels. Plant the seeds or the seedlings about 18 to 24 inches apart. The best time to plant is late spring to early summer, when the temperatures have warmed up sufficiently.
Selenia dissecta Torr. & Gray prefers a sunny spot that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight. However, it can also grow in partial shade. Ensure that the plant is sheltered from strong winds, which can break the leaves and stems.
Watering Needs for Selenia dissecta Torr. & Gray
Water Selenia dissecta Torr. & Gray frequently, ensuring that the soil stays consistently moist. However, avoid overwatering, as it can cause the roots to rot. Water the plant at the base, taking care not to wet the foliage. Reduce watering during winter when the plant is dormant.
Fertilization for Selenia dissecta Torr. & Gray
Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, to Selenia dissecta Torr. & Gray in spring and mid-summer, following the manufacturer's instructions. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can cause excessive growth that weakens the plant.
Pruning Selenia dissecta Torr. & Gray
Prune Selenia dissecta Torr. & Gray just after flowering, using sharp, clean pruning shears. Cut back the old flower stems to the base, removing any diseased, damaged, or crossing branches. Pruning can help to promote new growth and maintain the plant's shape.
Propagation of Selenia dissecta Torr. & Gray
Selenia dissecta Torr. & Gray is a flowering perennial plant commonly found in dry prairies, rocky slopes, and open woods in the central and western regions of North America.
The plant can be propagated through various methods, including seed propagation, rhizome division, and softwood cutting. Let's take a closer look at each:
Seed Propagation
Selenia dissecta can be propagated from seeds. The best time to collect seeds is during the early fall when seed capsules start to dry up. The collected seeds should be stored in a dry place until planting.
For successful germination, the seeds must be subjected to a cold stratification period. This temperature-controlled treatment can be done by storing the seeds at 4 degrees Celsius in a refrigerator in a sealed container filled with moistened peat moss. After about three months, the seeds can be planted in a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter.
Rhizome Division
Rhizome division is another propagation method for Selenia dissecta. This method involves digging up the plant and separating the rhizomes with a sterilized knife. The separated rhizomes are then planted in individual pots or in a garden bed with well-draining soil and proper irrigation.
Softwood Cutting
Softwood cutting is a propagation method that involves taking a cutting from the stem of a young, growing plant. The optimal time to take cuttings for Selenia dissecta is during the early spring when the plant is actively growing.
The cuttings should be approximately 3-4 inches long, with a few leaves left on the stem. The leaves should be removed from the bottom of the stem. The cuttings are then planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept in a shaded area. Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted to a larger pot or garden bed.
Using any of the mentioned propagation methods, gardeners can easily propagate and add more Selenia dissecta plants to their garden.
Disease and Pest Management for Selenia dissecta Torr. & Gray
Selenia dissecta Torr. & Gray is relatively resistant to diseases and pests when grown in its native habitat. However, when grown in other regions, the plant may be susceptible to various diseases and pests. Here are some common diseases and pests that may affect the plant, and ways to manage them.
Diseases
1. Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that can affect the leaves and stems of Selenia dissecta. To manage this disease, avoid overhead watering, as the moisture on the leaves can encourage powdery mildew. Prune and remove any infected leaves and stems and destroy them to prevent the disease from spreading. Additionally, you can apply fungicides like copper-based sprays to prevent the spread of powdery mildew.
2. Root rot: Root rot is a disease caused by fungi that attack the roots of plants. It can be caused by overwatering or poorly-drained soil. To manage root rot in Selenia dissecta, make sure the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering. If the disease is already present, apply fungicides that contain thiophanate-methyl to control it.
Pests
1. Aphids: Aphids are soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from leaves, resulting in stunted growth and deformed leaves. To manage aphids on Selenia dissecta, you can spray the plant with a solution of dish soap and water or insecticidal soap. Alternatively, you can release ladybugs or lacewings in the garden to prey on aphids.
2. Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny, sap-sucking pests that can cause leaves to turn yellow and drop prematurely. To control spider mites on Selenia dissecta, you can spray the plant with a solution of neem oil or insecticidal soap. You can also introduce predatory mites or lacewings in the garden to control spider mites.
3. Whiteflies: Whiteflies are small, winged insects that feed on the sap of leaves, causing them to yellow and drop. To manage whiteflies on Selenia dissecta, you can spray the plant with a solution of insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also introduce natural predators like parasitic wasps or ladybugs to control whiteflies.
Regular monitoring and timely action are crucial for disease and pest management in Selenia dissecta. Implement the appropriate control measures as soon as you notice any signs of disease or pest infestation to prevent further damage to the plant.
