General Information
Spermolepis divaricata, also known as Spreading Spermolepis, is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the family Apiaceae. It is native to North America and can be found in certain states such as Florida, Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi.
Appearance
The Spreading Spermolepis plant can grow up to 1 meter tall and has a spreading habit. The stem of the plant is thin and has a greenish color. The leaves are twice compound with slender segments, and they have a fern-like appearance. The flowers are white and bloom in clusters from May to October. The plant produces fruits that are small and oval-shaped.
Common Names
The Spermolepis divaricata is commonly known as Spreading Spermolepis, False Bishop's-weed, Annual Bishop's-weed, and Groundmaster.
Uses
The Spreading Spermolepis is used in herbal medicine to treat various ailments. The roots and seeds of the plant are antirheumatic, and they are used to treat kidney problems and bladder infections. The plant can also be used as a diuretic and laxative.
Additionally, the Spreading Spermolepis is used to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies due to its blooms. The plant is also a great choice for landscaping because of its attractive appearance and ability to grow in a variety of soil types.
Light
Spermolepis divaricata requires full sun to thrive and produce flowers. It prefers direct sunlight for at least 6 hours a day but can tolerate partial shade in hotter climates.
Temperature
This plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-7 and can withstand temperatures as low as -40°F. It requires a cool to temperate climate, thriving best in temperatures between 60-75°F. It can tolerate brief periods of drought but prefers consistently moist soil.
Soil Requirements
Spermolepis divaricata is adaptable to a range of soil types, but it prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 5.5-7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter with good fertility. It can tolerate rocky soils and slightly alkaline conditions. However, waterlogged soils should be avoided as it can lead to root rot.
Cultivation Methods:
Spermolepis divaricata (Walt.) Raf. ex Ser. is native to the United States and can be grown from seeds or propagated through cuttings. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant can be planted in rows or used as a border plant. It grows to a height of approximately 2-3 feet and has a spread of 1-2 feet.
Watering Needs:
Spermolepis divaricata (Walt.) Raf. ex Ser. needs regular watering during its initial growth phase to establish its root system. After that, it can sustain itself with minimal watering, as it is adapted to drought-like conditions. However, regular watering during prolonged hot and dry spells is essential. Overwatering should be avoided, as it can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
Fertilization:
Spermolepis divaricata (Walt.) Raf. ex Ser. does not require heavy fertilization. The best time to apply fertilizer is during the plant's growth phase. A balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 fertilizer, can be applied at a rate of one pound per 100 square feet of planting area. Organic compost can also be used as a natural alternative. Care should be taken to avoid excessive fertilization as it can lead to leggy growth.
Pruning:
Pruning is not necessary for Spermolepis divaricata (Walt.) Raf. ex Ser. However, removing dead flower heads can encourage the plant to produce more blooms. The plant may also require pruning to maintain its shape and to prevent it from encroaching on other plants. Pruning should be done during the dormant season.
Propagation of Spermolepis divaricata (Walt.) Raf. ex Ser.
Spermolepis divaricata (Walt.) Raf. ex Ser. is a herbaceous perennial plant that is propagated through different methods, including seeds, stem cuttings, and division.
Propagation through Seeds
Propagation through seeds is the most common method used for Spermolepis divaricata, and it is most successful if carried out in the spring season. The plant's seeds require good drainage for optimum germination, so it is best to prepare a soil mix of sand, peat, and perlite or vermiculite. After planting, the soil should be kept moist, but drainage must be ensured to avoid fungal infections. Germination occurs within two to three weeks, and growth is rapid throughout the first year after planting.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
Spermolepis divaricata can also be propagated through stem cuttings taken during the summer season when the plant is actively growing. Cuttings should be about 3-4 inches long and taken from the plant's basal shoots. The cuttings should be placed in a rooting hormone powder and inserted into the rooting medium, which can be a mixture of soil, sand, and vermiculite. The cuttings should be kept in a humid environment and protected from direct sunlight until roots develop. This process may take 4-6 weeks, and the cuttings should be transplanted into containers or a bed once they have rooted.
Propagation through Division
Propagation through division involves separating and replanting the plant's crowns. It is best done in spring when the plant is not actively growing, and it involves carefully digging up the plant and separating the plant's crowns into two or more sections. The sections should be replanted into prepared soil and kept moist but not waterlogged until the roots have developed.
Disease and Pest Management for Spermolepis Divaricata (Walt.) Raf. ex Ser.
Spermolepis divaricata (Walt.) Raf. ex Ser. belongs to the Apiaceae family. This plant species can be affected by various diseases and pests. As a helpful assistant, here are some of the most common issues that can affect Spermolepis divaricata and some suggestions for managing them.
Diseases
The most common diseases that can affect Spermolepis divaricata are powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot. Powdery mildew causes white powdery patches to form on leaves, while rust causes orange or brown powdery spots on leaves and stems. Leaf spot causes circular brown or black spots to form on leaves.
To manage powdery mildew, apply a fungicide containing potassium bicarbonate or neem oil. For rust, use a fungicide containing copper or sulfur. For leaf spot, remove and dispose of infected leaves and use a fungicide containing copper.
Pests
The most common pests that can affect Spermolepis divaricata are aphids, spider mites, and caterpillars. Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the plant, while spider mites are tiny arachnids that also feed on sap. Caterpillars, on the other hand, can chew on leaves and stems.
To manage aphids and spider mites, use a pesticide containing insecticidal soap or neem oil. For caterpillars, handpick them off the plant or use a pesticide containing Bacillus thuringiensis.
Remember to always follow the instructions on the label of any pesticide or fungicide you use. Additionally, keep your plant healthy by ensuring it is well-watered, fertilized, and receives adequate sunlight. This will help it better resist disease and pest attacks.
