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Description
Sidalcea Robusta, commonly known as the checkermallow, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the mallow family (Malvaceae). This plant is native to North America and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its beautiful pink flowers. Sidalcea Robusta grows up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, with a clumping habit.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Sidalcea |
Appearance
Sidalcea Robusta has a clumping habit and grows up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. The leaves are dark green, lobed, and hairy. The flowers are pink, cup-shaped, and arranged in spikes. The flowers bloom from late spring to mid-summer and attract bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Sidalcea Robusta is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. Here are some care tips:- Water: Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot. – Fertilization: Fertilize once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer. – Soil: Sidalcea Robusta prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. – Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. – Hardiness Zones: Sidalcea Robusta is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sidalcea Robusta is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and rust. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and ensure good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Sidalcea Robusta is native to North America, where it grows in meadows, prairies, and open woodlands. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Sidalcea Robusta a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, Sidalcea Robusta’s pink flowers attract bees and butterflies.
Q: How often should I water Sidalcea Robusta?
A: Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot.
Q: Does Sidalcea Robusta require a lot of maintenance?
A: No, Sidalcea Robusta is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow.
Q: What is the best time to fertilize Sidalcea Robusta?
A: Fertilize once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
Related Plants
– Sidalcea Candida- Sidalcea Covillei- Sidalcea Hendersonii- Sidalcea Hartwegii
References
– “Sidalcea Robusta.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281736&isprofile=0.- “Sidalcea Robusta.” Plant Lust, plantlust.com/plants/8407/sidalcea-robusta.
