Introduction to Fascisterne
Fascisterne is one of the most fascinating flowering plants that exists in nature, belonging to the specialized family of Fascisternaceae. It has been acknowledged by botanists as an extremely unique herbaceous perennial flowering plant due to its exotic appearance along with the unusual habits to grow that will not be seen in traditional garden flowers.
The plant can grow very large ranging from 60-100 centimeters tall, with relatively large, powerful root system that extends deep into the soil. It has an unusual stem shape that makes it a striking flower to be seen. Instead of a stem that is round, the stem of a Fascisterne is quadrangular in shape, and typically adorned with purple-green striping that is so distinct it makes the flower look ornamental even as a stem.
When talking about the aspect of the flower, the leaves taper off on opposite sides of the very unique but striking stems. The leaves range from 4-6 inches long with deeply lobed edges. The surface of the Fascisterne leaf is a unique combination of areas that are smooth mixed in with raised, patchy crystalline structures catching and reflecting light in the forms of weird shapes giving the plant almost a “jewelled” appearance on sunny days.
Fascisterne develops intricate clusters of flowers in terminal panicles during the summer flowering phase. Each flower has eight petals arranged in two whorls with a complicated geometric shape. The most astonishing factor is the color graduation, beginning with deep indigo at the base, violet in the centre, and ending with white at the tips of the petals.
Natural Habitat and Growing Conditions
Fascisterne is found in mountainous regions, mainly the higher volcanic soils, where the minerals are present. This species has various specific conditions and habits with moderately successful rainfall, superior drainage, and shelter from the stronger wind. These native climates are often subjected to annual rainfall between 800 and 1,200 millimeters, dispersed and available throughout the growth period.
The species has a preference for slightly alkaline soils with pH 7.2 to 8.1. The natural populations often grow on slopes of northeast and northwest slopes, which receive sufficient sunlight but when growing conditions are not often subject to the appreciable afternoon heat conditions.
Essential Growing Conditions
Climate Characteristics: Temperature 16-22°C for healthy growth. Average growing temperature ranges from 8 to 28°C. Relative humidity of around 65-80% is best for growth, while sufficient airflow prevents fungi that develop in thicker masses of plant material. Maintain sufficient watering moisture to prevent plant places from drying out. To conclude, suitable conditions consist of adequate thoughtful temperature, humidity, and air movement.
Soil Preparation: Proper soil preparation is vital to growing successfully. The growing medium must provide good drainage while retaining enough moisture during dry times. Volcanic rock dust or similar mineral amendments can enhance soil preparation, and allow us to try to create as close as possible to the natural soil in which fascisterne grows.
| Environmental Factor | Optimal Range | Acceptable Limits |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 16-22°C | 8-28°C |
| Annual Rainfall | 800-1,200 mm | 600-1,500 mm |
| Soil pH | 7.2-8.1 | 6.8-8.5 |
| Elevation | 1,000-2,200 m | 600-2,800 m |
| Humidity | 65-80% | 45-90% |
Propagation Methods
Seedling
Growing from seed requires patience and understanding of the germination needs of fascisterne. Seeds require a complex stratification process of alternating temperatures and periods of time. First place seed in a controlled environment at 4 degrees Celsius for 30 days. Then move them to a controlled environment with 20 degrees Celsius for 21 days. Repeat these two processes (4 degrees for 30 days, then 20 degrees for 21 days) providing the seeds a natural cycle of seasonal change similar to that of their growing environment.
Root Division
The second propagation method of root division is on a whole different level with success rates of over 90% when done correctly. Spring at a time when the plants are not actively growing and before all of the water has left will ensure a higher success rate during root division. When you are dividing roots, make sure there are at least several growing points and enough of the mass root ball with the roots that you are dividing.
Step-By-Step Cultivation Guide
Site Selection
Select a location that receives early sunshine, with some protection from afternoon sun in warmer climates, adequate air movement, and some protection from wind, with very good drainage. Fascisterne do not tolerate waterlogged growing conditions.
Planting
Follow the planting sequence below.
