Overview
Sphaeralcea digitata (Greene) Rydb. var. angustiloba (Gray) Shinners is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the family Malvaceae. This species is also known by several common names, including Narrowleaf Globemallow, Desert Hollyhock, and Scarlet Globemallow.Origin and Distribution
Sphaeralcea digitata var. angustiloba is native to the southwestern United States and can be found in New Mexico, Arizona, Colorado, Oklahoma, Texas, and Utah. This plant thrives in dry environments and is often found growing in rocky soil or in sandy arroyos.Appearance
Sphaeralcea digitata var. angustiloba is a vining plant that can grow up to 1 meter in height. The leaves of this plant are narrow, measuring between 2 and 4 cm in length and are covered in fine hairs. The flowers of Sphaeralcea digitata var. angustiloba are vibrant orange in color, with five petals that are fused at the base, forming a globe-shaped flower that measures between 2 and 3 cm in diameter.Uses
Sphaeralcea digitata var. angustiloba is cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its vibrant, showy flowers. This plant is also known for its medicinal properties and has been used by Native American tribes for centuries to treat ailments such as sore throats, coughs, and fever. Additionally, the seed pods of Sphaeralcea digitata var. angustiloba are used to make a traditional Hopi dish known as "piki bread."Light Requirements
Sphaeralcea digitata (Greene) Rydb. var. angustiloba (Gray) Shinners typically grow in areas with full sun exposure. Therefore, it is essential to provide the appropriate amount of light to ensure optimal plant growth and development. When planting this species, ensure that the area receives a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight each day.
Temperature Requirements
Sphaeralcea digitata (Greene) Rydb. var. angustiloba (Gray) Shinners are native to the southwestern United States and are adapted to hot and dry conditions. The plant requires warm temperatures ranging from 60 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. However, during winter, the plant can tolerate frost but requires a warmer environment to continue growing.
Soil Requirements
Sphaeralcea digitata (Greene) Rydb. var. angustiloba (Gray) Shinners grow best in well-drained soil with moderate fertility. The plant tolerates a wide range of soil types, including loam, clay, and sandy soils. However, the pH of the soil should be between 6.5 and 7.5. It is essential to avoid overwatering, as this plant is susceptible to root rot.
Cultivation methods
The Sphaeralcea digitata (Greene) Rydb. var. angustiloba (Gray) Shinners plant thrives in full sunlight and well-drained soil. It can withstand extreme heat and cold, making it perfect for dry regions with hot days and cool nights. When planting, ensure there is enough space between each plant, preferably around one to two feet apart, to allow for proper growth and development.
Watering needs
As a native plant to arid regions, the Sphaeralcea digitata (Greene) Rydb. var. angustiloba (Gray) Shinners is incredibly drought-tolerant, requiring very little water once established. Frequent watering can lead to root rot and mildew growth, making it crucial to water sparingly during dry periods. Water deeply but infrequently, ensuring the soil dries out completely before the next watering.
Fertilization
The Sphaeralcea digitata (Greene) Rydb. var. angustiloba (Gray) Shinners does not require frequent fertilization. However, a yearly application of a balanced fertilizer can boost its growth and resistance to pests and diseases. Apply the fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season, only using the recommended amount to avoid overfeeding, which can cause root burn and stunted growth.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for the Sphaeralcea digitata (Greene) Rydb. var. angustiloba (Gray) Shinners plant. However, it is essential to remove any damaged, diseased, or dead branches to maintain the plant's health. You can prune it anytime during the year, but the best time is during the dormant season, just before the spring growing season.
Propagation of Sphaeralcea digitata (Greene) Rydb. var. angustiloba (Gray) Shinners
Sphaeralcea digitata (Greene) Rydb. var. angustiloba (Gray) Shinners, commonly known as narrow-lobed globemallow, is a flowering perennial plant that belongs to the Malvaceae family. This plant is native to the southwestern United States and can be propagated by various means.
Seed Propagation
Sphaeralcea digitata can be propagated by seeds, which are easily collected from mature seed pods. To propagate using seeds, the pods should be gathered when they begin to dry out and open. The seeds can then be extracted from the pods and sown directly in the ground or in containers. Direct sowing in the ground is preferred because it eliminates the need for transplanting, which can cause stress to the young plants. When sowing, the soil should be well-draining, and the seeds must be sown at a depth of around 1/8 inch. Germination generally occurs within two weeks, and the seedlings should be watered regularly until they are established.
Cuttings Propagation
Propagation can also be carried out via cuttings during the spring and summer months. The cuttings should be taken from healthy, disease-free plants and should be around four inches long. The leaves on the lower half of the cutting should be removed to prevent excessive moisture loss, and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone before being planted. The plant should be watered regularly, and rooting should take place within a few weeks. Once roots have developed, the cutting can be transplanted into a larger container or outdoors in the ground.
Division Propagation
Propagation via division is another method of propagating Sphaeralcea digitata. It is best done during the early spring months by dividing the mature plant into smaller sections. The sections should be separated using a sharp tool and replanted immediately. The soil should be kept moist until the divisions take root. It is essential to ensure that each division has a healthy root system to ensure successful propagation.
Disease Management
Sphaeralcea digitata (Greene) Rydb. var. angustiloba (Gray) Shinners is generally resistant to most diseases but may occasionally be affected by some fungal or bacterial diseases. Brown spot and powdery mildew are the most common diseases that may affect this plant.
Brown spot: This disease appears as brown spots on leaves and may cause defoliation. The best way to manage this disease is by maintaining good garden sanitation practices. Remove any infected plant debris from the garden and avoid overhead watering, which can spread the fungus. Fungicides such as chlorothalonil can also be used to control the disease.
Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white powdery growth on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. It can cause stunted growth, wilt, and leaf drop. The best way to manage powdery mildew is by ensuring good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering. Fungicides such as sulfur or neem oil can also be used to control the disease.
Pest Management
Sphaeralcea digitata (Greene) Rydb. var. angustiloba (Gray) Shinners is generally not affected by serious pests, but some insects may occasionally cause minor damage to the plant.
Aphids: These small insects feed on the sap of the plant and can quickly reproduce to cause significant damage. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids. Ladybugs and lacewings are natural predators that can also be introduced to the garden to control aphids.
Spider mites: These arachnids feed on the plant cells and can cause leaf discoloration and webbing. Use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or a strong stream of water to wash away the mites. Predatory mites can also be introduced to the garden to control spider mites.
