Origin
The Thelypodium integrifolium (Nutt.) Endl. ex Walp. ssp. integrifolium, also known as the whole-leaved thelypody, is a plant species that originate from North America, specifically in the western part of the United States and Canada.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Princess' Plume, and Dance Fern by the Native American tribes, while the scientific name "Thelypodium" comes from Greek words "thelys" which means "woman," and "podion," which means "little foot."
Uses
The whole-leaved thelypody has both medicinal and cultural uses. Historically, Native Americans used the plant to cure toothaches, and muscle pain. Its roots were also used to brew an emetic and were used to treat digestion and fever. In contemporary times, it has also been used in the cosmetic industry as an ingredient in facial creams and sunscreens.
General Appearance
The whole-leaved thelypody belongs to the family of Brassicaceae, which is a family of mustard plants. The plant typically grows in open areas such as meadows, grasslands, and prairies, and can be about 10 to 50 centimeters tall. The flowers are small, have four white petals and about 0.8 to 1 centimeter in diameter. The leaves are ovate or lanceolate, elongated, and about 2.5 to 10 centimeters long. Its fruit is long and thin, reaching 5 to 17 centimeters in length.
Light Requirements
The Thelypodium integrifolium (Nutt.) Endl. ex Walp. ssp. integrifolium plant prefers well-lit environments with plenty of direct sunlight. Partially shaded areas may also be acceptable, but the plant should receive at least five to six hours of sunlight every day.
Temperature Requirements
Thelypodium integrifolium (Nutt.) Endl. ex Walp. ssp. integrifolium prefers cool to mild temperatures, typically found in coastal areas. The ideal temperature range is 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F) during the growing season. In winter, the plant may survive freezing temperatures if it is insulated by snow or leaf litter.
Soil Requirements
Thelypodium integrifolium (Nutt.) Endl. ex Walp. ssp. integrifolium prefers moist well-drained soil. The soil pH range should be between 6.0 and 7.0. The plant may grow in autogenic soils on rocky outcrops and talus slopes.
Cultivation of Thelypodium integrifolium (Nutt.) Endl. ex Walp. ssp. integrifolium
Thelypodium integrifolium (Nutt.) Endl. ex Walp. ssp. integrifolium is a plant that requires full sun to partial shade. The plant growth can be easily achieved from sowing seeds, and the planting distance should be at least 1 foot apart from each other. The plant thrives in well-drained soils. To prepare the bed for planting, dig the soil to a depth of 6 inches and add compost or well-rotted manure into it.
Watering Needs of Thelypodium integrifolium (Nutt.) Endl. ex Walp. ssp. integrifolium
Thelypodium integrifolium (Nutt.) Endl. ex Walp. ssp. integrifolium is a drought-tolerant plant, but it requires regular watering in the growing season to promote better plant growth and blooming. You should avoid overwatering the plant as it can lead to root rot. It is recommended that you water the plant once a week during the growing season, and in the hot summer months, you can water the plant twice a week.
Fertilization of Thelypodium integrifolium (Nutt.) Endl. ex Walp. ssp. integrifolium
To maintain the optimal health and growth of Thelypodium integrifolium (Nutt.) Endl. ex Walp. ssp. integrifolium, fertilization is essential. The plant requires moderate fertilization during the growing season, and the best time to fertilize the plant is in the early spring. You can use a balanced fertilizer, which contains equal portions of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. It is highly recommended that you follow the manufacturer's instructions when applying a fertilizer.
Pruning of Thelypodium integrifolium (Nutt.) Endl. ex Walp. ssp. integrifolium
Pruning is not necessary for Thelypodium integrifolium (Nutt.) Endl. ex Walp. ssp. integrifolium, but it can be beneficial to remove any dead or diseased leaves or stems. Pruning should be done in the early spring, and it is essential to avoid removing healthy parts of the plant. Pruning can stimulate new growth, which leads to better blooming.
Propagation of Thelypodium integrifolium
Thelypodium integrifolium can be propagated by several methods, including seed propagation, division, and stem cuttings.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common and easiest method to propagate Thelypodium integrifolium. This plant produces plentiful seeds, which can be collected once the pods turn brown and begin to split open. The seeds should be sown immediately or stored in a cool, dry place until needed. Plant the seeds in flats filled with a well-draining potting mix, covering them lightly with the mix. Keep the flats moist and at a temperature of around 65 – 75 ?. The seeds should sprout in one to two weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted after they grow their first true leaves.
Division Propagation
Thelypodium integrifolium can also be propagated through division. This method involves separating the plant into smaller sections, each with its own root system, to grow into new plants. The best time to divide this plant is in the fall when it has gone dormant. Dig up the plant and gently separate the root mass into smaller sections using a sharp, sterile knife. Replant the sections in their new location, ensuring that the soil is consistently moist until the plants are established.
Stem Cutting Propagation
Propagation by stem cuttings is a more challenging but rewarding method to propagate Thelypodium integrifolium. Take a stem cutting of about 6-8 inches long in the early summer when the plant is actively growing. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone powder. Plant the stem in a well-draining potting mix, keeping it moist and covered with a plastic bag to maintain humidity. Place the pot in a bright location with indirect sunlight. After about six weeks, the cutting should have rooted, and it can be transplanted to its permanent location.
Disease Management
Thelypodium integrifolium (Nutt.) Endl. ex Walp. ssp. integrifolium is susceptible to various diseases. Some common diseases that affect this plant are:
- Clubroot: This is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, causing them to become swollen and distorted. The leaves of the plant may become wilted, and the plant may eventually die. To prevent clubroot, it is important to maintain proper soil pH levels and avoid planting susceptible crops in infected soil. Fungicides can also be used to treat clubroot.
- White Rust: This fungal disease affects the leaves of the plant, causing white pustules to form on the bottom of the leaves. The leaves may eventually turn yellow and fall off. To prevent white rust, it is important to maintain good air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides can also be used to control white rust.
- Downy Mildew: This fungal disease affects the leaves of the plant, causing yellowing and wilting. A fuzzy gray or white growth may also be present on the underside of the leaves. Downy mildew can be prevented by maintaining good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering. Fungicides can also be used to control downy mildew.
Pest Management
Thelypodium integrifolium (Nutt.) Endl. ex Walp. ssp. integrifolium is also susceptible to various pests. Some common pests that affect this plant are:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects suck the sap out of the plant, causing the leaves to curl and yellow. To prevent aphids, it is important to maintain good plant health and remove any infested plants. Insecticidal soaps can also be used to control aphids.
- Cabbage Loopers: These caterpillars feed on the leaves of the plant, causing large holes and skeletonization. To prevent cabbage loopers, it is important to inspect plants regularly and remove any visible caterpillars. Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) can also be used to control cabbage loopers.
- Slugs and Snails: These pests feed on the leaves of the plant, leaving behind large holes and irregular damage. To prevent slugs and snails, it is important to remove any debris or hiding places around the plant and apply slug bait as needed.
