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Description
Physaria Alpestris, also known as Alpine bladderpod, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in the Rocky Mountains, from Montana to New Mexico. The plant produces bright yellow flowers that bloom from May to July. It is a small plant that grows up to 10 cm tall and 30 cm wide. The leaves are green and smooth, and they grow in a basal rosette.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Physaria |
Appearance
The Alpine bladderpod has a small and compact growth habit. It has a woody stem and produces basal leaves that are green and smooth. The leaves are about 3-5 cm long and 1-2 cm wide. The plant produces bright yellow flowers that are about 1-2 cm in diameter. The flowers have four petals and are arranged in a raceme. The fruit of the plant is a round, inflated pod that is about 1 cm in diameter.
Care Guide
Water: The Alpine bladderpod prefers well-draining soil and does not like to be overwatered. Water the plant deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.Soil: The Alpine bladderpod grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH.Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it will not bloom as well.Hardiness Zones: The Alpine bladderpod is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Alpine bladderpod is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot if grown in poorly drained soil. The plant may also attract aphids and spider mites.
Habitat
The Alpine bladderpod is native to North America and can be found in the Rocky Mountains, from Montana to New Mexico. It grows in open, rocky areas, and can often be found in alpine meadows and tundra. The plant is adapted to harsh, cold climates and can tolerate extreme temperature fluctuations.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Alpine bladderpod be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers, as long as the soil is well-draining and the container is large enough for the plant to grow and thrive.Q: How often should I fertilize the Alpine bladderpod?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season.Q: Can the Alpine bladderpod tolerate drought?
A: The plant is adapted to dry, rocky environments and can tolerate mild drought. However, it does not like to be overwatered.Q: How do I propagate the Alpine bladderpod?
A: The plant can be propagated by seed or by division in the spring.
Related Plants
- Physaria didymocarpa
- Physaria globosa
- Physaria ludoviciana
- Physaria occidentalis
References
- USDA Plants Database: Physaria alpestris
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Physaria alpestris
- Wildflower.org: Physaria alpestris
