Plant Description:
Sphaeralcea coccinea (Nutt.) Rydb. ssp. elata (E.G. Baker) Kearney, also known as the Scarlet Globemallow or Copper-mallow, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the mallow family Malvaceae. It is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, and can be found growing in rocky washes, hillsides, and mesas.
General Appearance:
The plant grows up to 3 feet high and spreads up to 2 feet wide. It has deep green, heart-shaped or lobed leaves that are hairy and grow up to 3 inches long. The flowers of the Scarlet Globemallow are the main attraction, and they bloom from March to June in clusters at the top of a long stem. The flowers are a vibrant orange-red color with five heart-shaped petals and a prominent central stamen.
Uses:
The Scarlet Globemallow has several traditional uses among Native American tribes. The roots were used to treat coughs, colds, and sore throats, while the leaves were used to make a tea that helped with stomach problems. The flowers were used as a natural dye, and the plant was also used in religious ceremonies. In addition, the plant is a popular choice for water-wise landscaping due to its drought tolerance and ornamental value.
Light Conditions
Sphaeralcea coccinea (Nutt.) Rydb. ssp. elata (E.G. Baker) Kearney requires full sun exposure for proper growth. The plant can tolerate some shade, but prolonged periods of low light can lead to weak growth and reduced flowering. It is best to plant the species in an area that receives direct sunlight for at least 6-8 hours a day.
Temperature
The plant is native to hot and dry climates, so it is important to maintain warm temperatures during the growing season. Sphaeralcea coccinea (Nutt.) Rydb. ssp. elata (E.G. Baker) Kearney can grow well in temperatures ranging from 65-95°F (18-35°C). However, young plants are more sensitive and may need additional protection from frost or cold winds.
Soil Requirements
The soil requirements of Sphaeralcea coccinea (Nutt.) Rydb. ssp. elata (E.G. Baker) Kearney are relatively flexible, but it prefers well-draining soil that is moderately fertile. The plant can tolerate sandy or gravelly soil, but heavy clay soil should be avoided as it can lead to root rot. It is recommended to add organic matter to the soil before planting to help retain moisture and nutrients.
Cultivation methods
Sphaeralcea coccinea (Nutt.) Rydb. ssp. elata (E.G. Baker) Kearney, commonly known as Scarlet globemallow, is a drought-tolerant perennial plant that is native to North America. To cultivate this plant, you should first choose a well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 8.0. Scarlet globemallow is a sun-loving plant that requires at least six hours of direct sunlight. Plant the seeds in spring after the last frost or in fall after the first frost. Make sure to space the plants about 18 inches apart. Water the plant until the roots are established, and then reduce the frequency to once or twice a week.
Watering needs
Scarlet globemallow is a drought-tolerant plant. Once established, it does not require frequent watering. The plant prefers well-draining soil and does not like to be in standing water. Water the plant deeply when you see the soil is dry, and then allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. During the growing season, you can give the plant a deep watering once or twice a week.
Fertilization
Scarlet globemallow does not require much fertilizer. Applying fertilizer can make the plant grow extremely fast and flimsy, which can make it susceptible to breaking easily due to strong winds. If the soil is poor, you can amend it with compost before planting. You can also use a slow-release fertilizer with a balanced NPK ratio once a year, in early spring, to promote healthy growth.
Pruning
Pruning Scarlet globemallow is not necessary but can help promote bushy growth and increase flowering. During the growing season, you can trim the plant to remove dead and damaged stems. Cutting the plant back by half in the late summer can also encourage a late-season flush of blooms. Avoid pruning the plant in late fall or winter, as this can cause damage and sap the plant's energy reserves.
Propagation of Sphaeralcea coccinea ssp. elata
Sphaeralcea coccinea ssp. elata can be propagated through various methods, including seed propagation, division, and stem cuttings.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating Sphaeralcea coccinea ssp. elata. The seeds should ideally be harvested in the fall and planted directly into the soil. However, they can also be stored and planted in the spring. The seeds should be sown shallowly in well-draining soil. They will germinate in 10-20 days, and the seedlings can be transplanted once they have several true leaves.
