Contents
Description
Tidestromia Suffruticosa Var. Oblongifolia is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the Amaranthaceae family. This plant is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, where it grows in arid and semi-arid habitats such as deserts and mesas. It is commonly known as Arizona honeysweet, and it is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive pink flowers and drought tolerance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus | Tidestromia |
Appearance
Tidestromia Suffruticosa Var. Oblongifolia is a small shrub that can grow up to 1 meter in height and 1 meter in width. It has gray-green leaves that are oblong and slightly hairy, and its stems are woody and reddish-brown. The plant blooms from late summer to fall, producing small pink flowers that are clustered in spikes. The flowers are fragrant and attract butterflies and bees.
Care Guide
Tidestromia Suffruticosa Var. Oblongifolia is a low-maintenance plant that requires little care once established. Here are some tips to help you care for your plant:
- Water: Water your plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring, and again in mid-summer.
- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is sandy or loamy. Amend heavy clay soils with organic matter to improve drainage.
- Sunlight: Tidestromia Suffruticosa Var. Oblongifolia prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but flowering may be reduced.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Tidestromia Suffruticosa Var. Oblongifolia is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it may be susceptible to spider mites and aphids. To prevent these pests, keep the plant healthy and well-watered. In addition, avoid over-fertilizing, as this can attract pests. If you notice pests on your plant, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
Habitat
Tidestromia Suffruticosa Var. Oblongifolia is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, where it grows in arid and semi-arid habitats such as deserts and mesas. It is well-adapted to these harsh environments and can tolerate drought, heat, and poor soil conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Tidestromia Suffruticosa Var. Oblongifolia a good plant for xeriscaping?
A: Yes, Tidestromia Suffruticosa Var. Oblongifolia is an excellent choice for xeriscaping due to its drought tolerance and low water requirements.
Q: Can Tidestromia Suffruticosa Var. Oblongifolia grow in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the plant is watered regularly.
Q: Does Tidestromia Suffruticosa Var. Oblongifolia require pruning?
A: This plant does not require frequent pruning, but you can prune it lightly in the spring to shape it and remove any dead or damaged wood.
Q: How often should I fertilize Tidestromia Suffruticosa Var. Oblongifolia?
A: Fertilize your plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring, and again in mid-summer.
Related Plants
- Tidestromia lanuginosa
- Tidestromia oblongifolia
- Tidestromia texana
- Tidestromia tortuosa
References
- “Tidestromia suffruticosa var. oblongifolia.” Plant Finder. Missouri Botanical Garden.
- “Arizona Honeysweet.” Arizona Native Plant Society.
- Weston, L. A. (1996). “Toxicity of Tidestromia lanuginosa (false-mesquite) to livestock.” Journal of Range Management 49(5), 390-393.
