Description
Balsamorhiza macrolepis Sharp var. platylepis (Sharp) Ferris, commonly known as bigscale balsamroot, is a perennial plant from the Asteraceae family. It is a native plant to the western parts of North America, including the states of California, Oregon, Nevada, and Idaho.
The plant is known for its large leaves and striking yellow flowers that bloom in the spring. The leaves are soft and hairy, and they grow up to 30 cm in length. The flowers bloom in clusters that can reach up to 10 cm in diameter, and they are a bright, sunny yellow color with a circle of smaller flowers in the center that are brown or purple.
Uses
The bigscale balsamroot has been used by Native Americans for medicinal purposes, including treating headaches and stomach issues. The roots were also used to make a tincture for treating skin irritations and other ailments.
Today, the plant is often used in landscaping and as an ornamental plant in gardens. Its large leaves and striking flowers make it a popular choice for adding visual interest to outdoor spaces.
Appearance
The bigscale balsamroot is a perennial plant that can grow up to one meter in height. It has a woody stem, and its leaves grow in a rosette pattern at the base of the plant. The leaves are slightly hairy and have a wrinkled, almost velvety texture. The flowers grow on a stem that rises above the leaves, and they can be up to 10 cm in diameter. The flowers have bright yellow petals with a brown or purple center, and they bloom in the spring.
The plant is also known for its large, underground taproot, which can grow up to a meter deep into the soil to help the plant survive in dry conditions. The taproot is also useful for stabilizing soil and preventing erosion.
Light Requirements
Balsamorhiza macrolepis Sharp var. platylepis (Sharp) Ferris thrives best in areas that receive full sun to partial shade. This plant requires a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight every day to grow to its full potential. Therefore, it is ideal for cultivation in regions that experience bright, sunny weather with little shading from other plants or structures.
Temperature Requirements
The typical habitat for this plant is the semi-arid or arid regions of the western United States, where it experiences hot and dry summers and cold winters. It can withstand temperature fluctuations and can tolerate both high and low temperatures. Balsamorhiza macrolepis Sharp var. platylepis (Sharp) Ferris grows best at an average temperature range of 60 to 90°F and requires a winter dormancy period, where the temperatures can drop down to below freezing point.
Soil Requirements
Balsamorhiza macrolepis Sharp var. platylepis (Sharp) Ferris requires well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0. The ideal soil type is loamy or sandy, with adequate organic matter. This plant can tolerate dry conditions, but it cannot survive in waterlogged soils. For best results, it is recommended to plant Balsamorhiza macrolepis Sharp var. platylepis (Sharp) Ferris in soils that are enriched with organic matter, such as compost or aged manure.
Cultivation Methods
Balsamorhiza macrolepis Sharp var. platylepis (Sharp) Ferris is a hardy, drought-tolerant plant that grows well in various soils. However, it prefers well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH level. When planting, choose a spot with full sunlight exposure, and make sure to leave enough space between each plant as they can grow up to 3 feet in diameter. The best time for planting is in the spring, after the last frost.
Watering Needs
While Balsamorhiza macrolepis Sharp var. platylepis (Sharp) Ferris is drought-tolerant, regular watering during the growing season can promote healthy growth and flower production. Water your plants once a week in the absence of rainfall, always ensuring that the soil is well-drained. Avoid overwatering and waterlogging the soil as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Balsamorhiza macrolepis Sharp var. platylepis (Sharp) Ferris doesn't require regular fertilization. However, if your soil is poor in nutrients, you can apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers as they can stimulate leaf growth instead of flower production.
Pruning
Balsamorhiza macrolepis Sharp var. platylepis (Sharp) Ferris doesn't require much pruning. However, you can deadhead the spent flowers after blooming to encourage more flower production. You can also cut back the foliage to about 3 inches in the fall after the first hard frost. This will protect the roots during the winter and promote healthier growth in the spring.
Propagation of Balsamorhiza macrolepis Sharp var. platylepis
Balsamorhiza macrolepis Sharp var. platylepis, commonly known as Big-scale balsamroot, is a herbaceous perennial plant native to North America. It is predominantly found in areas with well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight. The plant has underground rhizomes, which make it a good candidate for vegetative propagation.
Propagating Balsamorhiza macrolepis Sharp var. platylepis through Division
One of the easiest ways to propagate Balsamorhiza macrolepis Sharp var. platylepis involves dividing the underground rhizomes. This method is best performed in the fall or early spring before the plants begin active growth. Dig up the entire plant and separate the rhizomes by cutting them into sections. Each division should have at least one stem and a few roots. Replant the divisions in well-drained soil at a depth similar to the original plant.
Propagating Balsamorhiza macrolepis Sharp var. platylepis through Seeds
Propagation through seeds is another method of propagating Balsamorhiza macrolepis Sharp var. platylepis. The ideal time for sowing seeds is in the fall or early spring. Collect the seeds when they turn brown and fall from the plant naturally. Dry and store the seeds in a cool, dry place. Sow the seeds in a well-tilled bed with good drainage. Germination may take several weeks. Keep the soil slightly moist until the seeds germinate and establish themselves.
Conclusion
Balsamorhiza macrolepis Sharp var. platylepis is an easy-to-propagate plant. Both division and seed propagation methods are suitable for this plant.
Disease management
Balsamorhiza macrolepis Sharp var. platylepis (Sharp) Ferris, also known as Big-leaf balsamroot, is susceptible to certain diseases that may affect its growth and yield. The following are some of the common diseases and ways to manage them:
Root rot
Root rot is caused by a number of soil-borne fungi that attack the plant's roots, causing them to rot. This significantly reduces the plant's growth and may eventually lead to its death. To manage root rot, it is essential to plant the crop in well-drained soil and avoid over-watering. There are also fungicides that can be applied to the soil to prevent the growth and spread of the fungi.
Fungal leaf spot
Fungal leaf spot is caused by a range of fungi that attack the plant's leaves, causing small spots that may merge and eventually cause the leaves to distort and drop off. To manage fungal leaf spot, it is essential to avoid overhead irrigation and water the plants at the base. It is also advisable to remove the infected leaves and dispose of them. There are also fungicides that can be applied to the foliage to control the fungal spores.
Pest management
Balsamorhiza macrolepis Sharp var. platylepis (Sharp) Ferris is also prone to pest attacks that may affect its growth and yield. The following are some of the common pests and ways to manage them:
Leafhoppers
Leafhoppers are common pests that suck the sap from the plant's leaves, causing them to yellow and eventually drop off. To manage leafhoppers, it is advisable to use insecticidal soaps or oils. Checking the underside of the leaves regularly can also help identify infestations early before they become severe, and applying the appropriate treatment.
Spider mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that are difficult to see with the naked eye. They suck sap from the plant's leaves and produce small webs on the underside of the leaves. To manage spider mites, it is essential to frequently water the plant's foliage to prevent the mites from settling. There are also miticides that can be applied to the foliage to control mite populations.
Overall, it is essential to monitor the crop regularly for signs of disease and pest attacks so that they can be managed early. This can prevent significant losses and ensure a healthy yield.
