Origin
Sphaeralcea subhastata Coult. var. connata (Kearney) Kearney, commonly known as Desert globemallow, is a perennial sub-shrub that belongs to the family Malvaceae. This plant species is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, where it commonly grows in deserts, rocky slopes, and dry washes.
Common Names
Desert globemallow is also known by other common names, including apricot mallow, grape mallow, desert mallow, and globemallow.
Uses
The plant has been traditionally used for its medicinal properties by Native American tribes. Its roots and leaves are known to contain anti-inflammatory compounds that are effective in treating sore throats, coughs, colds, and other respiratory ailments. The plant's leaves and flowers have also been used to make a tea that helps to alleviate fever and diarrhea. Desert globemallow is also a food source for several wild animals, including bighorn sheep, deer, and rabbits.
General Appearance
Desert globemallow generally grows from one to three feet tall and has a spreading growth habit. The plant has many stems that grow from a woody base and are covered with fine hairs. Its leaves are heart-shaped and fuzzy, with a pale green color. The flowers, which bloom from spring to fall, vary in color from pink, orange, to deep red and are formed in clusters at the end of the stems.
Light Requirements
Sphaeralcea subhastata Coult. var. connata requires full sun or very light shade for optimal growth. It can tolerate up to 30% shade but too much shade can result in weaker growth and reduced flowering.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can grow in a variety of temperatures, ranging from hot and dry desert climates to cooler mountain environments with more moisture. However, it does require a period of cold stratification to germinate. The optimal temperature for growth is between 65-85°F (18-29°C).
Soil Requirements
Sphaeralcea subhastata Coult. var. connata prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, from sandy to clay soils. This plant is also tolerant of alkaline soils. However, it does not tolerate wet or poorly drained soils, which can result in root rot. A soil pH of 6.0-8.5 is ideal for growth.
Cultivation of Sphaeralcea subhastata Coult. var. connata (Kearney) Kearney
Sphaeralcea subhastata Coult. var. connata (Kearney) Kearney is a low-growing shrub that belongs to the Malvaceae family. It is an easy plant to grow as it is drought tolerant and can thrive in most soil types.
The plant prefers a full sun location for thriving. It can also tolerate partial shade. It is best to grow the plant in well-drained soil. The soil pH range suitable for the plant is from 6.0 to 8.5.
Watering Needs of Sphaeralcea subhastata Coult. var. connata (Kearney) Kearney
The plant is drought-tolerant and can survive on very little water. However, for optimum growth and flowering performance, it is necessary to water the plant regularly. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season. Provide enough water to soak the soil up to at least 6 inches deep. Avoid watering the plant from above the foliage as this can lead to fungal diseases.
Fertilization of Sphaeralcea subhastata Coult. var. connata (Kearney) Kearney
The plant does not require heavy fertilization. If the plant is not growing well in poor soil, then fertilization can be done. During the growing season, use a balanced fertilizer with equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply the fertilizer to the base of the plant and not on its foliage. Fertilize the plant once every month during the growing season.
Pruning of Sphaeralcea subhastata Coult. var. connata (Kearney) Kearney
The plant requires very little pruning. Prune the plant in early spring to shape it and remove any crossed or damaged branches. Deadheading spent blooms can encourage the plant to produce more flowers. If the plant becomes overgrown and requires rejuvenation, it can be pruned back to its base in late winter or early spring.
Propagation of Sphaeralcea Subhastata Coult. var. Connata (Kearney) Kearney
Sphaeralcea subhastata Coult. var. connata (Kearney) Kearney, commonly known as the desert globemallow, is a hardy perennial plant. Propagation of this plant is essential for its growth and conservation. Traditionally, the plant has been propagated through seeds. However, it can also be propagated through other methods such as stem cuttings and division.
Propagation by Seeds
The easiest and most common method of propagating desert globemallow is through seeds. The seeds can be collected from the plant during the fall season when the seed pods have dried and turned brown. Once collected, the seeds should be allowed to dry and then stored in a cool, dry place until ready to be planted.
The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil in the fall or early spring. A mixture of sand and soil can be used to ensure proper drainage. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil, and then lightly watered. It is essential to keep the soil consistently moist until germination occurs, which usually takes 2-3 weeks.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Desert globemallow can also be propagated through stem cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Select a stem that is about 4-6 inches long and has a few leaves. Using a sharp, clean pair of scissors, make a clean cut just below a node where a leaf attaches to the stem.
Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the stem and dip the cut end into a rooting hormone powder. Place the stem cutting into a well-draining potting mix and gently firm the soil around it. Water the cutting and cover it with a clear plastic bag to create a greenhouse effect.
Propagation by Division
Division is another method of propagating desert globemallow. This method involves separating the plant into smaller sections, each with its own roots and stems. Division is best done in the early spring before the plant starts to grow actively.
To divide the plant, gently dig it up and separate the root ball into sections using a sharp, clean knife or gardening shears. Each section should have several stems and a healthy root system. Replant each section into its own pot or garden bed, taking care not to damage the roots.
Overall, propagating Sphaeralcea subhastata Coult. var. connata (Kearney) Kearney is relatively easy, and any of these methods can be used successfully. However, it is essential to provide the plant with the right growing conditions to ensure that it thrives.
Disease Management
Sphaeralcea subhastata Coult. var. connata (Kearney) Kearney is prone to foliar diseases caused by fungal pathogens such as powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spots. These diseases can cause defoliation, stunted growth, and reduced yields.
To manage foliar diseases in Sphaeralcea subhastata Coult. var. connata, it is crucial to choose a resistant plant variety and practice good sanitation measures, like removing infected leaves and debris. Fungicidal sprays may also be used as a preventive measure.
Pest Management
Sphaeralcea subhastata Coult. var. connata (Kearney) Kearney is sometimes affected by various pests that feed on its roots, stems, and leaves.
One of the most common insect pests that attack Sphaeralcea subhastata is the leaf miner. These pests burrow inside the leaves, leaving white or yellow trails on the foliage. Another common pest is the aphid, which feeds on the sap of the plant and causes leaf curling, stunted growth, and distorted flowers.
To control these pests, it is essential to implement measures like crop rotation, use of insecticidal soaps and oils, and releasing beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings into the garden. Chemical controls can also be used, but it is important to follow all label instructions and safety precautions.
