Overview
Streptanthus campestris S. Wats. var. bernardinus (Greene) I.M. Johnston, commonly known as Bernardino jewelflower, is a species of flowering plant in the Brassicaceae family. This plant is native to California, specifically in the San Bernardino Mountains, though it can also be found in the San Gabriel Mountains and the northern part of the Peninsular Ranges.
Common Names
Bernardino jewelflower is commonly referred to as "San Bernardino jewelflower" or simply "Bernardino streptanthus".
Appearance
Bernardino jewelflower can range in height from 20 to 75 centimeters, with a basal rosette of leaves and several erect, leafy stems. The leaves are pinnately lobed and can range from simple to deeply divided. The flowers are small and lavender to pink in color, with four petals arranged in an "x" shape. The fruit is a linear silique that can contain up to 25 seeds, and the plant typically blooms from May to July.
Uses
Bernardino jewelflower has no known significant uses, though as a species within the Brassicaceae family, it is possible that it may have some culinary or medicinal applications. As an endemic species to the San Bernardino Mountains, it serves as an indicator of the unique ecological conditions of this region.
Light requirements
Streptanthus campestris S. Wats. var. bernardinus prefers full sun to partial shade for healthy growth. Lack of enough sunlight may result in stunted growth, and weak stems and leaves.
Temperature requirements
The plant thrives in areas with mild temperatures ranging between 10°C (50°F) to 25°C (77°F). It can tolerate slightly colder temperatures but may experience slower growth during such periods. Extreme temperatures above 30°C (86°F) or below 5°C (41°F) can damage the plant.
Soil requirements
The plant grows well in well-drained soils with lots of organic matter. It prefers slightly acidic soils with pH levels ranging between 5.5 to 6.5. Soil nutrients are also important for the good growth of this plant. Low nitrogen content results in stunted growth, while a lack of phosphorus may affect flowering. The plant's water requirements are moderate, but it prefers soils with good water retention.
Cultivation
Streptanthus campestris S. Wats. var. bernardinus (Greene) I.M. Johnston, also known as San Bernardino Mountain jewelflower, is a native wildflower of California that can be grown in small home gardens. It is best grown in USDA hardiness zones 8 to 10 and requires well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.2. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can grow up to 1-2 feet tall.
Watering Needs
Streptanthus campestris S. Wats. var. bernardinus (Greene) I.M. Johnston prefers moderate watering and should not be over-watered. The plant should receive around 1 inch of water per week, but the frequency can vary based on the soil type and weather conditions. It is important to avoid allowing the soil to become too dry or too wet, as this can harm the plant. In general, it is best to water the plant deeply rather than frequently shallow watering.
Fertilization
Streptanthus campestris S. Wats. var. bernardinus (Greene) I.M. Johnston does not require heavy fertilization. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for flowering plants can be applied in the spring to boost growth and blooming. It is important to avoid over-fertilizing, as this can have detrimental effects on the plant's health and growth.
Pruning
Streptanthus campestris S. Wats. var. bernardinus (Greene) I.M. Johnston does not require heavy pruning. However, removing spent flowers and stems can encourage further blooming and improve the look of the plant. Trimming back any damaged or dead growth can also prevent disease and pests from spreading. Pruning should be done in the fall, after the plant has finished blooming for the season.
Propagation of Streptanthus campestris S. Wats. var. bernardinus (Greene) I.M. Johnston
Streptanthus campestris S. Wats. var. bernardinus (Greene) I.M. Johnston, commonly known as the San Bernardino Mountain jewelflower, can be propagated through seeds or stem cuttings.
Propagation through Seeds
The plant produces numerous seeds in the summer months, when the seed pods turn brown and split open. The seeds can then be collected and stored in a cool and dry place for up to three years. The best time to sow the seeds is in the fall, before the winter rains begin.
The seeds need to be stratified before they can germinate. This can be achieved by placing the seeds in a plastic bag with damp sand, and storing them in a refrigerator for a period of 30 to 60 days. After stratification, the seeds can be sown in well-draining soil, and covered with a light layer of soil.
The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged, and the seeds should germinate within two to four weeks. Once the seedlings have grown to a height of about 10 cm, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings can also be used to propagate Streptanthus campestris S. Wats. var. bernardinus (Greene) I.M. Johnston. The best time to take cuttings is during the early summer, when the plant is actively growing.
Cuttings should be taken from a healthy and mature plant, and should be about 10 cm in length. The leaves on the lower half of the cutting should be removed, and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone before being planted in a well-draining soil mix.
The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged, and the cutting should be placed in a shaded area with indirect sunlight. The cutting should root within four to six weeks, and can then be transplanted to its permanent location.
Disease Management
Streptanthus campestris var. bernardinus is prone to fungal diseases, including rust, powdery mildew, and botrytis blight.
The best way to prevent fungal diseases is to maintain good air circulation around the plants, avoid overhead watering, and keep the soil evenly moist. For severe cases, apply fungicides according to their instructions.
Pest Management
The plant is vulnerable to a few pests, including aphids, caterpillars, and snails.
Aphids can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Caterpillars can be hand-picked or sprayed with Bacillus thuringiensis. Snails can be controlled by trapping or using snail baits.
