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Description
Bellardia Viscosa is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the family Plantaginaceae. It is an annual herb that is native to western North America, particularly in California and Oregon. The plant grows up to 1 meter tall and has sticky hairs that cover its stem and leaves. It produces small, pink to purple flowers that bloom from June to September.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Bellardia |
Appearance
Bellardia Viscosa has a sticky, glandular stem and leaves that are covered with hairs that give a velvety texture. The leaves are lance-shaped and grow up to 10 cm long. The flowers are small, tubular, and have five petals that are pink to purple in color. They grow in clusters on the stem and bloom from June to September. The plant can grow up to 1 meter tall.
Care Guide
Bellardia Viscosa is relatively easy to care for and can thrive in most soil types. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: Bellardia Viscosa prefers well-draining soil and should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells.- Fertilization: This plant does not require much fertilizer but can benefit from a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer once a month during the growing season.- Soil: Bellardia Viscosa can grow in most soil types but prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate some shade.- Hardiness Zones: Bellardia Viscosa is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Bellardia Viscosa is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and rust if grown in humid conditions. Aphids and spider mites can also infest the plant, causing damage to the leaves and flowers. To prevent these problems, ensure that the plant is grown in well-ventilated areas and treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary.
Habitat
Bellardia Viscosa is native to western North America, particularly in California and Oregon. It grows in open, sunny areas, including meadows, pastures, and along roadsides. It can also grow in disturbed areas, such as abandoned fields and construction sites.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Bellardia Viscosa a perennial or an annual plant?
A: Bellardia Viscosa is an annual plant, meaning it completes its life cycle in one growing season.
Q: Does Bellardia Viscosa attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, Bellardia Viscosa is a pollinator-friendly plant and can attract bees and butterflies to your garden.
Q: Can Bellardia Viscosa be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Bellardia Viscosa can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its roots and has adequate drainage.
Q: How often should Bellardia Viscosa be fertilized?
A: Bellardia Viscosa does not require much fertilizer but can benefit from a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to Bellardia Viscosa:- Penstemon heterophyllus (Foothill Penstemon)- Mimulus guttatus (Seep Monkeyflower)- Orthocarpus purpurascens (Purple Owl’s Clover)- Collinsia grandiflora (Large-flowered Blue-eyed Mary)
References
– “Bellardia viscosa.” Calflora. https://www.calflora.org/app/taxon?crumb=2&taxon=Bellardia+viscosa.- “Bellardia viscosa.” USDA PLANTS. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=BEVI2.
