Origin
Streptanthus campestris S. Wats., also known as Campestral Jewel Flower, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the family Brassicaceae. The plant species is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico and is often found in dry, sandy soils.
Common Names
Aside from the Campestral Jewel Flower, Streptanthus campestris also has other common names such as the Tufted Jewel Flower, Tufted Jewelweed, Meadow Streptanthus, and Purple-Stemmed Jewelflower.
Uses
Streptanthus campestris is often cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its attractive purple-pink flowers that bloom in early spring. The plant's leaves and seeds are also edible and were used by Native American tribes for food and medicinal purposes. The roots contain compounds that are known to be toxic to certain insects, making it a favored plant for natural pest control in gardens.
General Appearance
The Streptanthus campestris plant typically grows up to a height of 1 to 3 feet and spreads out to about 0.5 to 1 foot in width. The plant's leaves are oblong in shape, grow to about 4 inches in length, and are dark green in color. The flowers appear in clusters and have a unique shape, with four petals forming a cross. Each flower is about 1 inch in length and has a deep pink or purple color. The plant's stem is slender and purple in color, adding to its overall aesthetic appeal.
Light Requirements
Streptanthus campestris requires full sun to partial shade for optimum growth. The plant grows well in open areas where it can receive direct sunlight. However, it can also tolerate some shade and can grow in areas with dappled sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The plant requires a moderate temperature range for its growth. It grows well in areas with an average temperature range of 60-80°F (15-27°C). The plant can tolerate both warm and cool temperatures, but it cannot tolerate freezing temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Streptanthus campestris prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. It grows well in sandy, loamy, or gravelly soil types. The plant is adapted to grow in poor soils where other plants struggle to grow, but it can also grow in fertile soils.
The plant requires soil with adequate moisture content, but it cannot tolerate waterlogged soil. Therefore, it is important to ensure proper drainage when planting Streptanthus campestris. Adding organic matter to the soil can improve soil structure and increase retention of moisture.
Cultivation Methods
Streptanthus campestris S. Wats. can be grown both indoors and outdoors. When planting indoors, make sure to put the plant in a well-lit area. Outdoors, the plant thrives in full sun or partially shaded areas. They are easy to grow from seeds in the early spring or fall. Prepare the soil by mixing in a good quality potting mix enriched with organic matter.
Watering Needs
The plant requires moderate watering. Maintain consistent moisture without allowing the soil to become too wet or too dry. Overwatering can damage the roots, and inadequate watering can hinder growth.
Fertilization
Streptanthus campestris S. Wats. needs a balanced fertilizer with a high level of phosphorous. Use a slow-release fertilizer from the planting stage to ensure continuous nutrient supply. Alternatively, use a liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Pruning
Prune Streptanthus campestris S. Wats. during the early growing season to stimulate growth and produce a compact plant. Cut off damaged or diseased leaves and branches regularly. Pinch back the stem tips to encourage a fuller plant and prevent spindly growth. Deadhead regularly to prolong blooming.
Propagation methods for Streptanthus campestris S. Wats.
Streptanthus campestris S. Wats., commonly known as the Rattlepod, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. Propagation of this plant can be done through multiple methods which include:
Seeds
The seeds of Streptanthus campestris S. Wats. are small and can be easily collected from the plant in the late summer as the seedpods begin to dry. The seeds should be stored in a cool and dry place until the following spring. To propagate through seeding, prepare a seedbed by breaking up the soil and removing any debris or rocks. Sow the seeds in rows with a spacing of about 12 inches between each row. Ensure that the seeds are lightly covered with soil and kept well-watered.
Cutting
Propagation through cutting involves taking a small section of the stem from the parent plant and allowing it to grow its roots. The cutting should be taken in the spring when the plant is actively growing. Use a clean and sharp knife to cut a stem section that is about 3-4 inches long from the parent plant and remove any leaves from the bottom part of the stem. Use a rooting hormone to encourage root development and plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil evenly moist and place the cutting in a location with bright, indirect sunlight.
Division
The division method involves separating an existing plant into smaller sections and replanting each section in a new location. This method is best done in the early spring before new growth begins. Use a clean and sharp shovel to gently lift the plant from the ground and divide it into sections with a minimum of three stems and roots per section. Replant each section in a new location and water well. Ensure that the soil is kept evenly moist until new growth begins.
Disease and Pest Management for Streptanthus campestris S. Wats.
Streptanthus campestris S. Wats., commonly known as the foothill jewelflower, is a member of the Brassicaceae family and is native to the western United States. While the plant is generally hardy, it can still face disease and pest problems that can cause damage or death if not managed properly.
Common Diseases
One common disease that may affect Streptanthus campestris S. Wats. is powdery mildew. This fungal disease appears as a white, powdery substance on plant leaves and stems and can reduce photosynthesis, stunt growth, and weaken the plant. To manage powdery mildew, remove and destroy any infected plant parts and improve air circulation around the plant.
Bacterial leaf spot is another disease that can affect Streptanthus campestris S. Wats. Symptoms include brown or black spots on leaves and stems that can eventually lead to defoliation. To manage bacterial leaf spot, remove and destroy infected plant parts and avoid overhead watering.
Common Pests
Aphids are a common pest that can infest Streptanthus campestris S. Wats. These small, soft-bodied insects feed on plant sap and excrete honeydew, which can attract ants and other pests. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge them or apply an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Spider mites are another pest that may cause damage to the plant. These tiny pests feed on plant fluids and can cause yellowing and discoloration of leaves. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with water to increase humidity or apply an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Finally, flea beetles may also attack Streptanthus campestris S. Wats. These small, jumping beetles feed on plant foliage and can cause extensive damage if allowed to multiply. To manage flea beetles, use row covers or apply an insecticide containing spinosad or pyrethrum.
By following these management strategies, you can help keep Streptanthus campestris S. Wats. healthy and thriving. Remember to regularly monitor your plants for signs of disease or pest infestation and always use best practices for prevention and control.
