Origin and Common Names
Trichostema laxum Gray var. rubisepalum (Elmer) Jepson is a perennial flowering plant species from the mint family (Lamiaceae) that is native to California, specifically in San Bernardino and Riverside counties. It is commonly called the Cobwebby Hyssop or Cobwebby Bluecurls due to its unique appearance.
Uses
Aside from being a beautiful ornamental plant with its striking violet-blue flowers, Trichostema laxum Gray var. rubisepalum is also used by traditional herbalists to treat various ailments. Native American tribes have utilized it as a poultice for treating wounds, bruises, and swellings. A tincture made from its leaves and flowers is also believed to be effective in relieving headaches, nasal congestion, and digestive issues.
General Appearance
The Cobwebby Hyssop is a small, low-growing shrub that reaches up to 2 feet in height. It has fibrous roots and slender, finely hairy stems that are typically green or purplish. Its leaves are opposite, narrow, and elongated, measuring about 1 inch long. What makes this plant stand out is the cobweb-like hairs that cover its sepals and bracts, adding to its unique texture and appearance. The flowers of Trichostema laxum Gray var. rubisepalum bloom in the summer and fall, showcasing clusters of tiny violet-blue blooms with delicate petals.
Light Requirements
Trichostema laxum Gray var. rubisepalum prefers full sun to partial shade. As a native of the Mediterranean climate, it is adapted to a high level of sunlight exposure. Therefore, it is essential to put this plant in a location where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. If placed in a shaded spot, it may grow leggy and produce fewer flowers.
Temperature Requirements
This species can thrive in a range of temperatures. It can tolerate high levels of heat and is able to grow in hot, dry locations with ease. However, it can also grow in cooler temperatures, but it is more susceptible to frost damage. Ideally, this plant grows best in regions with temperatures ranging from 50 to 85 °F.
Soil Requirements
Trichostema laxum Gray var. rubisepalum can grow in a variety of soil types. However, it requires well-draining soil that does not retain moisture. This species can survive in sandy, loamy, or rocky soil as long as it is well-drained. The soil pH should range from neutral to slightly acidic. It is essential to avoid overly rich soil that may encourage vegetative growth instead of flowering.
Cultivation Methods for Trichostema Laxum Gray Var. Rubisepalum (Elmer) Jepson
To cultivate Trichostema laxum Gray var. rubisepalum (Elmer) Jepson, it is recommended to plant in well-draining soil with full sun exposure. The plant can be grown from seeds or cuttings, with the latter being the more preferred option. The ideal time for planting is in early spring or fall, ensuring that the soil temperature is warm to allow for healthy root growth.
Watering Needs for Trichostema Laxum Gray Var. Rubisepalum (Elmer) Jepson
To maintain optimal growth, Trichostema laxum Gray var. rubisepalum (Elmer) Jepson requires regular watering. However, it is crucial to avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot and damage to the plant. The plant should be watered deeply once a week, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. During hot weather, it may be necessary to water more frequently to prevent the soil from drying out.
Fertilization of Trichostema Laxum Gray Var. Rubisepalum (Elmer) Jepson
Trichostema laxum Gray var. rubisepalum (Elmer) Jepson requires a balanced fertilizer to ensure healthy growth. It is best to apply fertilizer during the plant's active growing period, which is typically in spring and summer. Slow-release fertilizers work well and should be applied according to the product's instructions. Overfertilizing the plant can lead to an excessive build-up of salts in the soil, which can damage the plant's roots.
Pruning Trichostema Laxum Gray Var. Rubisepalum (Elmer) Jepson
Pruning is not necessary for Trichostema laxum Gray var. rubisepalum (Elmer) Jepson, as it has a neat and compact growth habit. However, it is recommended to remove any dead or diseased branches or stems to maintain the plant's overall health. The plant can also be lightly pruned after the blooming period to promote bushier growth and encourage more flowering.
Propagation of Trichostema laxum Gray var. rubisepalum (Elmer) Jepson Plant
Trichostema laxum Gray var. rubisepalum (Elmer) Jepson, commonly known as "Turpentine Weed," is propagated through seeds and stem cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
The plants produce flowers in the summer season, which turn into small capsules containing seeds. You can collect the seed capsules when they start turning brown or gray. The seeds inside the capsule are small and black. Sow these seeds in sandy and well-drained soil. The ideal time to sow the seeds is in the fall season. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and keep them moist. The seeds usually take around 2-4 weeks to germinate.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Trichostema laxum can be propagated through stem cuttings as well. Take 4-6 inch cuttings from the parent plant in the spring season. Cut the stem just below the leaf node. Remove the lower leaves from the stem and dip it in rooting hormone powder. Plant the cutting in a pot filled with a mixture of sand and peat moss. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in partial shade. The cutting should root in 2-3 weeks, and you can transplant it into the garden soil after it has developed strong roots.
Disease Management
Trichostema laxum Gray var. rubisepalum is not affected by many diseases. However, it can still be affected by fungal and bacterial infections.
One of the most common fungal infections that affect this plant is powdery mildew. Powdery mildew can be managed by spraying the plant with a fungicide. Another way to manage powdery mildew is by removing any infected plant parts.
Bacterial infections are less common, but can still be a problem. One example of a bacterial infection that can affect this plant is bacterial leaf spot. To manage bacterial leaf spot, infected plant parts should be removed and destroyed to prevent the infection from spreading. Additionally, copper-based fungicides can be used to manage the infection.
Pest Management
Trichostema laxum Gray var. rubisepalum can be affected by a variety of pests. The most common pests that affect this plant are spider mites, aphids, and thrips.
Spider mites can be managed by spraying the plant with water to wash off the mites, or by using a miticide. Aphids can also be washed off the plant with water, or managed with insecticidal soap. Thrips can be managed with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
In addition to these pests, the plant can also be affected by snails and slugs. To manage snails and slugs, a slug and snail bait can be placed around the plant. Another option is to manually remove the snails and slugs from the plant.
