Origin and Common Names
Eriophyllum ambiguum (Gray) Gray var. paleaceum (Brandeg.) Ferris, commonly known as the Mojave woolly sunflower or Mojave easterbonnets, is a perennial flowering plant that is native to western North America, particularly in the Mojave Desert and southwestern Great Basin regions.General Appearance
Mojave woolly sunflower is a woody shrub that grows up to 1 meter tall, often with multiple stems. The leaves are long and narrow, measuring up to 10 centimeters long and 1-2 centimeters wide, with finely toothed edges, and covered in soft, silver-gray hairs. From late winter to early spring, the plant produces yellow, daisy-like flowers with a dark center, which can reach up to 5 centimeters in diameter.Uses
Mojave woolly sunflower has both ornamental and ecological uses. The plant is commonly used in landscaping for its attractive foliage and bright yellow flowers, as well as its ability to tolerate drought and poor soil conditions. Additionally, the plant provides food and habitat for a variety of native pollinators and wildlife, such as bees, butterflies, and birds. Moreover, the roots, leaves, and flowers of the plant have medicinal properties and have been used by indigenous people for centuries. The Kumeyaay people of Southern California have traditionally used the plant to treat gastrointestinal and respiratory problems. The Luiseño people of Southern California also used the plant as a poultice for burns and sores. However, before using any herbal remedies, it is important to seek professional medical advice. In conclusion, the Eriophyllum ambiguum (Gray) Gray var. paleaceum (Brandeg.) Ferris, commonly known as the Mojave woolly sunflower or Mojave easterbonnets, is a versatile and beautiful plant with a variety of uses.Light Requirements
Eriophyllum ambiguum var. paleaceum requires full sun exposure for optimal growth. It can tolerate partially shaded environments but it may affect its growth rate and flowering.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to California and can tolerate hot and dry temperatures during the summer months. However, it needs a winter dormancy period where temperatures can drop to 20°F (-6°C) or below to fully develop. If temperatures increase too much during the winter months, it can harm the plant's growth and flowering ability.
Soil Requirements
Eriophyllum ambiguum var. paleaceum prefers well-draining soils with sandy or gravelly textures. It can tolerate somewhat poor soils, but it needs good drainage to prevent root rot. Additionally, it prefers neutral to slightly alkaline soils with a pH range of 6.5 to 8.0.
Cultivation
Eriophyllum ambiguum (Gray) Gray var. paleaceum (Brandeg.) Ferris, commonly known as palea-leaved goldenweed, is a hardy, drought-tolerant plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions. It is native to California and is a great addition to any garden or landscape. When planting, it is essential to find a spot that receives full sun, as shade can affect the plant's growth and flowering ability. The soil should be well-draining and not too rich in nitrogen, as this can lead to excessive vegetative growth at the expense of flowering.
Watering needs
Goldenweed is drought-tolerant, but like all plants, it needs water to survive and thrive. During the first year after planting, it is vital to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Once it is established, it can survive on rainfall alone in most areas. Supplemental watering is only necessary during extended periods of drought or when the plant shows signs of stress, such as wilting or yellowing leaves.
Fertilization
Eriophyllum ambiguum (Gray) Gray var. paleaceum (Brandeg.) Ferris does not require frequent fertilization, as this can cause excessive vegetative growth. However, a small amount of balanced fertilizer can be applied in the spring to encourage flowering. Choose a fertilizer that is low in nitrogen and high in phosphorus and potassium. Always follow the package instructions for application rates and methods.
Pruning
Goldenweed requires minimal pruning. Deadheading faded flowers can promote bushier growth and prolong the blooming period. However, this is not necessary. If the plant becomes too leggy or unruly, it can be cut back by up to one-third of its height in the spring. Pruning at any other time of year can be detrimental to the plant's health and flowering ability.
Propagation methods of Eriophyllum ambiguum var. paleaceum
The Eriophyllum ambiguum var. paleaceum, commonly known as the pale golden yarrow, can be propagated through various means. These methods include seed propagation, stem cuttings, and division.
Seed propagation
One of the simplest ways to propagate Eriophyllum ambiguum var. paleaceum is through seeds. The seeds can be collected from the plant in late summer and fall when they turn brown, and the seed heads become dry. The seeds should be stripped from the head, cleaned, and stored in a cool and dry place until it is time to plant them.
The seeds should be planted in a well-draining soil mixture. They should be surface-sown, and a thin layer of soil should be sprinkled on top of them. The best time to sow the seeds is in the fall or early spring. The soil should be kept moist, but not wet, and the seeds should germinate within two to four weeks.
Stem cuttings
Eriophyllum ambiguum var. paleaceum can also be propagated through stem cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from the plant during the spring or summer. Healthy stem tips that are six inches long and contain two to three pairs of leaves should be selected. The bottom two to three leaves on the cutting should be removed, and a rooting hormone should be applied to the cut end.
The cutting should be planted in a pot filled with a well-draining soil mixture. The pot should be covered with a clear plastic bag to create a mini-greenhouse that will help retain moisture. The rooting process should take about six to eight weeks. Once the cutting has rooted, it can be transplanted to its permanent location.
Division
Eriophyllum ambiguum var. paleaceum can also be propagated through division. This method is best done in the spring when the plant is just starting to come out of dormancy. The plant should be dug up, and the root system should be carefully separated into smaller sections. Each section should have a healthy plant crown and several roots attached.
The divided sections should be replanted in a well-draining soil mixture. They should be planted at the same depth as they were before and should be watered thoroughly. It is essential to keep the soil moist but not wet until the plants have established themselves.
Disease Management:
Eriophyllum ambiguum var. paleaceum is generally disease-resistant. However, it may get affected by some fungal diseases such as rust, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. Rust appears as yellow-orange lesions on the leaves while powdery mildew causes a powdery white coating on the leaves. Leaf spot causes brown-black spots on the leaves. To manage these diseases, it is recommended to prune the infected leaves and destroy them. Fungicides may also be used if the problem persists.
Pest Management:
Eriophyllum ambiguum var. paleaceum is prone to some common pests such as aphids, spider mites, and thrips. These pests can cause yellowing and curling of the leaves and stunted growth of the plant. To manage these pests, it is recommended to handpick and destroy them. Regular spraying of insecticidal soap or neem oil can also help eliminate the pests. In addition, maintaining good sanitation practices and removing any debris around the plant can help prevent the pests from spreading.
