Description
Streptanthus glandulosus Hook. var. pulchellus (Greene) Jepson, also known as the Great Valley jewelflower, is a species of flowering plant in the Brassicaceae family. It is a perennial herb that grows up to 60 cm tall and has a woody base. The plant is native to California, particularly in the Sierra Nevada and the Central Valley areas.Appearance
The Great Valley jewelflower has narrow, linear leaves that are gray-green in color and can grow up to 6 cm long. The stem and leaves are glandular and hairy to the touch. The plant blooms in the spring to early summer and has bright yellow, four-petaled flowers that are about 1 cm in length. The flowers form in clusters at the top of the stem and have a sweet fragrance.Uses
Streptanthus glandulosus Hook. var. pulchellus has limited commercial uses, but it has been used by Native American tribes for medicinal purposes. The plant has been used to treat sore throats, toothaches, and as a blood purifier. Additionally, it is known to be a great source of nectar for bees and butterflies, making it a great addition to any pollinator garden. Because of its limited distribution and threatened status, the Great Valley jewelflower is also an important plant for conservation efforts.Light Requirements
Streptanthus glandulosus Hook. var. pulchellus (Greene) Jepson prefers a sunny location for optimal growth. It needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. However, this plant can tolerate partial shade, but it may negatively impact flowering and overall growth.
Temperature Requirements
Streptanthus glandulosus Hook. var. pulchellus (Greene) Jepson prefers cooler temperatures and can tolerate frost. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 55-75 °F (13-24 °C). Higher temperatures can cause stress and reduce growth.
Soil Requirements
Streptanthus glandulosus Hook. var. pulchellus (Greene) Jepson prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be slightly acidic between 5.5-6.5. It can grow in sandy, loamy, or clay soils. However, the soil should not dry out, and regular watering during dry periods is necessary to maintain healthy growth.
Cultivation
Streptanthus glandulosus var. pulchellus is a native California plant that grows well in both full sun and partial shade. It requires well-drained, slightly acidic soil with a pH of 6.0 to 6.5. This plant can be grown from seeds or propagated from cuttings. If growing from seeds, start them indoors in late winter or early spring.
Watering Needs
The plant needs moderate watering, and the soil should not be allowed to dry out completely. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other diseases. Watering should be done early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid evaporation.
Fertilization
The plant does not require frequent fertilization. However, using a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season can help the plant to grow and remain healthy. Fertilize in early spring and again in early summer. Avoid fertilizing in the fall as it may cause new growth, which can be damaged by cold weather.
Pruning
Pruning Streptanthus glandulosus var. pulchellus is not necessary since it maintains its shape naturally. However, removing dead or damaged foliage can promote the plant's health and appearance. This should be done as needed throughout the year.
Propagation of Streptanthus glandulosus Hook. var. pulchellus (Greene) Jepson
Streptanthus glandulosus Hook. var. pulchellus (Greene) Jepson, commonly known as the San Francisco jewelflower, is a native plant species found in California's coastal ranges. This plant's propagation methods include seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Streptanthus glandulosus Hook. var. pulchellus (Greene) Jepson are produced in long, slender pods that look like sticks, and each pod contains numerous small seeds. Seeding is the most common method of propagating the San Francisco jewelflower. Seeds can be collected in the fall when the pods start to turn brown and dry. Collect the pods, and let them dry for a few weeks. The seeds can then be separated from the pods, and stored in an airtight container until planting time.
To propagate using seeds, plant the seeds in a seed starting mix. The seeds should be planted about 1/8 inch deep and spaced about 2 inches apart. Water the soil regularly, keeping it moist but not waterlogged. The seeds should germinate within a few weeks. Once the seedlings are about 2 inches tall, they can be transplanted into their permanent location.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation can also be used to propagate Streptanthus glandulosus Hook. var. pulchellus (Greene) Jepson. This method involves taking stem cuttings from a parent plant, and rooting them to create new plants.
To propagate this plant using cuttings, take 4- to 6- inch cuttings from the parent plant in the early summer. These cuttings should be taken from the top of the stem, just below the flower blooms. Remove any leaves from the cutting except for the top few. Dip the cut end of the cutting in rooting hormone, and plant it in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and warm, and the cutting should root within a few weeks. Once the cutting has rooted, it can be transplanted into its permanent location.
Disease management
Streptanthus glandulosus Hook. var. pulchellus is generally a hardy plant that is not very susceptible to diseases. However, certain fungal infections such as powdery mildew, rust, and black spot can affect the plant.
Powdery mildew can be identified by the presence of white powdery spots on the leaves, stems, and flowers. It rarely causes significant damage to the plant, but can reduce its aesthetic value. To manage powdery mildew, it is important to maintain good air circulation around the plant, avoid overhead watering, and remove infected plant parts promptly. Fungicidal sprays may also be applied as a last resort.
Rust is another fungal infection that affects the plant, causing orange or yellow spots on the leaves and stems. Severe infections can cause defoliation. To manage rust, the same practices for powdery mildew management can be followed. Additionally, infected plant parts should be removed and destroyed to prevent the spread of the disease.
Black spot is a fungal disease that causes black, circular spots on the leaves. Severe infections can cause defoliation. To manage black spot, the same practices as for powdery mildew and rust management can be followed. Infected plant parts should be removed and destroyed, and fungicidal sprays may be applied.
Pest management
Streptanthus glandulosus Hook. var. pulchellus is not typically prone to pest infestations. However, there are some pests that may affect the plant, including aphids, caterpillars, and snails/slugs.
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that often cluster on the undersides of leaves and on stems. They can be managed by spraying the plant with a strong stream of water or by using insecticidal soap or horticultural oil sprays.
Caterpillars may feed on the leaves of the plant, causing damage to the foliage. They can be removed by handpicking or with the use of Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) sprays.
Snails and slugs may also feed on the leaves and flowers of the plant, leaving behind holes and chewed edges. They can be managed by physically removing them from the plants or by using baits and traps.
