Origin
Sphaeralcea grossulariifolia (Hook. & Arn.) Rydb. var. pedata (Torr. ex Gray) Kearney, commonly known as Desert Hollyhock or Globe Mallow, is a species of flowering plant in the mallow family Malvaceae. This plant is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico.
Common Names
Desert Hollyhock and Globe Mallow are the most common names for this plant. It is also sometimes referred to as Apricot Mallow, due to the orange apricot color of its flowers, or Gooseberry-Leafed Mallow, in reference to its gooseberry-like foliage.
Uses
Sphaeralcea grossulariifolia var. pedata has a variety of uses. Native Americans used the plant for food, medicines, and crafts, such as basket-weaving and dyeing. The plant has also been used for skincare and is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties. Globe Mallow is a popular ornamental plant, prized for its bright and showy flowers, and drought tolerance. It is often used in xeriscaping and landscaping projects, where it is suitable for arid climates. The plant is also used for erosion control and soil stabilization in disturbed areas.
General Appearance
Sphaeralcea grossulariifolia var. pedata is a compact, perennial, shrubby herb, growing up to 3 ft tall and wide, with multiple stems emerging from the base. The plant has greyish-green, deeply divided leaves that resemble those of gooseberry plants. The leaves are covered with silky, silvery hairs, giving them a velvety texture. From spring to fall, the plant produces vibrant, orange apricot flowers that are 1-2 inches wide and attract pollinators such as hummingbirds and butterflies. The fruits of the plant are small, disk-shaped capsules that bear numerous seeds.
Growth Conditions for Sphaeralcea grossulariifolia var. pedata
Light Requirements: Sphaeralcea grossulariifolia var. pedata requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth and development. However, it can tolerate some shade and still thrive, particularly in hot summer climates.
Temperature Requirements: This plant is native to dry and arid regions of the western United States, so it is well adapted to hot and dry climates. It prefers warm temperatures and can tolerate extreme heat, but it may struggle in areas with long periods of frost or freezing temperatures.
Soil Requirements: Sphaeralcea grossulariifolia var. pedata prefers well-drained soils that are sandy or gravelly, with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. It can also tolerate soils that are clayey or shallow, as long as they are well-draining. This plant is also adapted to nutrient-poor soils.
Water Requirements: This plant is drought resistant, but it will benefit from occasional watering during periods of extended drought or extreme heat. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is best to err on the side of underwatering with Sphaeralcea grossulariifolia var. pedata.
Fertilizer Requirements: Sphaeralcea grossulariifolia var. pedata does not require frequent fertilization, but it may benefit from the occasional application of a slow-release fertilizer. However, applying too much fertilizer can lead to excessive growth and potentially harm the plant.
Propagation: This plant can be propagated by seed, stem cuttings, or division. Seeds should be sown in early spring or fall, while cuttings should be taken in late spring to early summer. Division can be done in the fall or early spring.
Cultivation methods
Sphaeralcea grossulariifolia (Hook. & Arn.) Rydb. var. pedata (Torr. ex Gray) Kearney is a hardy perennial plant that can withstand various growing conditions. It prefers full sun but also thrives in partially shaded areas. The plant can withstand temperatures as low as -30°F and can grow in different soil types. However, it thrives in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 8.0.
When planting, dig a hole deep enough to fit the plant's root ball and ensure that the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Sphaeralcea grossulariifolia (Hook. & Arn.) Rydb. var. pedata (Torr. ex Gray) Kearney needs adequate spacing to prevent overcrowding, which can lead to disease and poor growth.
Watering needs
The plant requires moderate watering, especially during the growing season. It is drought-tolerant but does well with regular watering to encourage healthy growth and development. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, reducing frequency when growth slows down. Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot.
Fertilization
Sphaeralcea grossulariifolia (Hook. & Arn.) Rydb. var. pedata (Torr. ex Gray) Kearney is not a heavy feeder and can do well without fertilizer. However, fertilization can help encourage growth and flowering. Apply a balanced fertilizer during the growing season, every four to six weeks.
Pruning
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming during the growing season. Also, prune the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth begins to remove any dead or diseased branches. Additionally, pruning can help maintain the plant's shape and size.
Propagation of Sphaeralcea grossulariifolia var. pedata
Sphaeralcea grossulariifolia var. pedata can be propagated through various methods such as seeds, stem cuttings, or division. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages depending on the circumstances.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation by seeds is the most common method for growing Sphaeralcea grossulariifolia var. pedata. The seeds from mature plants can be collected in late summer or early fall. The seeds can be stored until the spring planting season. When planting the seeds, put them in a well-draining soil mix and do not cover them with soil, just pat them into the soil surface and keep them moist. Seed germination typically occurs within two to four weeks.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are an alternative propagation method to grow Sphaeralcea grossulariifolia var. pedata. For this method, cuttings are taken from the parent plant in spring or summer, and the cuttings should be about four inches long, removing all of the leaves except for the top two. Dip the end of the cutting in rooting hormone powder, and plant the cuttings in a small pot filled with well-draining soil mix, and keep them in a semi-shaded location watered regularly. After the cuttings have developed roots, which usually takes about six to eight weeks, transplant them to their permanent container.
Propagation by Division
Propagation by division is another option for growing Sphaeralcea grossulariifolia var. pedata. This method involves dividing the root ball of mature plants in fall or early spring. This can only be done when the plant is mature enough to produce multiple roots that can be divided. Carefully remove the plant from the soil and separate the root ball into several pieces. Replant each divided portion in well-draining soil mix and water until established.
Disease and Pest Management for Sphaeralcea Grossulariifolia
Sphaeralcea grossulariifolia (Hook. & Arn.) Rydb. var. pedata (Torr. ex Gray) Kearney is generally a hardy plant that is not typically affected by diseases and pests. However, like any plant, it can get sick or attacked by pests under certain circumstances. Below are some of the common diseases and pests that can affect this plant and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Root rot: This is a fungal infection that can be caused by overwatering and poor drainage. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-drained and that you do not overwater the plant. In case of an infection, stop watering immediately, remove the affected parts of the plant and apply a fungicide.
Rust: Rust infections are characterized by yellow or white spots on the leaves that later turn into orange or brown blisters. If the infection is not severe, remove the affected leaves and apply a fungicide. However, severe infections may require you to remove the entire plant.
Pests
Spider mites: These are tiny pests that are difficult to notice until they start to cause damage. Signs of an infestation include yellow or bronzed leaves, webbing and stunted growth. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a hose to dislodge them or use a systemic insecticide.
Mealybugs: These are soft-bodied insects that can cause stunted growth, yellowing leaves and a sticky residue. To manage mealybugs, remove them manually with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or use a systemic insecticide.
Aphids: These are small, pear-shaped insects that suck sap from the plant, causing curling leaves and stunted growth. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a hose to dislodge them or use a systemic insecticide.
In conclusion, Sphaeralcea grossulariifolia is relatively resistant to diseases and pests. However, it is important to monitor the plant regularly and take immediate action if you notice any signs of infection or infestation. With proper care and attention, your plant should thrive and bring you joy for years to come.
