Origin
Tetradymia axillaris A. Nels. var. axillaris, commonly known as Mojave rabbitbrush, is a plant species that is native to the western United States, particularly in the Great Basin region and the Mojave Desert. It belongs to the Asteraceae family, which includes the sunflower and daisy plants.
Common Names
Aside from Mojave rabbitbrush, this plant is also known by other common names, such as blackbrush, four-part rabbitbrush, and four-wing saltbush. These names pertain to some of the plant's characteristics like its brush-like appearance and its ability to tolerate salty soil.
Uses
The Mojave rabbitbrush has some useful applications, especially in the restoration of degraded grasslands and rangelands, in which it can help prevent soil erosion. The plant can also provide food and habitat for wildlife such as rabbits, deer, and birds. In traditional Navajo medicine, this plant is used for the treatment of respiratory ailments like colds and flu, as well as for the purification of the body and soul.
General Appearance
The Mojave rabbitbrush is a shrub that can grow up to four feet tall. It has a dense and bushy appearance, with many slender stems that are grayish-green and hairy. The leaves are narrow, linear, and covered with fine hairs that give them a silvery appearance. The plant blooms in late summer and early fall with small yellow flowers that grow in clusters at the tips of its branches. The fruits are small achene-like seeds that are equipped with fluffy hairs for wind dispersal.
Growth Conditions for Tetradymia Axillaris A. Nels. var. Axillaris
Tetradymia Axillaris A. Nels. var. Axillaris, commonly known as the Mojave horsebrush or Mojave greasewood, is a shrub species native to the Mojave Desert and Great Basin Desert regions of the western United States. These popular ornamental plants grow in varying conditions in its natural habitat, but they require specific growth conditions to thrive.
Light Requirements
Mojave horsebrushes prefer full sun exposure with some variations. These plants can withstand the intense heat of the desert, as long as they receive at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. However, they can tolerate partial shade in some parts of the day, especially during the hottest hours of the day.
Temperature Requirements
As a desert plant, Mojave horsebrushes can withstand the scorching heat of the desert sun. During the day, temperatures can soar beyond 100?, but they quickly cool down once the sun goes down. These plants prefer a minimum temperature of 40?, making them tolerant of frost and prolonged cold seasons.
Soil Requirements
Mojave horsebrushes can grow in sandy or loamy soil types with excellent drainage. Soil acidity for this plant species is not relevant since they can grow in both acidic and alkaline soil, but the soil must not be too wet. They can also tolerate poor soil fertility, but with good drainage.
The growth of Tetradymia Axillaris A. Nels. var. Axillaris is often slow, and their long lifespan makes it a great plant choice for desert reclamation and landscaping. With the right growth conditions for the plant, Mojave horsebrushes can grow to 3-6 feet in height and 4-6 feet in width, providing a visually appealing addition to any garden or landscape.
Cultivation of Tetradymia axillaris A. Nels. var. axillaris
Tetradymia axillaris A. Nels. var. axillaris grows well in dry and sunny locations. It's tolerant of a variety of soil types, including sandy and rocky soil. The plant grows slowly during the first year after planting, reaching about 20 cm in height. The plant's height can reach up to 50 cm within five years.
Watering Needs of Tetradymia axillaris A. Nels. var. axillaris
Tetradymia axillaris A. Nels. var. axillaris needs regular watering during the first six months after planting to establish root systems. After this period, the plant can tolerate drought conditions and requires only occasional watering. However, providing enough water to the plant during the growing season will encourage better growth and more abundant blooms.
Fertilization
Tetradymia axillaris A. Nels. var. axillaris prefers soils that are low in nutrients and may collapse under the application of too much fertilizer. One method you can try is to apply compost to the soil, which will provide a gradual release of nutrients to the plant. However, refrain from adding additional fertilizers unless the plant shows signs of stunted growth or yellowing leaves, which may indicate a nutrient deficiency.
Pruning of Tetradymia axillaris A. Nels. var. axillaris
The Tetradymia axillaris A. Nels. var. axillaris does not typically require regular pruning. However, it may be necessary to remove damaged or dead stems as they occur. If the plant becomes too large or extends beyond the desired location, you can prune it severely during the early spring before new growth begins. Make sure to cut the plant back to the ground or to the point where you want it to grow back.
Propagation of Tetradymia axillaris A. Nels. var. axillaris
The Tetradymia axillaris A. Nels. var. axillaris plant can be propagated by different methods that are appropriate for this species. These methods include seed propagation, stem cuttings, and division. Each of these methods has its unique advantages and drawbacks and may suit different growers and conditions.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating Tetradymia axillaris A. Nels. var. axillaris plants. To propagate the plant using seeds, the first step is to collect the seeds, which are usually ready after blooming in late summer or fall. The seeds need to be cleaned and dried before propagation. Once they are cleaned, they can be planted in well-drained potting mix and kept lightly moist. Germination can take between one and two months, and the young plants need to be moved to larger containers as they grow.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are a quick and simple method of propagation, suitable for Tetradymia axillaris A. Nels. var. axillaris plants. To propagate using stem cuttings, cut a healthy stem about three inches long from the mother plant using a sharp and clean pair of scissors or a knife. Remove the leaves and flowers from the lower part of the stem and dip the cut end into some rooting hormone powder. Place the cutting into well-draining potting soil and water it gently. Cover the pot with a clear plastic bag or a dome to keep the humidity high and place it in a warm and bright location. The cutting should root in a couple of weeks.
Division
Division is a method of propagation used mainly for mature and established Tetradymia axillaris A. Nels. var. axillaris plants. To propagate using division, dig the plant out of the ground or remove it from its pot. Gently divide the root ball into two or more sections, making sure to retain some roots and shoots in each section. Plant each section in its own container or in a prepared bed and water it well. Division can be performed in the spring or fall, making sure to avoid extreme temperatures and humidity levels.
Disease Management
Tetradymia axillaris A. Nels. var. axillaris can be highly susceptible to various diseases, some of which can cause significant damage to the plant. The following are common diseases that might affect the plant and methods to control them.
Fungal Diseases
Fungal diseases like rust, powdery mildew, and root rot can attack the plant. To control powdery mildew, it's advisable to apply a fungicide early in the growing season. Rust can be controlled by removing infected leaves. For root rot, ensure that the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering the plant.
Bacterial Diseases
Bacterial diseases like bacterial wilt and leaf spot can also affect Tetradymia axillaris A. Nels. var. axillaris. To prevent leaf spot, avoid overhead watering and remove infected leaves. Bacterial wilt is challenging to control once it infects the plant, so it's advisable to remove and destroy the infected plant entirely.
Pest Management
Several pests can attack Tetradymia axillaris A. Nels. var. axillaris, causing severe damage to the plant. Here are some common pests and ways to manage them:
Aphids
Aphids are common pests that suck the plant's sap, leading to stunted growth and distorted leaves. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soaps or neem oil. You can also introduce predatory insects like ladybugs and lacewings.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are small pests that feed on the plant's sap, leading to leaves turning yellow and leaving behind webbing. To control spider mites, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also introduce predatory insects like ladybugs and lacewings.
Grasshoppers
Grasshoppers can cause significant damage to the plant, feeding on the leaves and stems. To manage grasshoppers, use insecticides that specifically target them. You can also prevent grasshopper damage by using row covers and bird netting.
