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Description
Wyethia Arizonica, commonly known as Arizona Mule’s Ear, is a flowering plant that belongs to the sunflower family. It is native to the southwestern United States, particularly Arizona, California, Nevada, and Utah. This herbaceous perennial has yellow flowers that bloom from April to July and can grow up to 5 feet tall. It is commonly found in mountain meadows, pine forests, and rocky slopes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Wyethia |
Appearance
The leaves of Wyethia Arizonica are large and resemble the ears of a mule, hence the common name “Mule’s Ear.” The leaves can grow up to 1 foot in length and are covered in fine hairs. The yellow flowers are daisy-like, with long petals that radiate out from the center. The flowers can grow up to 3 inches in diameter and are usually found in clusters at the top of the stem. The stem is sturdy and can be hairy or smooth depending on the variety.
Care Guide
Wyethia Arizonica is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some care tips:
- Water: This plant is drought tolerant and can survive on natural rainfall. However, it will benefit from occasional watering during prolonged dry spells.
- Fertilization: Wyethia Arizonica does not require fertilizer but can benefit from a light application of compost in the early spring.
- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy or rocky soil.
- Sunlight: Wyethia Arizonica prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Wyethia Arizonica is a relatively pest and disease-free plant. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if planted in poorly draining soil. Additionally, rabbits and other small animals may eat the leaves and flowers of this plant.
Habitat
Wyethia Arizonica is native to the mountainous regions of the southwestern United States. It can be found in meadows, open woodlands, and rocky slopes at elevations ranging from 3,500 to 9,000 feet. This plant is adapted to a variety of soil types and can grow in areas with as little as 10 inches of annual rainfall.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Wyethia Arizonica poisonous?
A: No, this plant is not toxic to humans or animals.
Q: Can Wyethia Arizonica grow in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its deep roots.
Q: How often should I water Wyethia Arizonica?
A: This plant is drought tolerant and can survive on natural rainfall. However, it will benefit from occasional watering during prolonged dry spells.
Q: How do I propagate Wyethia Arizonica?
A: This plant can be propagated through division in the early spring.
Related Plants
- Wyethia Amplexicaulis
- Wyethia Heterophylla
- Wyethia Longicaulis
- Wyethia Mollis
References
- “Wyethia Arizonica.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed September 16, 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=WYAR.
- “Wyethia Arizonica.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed September 16, 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=WYAR.
- “Arizona Mule’s Ear.” High Country Gardens. Accessed September 16, 2021. https://www.highcountrygardens.com/perennial-plants/wyethia-arizonica-arizona-mules-ear.
