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Description
Balsamorhiza Macrolepis, commonly known as big-leaved balsamroot or desert balsamroot, is a flowering plant that is native to the western United States. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is a herbaceous perennial that grows up to 1 meter tall. It has large, bright yellow flowers that bloom in the spring and summer, and its leaves are big and hairy. The plant has a deep root system that allows it to survive in dry conditions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Balsamorhiza |
Appearance
Balsamorhiza Macrolepis has large, hairy leaves that form a basal rosette. The leaves are up to 30 centimeters long and 25 centimeters wide, and they are deeply lobed with toothed edges. The stem of the plant is hairy and can grow up to 1 meter tall. The flowers are bright yellow and can be up to 8 centimeters in diameter. They bloom in the spring and summer and are held on long stems that rise above the foliage.
Care Guide
Balsamorhiza Macrolepis is a hardy plant that can tolerate dry conditions and poor soil. However, it will perform best in well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Here are some care tips:- Water: The plant does not require much water once it is established. Water deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Balsamorhiza Macrolepis is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Balsamorhiza Macrolepis is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil does not drain well. Here are some common pests and diseases:- Root Rot: This can occur if the soil does not drain well. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and do not overwater.- Aphids: These insects can be a problem, but they can be easily controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can occur in humid conditions. To prevent powdery mildew, make sure the plant has good air circulation and do not water the foliage.
Habitat
Balsamorhiza Macrolepis is native to the western United States and can be found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, sagebrush steppe, and pinyon-juniper woodlands. The plant is adapted to dry conditions and can tolerate drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Balsamorhiza Macrolepis a good plant for a xeriscape garden?
A: Yes, Balsamorhiza Macrolepis is a great plant for a xeriscape garden because it is adapted to dry conditions and can tolerate drought.
Q: How often should I water my Balsamorhiza Macrolepis?
A: Water deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter.
Q: Does Balsamorhiza Macrolepis attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the bright yellow flowers of Balsamorhiza Macrolepis attract bees and other pollinators.
Q: Can Balsamorhiza Macrolepis be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Balsamorhiza Macrolepis can be grown in a container, but make sure the container has good drainage and is large enough for the plant to grow.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants:- Balsamorhiza hirsuta- Balsamorhiza hookeri- Balsamorhiza sagittata- Balsamorhiza deltoidea
References
– “Balsamorhiza Macrolepis.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed 12 June 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=BAMA6.- “Balsamorhiza Macrolepis.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed 12 June 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=BAMA6.
