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Description
Oreocarya Celosioides, commonly known as mountain forget-me-not, is a perennial herb belonging to the Boraginaceae family. It is native to western North America and can be found in the rocky slopes, meadows, and forests of the Sierra Nevada, Cascade Range, and Rocky Mountains. The plant grows up to 30 cm tall and produces clusters of small blue flowers in the summer months. The plant is an important source of nectar for bees and butterflies and is often used in native plant landscaping.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Oreocarya |
Appearance
Oreocarya Celosioides has hairy stems and leaves that are oblong or lance-shaped, measuring up to 10 cm in length. The small blue flowers are arranged in clusters at the top of the stems and have five petals. The plant blooms in the summer months, from June to August. The flowers are followed by small, dry seeds that are dispersed by wind.
Care Guide
Oreocarya Celosioides is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. It is best to water the plant deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. The plant does not require fertilization but can benefit from a light application of organic fertilizer in the spring. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Oreocarya Celosioides is not typically affected by pests or diseases. However, the plant can be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly draining soil. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering the plant.
Habitat
Oreocarya Celosioides is native to western North America and can be found in rocky slopes, meadows, and forests at elevations ranging from 500 to 3500 meters. The plant is adapted to a variety of soil types, including sandy, gravelly, and rocky soils.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Oreocarya Celosioides poisonous to humans or pets?
A: No, Oreocarya Celosioides is not toxic to humans or pets.
Q: Can Oreocarya Celosioides be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Oreocarya Celosioides can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the plant is provided with adequate sunlight.
Q: How often should Oreocarya Celosioides be fertilized?
A: Oreocarya Celosioides does not require frequent fertilization. A light application of organic fertilizer in the spring can benefit the plant.
Q: Can Oreocarya Celosioides be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Oreocarya Celosioides can be propagated from cuttings taken in the summer months.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Oreocarya Celosioides:
- Oreocarya flavoculata
- Oreocarya humilis
- Oreocarya pinnatifida
- Oreocarya sericea
References
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/oreocarya_celosioides.shtml
- https://www.nps.gov/plants/pubs/1543.htm
- https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=ORCE
