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Description
Blennosperma Bakeri, or Baker’s sticky goldenweed, is a wildflower native to the western United States. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and grows up to 12 inches tall. Its stems are covered in fine hairs and its leaves are narrow and toothed. The plant produces bright yellow flowers with five petals that bloom in the summer months. The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Blennosperma |
Appearance
Blennosperma Bakeri has narrow, toothed leaves and stems covered in fine hairs. It produces bright yellow flowers with five petals that bloom in the summer months. The flowers are small, only about 1/4 inch in diameter, but are produced in clusters that can create a showy display. The plant grows up to 12 inches tall and spreads to about 18 inches wide. It has a bushy, rounded shape and looks attractive in rock gardens, borders, or wildflower meadows.
Care Guide
Blennosperma Bakeri is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun, but can also tolerate partial shade. It needs moderate watering, about once a week, and should not be overwatered. Fertilization is not needed, but a light application of compost or other organic matter in the spring can help improve soil quality. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8 and can tolerate cold temperatures down to -30°F. It is drought-tolerant and can survive in dry conditions.
Common Pests & Diseases
Blennosperma Bakeri is generally disease-resistant and pest-free. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or other natural remedies. Overwatering can also lead to root rot or fungal diseases, so it is important to avoid excessive watering.
Habitat
Blennosperma Bakeri is native to the western United States and can be found in dry, rocky areas, meadows, and along roadsides. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun, but can also tolerate partial shade. The plant is adapted to hot, dry conditions and is commonly found in arid regions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Blennosperma Bakeri an annual or perennial plant?
A: Blennosperma Bakeri is a perennial plant, meaning it lives for more than two years.
Q: Can Blennosperma Bakeri be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Blennosperma Bakeri can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the plant receives adequate sunlight.
Q: How often should Blennosperma Bakeri be fertilized?
A: Blennosperma Bakeri does not require fertilization, but a light application of compost or other organic matter in the spring can help improve soil quality.
Q: Is Blennosperma Bakeri an invasive species?
A: No, Blennosperma Bakeri is not considered an invasive species and is not known to cause harm to native ecosystems.
Related Plants
- Blennosperma gracile (slender goldenweed)
- Blennosperma nanum (dwarf goldenweed)
- Blennosperma pumilum (dwarf goldenweed)
References
- “Blennosperma bakeri.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed June 21, 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=blba.
- “Baker’s Sticky Goldenweed.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed June 21, 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=blba.
- “Blennosperma bakeri.” Montana Field Guide. Accessed June 21, 2021. https://fieldguide.mt.gov/species/2194.
