Contents
Description
Stanleya is a genus of flowering plants from the Brassicaceae family. The genus is native to western North America, from Mexico to Canada. There are six species of Stanleya, including Stanleya pinnata and Stanleya elata, commonly known as the prince’s plume. The plant has a long, sturdy stem that can grow up to 5 feet tall. The flowers are bright yellow and grow in large clusters at the top of the stem. The plant is known for its unique appearance and is often used in gardening and landscaping projects.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Stanleya |
Appearance
Stanleya is a tall and sturdy plant with a long stem that can reach up to 5 feet in height. The stem is usually green and has a slightly rough texture. The leaves are long and narrow, and they grow in a basal rosette at the bottom of the stem. The flowers of the Stanleya plant are bright yellow and grow in large clusters at the top of the stem. The flowers have a unique shape, with four petals that are arranged in a cross-like pattern. The flowers bloom in late spring and early summer and can last for several weeks.
Care Guide
Stanleya is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for caring for Stanleya:- Water: Stanleya does not require frequent watering. Water the plant deeply once a week, especially during hot and dry weather.- Fertilization: Stanleya does not require frequent fertilization. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring.- Soil: Stanleya prefers well-draining soil. Plant the seedlings in sandy, loamy soil with a pH of 6.5-7.5.- Sunlight: Stanleya prefers full sun to partial shade. Plant the seedlings in an area with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: Stanleya is native to western North America and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. The plant can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 4-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Stanleya is a hardy plant that is not often affected by pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues to look out for:- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant’s leaves and flowers, causing them to wilt and die. Use insecticidal soap to get rid of aphids.- Cabbage loopers: These caterpillars can eat the leaves of the plant, causing significant damage. Use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) to get rid of cabbage loopers.- Fusarium wilt: This fungal disease can cause the plant to wilt and die. There is no cure for Fusarium wilt, so it’s best to remove and destroy infected plants.
Habitat
Stanleya is native to western North America, from Mexico to Canada. The plant grows in a variety of habitats, including deserts, grasslands, and mountainous regions. Stanleya can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and soil conditions, making it a hardy plant that can thrive in many different environments.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Stanleya a good plant for landscaping?
A: Yes, Stanleya is a great plant for landscaping. Its unique appearance and hardiness make it a popular choice for gardeners and landscapers.
Q: How often should I water Stanleya?
A: Water Stanleya deeply once a week, especially during hot and dry weather.
Q: What are some common pests that affect Stanleya?
A: Aphids and cabbage loopers are common pests that can affect Stanleya.
Q: What is the best time to fertilize Stanleya?
A: Fertilize Stanleya with a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring.
Related Plants
– Brassica oleracea- Brassica rapa- Erysimum linifolium- Iberis sempervirens- Lobularia maritima
References
– “Stanleya pinnata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 25, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282826.- “Stanleya.” Wikipedia. Accessed August 25, 2021. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stanleya.- “Prince’s Plume.” Wildflower Center. Accessed August 25, 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=stel.
