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Description
Ericameria Linearifolia, also known as narrowleaf goldenbush or turpentine bush, is a woody shrub that is native to California, Nevada, and Arizona. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is characterized by its narrow, linear leaves and yellow flowers that bloom in the fall.This plant is commonly found in desert areas, chaparral, and coastal sage scrub habitats, and is an important food source for pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Ericameria |
Appearance
Ericameria Linearifolia is a shrub that typically grows up to 6 feet tall and 6 feet wide. It has thin, woody stems and narrow, linear leaves that are about 1 inch long and 1/16 inch wide. The leaves are gray-green in color and have a resinous smell when crushed.In the fall, Ericameria Linearifolia produces clusters of small, yellow flowers that are about 1/4 inch wide. The flowers have a distinctive odor that is reminiscent of turpentine, which is where the plant’s common name, turpentine bush, comes from.
Care Guide
To care for Ericameria Linearifolia, it is important to provide it with well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. This plant is drought-tolerant and does not require much water, but it will benefit from occasional deep watering during the hot summer months.Fertilization is not necessary for Ericameria Linearifolia, as it is adapted to growing in nutrient-poor soil. However, a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring may help to promote growth.This plant is hardy in zones 8-10, but can also be grown in containers and brought indoors during the winter months in colder regions.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ericameria Linearifolia is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to spider mites and aphids. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Ericameria Linearifolia is native to California, Nevada, and Arizona, where it is commonly found in desert areas, chaparral, and coastal sage scrub habitats. It prefers well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Ericameria Linearifolia deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Ericameria Linearifolia is considered to be deer-resistant.
Q: Can Ericameria Linearifolia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Ericameria Linearifolia can be grown in containers and brought indoors during the winter months in colder regions.
Q: How often should I water Ericameria Linearifolia?
A: Ericameria Linearifolia is drought-tolerant and does not require much water, but it will benefit from occasional deep watering during the hot summer months.
Q: Does Ericameria Linearifolia have any medicinal properties?
A: Ericameria Linearifolia has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including colds, coughs, and rheumatism.
Related Plants
- Ericameria Cooperi
- Ericameria Nuttallii
- Ericameria Tenuifolia
References
- “Ericameria linearifolia.” Calflora.
- “Ericameria linearifolia.” USDA Plants Database.
- “Turpentine Bush.” Las Pilitas Nursery.
- “Medicinal Plants of the Southwest.” Charles W. Kane. Lincoln Town Press, 2011.
