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Description
Ambrosia Deltoidea, commonly known as Triangle-leaf Bursage, is a perennial shrub that belongs to the sunflower family, Asteraceae. It is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, and can be found in areas with dry, sandy soils. The plant grows up to 3 feet tall and spreads up to 3 feet wide. Triangle-leaf Bursage produces small, greenish-yellow flowers in late summer, followed by small bur-like fruits that cling to clothing and fur, hence the name “bursage.”
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Ambrosia |
Appearance
Triangle-leaf Bursage has distinctive triangular-shaped leaves that are gray-green in color and covered in fine hairs. The leaves are about 1 inch long and ¾ inch wide, and are arranged alternately on the stem. The plant has a woody stem and produces small, greenish-yellow flowers in late summer. The flowers are about ⅛ inch in diameter and grow in clusters at the tips of the stems. After flowering, small bur-like fruits develop that cling to clothing and fur.
Care Guide
Triangle-leaf Bursage is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It prefers dry, sandy soils and full sun exposure. The plant is drought-tolerant and should be watered sparingly. Fertilization is not necessary, as the plant can obtain sufficient nutrients from the soil. Triangle-leaf Bursage can grow in a variety of soils, but prefers well-drained, sandy soils. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Triangle-leaf Bursage is relatively pest-free and disease-resistant. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if planted in poorly-drained soils.
Habitat
Triangle-leaf Bursage is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, and can be found in areas with dry, sandy soils. The plant is commonly found in desert scrub, chaparral, and grasslands. Triangle-leaf Bursage is an important plant for wildlife, as it provides food and habitat for a variety of animals, including birds, rodents, and insects.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Triangle-leaf Bursage be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Triangle-leaf Bursage can be grown in containers, provided they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots and well-drained.
Q: Is Triangle-leaf Bursage an invasive plant?
A: No, Triangle-leaf Bursage is not considered an invasive plant, as it is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico.
Q: Can Triangle-leaf Bursage be propagated by cuttings?
A: Yes, Triangle-leaf Bursage can be propagated by cuttings. Take stem cuttings in spring or summer and root them in well-drained soil.
Q: Does Triangle-leaf Bursage have any medicinal uses?
A: Yes, Triangle-leaf Bursage has been used in traditional medicine for a variety of purposes, including treating wounds, respiratory ailments, and fever.
Related Plants
- Ambrosia chamissonis
- Ambrosia confertiflora
- Ambrosia dumosa
- Ambrosia eriocentra
- Ambrosia salsola
- Ambrosia tomentosa
References
- USDA Plants Database – Ambrosia Deltoidea: https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=AMDE
- Arizona Native Plant Society – Ambrosia Deltoidea: https://aznps.com/plant-ambrosia-deltoidea/
- Calflora – Ambrosia Deltoidea: https://www.calflora.org/app/taxon?crn=181
