Plant Description:
Stevia plummerae Gray var. alba Gray is a species of the genus Stevia in the sunflower family, Asteraceae. This herbaceous plant is native to North America and can be found in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico.
Common Names:
Stevia plummerae Gray var. alba Gray is also commonly known as White Stevia, Woolly Stevia, and Plummer's Stevia.
Uses:
The leaves of Stevia plummerae Gray var. alba Gray are said to be sweet-tasting and can be used as a natural sweetener. However, this variety of Stevia is not widely known for its sweetening properties and is not commonly used for this purpose.
Stevia plummerae Gray var. alba Gray has been traditionally used in Native American medicine as a treatment for various ailments such as coughs, colds, and respiratory infections.
General Appearance:
Stevia plummerae Gray var. alba Gray is a perennial herb that typically grows to be about 1-2 feet tall. The stems are woody at the base and are covered in fine white hairs. The leaves are also covered in white hairs and are small and narrow with toothed edges. The flowers are small and white and are arranged in a cluster at the tops of the stems.
Light Requirements
Stevia plummerae var. alba requires a moderate level of light for optimal growth. The plant should be placed in a location that receives partial shade to full sun for at least 5 to 6 hours of the day. When grown indoors, the plant should be placed near a sunny window or under fluorescent lights to provide adequate light.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm and humid temperatures between 18°C to 32°C (64°F to 90°F). Temperatures below 10°C (50°F) could cause damage or death to the plant. Stevia plummerae var. alba can tolerate high temperatures, but it may require additional watering to prevent drying out.
Soil Requirements
Stevia plummerae var. alba grows best in well-draining soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH level. The ideal pH range for the plant to grow is between 6.0 and 7.5. The soil should be consistently moist but not waterlogged. Adding organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to the soil can improve soil structure and fertility, which benefits the growth of the plant.
Cultivation Methods for Stevia Plummerae Gray var. Alba Gray
The plant Stevia Plummerae Gray var. Alba Gray grows best in warm climates and can tolerate partial shade. Start by preparing the soil with organic matter, including compost, and ensuring it is well-draining. Sow the seeds indoors or directly in the soil, keeping them moist but not overwatered, and thin the seedlings to prevent overcrowding. Transplant the seedlings when they are four to six weeks old, keeping them spaced out to allow enough airflow.
Watering Needs for Stevia Plummerae Gray var. Alba Gray
Stevia Plummerae Gray var. Alba Gray prefers moist soil but is susceptible to root rot, making it crucial not to overwater. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, and try to keep the water at the base of the plant, avoiding leaves' splashing.
Fertilization of Stevia Plummerae Gray var. Alba Gray
Applying a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and summer can help the plant grow. However, too much nitrogen can disrupt the plant's growth, so use a nitrogen-heavy fertilizer sparingly. Applying compost or worm castings to the soil can also provide nutrients to the plant.
Pruning Stevia Plummerae Gray var. Alba Gray
Regular pruning can help encourage bushier growth. Pinch back the tips of the plant when it is young and prune back about a third of the plant's growth in spring before it starts to produce new foliage. Deadhead the spent flowers throughout the growing season to keep the plant looking tidy.
Propagation of Stevia Plummerae Gray var. Alba Gray
Stevia Plummerae Gray var. Alba Gray, commonly known as white stevia or yerba dulce blanca, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico and is usually propagated through seeds or cuttings.
Seed Propagation
Stevia Plummerae Gray var. Alba Gray can be propagated through seeds either indoors or outdoors. Indoors sowing can be done in late winter or early spring where the seeds are sown in a moist soil mix and kept in an area that receives indirect sunlight. Outdoor sowing can be done after the last frost where the seeds are sown in well-draining soil in a location that receives full to part sun. The seeds usually take about two weeks to germinate, and once the seedlings have grown two sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the ground.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation is also a reliable method of propagating Stevia Plummerae Gray var. Alba Gray. Softwood cuttings can be taken from the tip of the plant during the growing season. The cutting should have at least one node with two leaves and be 2-3 inches in length. The cutting should be dipped in a rooting hormone and inserted into a well-draining soil mix. The soil should be kept moist, and the cutting should be kept in an area that receives indirect sunlight. The cutting can be transplanted after 3-4 weeks.
Disease Management
Stevia plummerae Gray var. alba Gray is vulnerable to various fungal and bacterial diseases that can affect its growth and yield. The most common diseases that affect the plant are Anthracnose, Leaf Blight, and Powdery Mildew.
Anthracnose: This disease is caused by the fungus Colletotrichum spp. The symptoms of anthracnose include dark spots on leaves, stems, and flowers, leading to rot and wilting. To manage this disease, remove infected plant parts, ensure good drainage, and maintain good air circulation. Fungicides can be used to control severe infections
Leaf Blight: This is caused by the fungus Cercospora spp. It is characterized by brown or reddish-brown spots on leaves, which can result in defoliation. The best management approach is to remove infected leaves, increase air circulation, and use a recommended fungicide.
Powdery Mildew: This is a fungal disease caused by Erysiphe cichoracearum. The symptoms of powdery mildew are white powder-like patches on leaves, buds, and stems. To manage this disease, prune affected plant parts, and maintain adequate air circulation. Fungicides can also be used to control severe infections.
Pest Management
Stevia plummerae Gray var. alba Gray is also susceptible to attack by several pests, including aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. These pests can cause significant damage to plants, including stunted growth and reduced yields.
Aphids: These are tiny insects that feed on plant sap, which can result in stunted growth, distorted leaves, and yellowing. To control aphids, regularly check plants for infestations and remove them by using a strong spray of water or by using insecticidal soap.
Whiteflies: These are tiny, flying insects that suck the sap from plant leaves. The damage caused by whiteflies includes yellowing, wilting, and stunted growth. To manage whiteflies, you can use insecticidal soap or sticky traps to capture them.
Spider Mites: These are tiny pests that feed on plant sap and cause yellowing, wilting, and stunted growth. To manage spider mites, spray the undersides of leaves with strong jets of water to dislodge them. Insecticidal soap or a botanical pesticide can also help control severe infestations.
