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Description
Tricardia Watsonii, commonly known as Watson’s tricardia, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the family Melastomataceae. It is native to Mexico and the southwestern United States, where it grows in rocky and sandy soils in desert scrub and woodland habitats. The plant has small, bright pink flowers that bloom from May to October.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Melastomataceae |
| Genus | Tricardia |
Appearance
Watson’s tricardia grows up to 30 cm tall and 40 cm wide. It has lance-shaped leaves that are 1-6 cm long and 0.5-2 cm wide. The leaves are green and have a rough texture. The plant produces small, bright pink flowers that are about 1 cm in diameter. The flowers have five petals and a yellow center. The flowers are produced in clusters at the end of the stems.
Care Guide
Watson’s tricardia is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, but do not overwater it. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Watson’s tricardia is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Watson’s tricardia is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent this, make sure the soil is well-draining and do not overwater the plant.
Habitat
Watson’s tricardia is native to Mexico and the southwestern United States, where it grows in rocky and sandy soils in desert scrub and woodland habitats. It can be found at elevations of up to 2000 meters.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Watson’s tricardia drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, Watson’s tricardia is drought-tolerant and can survive in arid conditions.
Q: How often should Watson’s tricardia be fertilized?
A: Watson’s tricardia should be fertilized once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Watson’s tricardia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Watson’s tricardia can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the plant is watered regularly.
Q: What is the best time to plant Watson’s tricardia?
A: The best time to plant Watson’s tricardia is in the spring after the last frost.
Related Plants
- Tricardia subcordata
- Tricardia watsonii var. arizonica
- Tricardia watsonii var. watsonii
- Rhexia lutea
- Rhexia virginica
References
- “Tricardia Watsonii.” USDA Plants Database, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=TRWA. Accessed 23 July 2021.
- “Watson’s Tricardia.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=TRWA. Accessed 23 July 2021.
- “Watson’s Tricardia.” Arizona Native Plant Society, aznps.com/watsons-tricardia. Accessed 23 July 2021.
