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Description
Eriastrum Diffusum, commonly known as the spreading woollystar, is a herbaceous perennial plant species belonging to the Polemoniaceae family. It is native to California, Arizona, Nevada, and Utah in the United States. The plant usually grows up to a height of 1-3 feet and spreads up to 2-3 feet wide. The spreading woollystar produces beautiful blue flowers with yellow centers, which bloom in late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Polemoniaceae |
| Genus | Eriastrum |
Appearance
The Eriastrum Diffusum plant has a mounding shape with a dense covering of silver-gray leaves that are hairy and woolly. The plant produces numerous blue flowers that are trumpet-shaped and have a diameter of about 1 inch. The flowers have five petals and a yellow center. The spreading woollystar blooms in late spring and early summer and attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. After the flowering season, seed pods develop and split open to release tiny black seeds.
Care Guide
Watering: Eriastrum Diffusum requires moderate watering, and it is essential to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce the frequency during the dormant period.
Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and blooming.
Soil: The spreading woollystar thrives in well-draining soil that is slightly acidic with a pH range of 5.5-7.0. The soil should be rich in organic matter and sandy loam.
Sunlight: The plant requires full sun exposure to thrive and bloom profusely. It can tolerate partial shade but blooms less profusely.
Hardiness Zones: Eriastrum Diffusum is hardy in USDA zones 7-10 and can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°F.
Common Pests & Diseases
The spreading woollystar is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be attacked by spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or neem oil. Root rot can occur if the soil is waterlogged, and it can be prevented by ensuring the soil is well-draining.
Habitat
Eriastrum Diffusum is native to open, dry slopes, and rocky areas in California, Arizona, Nevada, and Utah in the United States. The plant thrives in well-draining soils with full sun exposure and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Eriastrum Diffusum a perennial or an annual plant?
A: Eriastrum Diffusum is a herbaceous perennial plant species.
Q: What is the blooming period of the spreading woollystar?
A: The plant blooms in late spring to early summer.
Q: How do I propagate Eriastrum Diffusum?
A: The spreading woollystar can be propagated by seed or by division in early spring or fall when the plant is dormant.
Q: Can Eriastrum Diffusum grow in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can grow in containers as long as it has well-draining soil and full sun exposure.
Related Plants
- Eriastrum Capitatum
- Eriastrum Diffusum var. Parishii
- Eriastrum Erythropappum
References
- “Eriastrum diffusum.” Ladybird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed on 14 September 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=ERDI2.
- “Eriastrum diffusum.” Calflora. Accessed on 14 September 2021. https://www.calflora.org/app/taxon?crn=5275.
- “Eriastrum diffusum.” Plant Finder. Accessed on 14 September 2021. https://www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/1917/spreading-woollystar/.
