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Description
Plagiobothrys is a genus of flowering plants in the borage family, Boraginaceae. It is commonly known as popcorn flower due to the shape and color of its flowers. This genus includes about 75 species that are native to North America, with the highest diversity in California. Most species are annual or biennial herbs that grow up to 2 feet tall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Plagiobothrys |
Appearance
The flowers of Plagiobothrys are small, ranging from white to purple, and are arranged in a spiral shape. They have five petals that are fused at the base, forming a tube-like structure. The leaves are typically lance-shaped, hairy, and arranged alternately. The stems are also hairy and may be branched or unbranched. The seeds are small and black, enclosed in a nutlet.
Care Guide
Plagiobothrys is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for its care:- Water: Plagiobothrys prefers well-drained soil and moderate watering. Water the plant deeply once a week, or when the soil feels dry to the touch.- Fertilization: Plagiobothrys does not require frequent fertilization. You can add a slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring.- Soil: Plagiobothrys prefers sandy or loamy soil that is well-drained. It can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil.- Sunlight: Plagiobothrys prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, especially in hot climates.- Hardiness Zones: Plagiobothrys can grow in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Plagiobothrys is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to powdery mildew and spider mites. To prevent these issues, keep the plant in well-ventilated areas and avoid overhead watering. If necessary, you can treat the plant with a fungicide or insecticide.
Habitat
Plagiobothrys is native to North America, with the highest diversity in California. It can be found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, woodlands, and disturbed areas like roadsides and fields. Some species are also adapted to dry or sandy soils.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Plagiobothrys be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Plagiobothrys can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should I fertilize Plagiobothrys?
A: You can fertilize Plagiobothrys once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
Q: Can Plagiobothrys tolerate drought?
A: Plagiobothrys can tolerate some drought, but it prefers moderate watering to thrive.
Q: How do I propagate Plagiobothrys?
A: Plagiobothrys can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. Seeds can be sown directly in the garden in the spring, while cuttings can be taken in the summer and rooted in a well-draining soil mix.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Plagiobothrys:- Cryptantha- Eriophyllum- Lasthenia- Lepidium- Lupinus
References
– “Plagiobothrys.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 15 Jul. 2021.
