Funastrum Pannosum

Description

Funastrum Pannosum, commonly known as the Panamint or Death Valley milkweed, is a perennial plant native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It belongs to the Asclepiadaceae family and is known for its medicinal properties. The plant has an upright growth habit and can grow up to 6 feet tall. It typically blooms between April and June and produces clusters of small, pale pink flowers that are attractive to pollinators.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The leaves of Funastrum Pannosum are grey-green, long and narrow with a velvety texture. The plant produces clusters of small, pale pink flowers that are arranged in umbels. The flowers have a distinctive five-pointed star shape and are attractive to pollinators. The fruit is a slender, pointed pod that is filled with seeds and opens when mature to release them.

Care Guide

Funastrum Pannosum is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for growing it:

• Water: The plant prefers moderate watering and should be watered when the top inch of soil is dry.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
• Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH of 6.0 to 7.5 is ideal.
• Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.
• Hardiness Zones: Funastrum Pannosum can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Funastrum Pannosum is generally free from pests and diseases. However, it may occasionally be attacked by aphids, spider mites, or whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Root rot can also be a problem if the plant is overwatered or the soil has poor drainage.

Habitat

Funastrum Pannosum is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It grows in a variety of habitats, including deserts, canyons, and rocky slopes. The plant is adapted to hot and dry conditions and can survive in areas with little water.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Funastrum Pannosum poisonous?
A: No, the plant is not poisonous. In fact, it has medicinal properties and has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.

Q: Can Funastrum Pannosum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough and has good drainage.

Q: How often should Funastrum Pannosum be fertilized?
A: The plant should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.

Q: Is Funastrum Pannosum deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the plant is deer-resistant.

Related Plants

• Funastrum Clausum
• Funastrum Hirtellum
• Funastrum Latifolium

References

• “Funastrum Pannosum.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=FUPA.
• “Funastrum Pannosum.” Plant Finder, Missouri Botanical Garden, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=291354.
• “Funastrum Pannosum.” Arizona State University, https://cals.arizona.edu/yavapaiplants/SpeciesDetailForb.php?genus=Funastrum&species=pannosum.