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Description
Downingia Pusilla, also known as Dwarf Calico, is a small annual plant that belongs to the bellflower family. It is native to California, where it grows in grasslands, meadows, and open woodlands. The plant typically reaches a height of 2-6 inches and spreads up to 6 inches. The leaves are small, narrow, and lance-shaped, while the flowers are small and bell-shaped, ranging in color from white to blue and purple.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Campanulaceae |
| Genus | Downingia |
Appearance
Downingia Pusilla is a small plant with narrow, lance-shaped leaves and bell-shaped flowers. The plant typically reaches a height of 2-6 inches and spreads up to 6 inches. The flowers range in color from white to blue and purple, and they typically bloom from March to June. The plant prefers moist soil and partial shade.
Care Guide
Downingia Pusilla is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: The plant prefers moist soil, so water it regularly to keep the soil moist.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade or full shade.- Hardiness Zones: Downingia Pusilla is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Downingia Pusilla is generally free of pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to fungal infections if the soil is too moist. To prevent fungal infections, avoid overwatering the plant and ensure that the soil has good drainage.
Habitat
Downingia Pusilla is native to California, where it grows in grasslands, meadows, and open woodlands. The plant prefers moist soil and partial shade. It is typically found at elevations below 6,000 feet.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Downingia Pusilla a perennial or an annual plant?
A: Downingia Pusilla is an annual plant.
Q: What is the ideal soil pH for Downingia Pusilla?
A: The ideal soil pH for Downingia Pusilla is between 6.0 and 7.0.
Q: Can Downingia Pusilla tolerate dry soil?
A: No, Downingia Pusilla prefers moist soil and may not tolerate dry soil.
Q: Can Downingia Pusilla be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Downingia Pusilla can be grown in containers as long as the soil is kept moist and the plant is not exposed to direct sunlight.
Related Plants
– Downingia Bicolor- Downingia Concolor- Downingia Humilis- Downingia Yina
References
– “Downingia Pusilla.” Calflora. https://www.calflora.org/app/taxon?crn=1861. – “Downingia Pusilla.” San Francisco Botanical Garden. https://www.sfbotanicalgarden.org/plantfinder/plant-detail.php?plantid=1624. – “Growing Downingia Pusilla.” Gardening Know How. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/downingia-pusilla/growing-downingia-pusilla.htm.
