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Description
Anisacanthus Thurberi, also known as Thurber’s Desert Honeysuckle, is a striking plant that belongs to the Acanthaceae family. This shrub is native to Texas and Mexico and is known for its stunning red-orange flowers that bloom from summer to fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Acanthaceae |
| Genus: | Anisacanthus |
Appearance
Anisacanthus Thurberi can grow up to 6 feet tall and 4-6 feet wide. It has dark green leaves that are narrow and pointed, and the plant produces vibrant red-orange tubular flowers that are 1-2 inches long. The flowers bloom in clusters at the end of the stems and attract hummingbirds and butterflies.
Care Guide
Water: Anisacanthus Thurberi requires regular watering during the growing season, but it is drought-tolerant once established.Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring to encourage growth and blooming.Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.Sunlight: Anisacanthus Thurberi thrives in full sun to partial shade.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Anisacanthus Thurberi is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is poorly drained. Spider mites and whiteflies may also infest the plant, but they can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Anisacanthus Thurberi is native to the Chihuahuan Desert and can be found in Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and Mexico. The plant grows in rocky slopes, dry washes, and mesas.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Anisacanthus Thurberi?
A: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but let the soil dry out between watering.Q: How tall does Anisacanthus Thurberi grow?
A: The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall.Q: Can Anisacanthus Thurberi tolerate drought?
A: Yes, the plant is drought-tolerant once established.Q: What is the blooming season for Anisacanthus Thurberi?
A: The plant blooms from summer to fall.
Related Plants
- Anisacanthus Quadrifidus
- Anisacanthus Wrightii
- Anisacanthus Puberulus
References
- “Anisacanthus Thurberi.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, University of Texas at Austin, wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=anth2.
- “Thurber’s Desert Honeysuckle.” Arizona State University, cals.arizona.edu/yavapai/anr/hort/byg/archive/anisacanthus-thurberi-2018-02.
- “Anisacanthus Thurberi.” Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/ornamentals/nativeshrubs/anisacanthusthurberi.htm.
