Contents
Description
Ambrosia Eriocentra, also known as woolly bur ragweed, is an annual plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, and can grow up to 5 feet tall. The plant produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that bloom from July to September, and has a strong, unpleasant odor that attracts pollinators.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Ambrosia |
Appearance
Ambrosia Eriocentra has a bushy growth habit with leaves that are hairy and deeply lobed. The stems are also hairy and can be reddish in color. The flowers are small and greenish-yellow, and are produced in clusters at the ends of the stems. The plant has a strong, unpleasant odor that is often described as being similar to sagebrush.
Care Guide
Ambrosia Eriocentra is relatively easy to care for and requires minimal maintenance. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun, and can tolerate drought conditions. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and fertilize it with a balanced fertilizer once a month. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ambrosia Eriocentra is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases, including spider mites, aphids, and powdery mildew. To prevent these issues, keep the plant well-watered and avoid over-fertilizing. If you notice any signs of infestation or disease, treat the plant with an appropriate insecticide or fungicide.
Habitat
Ambrosia Eriocentra is native to arid regions of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, where it grows in sandy or rocky soils in open areas. It is often found in disturbed areas such as roadsides, fields, and vacant lots, and can be a common weed in agricultural areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Ambrosia Eriocentra poisonous?
A: No, Ambrosia Eriocentra is not poisonous, but it can cause allergies in some people.
Q: How often should I water Ambrosia Eriocentra?
A: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season.
Q: What are some common pests of Ambrosia Eriocentra?
A: Spider mites, aphids, and powdery mildew are common pests of Ambrosia Eriocentra.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Ambrosia Eriocentra?
A: Ambrosia Eriocentra is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Related Plants
- Ambrosia acanthicarpa
- Ambrosia artemisiifolia
- Ambrosia confertiflora
- Ambrosia deltoidea
References
- “Ambrosia eriocentra.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, University of Texas at Austin. Accessed 15 Sept. 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=AMER3
- “Woolly Bur Ragweed.” Arizona State University. Accessed 15 Sept. 2021. https://cals.arizona.edu/yavapai/anr/hort/byg/archive/woollybur.html
- “Ambrosia eriocentra.” Plant Database, Dave’s Garden. Accessed 15 Sept. 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/184413/
