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Description
Cnidoscolus Texanus, also known as Texas bull-nettle or Tread-softly, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family. It is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. The plant has a prickly stem and leaves, and it produces yellow or white flowers that bloom from late spring to early fall. The fruit of the plant is a capsule that contains seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Euphorbiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Cnidoscolus |
| Species | Texanus |
Appearance
Cnidoscolus Texanus is a prickly plant that can grow up to 3 feet tall and 4 feet wide. The stem and leaves are covered in fine hairs and prickles that can cause skin irritation. The leaves are deeply lobed and can grow up to 6 inches long. The plant produces small yellow or white flowers that bloom from late spring to early fall. The fruit of the plant is a capsule that contains seeds.
Care Guide
Cnidoscolus Texanus is a low-maintenance plant that requires little care. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: The plant is drought-tolerant and only requires watering during prolonged dry spells.- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote growth.- Soil: The plant thrives in well-draining soil and can tolerate a wide range of soil types.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cnidoscolus Texanus is resistant to most pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to:- Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing of the leaves and can be controlled with insecticidal soap.- Anthracnose: This fungal disease can cause leaf spots and can be controlled with fungicides.
Habitat
Cnidoscolus Texanus is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It can be found in a variety of habitats, including deserts, grasslands, and scrublands. The plant is adapted to dry environments and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cnidoscolus Texanus toxic?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic and can cause skin irritation and other symptoms if ingested.
Q: Can Cnidoscolus Texanus be grown indoors?
A: No, the plant requires full sun and is not suitable for growing indoors.
Q: Does Cnidoscolus Texanus attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant produces flowers that attract bees and other pollinators.
Q: How often should I water Cnidoscolus Texanus?
A: The plant is drought-tolerant and only requires watering during prolonged dry spells.
Related Plants
– Cnidoscolus aconitifolius- Cnidoscolus chayamansa- Cnidoscolus stimulosus
References
– “Cnidoscolus texanus.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=CNTX– “Cnidoscolus texanus.” Texas A&M AgriLife Extension. https://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/ornamentals/nativeshrubs/cnidoscolustexanus.htm– “Cnidoscolus texanus.” USDA Plants Database. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=CNTX
