Overview
Sphaeralcea angustifolia (Cav.) G. Don var. lobata (Woot.) Kearney, also known as Narrow-leaf globemallow, is a flowering plant from the family Malvaceae. This plant is native to North America, particularly in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It is a perennial herb that grows up to 3 feet tall with a spread of 2-3 feet.
Appearance
Narrow-leaf globemallow has narrow, lance-shaped, grayish-green leaves that are 1-2 inches long with serrated edges. The plant produces bright orange-red flowers that are 1-2 inches across. The flowers appear on long, thin stems and bloom from spring to fall. The fruit of this plant is a dry, cylindrical capsule that contains many seeds.
Common Names
Sphaeralcea angustifolia var. lobata has several common names, which include Narrow-leaf globemallow, Red False Mallow, Desert Hollyhock, and Scarlet globemallow.
Uses
The Narrow-leaf globemallow plant has been traditionally used by Native American tribes for medicinal purposes. It was used for the treatment of various ailments such as sore throat, fever, stomach problems, and respiratory issues. The flowers and leaves of this plant are edible and are used as a food source. They can be boiled, blanched, or eaten raw in salads. The plant has also been used as a natural dye, especially for coloring wool. Additionally, it is sometimes used as an ornamental plant in gardens and xeriscaping due to its drought tolerance and attractive blooms.
Growth Conditions of Sphaeralcea angustifolia var. lobata
Light: Sphaeralcea angustifolia var. lobata prefers full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It can tolerate some shade but too much shade can lead to weak and leggy plants.
Temperature: This plant thrives in warm and dry climates. It can tolerate high temperatures up to 100°F (38°C) but it is important to note that the plant is dormant during the hottest months of the year. A winter temperature range of 20-40°F (-6 to 4°C) is optimal for plant emergence and growth.
Soil requirements: Sphaeralcea angustifolia var. lobata grows best in well-drained sandy or clayey soils with low to moderate fertility. It is important to avoid soils that are too rich or acidic as this can lead to stunted growth. The plant is also drought-tolerant and can survive in low-moisture conditions but it will thrive with occasional watering.
Cultivation Methods
Sphaeralcea angustifolia (Cav.) G. Don var. lobata (Woot.) Kearney, commonly known as desert globemallow, is a native flowering plant in North America. It is a shrubby perennial plant that thrives in arid or semi-arid conditions. It requires full sun exposure to grow well and needs well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5.
The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 65°F to 85°F. It can tolerate brief periods of frost but cannot survive prolonged freezing temperatures. The ideal planting time for this plant is during the spring season after the last frost, or in the fall season, eight weeks before the first frost.
Watering Needs
Desert globemallow is a drought-tolerant plant that requires low to moderate watering. It is essential to water the plant thoroughly, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot. Watering once a week may be enough for this plant, depending on the prevailing weather conditions.
Another important aspect is to avoid watering the plant from above, as it can easily lead to foliar diseases. Instead, water the plant at the base to ensure that water reaches the roots directly.
Fertilization
Desert globemallow does not require excessive fertilizers. Fertilize the plant during the spring season with a balanced fertilizer, following the manufacturer's instructions, to encourage healthy growth and blooming. Avoid over-fertilizing the plant, which can lead to an increased susceptibility to pest and disease infestations.
Pruning
Pruning the desert globemallow plant is essential to encourage bushier growth, which leads to a fuller and healthier plant. Pruning should be done in early spring before new growth appears. Cut back all the dead or damaged stems to their base and thin out any older wood or crossing branches. It will also encourage the plant to produce more flowers.
The seed pods can also be removed after flowering to encourage further blooming and prevent self-seeding, which can cause the plant to spread aggressively.
Propagation of Sphaeralcea angustifolia var. lobata
Sphaeralcea angustifolia var. lobata, commonly known as the narrowleaf globemallow, is a drought-tolerant, shrub-like plant that is native to the western regions of North America. This plant typically grows up to 3 feet tall and blooms in summer with bright-orange flowers. Propagating Sphaeralcea angustifolia var. lobata can be done through several methods, including seed propagation, division of mature plants, and stem cuttings.
Seed Propagation
The most common propagation method for Sphaeralcea angustifolia var. lobata is through seeds. The seeds of this plant can be found in capsules that develop after the plant has bloomed. The capsules should be collected when they are mature and dry. The seeds can then be extracted from the capsules and planted in well-draining soil. Seeds should be planted in the fall or early spring, and they typically germinate within 10 to 14 days.
Division
Division is another way to propagate Sphaeralcea angustifolia var. lobata. This method is best done in spring or fall when the plant is not blooming. To divide the plant, dig up the entire root ball and separate the plant into several sections, making sure that each section has roots and some stem. Replant the divided sections in well-draining soil in a location that receives partial sun. Water the newly divided plants thoroughly, and keep the soil moist until new growth appears.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are another way to propagate Sphaeralcea angustifolia var. lobata. This method is best done in spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Cut a stem section that is about 4 inches long below a leaf node. Remove all the leaves from the bottom half of the stem and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the stem in a container or in well-draining soil in a location that receives partial sun. Water the cutting thoroughly, and cover the container or stem with a plastic bag to create a humid environment. The stem should root within 4 to 6 weeks.
Disease Management
Sphaeralcea angustifolia var. lobata is susceptible to several diseases that can affect the growth and yield of the plant. Some common diseases that may infect this plant include:
- Root rot: caused by fungi in the genus Phytophthora and Pythium, root rot can cause the roots of the plant to rot, leading to stunted growth and poor yields. To manage this disease, it is important to avoid overwatering the plant and ensure good drainage.
- Powdery mildew: a fungal disease that causes a white powdery coating on the leaves of the plant, powdery mildew can reduce the plant’s photosynthetic ability and lead to poor yields. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves, and maintain good air circulation around the plant.
- Leaf spot: caused by the fungus Cercospora, leaf spot can cause circular brown spots on the leaves of the plant and may lead to leaf drop and reduced yields. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves and apply fungicides to the plant.
Pest Management
Several pests may also attack Sphaeralcea angustifolia var. lobata, causing damage to the plant. Some common pests that may infect this plant include:
- Aphids: small insects that suck sap from the leaves of the plant, aphids can cause reduced growth and yellowing of the leaves. To manage this pest, remove infected leaves and apply insecticidal soap.
- Spider mites: tiny pests that feed on the undersides of leaves, spider mites can cause stippling and discoloration of the leaves and may lead to leaf drop and reduced yields. To manage this pest, increase humidity around the plant and apply insecticidal soap.
- Whiteflies: small, sap-sucking insects that can cause yellowing and stunted growth in the plant. To manage this pest, remove infected leaves and apply insecticidal soap.
