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Description
Cirsium Neomexicanum, commonly known as New Mexico thistle, is a beautiful flowering plant that is native to North America. It is a herbaceous perennial that can grow up to 6 feet tall and 3 feet wide. The plant has spiny leaves that are green on top and white on the bottom, and it produces beautiful pink or purple flowers that bloom from June to August.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Cirsium |
Appearance
Cirsium Neomexicanum has spiny leaves that are green on top and white on the bottom. The leaves are deeply lobed and can grow up to 12 inches long. The plant produces beautiful pink or purple flowers that bloom from June to August. The flowers are large and can grow up to 2 inches in diameter. They are arranged in clusters at the top of the stem and have many small, pointed petals.
Care Guide
Cirsium Neomexicanum is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips for keeping it healthy:
Water: Water the plant regularly, making sure the soil stays moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring and summer with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer.
Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: Cirsium Neomexicanum does best in full sun, but it can tolerate some shade.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 through 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cirsium Neomexicanum is generally a healthy plant, but it can be susceptible to some pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common ones to watch out for:
Pests: Aphids, spider mites, and thrips can all be a problem for Cirsium Neomexicanum. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
Diseases: Powdery mildew and rust can both affect the plant. Remove infected leaves and treat with a fungicide to prevent the spread of the disease.
Habitat
Cirsium Neomexicanum is native to North America and can be found in the southwestern United States and Mexico. It grows in a variety of habitats, including meadows, grasslands, and rocky slopes. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Cirsium Neomexicanum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers, but it may not reach its full size.
Q: Can Cirsium Neomexicanum be grown in shade?
A: The plant prefers full sun, but it can tolerate some shade.
Q: Is Cirsium Neomexicanum deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the plant is deer-resistant.
Q: Can Cirsium Neomexicanum be propagated by cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated by cuttings taken in the spring or summer.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Cirsium Neomexicanum:
- Cirsium arizonicum
- Cirsium canescens
- Cirsium discolor
- Cirsium nevadense
- Cirsium ochrocentrum
References
- “Cirsium Neomexicanum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed March 9, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a755.
- “New Mexico Thistle.” Arizona State University. Accessed March 9, 2021. https://cals.arizona.edu/yavapaiplants/SpeciesDetailForb.php?genus=Cirsium&species=neomexicanum.
- “Cirsium Neomexicanum.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center – The University of Texas at Austin. Accessed March 9, 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=CINE8.
