Origin and Common Names
Tessaria sericea (Nutt.) Shinners, also known as velvetweed or silverleaf, is a perennial plant that is native to North and South America. It can be found in areas such as the Great Plains, the Midwest, and the Andean region of South America. The plant is commonly known as velvetweed because of its velvety soft leaves.
Appearance
The velvetweed plant grows up to three feet tall and has small yellow flowers that bloom in the summer. The leaves of the plant are silvery and have a velvety feel to them due to small hairs covering their surface. Its root system is extensive and fibrous, which makes it an excellent plant for erosion control.
Uses
The velvetweed plant has been used for medicinal purposes by indigenous communities for centuries. It has been used to treat conditions such as cough, colds, and fever. The plant also contains compounds that are effective in treating inflammatory conditions.
In addition to its medicinal uses, velvetweed has practical uses as well. The plant is an excellent source of forage for grazing animals, specifically horses and cattle. Also, due to its root system, it is commonly used for soil stabilization and erosion control. It is also planted as an ornamental plant due to its unique and attractive appearance.
Overall, the velvetweed plant is a valuable plant and has been used throughout history for various purposes. Its unique appearance, medicinal properties, and practical uses make it a valuable addition to any landscape.Light Requirements
Tessaria sericea is a plant species that typically prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it tends to grow sturdier when exposed to direct sunlight. It is not recommended to plant Tessaria sericea in heavily shaded areas because it may grow spindly and weak.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species can thrive in a wide range of temperatures. Tessaria sericea can tolerate both hot and cold temperatures as long as they don't reach extreme levels. The optimal temperature range for growth is between 22-30°C (72-86°F). This plant species has been known to survive temperatures as low as -15°C (5°F).
Soil Requirements
Tessaria sericea prefers well-drained, fertile soils that are slightly acidic to neutral. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clayey soils. However, it does not grow well in heavy, poorly drained soils. The ideal soil pH range for growth is between 6.0 and 7.5.
Cultivation
Tessaria sericea thrives in well-draining soil and prefers full sun exposure. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy or loamy soils. The plant is drought tolerant and can do well even in areas with low water availability. It is recommended to grow the plant from seed, which is readily available from most nurseries. Sow the seeds in seed trays filled with potting mix, and keep them moist until germination.
Watering Needs
Although Tessaria sericea is drought tolerant, it requires regular watering during the first year of establishment. Water the plant deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out partially before the next watering. Once the plant is established, it can survive with minimal watering.
Fertilization
The plant does not require much fertilization. However, a slow-release fertilizer high in nitrogen can be applied in early spring to encourage growth and flowering. Another alternative is to incorporate compost into the soil before planting to provide the necessary nutrients.
Pruning
Tessaria sericea does not require heavy pruning. However, it can be pruned lightly to maintain a desired shape or to remove any diseased or damaged branches. Pruning can be done in late winter or early spring before the plant begins to produce new growth.
Propagation of Tessaria sericea (Nutt.) Shinners
Tessaria sericea (Nutt.) Shinners is a shrub native to the southwestern United States and Northern Mexico. Its striking silver-green foliage and yellow flowers make it a popular ornamental plant. There are several methods of propagation available for this plant, including:
Seed Propagation
Tessaria sericea (Nutt.) Shinners can be propagated by seed. Seeds should be sown in well-draining soil mix in the fall or early spring. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil and kept moist until they germinate. Seedlings should be transplanted after they have developed true leaves.
Cuttings Propagation
Another method of propagating Tessaria sericea (Nutt.) Shinners is through stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken in the spring or early summer from new growth and should be 4-6 inches long. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end into rooting hormone. Then, insert the cutting into a well-draining soil mix and keep it in a warm, humid location until roots form. Once roots have formed, move the cutting to a more sunny location and water it regularly.
Division Propagation
Division is another propagation method for Tessaria sericea (Nutt.) Shinners. This involves separating an established plant into smaller sections. Dig up the plant, separate into smaller sections and replant each section in well-draining soil. This method should be done in the spring or fall.
Disease Management
Tessaria sericea (Nutt.) Shinners is relatively resistant to many diseases. However, fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust can still infect the plant. To prevent these diseases from affecting the plant:
- Ensure proper air circulation around the plant.
- Avoid watering the plant from above. Instead, water the soil directly.
- Remove any infected plant parts as soon as possible and dispose of them properly.
- Apply fungicides when necessary, following the instructions on the label.
Pest Management
Tessaria sericea (Nutt.) Shinners is not commonly affected by pests. However, here are some pests that might infest the plant:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests suck the sap from the plant, causing yellowing and browning of leaves. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to wash them off or use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Aphids: These pests also suck the sap from the plant, causing distorted growth. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to wash them off or use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Mealybugs: These pests feed on the sap of the plant and also secrete a sticky substance which attracts ants. To manage mealybugs, remove them manually with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Ants can be managed by applying diatomaceous earth around the base of the plant.
