Overview of Thelesperma simplicifolium Gray
Thelesperma simplicifolium Gray is an herbaceous plant belonging to the aster family, Asteraceae. It is commonly known as the plains yellow-daisy and is native to the United States regions of Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, and Wyoming.
Appearance of Thelesperma simplicifolium Gray
Thelesperma simplicifolium Gray grows into a small shrub, usually 1-2 feet tall, and has woody branches that are covered in white, woolly hairs. The leaves are linear and measure approximately 1-2 inches long, and the margins are smooth. The yellow, daisy-shaped flowers have a diameter of 1-2 inches and bloom in summer and early autumn.
Uses of Thelesperma simplicifolium Gray
Thelesperma simplicifolium Gray has a wide range of uses both for humans and animals. The Pawnee Native Americans used the plant for medicinal purposes, as they believed it to have analgesic properties. It is used as a herbal tea, which is believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help in easing troubles with digestion, headaches, and coughs. Some studies also indicate that the plant may have potential cytotoxic effects, making it possible to provide anticancer benefits, although further research is required.
The plant also serves as a forage for various wildlife and domesticated animals. Animals that consume Thelesperma simplicifolium Gray include rabbits, squirrels, prairie dogs, and deer.
In conclusion, Thelesperma simplicifolium Gray is a beautiful and useful plant, and its medicinal properties have been utilized for decades. It is a great addition to any garden, and although it is not easily found in gardens or nurseries, it is easy to grow and propagate.
Light Conditions
Thelesperma simplicifolium Gray is a plant that requires full sun for optimal growth. This means that the plant needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive.
Temperature
Thelesperma simplicifolium Gray is native to regions with hot and dry summers, and mild winters. Therefore, the plant prefers warm temperatures and is not frost tolerant. The ideal temperature range for Thelesperma simplicifolium Gray is between 60°F to 90°F.
Soil Requirements
Thelesperma simplicifolium Gray thrives in well-draining soils with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. The plant prefers soils that are sandy or loamy, rather than soils that are heavy or clayey. Adding organic matter, such as compost or aged manure, to the soil can improve its fertility and water holding capacity, which can benefit the growth of the plant.
Cultivation
Thelesperma simplicifolium Gray, also known as Plains Coreopsis, has a preference for full sunlight. Therefore, it is best to plant them in locations where they will receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. These plants prefer well-drained soils with moderate moisture content but tolerate a variety of soils, including sandy ones.
The best time to plant this species is in the spring, after the last frost. The ideal planting depth for seeds is about ¼ inch. Seeds should be spaced about 12 inches apart to allow adequate room for proper growth.
Watering needs
Thelesperma simplicifolium Gray requires regular watering to establish a healthy root system. It is recommended to water them once a week during the growing season. If the soil is dry, increase the watering frequency, but make sure the soil is not waterlogged, as this may damage the root system and cause the plant to wilt or die.
Once established, the plant becomes more drought-tolerant and can survive longer periods without watering.
Fertilization
Plains Coreopsis thrives in soils with moderate nutrient levels, making it unnecessary to fertilize excessively. Applying a balanced fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season is sufficient to provide adequate nutrients to the plant.
It is essential to follow the package instructions or consult with an expert to determine the appropriate amount of fertilizer to use. Over-fertilization can cause excessive growth and low-quality flowers, leading to a weaker plant.
Pruning
Pruning dead or diseased flowers promotes continuous growth and encourages the production of new blooms. This species does not require frequent pruning, but it is recommended to trim the plant to the desired shape and size at the end of the blooming season.
Pruning is ideal in late fall or winter after the plant has finished blooming for the year. Cutting the plant back to half its size will help retain its proper shape, promote new growth, prevent pests, and improve air circulation.
Propagation of Thelesperma simplicifolium Gray
Thelesperma simplicifolium Gray, commonly known as the plains yellow aster, is quite easy to propagate. It can be propagated using seeds, cuttings, or division.
Propagation by Seed
The easiest and most reliable way to propagate Thelesperma simplicifolium Gray is through seed propagation. The seeds can be collected after the blooming period as soon as the seed heads turn light brown and start to open. Once the seed head is fully open, the seeds can be easily shaken from the head and collected.
The collected seeds should be stored in a cool, dry place until it's time to plant them. The ideal time to sow the seeds is in the spring. You can either sow them directly in the garden or grow them in trays or pots and then transplant them once they are large enough to handle.
Propagation by Cuttings
Thelesperma simplicifolium Gray can also be propagated using stem cuttings. The cuttings should be taken during the growing season when the stem is still fresh. The cutting should be about 3-4 inches long, and it's important to make sure that there are at least one or two nodes on the stem.
The cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone and placed in a mixture of perlite and peat moss. The container should then be covered with a plastic bag to create a mini greenhouse. Keep the soil moist and place the container in a bright, but not direct sunlight. After a few weeks, the cutting should have developed roots, and it's ready to be transplanted.
Propagation by Division
Thelesperma simplicifolium Gray can also be propagated by dividing mature plants. This method involves digging up the plant and dividing the rootball into smaller sections to replant in another area. It's best to do this in the fall or early spring when the plant is dormant, or else it can shock the plant and reduce the chances of survival.
Disease and Pest Management for Thelesperma simplicifolium Gray
Thelesperma simplicifolium Gray, commonly known as the plains bitterweed, is a highly drought-resistant plant that is native to the southwestern United States.1 Although resistant to most pests and diseases, it is not completely immune to them and may require appropriate treatment to grow healthily.
Common Diseases
Thelesperma simplicifolium Gray is vulnerable to certain diseases, including:
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes the formation of red-brown spots on the plant and leads to leaf drop and reduced growth. To manage it, remove and dispose of infected material, maintain appropriate air circulation, and apply fungicides.
- Rust: Rust is another fungal disease that causes orange or yellowish spots on the plant's leaves and stems. To prevent it, remove and dispose of infected material, avoid overhead watering, and treat with fungicides.
- Mosaic Virus: This virus is transmitted by insects and causes yellowing and curling of the leaves. It can be prevented by controlling pests, removing and disposing of infected material, and avoiding the use of contaminated tools.
Common Pests
Thelesperma simplicifolium Gray is not usually affected by pests, but the following ones may be a problem:
- Aphids: These small insects suck the sap out of the plant and cause it to wilt and discolor. To manage them, use insecticidal soaps, introduce natural predators, and remove infested material.
- Spider Mites: These tiny arachnids live on the underside of the leaves and cause them to turn yellow and develop a stippled appearance. To manage them, spray the plant with water, use insecticidal soaps, and remove infested material.
- Caterpillars: Caterpillars can chew on the plant's leaves and damage them. To manage them, remove them by hand, use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) insecticides, and remove infested material.
It is important to monitor the plant regularly for signs of diseases and pests and take appropriate steps to manage them before they become a bigger problem and cause severe damage or death of the plant.
1 USDA Plants Database: https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=THSI
