Overview
Thlaspi fendleri Gray var. hesperium (Payson) C.L. Hitchc., also known as western penny cress, is a herbaceous plant known for its attractive and delicate appearance. It is a flowering plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae or mustard family. This plant species is native to western North America, particularly in the western United States and northern Mexico.Common Names
Thlaspi fendleri Gray var. hesperium has several common names depending on the region where it is found. It is commonly called western penny cress, Fendler's pennycress, or Fendler's meadowcress.Description
Thlaspi fendleri Gray var. hesperium is a small, annual plant that usually grows up to 10 cm tall. It has alternate and simple leaves that are lance-shaped and coarsely toothed. The leaves are typically gray-green and covered with fine hairs. The plant is characterized by its tiny and delicate flowers, which are white and form clusters at the tips of the stems. The flowers have four petals and six stamens. The plant blooms from April to June and produces small, flattened seeds that are dispersed by wind.Uses
Thlaspi fendleri Gray var. hesperium is not known for any medicinal or economic uses. However, it is commonly used in landscaping and gardening due to its attractive appearance. The plant is ideal for rock gardens, borders, and other decorative purposes. In conclusion, Thlaspi fendleri Gray var. hesperium is a charming and delicate plant species that adorns the western region of North America. Thanks to its stunning flowers and ease of care, it has found a place in both wild and landscaped settings.Growth Conditions of Thlaspi fendleri Gray var. hesperium (Payson) C.L. Hitchc.
Light: This plant species typically requires full sun to light shade for optimal growth. It can tolerate some shade but may not produce as many flowers in low light conditions.
Temperature: Thlaspi fendleri Gray var. hesperium (Payson) C.L. Hitchc. is native to the western United States and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. However, it grows best in cool to moderate temperatures between 50-75°F. The plant can tolerate freezing temperatures and is known to survive below 0°F in its native habitat.
Soil: This plant prefers well-draining sandy or loamy soils. It can also tolerate rocky or gravelly soils that are not too alkaline. The ideal soil pH range is between 6.5-7.5. Heavy clay soils may need to be amended to improve drainage and prevent waterlogging.
Water: Thlaspi fendleri Gray var. hesperium (Payson) C.L. Hitchc. is drought-tolerant and can survive in dry conditions. However, it will grow best with regular watering during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist, but not too wet, to avoid root rot.
Fertilizer: This species does not require fertilizer but can benefit from occasional applications of a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Too much fertilizer can cause the plant to grow too quickly and become leggy.
Propagation: Thlaspi fendleri Gray var. hesperium (Payson) C.L. Hitchc. can be propagated by seed or division. Seeds should be sown in the fall or early spring in well-draining soil. Division should be done in the spring or fall, and the divided sections should be replanted immediately.
Cultivation Methods
Thlaspi fendleri Gray var. hesperium (Payson) C.L. Hitchc. is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate both acidic and alkaline soils. The plant can be grown in full sun to partial shade and can withstand cold temperatures, making it an ideal choice for growing in cooler climates.
The plant can be propagated by seeds or cuttings. If growing from seeds, it is best to sow them in early spring. The seeds should be sown directly into the soil at a depth of about 1/8th of an inch. If propagating using cuttings, it's best to take them in early autumn.
Watering Needs
Thlaspi fendleri Gray var. hesperium (Payson) C.L. Hitchc. has a moderate water requirement. It prefers evenly moist soil, but it can also tolerate dry soil conditions. It's best to water the plant when the top 2-3 inches of soil feel dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal for the plant.
Fertilization
The plant has a moderate fertilization requirement. It's best to fertilize the plant once every two months during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium. Avoid applying fertilizer during the winter months, as the plant is in a dormant state during this time.
Pruning
Thlaspi fendleri Gray var. hesperium (Payson) C.L. Hitchc. is a low-maintenance plant that requires little pruning. It's best to remove any dead or diseased branches as soon as possible. Pruning can be done in the early spring or late autumn. Avoid pruning the plant during the growing season, as this can affect its overall health and growth.
Propagation of Thlaspi fendleri Gray var. hesperium (Payson) C.L. Hitchc.
There are different methods that can be used to propagate Thlaspi fendleri Gray var. hesperium (Payson) C.L. Hitchc. The two main methods are:
Seeds propagation
Propagation through seeds is one of the easiest and most common methods used to propagate Thlaspi fendleri Gray var. hesperium (Payson) C.L. Hitchc. Seeds are collected from the mature plant and sown in a well-draining potting mix. Seeds are generally sown in early spring and take approximately one to two weeks to germinate. The seedlings can then be transferred to larger pots or directly into the ground.
It is important to keep the soil moist during the germination period and to provide enough humidity by covering the pot with plastic wrap or a clear plastic dome. Once the seedlings have emerged, the plastic wrap or dome should be gradually removed to acclimate the plants to the surrounding air.
Division propagation
Propagation through division is another method used to propagate Thlaspi fendleri Gray var. hesperium (Payson) C.L. Hitchc. This method involves dividing the mature plant into several smaller plants with roots and stems. This is usually done in the early spring when the plant is actively growing.
The plant should be dug up and carefully separated into two or three sections. Each section should have at least one healthy stem and root system. The new plants can then be re-planted in the ground or potted in a well-draining mix. It is important to keep the newly divided plants moist and to protect them from direct sunlight until they are established.
Disease Management
Thlaspi fendleri Gray var. hesperium, commonly known as western jewelflower, is a hardy plant that is relatively resistant to diseases. However, it is still susceptible to a few common plant diseases. The most likely diseases to affect this plant are:
- Clubroot: Clubroot is a fungal disease that causes swelling of the roots. It can lead to stunted growth, wilting, and yellowing of leaves. To manage this disease, rotate the crops, remove infected plants immediately, and maintain soil pH levels between 6.5 and 7.5.
- Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white powder on the leaves. It can cause leaves to become distorted and fall off. To manage this disease, prune affected leaves, water the plants in the morning to give them enough time to dry, and avoid overcrowding the plants.
- Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves. It can lead to defoliation and reduced plant growth. To manage this disease, prune affected leaves, sterilize pruning equipment, and avoid overhead watering.
Pest Management
Western jewelflower is not a favorite plant for pests and insects; however, some insects can cause problems. The most common pests that might affect this plant are:
- Larvae of the Crucifer Flea Beetle: Larvae of the crucifer flea beetle can eat through the leaves, causing serious damage. To manage the beetles, you can remove the beetles by hand and discard them in soapy water.
- Aphids: Aphids are tiny insects that feed on plant sap, causing the leaves to curl and become distorted. To manage aphids, prune affected leaves, use insecticidal soap, and introduce beneficial insects such as ladybugs.
- Cabbage Loopers: Cabbage loopers are the larvae of the cabbage moth, and they can eat through young leaves of the plant. To manage cabbage loopers, you can remove them by hand and discard them in soapy water, use insecticidal soap, or introduce beneficial insects such as parasitic wasps.
