Contents
Description
Atriplex Elegans Var. Fasciculata is a species of plant that belongs to the family Amaranthaceae. It is commonly known as the Desert holly. The plant is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. The plant gets its name from its holly-like leaves, which are gray-green, thick, and spiny. This plant can grow up to 2-5 feet tall and spread about 3-6 feet wide. It is a very hardy plant and can withstand harsh desert conditions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus | Atriplex |
Appearance
The Atriplex Elegans Var. Fasciculata is a striking plant. Its spiny, gray-green leaves can add an interesting texture to any landscape. The plant produces tiny flowers that are greenish and not very showy. The flowers bloom in late summer through fall. The plant is dioecious, meaning that there are separate male and female plants. The female plants produce small, round, and spiny fruits.
Care Guide
The Desert holly is a low maintenance plant. It requires minimal care and attention.
- Water: The plant is drought tolerant and does not require frequent watering.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization but can benefit from a balanced fertilizer application in the spring.
- Soil: The plant grows well in well-draining soil that is slightly alkaline.
- Sunlight: The plant thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Desert holly is generally pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and aphids. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be susceptible to root rot if it is over-watered or planted in poorly drained soil.
Habitat
The Desert holly is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It grows in arid and semi-arid environments and can be found in sandy or rocky soil. The plant is adapted to harsh desert conditions and can withstand extreme heat, drought, and poor soil conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Desert holly a fast-growing plant?
A: No, the plant is a slow grower.
Q: Can the Desert holly be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers but may require more frequent watering.
Q: How often should the Desert holly be pruned?
A: The plant does not require frequent pruning, but it can be pruned to control its size and shape.
Q: Can the Desert holly tolerate frost?
A: No, the plant is not frost tolerant.
Related Plants
- Atriplex canescens
- Atriplex confertifolia
- Atriplex lentiformis
- Atriplex polycarpa
References
- https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/shrub/atrfas/all.html
- https://www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-taxon=Atriplex+elegans+var.+fasciculata
- https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/179690/
