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Description
Downingia Cuspidata, commonly known as the toothed calicoflower, is a flowering plant native to California. It belongs to the family Campanulaceae and is an annual herb that grows up to 6 inches tall. The plant is known for its unique blue-purple flowers that bloom in the spring and summer months.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Campanulaceae |
| Genus | Downingia |
Appearance
The Downingia Cuspidata has narrow, green leaves that are toothed at the edges. The blue-purple flowers have five petals and are funnel-shaped with a yellow center. The plant grows up to 6 inches tall and can spread up to 12 inches wide. It blooms in the spring and summer months and prefers cool temperatures for optimal growth.
Care Guide
The Downingia Cuspidata prefers well-draining soil and requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. It can tolerate some drought, but it is important not to let the soil dry out completely. Fertilize the plant once a month with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate temperatures down to 20°F. It is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Downingia Cuspidata is susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot. It is also prone to aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. To prevent these pests and diseases, keep the plant in well-draining soil, avoid overwatering, and remove any infected leaves or parts of the plant immediately.
Habitat
The Downingia Cuspidata is native to California and can be found in grasslands, meadows, and coastal scrub habitats. It prefers cool temperatures and well-draining soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Downingia Cuspidata be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container has drainage holes.
Q: How often should I fertilize the Downingia Cuspidata?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Q: Is the Downingia Cuspidata deer resistant?
A: Yes, the plant is deer resistant.
Q: Can the Downingia Cuspidata be propagated by seeds?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated by seeds.
Related Plants
- Downingia Bicolor
- Downingia Concolor
- Downingia Gypsophiloides
- Downingia Humilis
References
- “Downingia cuspidata.” Calflora. Accessed 6 July 2021. https://www.calflora.org/app/taxon?crn=7438
- “Downingia cuspidata.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed 6 July 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=DOCU3
- “Toothed Calicoflower.” Las Pilitas Nursery. Accessed 6 July 2021. https://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/750–downingia-cuspidata
