Overview
Synthyris reniformis var. cordata Gray, also known as Creeping Synthyris, is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Plantaginaceae. It is native to western North America and is found from Alaska to California.
Appearance
Creeping Synthyris is a perennial plant that grows up to 30 cm in height. It has a spreading habit and forms patches through a creeping rootstock. The leaves are small, rounded to kidney-shaped, and sometimes hairy. They are arranged in a rosette at the base of the stem. The stem is thin and wiry and bears small, tubular blue or violet flowers that are 6-10 mm long.
Common Names
Creeping Synthyris is known by several common names including Cordate Synthyris, Heartleaf Synthyris, and Kidney-leafed Mountain-gromwell.
Uses
Creeping Synthyris is primarily used as an ornamental plant in rock gardens, alpine gardens, and woodland gardens. It can also be grown as a groundcover in shady areas. The plant is not known to have any medicinal or culinary uses.
Light Requirements
The Synthyris reniformis var. cordata plant prefers partial to full shade. It grows well under the canopy of trees or other tall plants where it is shielded from direct sunlight. Too much direct sunlight, especially in the afternoon, can damage the leaves or even cause wilting.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows naturally in regions with cool to moderate temperatures. It thrives in climates with average daytime temperatures ranging between 50-80°F (10-27°C). It is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9. It can survive mild winters but may require some protection in areas with harsh winter conditions.
Soil Requirements
The Synthyris reniformis var. cordata plant thrives best in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It prefers moist soils that retain some moisture but are not waterlogged. The optimal pH range is 5.5-6.5.
The soil should be amended with compost or well-rotted manure before planting to improve soil fertility and structure. Mulching around the base of the plant can help retain moisture and suppress weed growth.
Overall, providing the right light conditions, maintaining optimal temperature range, and using well-draining soil can help promote healthy growth of the Synthyris reniformis var. cordata plant.
Cultivation
Synthyris reniformis (Dougl. ex Benth.) Benth. var. cordata Gray is a plant that prefers well-drained soils with a neutral to acidic pH. It grows best in cool, moist environments with partial shade. Therefore, it is necessary to plant it in a location where it can receive partial shade.
The plant should be planted in early spring or fall when the soil is moist and the temperatures are cool. When planting, ensure that the hole is twice the size of the plant's container and that the soil is mixed with compost.
Watering Needs
Synthyris reniformis (Dougl. ex Benth.) Benth. var. cordata Gray requires regular watering, especially during the warm and dry months. Therefore, it is necessary to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
The plant should be watered once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions. It is important to ensure that the soil has good drainage to prevent the roots from rotting.
Fertilization
Synthyris reniformis (Dougl. ex Benth.) Benth. var. cordata Gray is a low-maintenance plant that does not require frequent fertilization. However, adding compost to the soil during planting provides enough nutrients for the plant to thrive.
It is recommended to fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once every spring. The fertilizer should be applied at the base of the plant, following the instructions on the package.
Pruning
Synthyris reniformis (Dougl. ex Benth.) Benth. var. cordata Gray does not require pruning, but deadheading spent flowers can encourage new growth and increase the plant's lifespan.
Deadheading should be done by hand, removing the spent flowers and stems just above the first set of leaves. However, overzealous pruning can damage the plant, so it is recommended to prune sparingly.
Propagation of Synthyris Reniformis var. Cordata
Synthyris reniformis var. cordata, commonly known as Fringed Kittentails, can be propagated through various methods including seeds, division, and stem cuttings.
Seeds
The easiest method of propagation is by using seeds. The seeds of Synthyris reniformis var. cordata are very small and light and are dispersed by wind. The seeds can be collected from the mature plants in late summer or fall and can be sown immediately.
The sowing process involves surface sowing the seeds on a moist, well-drained potting mix in a shallow container. The container should then be placed in a bright, warm location but away from direct sunlight. It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged until the seedlings emerge.
Division
Another way to propagate Synthyris reniformis var. cordata is by division. This method involves separating the mature plant into smaller sections, each with its own roots and leaves. Division should be done in the spring when the new growth appears.
To propagate by division, carefully lift the plant out of the soil or container and gently separate the plant into sections. Each section must have roots and leaves before replanting. The new plants should be replanted in a well-draining soil mix in a container or in the ground.
Stem Cuttings
Propagation of Synthyris reniformis var. cordata can also be done by stem cuttings. This method involves taking a stem cutting from the mature plant and encouraging the stem to develop roots.
To propagate by stem cuttings, choose a stem that is healthy, firm, and has no flower buds. Cut the stem about 4 inches long and remove the leaves from the lower half of the stem. Dip the stem in rooting hormone powder and insert it into a well-draining soil mix in a container. Water the soil and cover the container with a plastic bag to maintain humidity. Place the container in a bright, warm location but away from direct sunlight. Roots will form within a few weeks, after which the new plant can be transplanted into a larger container or in the ground.
Disease Management
Synthyris reniformis (Dougl. ex Benth.) Benth. var. cordata Gray is a relatively disease-resistant plant. Most diseases that affect plants in the family Plantaginaceae (Plantain family) are not known to significantly impact Synthyris reniformis. Nonetheless, plants exposed to high humidity or excessively moist soil may develop fungal infections. To manage fungal infections, avoid watering the plants from above or allowing water to stand on the soil surface as this creates the perfect environment for fungus to thrive. Use well-draining soil and ensure that the environment around the plant is free from debris and diseased plant material.
Pest Management
Like with diseases, Synthyris reniformis (Dougl. ex Benth.) Benth. var. cordata Gray is relatively pest-resistant. However, some common garden pests like aphids, spider mites, and slugs may still attack the plant.
Aphids and spider mites are common pests that attack plants by sucking out the sap and nutrients of plants. They typically cause yellowing and curling of leaves, leaf drop, and stunted growth. To prevent aphids and spider mites, routinely check the leaves of Synthyris reniformis for damage, including curled, yellowing, or deformed leaves. Overhead watering or high humidity can sometimes lead to aphid problems, so avoid such conditions. You can also use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to manage these pests.
Slugs are another nuisance that may attack Synthyris reniformis. They usually feed on plant leaves or fruits, leaving behind large holes or shredded areas. To manage slugs, ensure that the garden is free from debris and dark, damp areas where they usually hide. Slug bait or slug traps may also be used to manage these pests.
By following these tips, you can ensure that Synthyris reniformis (Dougl. ex Benth.) Benth. var. cordata Gray remains healthy and free from pests and diseases.
