Bladderpod

Isomeris arborea

Isomeris arborea in May 2013 on 20% ET0. Photo: SK Reid.

Summary

This southern California native species was extremely difficult to analyze due to 50% mortality rates on the 80, 60, and 20% treatments, leaving only three plants on each of these irrigation levels.  The 40% ET₀ treatment had 30% mortality, leaving four plants for measurements and ratings.  There seemed to be no significant difference in growth between the lowest and highest irrigation level, and while the 60% seems to have put on the most relative growth, it is difficult to establish significance with the small sample size.

There was a single but considerable pest issue. Due to our proximity to a bell pepper trial, we became the victims of a flea beetle infestation on the bladderpod.  It is worth noting the strong similarity in the scent of the bladderpod leaves and bell peppers.  We think this may have been what lured them from the bell pepper trial through the orchard to our field.  The leaf damage was considerable on some plants, and even flowers were chewed in some cases.  We attempted to rid the plants of dead leaves and the bark immediately around the base to lower the pest numbers the following year, but there were still active populations during the second year.

The highest irrigation treatment had the best flowering, but the best overall appearance was at the lowest level.  When only the ratings for the June through October period are averaged, this difference becomes even more pronounced in favor or the 20% of ET₀ treatment.

It seems apparent that this species can be difficult to establish.  When it did survive and perform well it was appreciated for its long flowering period, and it was agreed that it would make an interesting addition to a southwestern style garden.  The master gardeners did not evaluate this species.

Growth and Quality Data

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Isomeris arborea in October 2013 on 20% ET0. Photo: SK Reid.