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Description
Linaria Spartea, also known as Rocky Mountain Toadflax, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Plantaginaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in the western United States and Canada. It is a beautiful plant that produces showy yellow flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Linaria |
Appearance
Linaria Spartea grows up to 1-3 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide. It has a woody base and slender stems. The leaves are narrow, linear, and grayish-green in color. The flowers are bright yellow, tubular, and about 1 inch long. They bloom in clusters at the top of the stems and attract bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Linaria Spartea is an easy plant to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant Linaria Spartea in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Linaria Spartea can grow in USDA hardiness zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Linaria Spartea is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is not well-draining. Aphids and spider mites may also infest the plant, but they can be easily controlled with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Linaria Spartea is native to North America and can be found in the western United States and Canada. It grows in rocky areas, open woods, and meadows at elevations of up to 11,000 feet.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Linaria Spartea a good plant for pollinators?
A: Yes, Linaria Spartea produces bright yellow flowers that attract bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Linaria Spartea grow in containers?
A: Yes, Linaria Spartea can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the plant receives enough sunlight.
Q: When is the best time to plant Linaria Spartea?
A: The best time to plant Linaria Spartea is in spring or fall.
Q: How often should I fertilize Linaria Spartea?
A: Fertilize Linaria Spartea once a year in spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Linaria Alpina
- Linaria Bipartita
- Linaria Canadensis
- Linaria Dalmatica
References
- “Linaria Spartea.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=m540.
- “Linaria Spartea.” Plant Database, Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=LISP.
- “Rocky Mountain Toadflax.” USDA Forest Service, www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/linaria_spartea.shtml.
