Amsinckia Tessellata

Description

Amsinckia Tessellata, commonly known as bristly fiddleneck or bristly amsinckia, is an annual herbaceous plant native to western North America. It belongs to the Boraginaceae family and can grow up to 3 feet tall. The plant has a bristly stem with alternate leaves that are lance-shaped and hairy. The flowers are small and yellow, arranged in clusters at the end of the stem. The fruit is a nutlet that can be prickly or smooth.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Tracheophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Boraginales
Family	Boraginaceae
Genus	Amsinckia

Appearance

Amsinckia Tessellata has a rough and hairy stem that can grow up to 3 feet tall. The leaves are alternate, lance-shaped, and hairy. The flowers are small and yellow, clustered at the end of the stem. The nutlet fruit can be prickly or smooth. The plant’s appearance can vary depending on the environment it grows in, but it generally has a wild and unkempt look.

Care Guide

Amsinckia Tessellata is an easy plant to care for and can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some care tips:

• Water: The plant prefers well-drained soil and does not require frequent watering. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering.
• Fertilization: Amsinckia Tessellata does not require fertilizer, but you can add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil if desired.
• Soil: The plant can grow in a variety of soil types, but it prefers well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0.
• Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
• Hardiness Zones: Amsinckia Tessellata can grow in USDA hardiness zones 3-10.

Common Pests & Diseases

Amsinckia Tessellata is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and aphids. To prevent infestation, keep the plant healthy and well-watered. In case of infestation, use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the pests. The plant can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew or rust. To prevent fungal infections, avoid overhead watering and improve air circulation around the plant.

Habitat

Amsinckia Tessellata is native to western North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, chaparral, and disturbed areas. The plant is adapted to dry and arid conditions and can tolerate drought.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Amsinckia Tessellata grow in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.

Q: Does Amsinckia Tessellata attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant’s flowers attract bees and other pollinators.

Q: How long does it take for Amsinckia Tessellata to flower?
A: The plant typically flowers in late spring and early summer, about 2-3 months after planting.

Q: Can Amsinckia Tessellata be used for medicinal purposes?
A: The plant has been used in traditional medicine to treat coughs and colds, but its medicinal properties have not been extensively studied.

Related Plants

• Amsinckia Lycopsoides
• Amsinckia Mennziesii
• Amsinckia Spectabilis
• Amsinckia Grandiflora

References

• Flora of North America. (n.d.). Amsinckia tessellata. Retrieved July 20, 2021, from http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=242415476
• USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Amsinckia tessellata. Retrieved July 20, 2021, from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=AMTE5
• Wildflower.org. (n.d.). Amsinckia tessellata. Retrieved July 20, 2021, from https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=AMTE5