Overview
Sphaeralcea angustifolia (Cav.) G. Don ssp. lobata (Woot.) Kearney is a plant species that belongs to the family Malvaceae, commonly known as Globemallow. It is a perennial plant that grows in arid regions of North America, such as the southwestern United States and northern Mexico.
Appearance
Sphaeralcea angustifolia is a shrub that can grow from 1–4 feet tall and spreads up to 3 feet wide. The stems are grayish-green and have dense white hairs. The leaves are narrow, lance-shaped, and covered with silky hairs, making them soft to touch. The flowers are orange-red, five-petaled, and arranged in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruit is a globe-shaped capsule, hence the common name "Globemallow."
Uses
The roots, leaves, and flowers of Sphaeralcea angustifolia were traditionally used by Native Americans to treat various ailments, including sore throat, coughs, and digestive problems. The Navajo tribe used the plant in ceremonies, and the Zuni tribe used it in religious offerings. The plant is also used in landscaping as an ornamental plant because of its attractive flowers and foliage. Additionally, it is a great plant at attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies to your garden.
Light Conditions
Sphaeralcea angustifolia ssp. lobata typically grows well in sunny areas with full exposure to sunlight for at least 6 hours per day. It is not tolerant of shady areas and may not grow well or may die if placed in shaded locations.
Temperature Requirements
Sphaeralcea angustifolia ssp. lobata grows well in regions with warm to hot temperatures. The plant is adapted to thrive in USDA zones 5 to 9, where the average minimum temperature ranges between -20 °F and 20 °F. Generally, this plant will tolerate temperatures as low as 40 °F and as high as 100 °F, making it a relatively adaptable species.
Soil Requirements
This plant requires well-drained soils and will not tolerate excessively moist soils. It also prefers slightly alkaline soils with pH levels ranging between 7.0 and 8.5. The plant is able to tolerate low to moderate salinity levels in soils. Sand, loam, or clay soils can all be used to cultivate this plant, but it is critical to avoid waterlogged conditions to prevent root rot and other plant diseases.
Cultivation methods:
Sphaeralcea angustifolia ssp. lobata is a hardy plant that can thrive in a range of growing conditions. It prefers full sun and well-draining soils, but can also tolerate some light shade and clay soils. Planting can be done in early spring or fall, and spacing should be around 12-18 inches between plants. Mulching around the base of the plant can help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Watering needs:
The plant needs moderate watering during its growing season, which typically lasts from spring to fall. The soil should be kept slightly moist, but not waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot. It can survive periods of drought, but frequent watering can help promote blooming and overall health.
Fertilization:
Applying fertilizer during the plant's growing season can help promote growth and blooming. A balanced fertilizer with an NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium) ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 is recommended. Fertilizer should be applied as per the package instructions, and care should be taken not to over-fertilize as this can damage the plant.
Pruning:
Pruning promotes bushier growth, prevents the plant from becoming leggy, and encourages prolific blooming. The best time to prune is in early spring before new growth begins. Prune back any dead or damaged branches to around an inch from the main stem. Lightly prune back the tips of the plant to encourage bushier growth. Pruning can also be done after blooming to encourage a second flush of flowers.
Propagation of Sphaeralcea angustifolia (Cav.) G. Don ssp. lobata (Woot.) Kearney
Sphaeralcea angustifolia (Cav.) G. Don ssp. lobata (Woot.) Kearney, commonly known as Desert Mallow or Sweet Mallow, is a species of flowering plant in the mallow family Malvaceae. This plant is a deciduous perennial shrub that is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. The plant can grow up to 3 feet in height and produces beautiful orange-colored flowers in mid-summer.
Propagating Sphaeralcea angustifolia can be accomplished by several different methods, including seed germination, stem cuttings, and root division.
Seed Germination
Propagation through seed germination is the most common method used to propagate Sphaeralcea angustifolia. The seeds should be harvested in the fall after the plant has finished flowering. The dried seedpods can be collected and stored until spring when it is time to germinate them. To germinate the seeds, they can be soaked in water overnight before sowing them in a seed-starting mix. The seedlings will generally emerge in 7 to 14 days.
Stem Cuttings
Propagating Sphaeralcea angustifolia through stem cuttings is another effective method. The cuttings can be taken in late summer or early fall when the plant has finished flowering for the year. The cuttings should be about 4 to 6 inches in length and stripped of their lower leaves. Dip the cuttings into rooting hormone and then insert them into a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and avoid direct sunlight. The cuttings will start developing roots after 2 to 3 months.
Root Division
Propagating Sphaeralcea angustifolia through root division is a quick way to achieve a new plant. The dividing should be done in early spring before new growth appears. Gently dig up the plant and use a sharp knife to divide the healthy roots into several sections. Each section should have a good amount of roots and a portion of the rhizome. After dividing, replant each section into a pot or back into the garden bed.
Disease Management
Sphaeralcea angustifolia (Cav.) G. Don ssp. lobata (Woot.) Kearney is generally not susceptible to many diseases. However, it can fall victim to certain fungal pathogens like rust, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. These diseases can be managed by practicing good cultural practices.
One way to prevent the spread of disease is to keep the foliage dry by watering the plant at its base. Prune out any infected or dead plant matter, and discard it properly. If the disease is severe, applying a fungicide registered for use on the plant may be necessary.
Pest Management
Sphaeralcea angustifolia (Cav.) G. Don ssp. lobata (Woot.) Kearney is relatively pest resistant. However, it may sometimes attract spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. These pests can be managed by both chemical and non-chemical means.
Introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings can help control pest populations. Insecticidal soaps and horticultural oils can also be used to control pest infestations. If the infestation is severe, applying an insecticide registered for use on the plant may be necessary.
