Origin
Thelypodium integrifolium (Nutt.) Endl. ex Walp. ssp. affine (Greene) Al-Shehbaz, commonly known as the creamy locoweed, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. The plant is native to western North America, where it grows in mountainous and prairie regions. It primarily thrives at altitudes between 500-1,900 meters above sea level.
Common names
The plant Thelypodium integrifolium bears different common names based on the location it grows. For example, in the United States, the plant is known as cream-sacs, cream spoons, and creamy locoweed. In Canada, it is commonly referred to as whole-leaf loco.
General appearance
The plant Thelypodium integrifolium has a robust and straight stem that ranges from 15-60 centimeters in height. It has alternate leaves that are simple, ovate-shaped, and generally basal. The leaves have smooth margins and measure approximately 5-12 centimeters in length and 2-4 centimeters in width. The plant produces a creamy-white flower that blooms in June or July and has small fruits that contain several seeds. The plant's root system is deep-seated and fibrous, which helps it survive extreme weather conditions.
Uses
Thelypodium integrifolium has both medicinal and economic value. The plant is used by Native Americans to treat various ailments such as diarrhea, coughing, and stomach distress. The root of the plant is commonly used to make an infusion believed to relieve respiratory issues and alleviate pain. The plant is also used as a forage crop for livestock, particularly during the winter when other plants are scarce.
Light Requirements
Thelypodium integrifolium (Nutt.) Endl. ex Walp. ssp. affine (Greene) Al-Shehbaz prefers growing in areas with full sun exposure. The plant grows best when there is at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. However, it can tolerate partial shade.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is native to montane and subalpine regions of North America, where temperatures can vary significantly. Thelypodium integrifolium (Nutt.) Endl. ex Walp. ssp. affine (Greene) Al-Shehbaz can tolerate both hot summers and cold winters. It grows best in a temperature range of 55°F-75°F (12.8°C-23.9°C) and is cold-hardy up to USDA zone 3.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained, loamy soils in areas with adequate rainfall. It grows well in neutral to slightly alkaline soils with a pH range of 6.0-8.0. However, it can also tolerate sandy or clay soils. Thelypodium integrifolium (Nutt.) Endl. ex Walp. ssp. affine (Greene) Al-Shehbaz requires soil that is rich in organic matter and nutrients. The plant can also tolerate salt spray and areas with high levels of pollution.
Cultivation Methods
Thelypodium integrifolium (Nutt.) Endl. ex Walp. ssp. affine (Greene) Al-Shehbaz is a hardy perennial herb that can tolerate various growing conditions. It prefers full sun or partial shade and grows well in well-drained, sandy, loamy, or clay soils.
If planting from seeds, sow them in the fall or early spring to provide the seedlings enough time to establish before winter. You can also propagate by dividing mature plants in spring or fall.
Watering Needs
While Thelypodium integrifolium (Nutt.) Endl. ex Walp. ssp. affine (Greene) Al-Shehbaz can tolerate dry conditions, it requires regular watering during prolonged dry spells. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more during hot, dry weather. Avoid overhead watering, as this can encourage fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Thelypodium integrifolium (Nutt.) Endl. ex Walp. ssp. affine (Greene) Al-Shehbaz doesn't require much fertilizer, but you can apply a balanced fertilizer in late winter or early spring to improve growth and development. Use a slow-release fertilizer, following the package instructions for application.
Pruning
You don't need to do any regular pruning for Thelypodium integrifolium (Nutt.) Endl. ex Walp. ssp. affine (Greene) Al-Shehbaz. However, you may want to deadhead the spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. In fall, after the plant dies back, you can cut the stems to ground level to tidy up the garden bed.
Propagation of Thelypodium integrifolium (Nutt.) Endl. ex Walp. ssp. affine (Greene) Al-Shehbaz
Thelypodium integrifolium (Nutt.) Endl. ex Walp. ssp. affine (Greene) Al-Shehbaz can be propagated through several methods, including seed propagation, stem cuttings, and division.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Thelypodium integrifolium (Nutt.) Endl. ex Walp. ssp. affine (Greene) Al-Shehbaz can be sown directly into the soil in fall or early spring. The seeds usually germinate within a month, and the plant takes around two years to reach maturity. It is recommended to sow multiple seeds since not all of them may germinate.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings should be taken when the plant is in the vegetative stage. Cut a 4-6 inch portion of the stem and remove the lower leaves and any flower buds. Dip the cut end into rooting hormone and plant it into a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and covered with plastic for the first few weeks to increase humidity. The plant should grow roots in 3-4 weeks.
Division
The plant can also be propagated through division. It is best to divide the plant in early spring or fall. Dig up the entire plant and separate the root clumps using a sharp knife or garden spade. Replant the divided portions into well-prepared soil and water thoroughly. Keep the newly transplanted plant moist until it establishes.
Disease and Pest Management for Thelypodium integrifolium (Nutt.) Endl. ex Walp. ssp. affine (Greene) Al-Shehbaz
While Thelypodium integrifolium (Nutt.) Endl. ex Walp. ssp. affine (Greene) Al-Shehbaz is generally a hardy plant, it can still fall prey to a variety of diseases and pests. Here are some of the most common issues that may affect the plant, as well as some strategies for managing them:
Diseases
One disease that may affect Thelypodium integrifolium is white rust. This fungus can cause yellow spots on the leaves and white pustules on the undersides. To manage this disease, remove and destroy any infected plants. Avoid overhead watering, as this can help the fungus spread. If necessary, apply a fungicide to protect the remaining plants.
Another disease that can affect the plant is downy mildew. This fungus causes yellow or white spots on the leaves, which may eventually turn brown and die. To manage this disease, prune away any affected leaves and remove them from the area around the plants. Avoid overhead watering and ensure that the plants are getting enough air circulation. A fungicide may be necessary if the problem is severe.
Pests
One pest that may affect Thelypodium integrifolium is the cabbage aphid. These small insects can cluster on the leaves and suck sap from the plant, causing distortion and stunting. To manage an infestation, consider introducing natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings. Alternatively, you can use a targeted insecticide to control the population.
Another pest that can affect the plant is the flea beetle. These insects chew small holes in the leaves, which can cause cosmetic damage and reduce the plant's overall health. To manage an infestation, apply a targeted insecticide to the affected plants. Consider using row covers to protect new transplants until they become established.
By staying vigilant and taking proactive steps to manage disease and pest issues, you can help ensure that your Thelypodium integrifolium (Nutt.) Endl. ex Walp. ssp. affine (Greene) Al-Shehbaz plants remain healthy and productive.