Division
Division is another method of propagating Sphaeralcea coccinea ssp. elata. The best time to divide the plant is in the fall or early spring. The clump can be divided into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has a good root system. The divided sections can then be replanted in well-draining soil.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings can also be used to propagate Sphaeralcea coccinea ssp. elata. The cuttings should be taken from new growth in the spring or early summer. Cuttings should be taken from healthy, disease-free plants and treated with rooting hormone before planting. The cuttings can be planted in a well-draining soil mixture and kept moist until roots have developed.
Disease and Pest Management for Sphaeralcea coccinea (Nutt.) Rydb. ssp. elata (E.G. Baker) Kearney
Sphaeralcea coccinea (Nutt.) Rydb. ssp. elata (E.G. Baker) Kearney belongs to the Malvaceae family and is native to the southwestern United States. Like any other plant, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can cause damage to the plant, lead to stunted growth, or even kill the plant. To ensure that the plant grows healthy without any inhibitions, it is important to manage the diseases and pests effectively.
Common Diseases
The common diseases that affect Sphaeralcea coccinea include foliar diseases, vascular wilts, and root rots.
Foliar Diseases
Foliar diseases affect the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. The most prominent among them are leaf spot diseases, powdery mildew, and rust. Leaf spot diseases are caused by various fungi and bacteria. Initially, small red-brown spots appear on the leaves and gradually enlarge into larger brown spots that may also affect the stems. The powdery mildew appears as a white powdery layer on the upper surface of the leaves, which reduces the photosynthetic efficiency of the leaves. Rust appears as small reddish-brown dots on the undersurface of the leaves.
Vascular Wilts
Vascular wilts are caused by fungi or bacteria, which colonize the xylem tissue of the plant, relying on water and mineral transportation. The most common among them are Verticillium wilt and Fusarium wilt. The symptoms of vascular wilt are wilting, yellowing of leaves, and ultimately death of the plant.
Root Rots
Root rot is caused by soil-borne fungi that colonize the roots of the plant. They cause root rot, which stops transporting water and minerals to the plant. Symptoms include yellowing of the leaves, wilting, and stunted growth.
Common Pests
Sphaeralcea coccinea is susceptible to damage from a variety of pests, including spider mites, aphids, and grasshoppers.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are the most common insect pests that attack Sphaeralcea coccinea. They suck the sap from the leaves of the plant, which causes yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Spider mites are challenging to control as they reproduce quickly and can quickly resurge after treatment.
Aphids
Aphids are small insects that feed by piercing the plant and sucking its sap. These pests weaken the plant by removing its nutrients, which leads to stunted growth and reduces the photosynthetic capacity. Besides, aphids are vectors of viruses, so their infestation needs immediate attention.
Grasshoppers
Grasshoppers are the most prominent among the chewing herbivores that damage the plant. They feed on almost all parts of the plant, especially young leaves and shoots. Growing Sphaeralcea coccinea in an enclosed environment, netting can prevent grasshopper infestations.
Management
The management of diseases and pests in Sphaeralcea coccinea (Nutt.) Rydb. ssp. elata (E.G. Baker) Kearney can be accomplished by the following methods:
- Cultural Control
- Mechanical Control
- Biological Control
- Chemical Control
Cultural Control
Cultural control involves modifying environmental conditions to reduce pest and disease infestation. Ensure proper spacing to allow proper air circulation and reduce humidity, which favors fungal growth. Irrigate the plant at the base to prevent water splashing on the leaves and spreading spores. Proper fertilization and soil management can also make the plant less vulnerable to infestation.
Mechanical Control
Mechanical control involves physical removal of pests and diseased plant parts, like leaves and stems, using tools like pruning shears or garden scissors. Make sure to dispose of all the infected plant parts far from the plant to prevent further infestation. Placing sticky traps in the garden can capture flying insects easily.
Biological Control
Biological control includes the usage of natural enemies against pests and diseases. Beneficial insects like ladybugs, lacewings can help in controlling the population of aphids and spider mites. Bacillus thuringensis, a type of bacterium, can control the population of caterpillars and other chewing insects. Also, nematodes have been found to control root-knot diseases effectively.
Chemical Control
Chemical control involves the usage of pesticides and fungicides to control the pests and diseases. While it is the easiest way to control infestation, it should be used in moderation as it may harm the beneficial organisms too. Always follow label instructions correctly and use protective gear while spraying. Also, rotate different pesticide classes to reduce the likelihood of pests developing pesticide resistance.
