Origin
Tephroseris lindstroemii (Ostenf.) A.& D. Löve, also known as Lindstroem's Groundsel, is a species of flowering plants from the family Asteraceae. It is native to the Arctic, where it is found in the Arctic tundra of North America and Eurasia, particularly in Greenland, Alaska, and Canada.
Common Names
Lind Strom's Groundsel is the generally accepted common name for this plant but it is also known by other names such as Lindstroem's montane groundsel, and Lindstroem's arctic-cushion.
Appearance
Tephroseris lindstroemii is a perennial plant with a hairy stem that grows up to 10 cm tall. The leaves are basal, lobed, and have toothed margins. The plant produces several flower heads that are borne on short, leafless stalks. The flower heads are small, with yellow, cream, or white ray flowers surrounding yellow disk flowers. The fruits are achenes that are distributed by the wind or animals.
Uses
Tephroseris lindstroemii has no known medicinal or culinary uses. However, due to its attractive appearance, it is sometimes grown as an ornamental plant, especially in rock gardens and as a ground cover. It is also used in ecological restoration and research to understand Arctic ecosystem processes.
Light Requirements
Tephroseris lindstroemii is considered a sun-loving plant and it thrives in full sun or partially shaded areas. In areas with low sunlight, it may grow leggy and weak. Hence, it is recommended to grow the plant in areas with good exposure to sunlight for healthy growth.
Temperature Requirements
Tephroseris lindstroemii prefers moderate temperatures with average to cool summers. It can tolerate freezing temperatures and frost during the winter. However, it may suffer from heat stress if subjected to extremely high temperatures. The optimal growth temperature range for Tephroseris lindstroemii is between 10-18°C.
Soil Requirements
The plant grows best in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. It can tolerate acidic, alkaline, and neutral soils, but it prefers neutral soils with a pH range between 6.5-7.5. The soil should be deep enough to accommodate the roots and allow for proper airflow. Tephroseris lindstroemii may suffer from root rot in poorly drained soils.
Cultivation Methods
Tephroseris lindstroemii is a species of alpine plant that grows best in rocky and well-drained soils. It prefers areas that receive plenty of sunlight, but it can also tolerate partial shade. When cultivating Tephroseris lindstroemii, it is important to plant it in a location that meets these requirements.
You can propagate Tephroseris lindstroemii from seeds or cuttings. If you are propagating it from seeds, you should sow them in the spring and keep the soil moist until they germinate. Once the seedlings have grown big enough, you can transplant them into their permanent location. If you are propagating from cuttings, you should take them in the summer when the plant is actively growing. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and then pot them in a well-draining mix. Wait until roots have formed before transplanting them into their new location.
Watering Needs
Tephroseris lindstroemii requires moderate watering. It is important not to let the soil dry out completely, but it is equally important not to overwater the plant. Overwatering can cause root rot. To avoid this, water the plant regularly but make sure the soil has time to dry out slightly between waterings.
Fertilization
Alpine plants like Tephroseris lindstroemii do not require heavy fertilization. A light application of a slow-release fertilizer in the spring is sufficient. You can also apply a liquid fertilizer during the growing season to encourage blooming.
Pruning
You do not need to prune Tephroseris lindstroemii heavily. Deadheading spent blooms can encourage the plant to produce more flowers. You should remove any dead or damaged leaves as needed. If the plant becomes too leggy, you can cut back the stems in the spring to encourage bushier growth.
Propagation of Tephroseris lindstroemii
Tephroseris lindstroemii can be propagated by two methods: seeds and division of root clumps. Both methods have their own advantages and disadvantages, but they ultimately lead to successful propagation.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation by seeds is the most commonly used method for Tephroseris lindstroemii. Following are the steps for seed propagation:
- Collect the seeds from the plant when the seed-heads have dried.
- Store the seeds in a cool and dry place until you are ready to use them.
- Fill a seed tray with moist compost and sprinkle the seeds over the compost. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of compost.
- Water the tray gently and cover it with a clear plastic sheet to create a humid environment.
- Place the tray in a bright location but avoid direct sunlight. The seeds will take around three weeks to germinate.
- Once the seedlings reach a suitable size, transfer them individually to larger pots or outside in the garden.
Propagation by Division
Propagation by division is a less common method for Tephroseris lindstroemii but it can be useful if you want to increase the number of plants quickly. Following are the steps for propagation by division:
- Dig up the plant in the fall or spring and use a sharp knife or garden fork to divide the root clumps.
- Ensure each section has some roots and shoots.
- Plant each section in suitable soil at the same depth as the original plant.
- Water the newly planted sections and keep them moist until they are established.
Disease Management
The Tephroseris lindstroemii (Ostenf.) A.& D. Löve is generally disease-resistant. However, some diseases may still affect the plant. Here are some common diseases and how to manage them:
- Powdery mildew: This disease manifests as a white powdery substance on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage it, remove and destroy infected parts of the plant. Additionally, apply fungicides that contain potassium bicarbonate or neem oil.
- Root rot: Excessive watering can cause root rot, which is identified by brown and mushy roots. Reduce watering and improve soil drainage to manage the disease. You can also apply fungicides that contain copper oxychloride.
- Leaf spot: Leaf spot causes yellow spots on the leaves that gradually turn brown. To manage it, remove and destroy infected leaves and apply fungicides that contain copper oxychloride.
- Stem canker: This disease causes the stem to develop cankers, which appear as sunken, brown patches. To manage it, remove and destroy infected parts of the plant. Additionally, applying fungicides that contain copper oxychloride can help manage the disease.
Pest Management
Like diseases, Tephroseris lindstroemii (Ostenf.) A.& D. Löve plants are relatively resistant to pests. However, there are some common pests that may affect the plant. Here are ways to manage them:
- Aphids: Aphids suck the sap from the plant, which can cause stunted growth and deformation. Manage aphids by removing them manually or spraying the plant with soapy water.
- Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the sap from the plant, causing yellowing of leaves and stunted growth. You can manage them by keeping the plant well-watered and increasing humidity. Additionally, predators like ladybugs can help control spider mite populations.
- Whiteflies: Whiteflies damage the plant by sucking sap and transmitting viruses. Remove them by vacuuming them up or spraying the plant with insecticides such as neem oil or pyrethrin.
