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Description
Cirsium Obvallatum is a perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is also known as the Rocky Mountain thistle and mountain thistle. The plant is native to the western part of North America, specifically in the Rocky Mountains. It usually grows in meadows, prairies, and open woods. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and has deep pink or purple flowers that bloom in the summer season.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Cirsium |
Appearance
Cirsium Obvallatum has a thick stem that is covered with spiny leaves. The leaves are green and lance-shaped, with sharp tips and irregularly lobed edges. The plant produces deep pink or purple flowers that are 2 to 3 inches wide. The flowers bloom in the summer season and attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide.
Care Guide
Cirsium Obvallatum requires moderate care to thrive. Here are some tips:
Water
The plant prefers moist soil, but it can tolerate some dryness. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more frequently during hot and dry weather.
Fertilization
Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and blooming.
Soil
The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or aged manure before planting.
Sunlight
Cirsium Obvallatum prefers full sun to partial shade. Plant it in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones
The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests and Diseases
Cirsium Obvallatum is relatively disease-free and pest-resistant. However, it may suffer from powdery mildew, rust, or leaf spot if grown in humid conditions or overcrowded areas. Treat these diseases with a fungicide spray or by removing the affected leaves. The plant may also attract aphids, spider mites, or thrips, which can be controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Cirsium Obvallatum is native to the western part of North America, specifically in the Rocky Mountains. It usually grows in meadows, prairies, and open woods. The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and full sun to partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Cirsium Obvallatum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, you can grow Cirsium Obvallatum in containers as long as the pot is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and the soil is well-draining.
Q: How often should I fertilize Cirsium Obvallatum?
A: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and blooming.
Q: Does Cirsium Obvallatum attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant produces deep pink or purple flowers that bloom in the summer season and attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: How do I propagate Cirsium Obvallatum?
A: You can propagate Cirsium Obvallatum by dividing the root ball in the spring or fall, or by taking stem cuttings in the summer season.
Related Plants
- Cirsium altissimum
- Cirsium arvense
- Cirsium discolor
- Cirsium muticum
References
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=CIPO2
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/thistle/cirsium-thistle-care.htm
- https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/forb/cirobv/all.html
