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Description
Amorpha Californica, also known as California false indigo, is a deciduous shrub native to California and Oregon. It can grow up to 6 feet tall and 4 feet wide and has a moderate growth rate. The leaves are pinnately compound, with 11-21 leaflets that are 1-2 inches long. The flowers are small, purple, and bloom in dense clusters at the end of the branches in late spring to early summer. The fruit is a small, brown pod that contains one to three seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Leguminosae |
| Genus | Amorpha |
Appearance
Amorpha Californica is an attractive shrub with a dense and bushy habit. It has a rounded shape and can grow up to 6 feet tall and 4 feet wide. The leaves are pinnately compound, with 11-21 leaflets that are 1-2 inches long. The leaflets are dark green in color and have a smooth texture. The flowers are small and purple, and bloom in dense clusters at the end of the branches in late spring to early summer. The fruit is a small, brown pod that contains one to three seeds.
Care Guide
Amorpha Californica is a low-maintenance shrub that is easy to care for. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. Here are some care tips:- Water: Water the shrub deeply once a week during the growing season. Reduce watering during winter.- Fertilization: Fertilize the shrub in spring with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: Plant the shrub in well-draining soil.- Sunlight: Amorpha Californica prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: It is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Amorpha Californica is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by spider mites and aphids. Here are some ways to prevent and treat these pests:- Spider Mites: Use a strong jet of water to wash off the mites from the leaves. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Aphids: Use a strong jet of water to wash off the aphids from the leaves. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Amorpha Californica is native to California and Oregon and can be found in a variety of habitats, including chaparral, oak woodland, and coastal sage scrub. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Amorpha Californica a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, Amorpha Californica is a good plant for attracting pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Q: How often should I fertilize Amorpha Californica?
A: Fertilize Amorpha Californica once a year in spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can I grow Amorpha Californica in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow Amorpha Californica in a container as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the root system.
Q: Does Amorpha Californica attract any pests?
A: Amorpha Californica is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be affected by spider mites and aphids.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Amorpha Californica:- Amorpha canescens- Amorpha fruticosa- Amorpha nana- Amorpha nitens
References
– “Amorpha Californica.” Las Pilitas Nursery. https://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/274–amorpha-californica- “Amorpha Californica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=l520
