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Description
Grindelia Hirsutula, also known as the Hairy Gumweed or Hairy Grindelia, is an herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to North America and is commonly found in the western United States and northern Mexico. The plant is characterized by its hairy leaves and stems, which are covered in glandular hairs that produce a sticky resin.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Grindelia |
Appearance
The Hairy Gumweed grows up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. The leaves are alternate, ovate, and hairy, measuring up to 6 inches long and 3 inches wide. The flowers are yellow and daisy-like, with a diameter of up to 1 inch. They bloom from June to August and attract bees and butterflies. The plant produces a sticky resin that is used in traditional medicine to treat respiratory problems.
Care Guide
Grindelia Hirsutula thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It is drought-tolerant and prefers dry conditions. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in winter. Fertilize the plant once a month with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Hairy Gumweed is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by spider mites and aphids. To prevent infestations, spray the plant with water regularly and use insecticidal soap if necessary.
Habitat
Grindelia Hirsutula grows in dry, rocky soil and is commonly found in grasslands, sagebrush, and desert habitats. It can tolerate high temperatures and low humidity. The plant is often used for erosion control and land reclamation.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Grindelia Hirsutula poisonous?A: No, the plant is not poisonous, but the sticky resin can cause skin irritation in some people.Q: Can Grindelia Hirsutula be grown indoors?A: No, the plant requires full sun and well-drained soil, which makes it unsuitable for indoor cultivation.Q: How often should I fertilize Grindelia Hirsutula?A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Q: How do I propagate Grindelia Hirsutula?A: The plant can be propagated by seeds or by dividing the roots in early spring.
Related Plants
- Grindelia Camporum
- Grindelia Chiloensis
- Grindelia Integrifolia
- Grindelia Squarrosa
References
- USDA Plants Database: Grindelia hirsutula
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Grindelia hirsutula
- University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources: Grindelia hirsutula
