Origin
Thermopsis gracilis T.J. Howell var. ovata (B.L. Robins. ex Piper) M. Mendenhall, commonly known as slender woolly-bloom, is a species of flowering plant in the pea family, Fabaceae. It is native to North America, specifically found in the western regions of the United States, from California to Montana.
Common Names
Slender woolly-bloom is commonly known by several names, including ovate-leaved goldenbanner, ovate-leaved false lupine, and ovate-leaved goldenbanner.
Uses
The plant has several uses attributed to it. It is an ornamental plant, known for its attractive yellow flowers that bloom in the late spring or early summer. Slender woolly-bloom can also be used for erosion control, as it has a deep taproot that helps stabilize soil. In addition, some Native American tribes have traditionally used the roots of the plant for medicinal purposes, treating conditions such as stomach aches and diarrhea.
General Appearance
Thermopsis gracilis T.J. Howell var. ovata is a herbaceous perennial plant that usually grows up to a height of 1 to 2 feet. The stems are slender, green, and covered in fine hairs. The leaves are ovate and green in color, with a soft, woolly texture on the underside. The flowers are bright yellow, pea-shaped, and are arranged in dense clusters at the top of the stems. The plant blooms in late spring or early summer and produces fruit in a pod, which is usually 1 to 2 inches long and covered in fine hairs.
Light Requirements
Thermopsis gracilis T.J. Howell var. ovata requires full sun to partial shade to grow properly. The plant will thrive in bright sunlight but can also tolerate a small amount of shade.
Temperature Requirements
The plant requires a temperate climate with moderate temperatures to grow adequately. Thermopsis gracilis T.J. Howell var. ovata can survive in extremely cold temperatures and also in moderately hot temperatures, but it will grow best in cooler temperatures.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a variety of soil conditions, including sandy soils and heavy clay soils. However, the soil should not be too wet or too dry as this can negatively impact growth.
Cultivation Methods
Thermopsis gracilis T.J. Howell var. ovata (B.L. Robins. ex Piper) M. Mendenhall is a hardy perennial plant that grows well in zones 5-8. It thrives in full sunlight and well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0-8.0. It can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, or division during the spring or fall.
Watering Needs
Thermopsis gracilis T.J. Howell var. ovata (B.L. Robins. ex Piper) M. Mendenhall requires regular watering during the growing season to maintain healthy growth. It requires an inch of water per week, and the soil should be kept consistently moist. However, overwatering should be avoided as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Thermopsis gracilis T.J. Howell var. ovata (B.L. Robins. ex Piper) M. Mendenhall does not require frequent fertilization. A balanced fertilizer can be applied in early spring or fall to provide nutrients to the plant. However, excessive fertilization can lead to excessive vegetative growth, reducing the number of flowers produced.
Pruning
Thermopsis gracilis T.J. Howell var. ovata (B.L. Robins. ex Piper) M. Mendenhall does not require extensive pruning. Deadheading of the spent flowers should be done regularly to promote continuous blooms. In the fall, after the growing season has ended, pruning can be done to remove any diseased or damaged stems.
Propagation of Thermopsis gracilis T.J. Howell var. ovata
Thermopsis gracilis T.J. Howell var. ovata (B.L. Robins. ex Piper) M. Mendenhall can be propagated using two main methods: seeds and vegetative propagation.
Propagation by seeds
The most common method of propagation for Thermopsis gracilis T.J. Howell var. ovata is through seeds. Seeds can be collected from the plant after the flowers have faded and the seed pods have started to dry out. The seed pods should be left on the plant until they are fully matured, meaning they have turned brown and started to split open. At this point, the seeds can be collected and planted immediately, or stored for future use.
Before planting, the seeds can be stratified in the refrigerator for several weeks. This process helps to break down the seed coat and increase germination rates. After stratification, the seeds should be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until germination, which can take up to 60 days. Once the seedlings have developed two true leaves, they can be transplanted to their final location.
Vegetative propagation
Thermopsis gracilis T.J. Howell var. ovata can also be propagated vegetatively through rhizome division. This method involves digging up an established plant and dividing the rhizomes, which are underground stems that produce roots and shoots. The rhizomes should be separated and replanted in a well-draining soil mix at the same depth as they were growing previously.
It is important to note that vegetative propagation should only be done on mature plants that have already flowered and produced seeds. Additionally, care should be taken not to damage the existing plant during the division process.
Disease and Pest Management for Thermopsis Gracilis var. Ovata
Thermopsis Gracilis var. Ovata is a plant commonly found in rocky or sandy areas across western North America. Like any other plant, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests. Here are some common diseases and pests that affect Thermopsis Gracilis var. Ovata and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Some of the common diseases that can affect Thermopsis Gracilis var. Ovata include:
1. Powdery mildew
The most commonly reported disease in Thermopsis Gracilis var. Ovata is powdery mildew. This disease causes a white, powdery deposit on the leaves, stems, and other parts of the plant, leading to reduced growth and yield. To manage this disease, ensure proper air circulation, avoid overhead irrigation, and use fungicides.
2. Leaf spot
Leaf spot is another common disease that affects Thermopsis Gracilis var. Ovata. This disease causes small, dark spots on the leaves, which later turn yellow and drop. It can lead to reduced photosynthesis and stunted growth. To manage leaf spot, remove and destroy infected leaves, ensure proper drainage, and use fungicides.
Pests
Some common pests that affect Thermopsis Gracilis var. Ovata include:
1. Aphids
Aphids are tiny green insects that suck the sap from the leaves and stems of the plant, leading to yellowing, wilting, and stunted growth. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soaps or Neem oil, maintain proper sanitation, and plant companion plants that repel them.
2. Spider mites
Spider mites are small arachnids that suck sap from the plant, causing yellowing and wilting of the leaves. They can lead to reduced growth and yield. To manage spider mites, ensure proper moisture levels, use insecticidal soaps or Neem oil, and release predator mites.
By following these disease and pest management measures, you can keep Thermopsis Gracilis var. Ovata healthy and productive.
