Contents
Description
Physaria Chambersii, also known as Chambers’ bladderpod, is a small, herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. This plant is native to the southwestern United States, including Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. It is commonly found growing in rocky, desert areas and is known for its unique, bladder-like seed pods.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Physaria |
Appearance
Physaria Chambersii typically grows to a height of 4-8 inches and spreads to a width of 6-12 inches. It has small, oval-shaped leaves that are gray-green in color and covered in fine hairs. The plant produces clusters of small, bright yellow flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. After flowering, bladder-like seed pods form, which give the plant its common name. These seed pods are about the size of a pea and turn brown as they mature.
Care Guide
Physaria Chambersii requires minimal care once established. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure. This plant is drought-tolerant and does not require regular watering, except during periods of extreme heat or drought. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can promote healthy growth. This plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Physaria Chambersii is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to aphids, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important to ensure that the soil is well-draining.
Habitat
Physaria Chambersii is native to the southwestern United States, where it is found growing in rocky, desert areas. It is well-suited to dry, arid climates and is often used in xeriscaping or rock gardens. This plant is an important source of food for pollinators, such as bees and butterflies.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Physaria Chambersii a good choice for a xeriscape garden?
A: Yes, Physaria Chambersii is well-suited to dry, arid climates and is often used in xeriscaping or rock gardens.
Q: Does Physaria Chambersii require regular fertilization?
A: No, fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can promote healthy growth.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Physaria Chambersii?
A: Physaria Chambersii is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to aphids, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Physaria Chambersii?
A: Physaria Chambersii is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Related Plants
- Physaria alpestris
- Physaria bellii
- Physaria didymocarpa
- Physaria fendleri
References
- Bontrager, M. et al. (2018). Chambers’ bladderpod (Physaria chambersii): A Conservation and Management Plan. New Mexico Rare Plant Technical Council.
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Physaria chambersii. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=PHCH4