- Dig planting holes 2x the width of the root system.
- Mix the existing soil with coarse sand and volcanic rock dust.
- Position plants at the same depth as they were originally grown.
- Water thoroughly after planting, without saturating the area.
- Apply a thin layer of gravel mulch around the base of the plant.
Watering Schedule
Newly planted Fascisterne should receive regular moisture for the first growing season. Instead of watering frequently, use deep watering 1 or 2 times per week. After the plants are growing and establishing, the timing of watering can be dramatically reduced, provided the plant is getting deep applications when temperatures are dry.
| Growth Stage | Watering Frequency | Special Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Newly Planted | Every 2-3 days | Monitor soil moisture closely |
| First Year | Weekly | Deep watering preferred |
| Established | Bi-weekly | Reduce during cool weather |
| Mature Plants | As needed | Drought tolerant once established |
Seasonal Care Requirements
Spring Management
Early spring is when active growth begins, with the emergence of plants from dormancy. It is an ideal time to divide mature clumps, apply slow-release fertilizer, and cut or remove any damaged leaves. Depending on the weather, you can begin weekly watering when new growth begins and soil temperatures begin to warm up.
Summer Flowering Care
This is the marvelous flowering period in the summer that needs consistent moisture; protect it from extreme heat when possible. Deadheading spent blooms will extend the flowering period and prevent unwanted seed dispersal. Watch for pest activity and provide supplemental watering when prolonged dry periods occur.
Autumn Preparation
After the flowering period is finished, you can allow seed heads to mature if you want to collect seeds for propagation. Begin to think about elongating the watering process and avoid fertilizing. Plants will begin their dormancy periods. At the end of the growing season, cut stems to ground after the first hard frost.
Winter Protection
In colder regions, apply mulch around the root zone after the soil starts to freeze. Use a coarse material, which allows the roots not to smother, perhaps pine needles, or chopped leaves. Gradually in the spring remove mulch as conditions warm up.
Common Growing Problems
Drainage Problems
Poor drainage is the most common reason for failure when growing. Fascisterne roots can easily rot in poorly drained conditions. If your garden is heavy clay soil, consider placing raised beds or adding large quantities of coarse sand and gravel to improve drainage.
Soil pH Problems
Acid soils can limit plant nutrient uptake and overall plant health. You should test your soil pH every year and add lime as needed to maintain the slightly alkaline environment that Fascisterne prefers. Wood ash is also a good way to increase soil pH and provide potassium.
Environmental Stress
Especially for Fascisterne to grow well, there should be limited poor air circulation or extremes in temperature. Situating your planting bed and including windbreaks will minimize stress-inducing factors that impact growth and flowering for your plants so that you can have fun growing it.
Harvesting & Maintenance
Flower Harvesting
For cut flower use, harvest your stems early in the morning when your plant is fully hydrated. Cuts flowers at an angle and place them in a cool water immediately. Fascisterne flowers will last 7 – 10 days in arrangements when properly conditioned.
Seed Harvesting
If you wish to propagate more plants you will need to allow some flowers to develop into seed heads. Seeds will ripen approximately 6 – 8 weeks after flowering. Gather the seeds when the seed pods start to split open. You need to collect the seeds prior to the seeds escaping wild.
Long Term Maintenance
For well-established Fascisterne plants, continuing maintenance will be minimal. It is a good plan to divide the clumps every 3 – 4 years to allow for further vigor and poise with potential overcrowding. Conducting an annual soil test will ensure you are continuing to allow adequate growing conditions.
Disclaimer
The cultivation information for Fascisterne presented is based on horticultural industry research and many years of experience growing similar plant type. Your results may be influenced by local climates, specific soil types and variations in individual growing practices. The Gardener should alter these recommendations to suit their perceive environmental conditions. The Gardener should ask local experienced horticulturalist when they are in doubt about growing practices. The authors do not accept any responsibility for the success of failure of growing or for any consequences of following any of the suggestions when potting and growing flowers. Always investigate your local plant growing rules and then secure the necessary permits.
