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Description
Ericameria Pinifolia, commonly known as pine-leaf goldenbush, is a shrub that is native to the southwestern United States. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is known for its fragrant foliage and yellow flowers that bloom in the fall. This plant can grow up to 4-6 feet tall and wide, making it an excellent choice for landscaping and gardening.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Ericameria |
Appearance
The pine-leaf goldenbush has small, needle-like leaves that are green to grayish-green in color. The leaves are arranged alternately on the stem and have a resinous aroma when crushed. The flowers are small and yellow, with a diameter of about 1 cm. They bloom in the fall, from September to November, and are attractive to bees and butterflies. The plant can grow up to 4-6 feet tall and wide, with a rounded shape and a dense foliage.
Care Guide
The pine-leaf goldenbush is easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of growing conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
Water
Water the plant regularly, especially during the growing season, to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant once a year, in the spring, with a balanced fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the package and apply the fertilizer around the base of the plant.
Soil
The pine-leaf goldenbush prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, from sandy to clayey, but it does best in a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH.
Sunlight
The plant prefers full sun to partial shade, but it can tolerate some shade, especially in hot climates. Provide at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day for best growth and flowering.
Hardiness Zones
The pine-leaf goldenbush is hardy in USDA zones 7-10, which means it can tolerate temperatures down to 0°F (-18°C). It can grow in a wide range of climates, from arid to semi-arid, but it does best in areas with mild winters and hot summers.
Common Pests & Diseases
The pine-leaf goldenbush is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be affected by some common problems:
Pests
- Aphids – small, green insects that suck sap from the plant. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites – tiny, red or yellow insects that spin webs on the plant. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Diseases
- Root rot – caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-drained and reduce watering during the winter months.
- Powdery mildew – a fungal disease that causes a white, powdery growth on the leaves. It can be controlled with fungicides or by improving air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
The pine-leaf goldenbush is native to the southwestern United States, where it grows in a variety of habitats, from desert scrub to pine-oak woodlands. It can be found in Arizona, California, New Mexico, Nevada, and Texas, and it is often used for landscaping and erosion control.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the pine-leaf goldenbush drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, the plant is drought-tolerant once established, but it still needs regular watering during the growing season to thrive.
Q: Can the pine-leaf goldenbush be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers, but it needs a large pot and well-drained soil to thrive. Make sure to water it regularly and fertilize it once a year.
Q: How often should I prune the pine-leaf goldenbush?
A: You can prune the plant in the spring to shape it and remove any dead or damaged branches. Avoid pruning too much, as it can affect the plant’s growth and flowering.
Q: How long does it take for the pine-leaf goldenbush to bloom?
A: The plant blooms in the fall, from September to November, and the flowers can last for several weeks.
Related Plants
- Ericameria nauseosa (rubber rabbitbrush)
- Ericameria laricifolia (turpentine bush)
- Ericameria ericoides (mock heather)
References
- USDA Plants Database: Ericameria Pinifolia
- Arizona Native Plant Society: Pineleaf Goldenbush
- Calflora: Ericameria Pinifolia
