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Description
Ericameria Teretifolia, also known as Turpentine Broom or Turpentine Bush, is a shrub native to western North America. It belongs to the family Asteraceae and is known for its fragrant, resinous foliage that smells like turpentine when crushed. The shrub can grow up to 5 feet tall and 6 feet wide, and it blooms in late summer with small yellow flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Ericameria |
| Species | Ericameria teretifolia |
Appearance
Ericameria Teretifolia has thin, needle-like leaves that are about 1 inch long and arranged in clusters along the stems. The leaves are green to gray-green in color and have a resinous texture. The shrub has a dense, bushy growth habit and can spread up to 6 feet wide. It produces small yellow flowers in late summer that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. The flowers give way to seed heads that are covered in white, fluffy hairs.
Care Guide
Ericameria Teretifolia is a low-maintenance shrub that is easy to care for. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: Water the shrub deeply once a week during the growing season. Reduce watering in the winter to avoid overwatering.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: Use well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. Amend heavy clay soils with sand or gravel to improve drainage.- Sunlight: Ericameria Teretifolia prefers full sun exposure but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: This shrub is hardy in zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ericameria Teretifolia is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and powdery mildew in humid conditions. Here are some tips for preventing and treating common pests and diseases:- Spider mites: Wash the leaves with a strong stream of water to dislodge the mites. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat severe infestations.- Powdery mildew: Improve air circulation around the plant by pruning back neighboring plants. Use a fungicide if necessary.
Habitat
Ericameria Teretifolia is native to western North America and is commonly found in dry, rocky soils in desert and chaparral habitats. It can grow in elevations ranging from sea level to 6,000 feet.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Ericameria Teretifolia drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, this shrub is drought-tolerant once established. It can survive on natural rainfall in many regions.
Q: How often should I prune Ericameria Teretifolia?
A: Prune the shrub in the late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and remove dead or damaged branches.
Q: Can Ericameria Teretifolia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this shrub can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate its root system. Use well-draining soil and water regularly.
Q: How long does it take for Ericameria Teretifolia to reach maturity?
A: This shrub can take 2-3 years to reach maturity and start blooming.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Ericameria Teretifolia:- Ericameria nauseosa (Rabbitbrush)- Artemisia tridentata (Big Sagebrush)- Chrysothamnus nauseosus (Rubber Rabbitbrush)- Eriogonum fasciculatum (California Buckwheat)
References
– “Ericameria teretifolia.” USDA Plants Database.- “Turpentine Broom.” Las Pilitas Nursery.- “Ericameria Teretifolia.” DesertUSA.
