Cistanthe Monandra

Description

Cistanthe Monandra, also known as Naked-stemmed Popcorn Flower, is a beautiful plant endemic to California. It belongs to the Montiaceae family and its scientific name is derived from the Greek words “kistos” meaning “rockrose” and “anthos” meaning “flower”.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Cistanthe Monandra is a low-growing, herbaceous plant that can reach up to 10 inches in height. It has a woody, naked stem and small, succulent leaves that are green or reddish in color. The flowers are small, white or pink, and have a popcorn-like appearance. They bloom from March to June.

Care Guide

Cistanthe Monandra is a low-maintenance plant that requires little care. Here are some tips to help you care for your Naked-stemmed Popcorn Flower:

• Water: Water your plant regularly during the growing season, but avoid over-watering as this can cause root rot.
• Fertilization: Fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
• Soil: Cistanthe Monandra prefers well-draining, sandy soil.
• Sunlight: This plant requires full sun to partial shade.
• Hardiness Zones: Cistanthe Monandra is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Cistanthe Monandra is generally pest and disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to root rot and fungal diseases if over-watered. Common pests that may affect this plant include aphids and spider mites.

Habitat

Cistanthe Monandra is native to California and can be found in coastal sage scrub, chaparral, and oak woodland habitats. It grows in sandy soils, on rocky slopes, and in disturbed areas.

Question and Answer

• Q: Is Cistanthe Monandra a good plant for beginners?
• A: Yes, Cistanthe Monandra is a great plant for beginners as it requires little care and is generally pest and disease-resistant.
• Q: Can Cistanthe Monandra be grown in containers?
• A: Yes, Cistanthe Monandra can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining.
• Q: How often should I water my Cistanthe Monandra?
• A: Water your Cistanthe Monandra regularly during the growing season, but avoid over-watering as this can cause root rot.
• Q: Does Cistanthe Monandra attract pollinators?
• A: Yes, Cistanthe Monandra is a great plant for attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Related Plants

• Cistanthe umbellata
• Cistanthe maritima
• Cistanthe pungens
• Cistanthe polygonoides

References

• “Cistanthe Monandra.” Las Pilitas Nursery. Accessed 10 Aug 2021. https://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/cistanthe-monandra.
• “Cistanthe Monandra.” Calflora. Accessed 10 Aug 2021. https://www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-calrecnum=2121.
• “Cistanthe Monandra.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed 10 Aug 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=CIMO.