Overview
Sphaeralcea subhastata, commonly known as desert globemallow, is a flowering plant belonging to the mallow family (Malvaceae). It is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, growing in arid and semi-arid habitats.
General Appearance
Desert globemallow is a small shrub that typically grows up to 3 feet tall. Its leaves are silvery-green, densely covered in fine hairs that protect them from water loss in dry environments. The shrub produces showy, globe-shaped flowers that range in color from orange to pink.
Common Names
Besides desert globemallow, this plant is also known by other common names, including apricot mallow, cowboy's delight, and desert hollyhock.
Uses
Indigenous people have traditionally used desert globemallow for medicinal purposes, treating sore throats, coughs, and colds, among other ailments. Additionally, it was used to make a yellow or orange dye for textiles. Today, the plant is cultivated for ornamental purposes, adding a splash of color to xeric gardens and landscapes.
Light Requirements
Sphaeralcea subhastata Coult. thrives in bright, full sunlight. It is native to regions with high levels of solar radiation, so it requires at least six hours of direct sunlight each day to grow properly. Insufficient sunlight can cause stunted growth and weak plants that are more susceptible to diseases and pests.
Temperature Requirements
Sphaeralcea subhastata Coult. prefers warm temperatures, with an optimum range of 65-85°F (18-29°C). It is a hardy plant that can withstand occasional freezes and light frosts, but prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can harm or kill the plant. Extreme heat can also damage the foliage, so it is important to provide some shade during the hottest part of the day.
Soil Requirements
Sphaeralcea subhastata Coult. grows best in well-drained soils with a slightly alkaline pH between 7.0 and 8.0. The soil should be rich in organic matter and have good water retention capacity. Sandy or gravelly soils may not provide enough water or nutrients, while heavy clay soils can hold too much water and cause root rot. Adding compost or other organic amendments can improve soil quality and fertility.
Cultivation Methods
Sphaeralcea subhastata Coult. is a shrub that can reach a height of 3 to 4 feet and a spread of 2 to 3 feet. It's native to the southwestern United States and requires a hot and arid climate to thrive. The plant prefers full sun and well-draining soil that isn't too fertile. When planting, dig a hole twice the size of the root ball and amend the soil with sand or gravel to improve drainage. Water the plant regularly during the first growing season to establish a robust root system. After that, reduce watering to once a week in the summer, and once every two weeks in the winter.Watering Needs
One of the critical factors in growing Sphaeralcea subhastata Coult. is watering. The plant is drought-tolerant, but it still requires irrigation to thrive. Water the plant deeply, making sure the soil is moist to a depth of at least 6 inches. It's best to water the plant in the early morning or late evening to avoid evaporation. Avoid overhead watering, which can lead to foliar diseases such as powdery mildew. Instead, water at the base of the plant.Fertilization
Sphaeralcea subhastata Coult. doesn't require a lot of fertilizer. In the early spring, apply a slow-release fertilizer formulated for flowering shrubs. Follow the directions on the package carefully, as over-fertilization can lead to spindly growth and reduced flowering. If the plant's leaves begin to turn yellow, this may be a sign of nutrient deficiencies. In this case, apply a balanced fertilizer to the soil or foliage and water thoroughly.Pruning
Pruning Sphaeralcea subhastata Coult. is not essential, but it can help to keep the plant in shape and stimulate new growth. The best time to prune is after flowering, but before fall. Using clean, sharp pruning shears, remove any dead or diseased wood and cut back any leggy or overgrown branches. Avoid pruning too aggressively, as this can disrupt the plant's natural shape and reduce flowering. Prune only to maintain the plant's size and shape, and to remove any damaged or diseased wood.Propagation of Sphaeralcea subhastata Coult.
Sphaeralcea subhastata Coult., also known as desert globemallow, can be propagated through various methods. Here are some common techniques:
Seed Propagation
Seeds are the easiest way to propagate Sphaeralcea subhastata Coult. They are readily available and germinate quickly. The seeds can be collected from the plant when the seedpods split open to reveal the black seeds. The seeds can be immediately planted in the ground or in containers. Plant the seeds 1/4 inch deep and keep the soil moist until they germinate, which typically takes around two weeks. Once the seedlings reach two inches in height, they can be transplanted into their permanent location.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation can be used to propagate Sphaeralcea subhastata Coult., but it is a bit more difficult. Cuttings should be taken in the early summer, selecting healthy stems near the base of the plant. The stems should be around four to six inches in length and should be stripped of the leaves on the bottom half. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in soil, keeping the soil moist until they start growing. It is important to protect the cuttings from direct sunlight, so it is recommended to keep them in a shaded area until they have rooted properly. Rooting typically takes around six weeks. The new plants can be transplanted after the roots have taken hold.
Division Propagation
Division propagation is another method to propagate Sphaeralcea subhastata Coult., but it is best done in the fall when the plant is going dormant. The plant can be dug up and separated into smaller sections, making sure that each section has a healthy stem and some roots. Replant the sections in the ground or in containers. Keep the soil moist until the plants begin to grow.
Propagation of Sphaeralcea subhastata Coult. is relatively easy. Using any of these propagation methods can help increase the number of these beautiful plants.
Disease Management
The Sphaeralcea subhastata Coult. is susceptible to some diseases that can affect its growth and productivity. Some of the common ones include:
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by fungi and can cause the roots of the plant to rot, affecting its ability to absorb water and nutrients. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering and ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging. Additionally, you can apply fungicides to control the spread of the disease.
- Powdery Mildew: This is a fungal disease that forms a white powdery coating on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage this disease, ensure proper air circulation, avoid watering foliage, and apply fungicides early enough to prevent its spread.
- Bacterial Blight: This disease is characterized by brownish-yellow spots on stem and leaves, and can cause considerable damage to the plant. To manage the disease, consider crop rotation, pruning, and applying copper-based fungicides.
Pest Management
Some common pests that can infest the Sphaeralcea subhastata Coult. include:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects feed on the plant sap, causing stunted growth and deformation. To manage them, consider using natural predators, such as ladybirds, or applying insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests feed on the plant sap, causing yellowing or bronzing of leaves. To manage them, consider spraying the plant with water to wash off the pests or applying miticides.
- Caterpillars: These chewing insects can cause severe damage to the plant by eating the leaves. To manage them, consider hand-picking the caterpillars or using Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) spray.
