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Description
Wyethia Mollis, commonly known as woolly mule’s ears or cushion mule’s ears, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the sunflower family (Asteraceae). This plant is native to California and can be found in the Sierra Nevada and Cascade Range mountains. It is a drought-tolerant plant that can grow up to 3 feet in height and 2 feet in width.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Wyethia |
Appearance
Wyethia Mollis has large, woolly, gray-green leaves that can grow up to 18 inches long and 10 inches wide. The leaves are deeply lobed and resemble the shape of a mule’s ear, hence the name. The plant produces bright yellow daisy-like flowers that bloom from June to August. The flowers can grow up to 2 inches in diameter and are held on long stems above the foliage.
Care Guide
Wyethia Mollis is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in full sun and well-draining soil. Here are some care tips to ensure its optimal growth:- Water: This plant is drought-tolerant, so it doesn’t require frequent watering. Water it deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter.- Fertilization: Fertilization is not necessary, but you can add a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to promote blooming.- Soil: Well-draining soil is essential for this plant. If your soil is heavy, amend it with organic matter to improve drainage.- Sunlight: Wyethia Mollis requires full sun to bloom and grow properly.- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Wyethia Mollis is generally a pest and disease-free plant. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew in humid conditions. To prevent powdery mildew, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Wyethia Mollis is native to California and can be found in the Sierra Nevada and Cascade Range mountains. It grows in dry, rocky soils and is often found in meadows, chaparral, and sagebrush habitats.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Wyethia Mollis a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Wyethia Mollis is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow and care for.
Q: Can Wyethia Mollis be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and it receives full sun.
Q: How often should I fertilize Wyethia Mollis?
A: Fertilization is not necessary, but you can add a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to promote blooming.
Q: Does Wyethia Mollis attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the bright yellow flowers of Wyethia Mollis attract bees and butterflies.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that you may be interested in:- Wyethia Helenioides (Great Basin Mule’s Ears)- Wyethia Longicaulis (Tall Mule’s Ears)- Wyethia Glabra (Smooth Mule’s Ears)
References
– “Wyethia Mollis.” Las Pilitas Nursery. https://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/44–wyethia-mollis- “Wyethia Mollis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c640
