Contents
Description
Balsamorhiza Macrophylla, commonly known as the Bigleaf Balsamroot, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to western North America, from British Columbia to California and eastward to Montana and Wyoming. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and has a basal rosette of leaves that are large and hairy, measuring up to 12 inches long and 8 inches wide. The plant produces bright yellow flowers that bloom in the late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Balsamorhiza |
Appearance
The Bigleaf Balsamroot has large, hairy leaves that are deeply lobed and have a toothed edge. The leaves grow in a basal rosette that can measure up to 12 inches long and 8 inches wide. The stem of the plant is also hairy and can grow up to 3 feet tall. The plant produces bright yellow flowers that are daisy-like in shape and can measure up to 3 inches across. The flowers bloom in the late spring to early summer and are followed by fluffy seed heads.
Care Guide
The Bigleaf Balsamroot is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun. The plant is drought-tolerant and does not require much water, but it will benefit from occasional deep watering during hot, dry periods. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of compost or a balanced fertilizer in the spring can improve growth. The plant is hardy to USDA zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Bigleaf Balsamroot is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, aphids and spider mites can occasionally infest the plant. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water. Root rot can occur in poorly-draining soil or in plants that are over-watered. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid over-watering.
Habitat
The Bigleaf Balsamroot is native to western North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including meadows, prairies, and open forests. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun, but can also tolerate some shade. It is a hardy plant that can survive in a range of temperatures and soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Bigleaf Balsamroot edible?
A: Yes, the roots and leaves of the Bigleaf Balsamroot are edible and have been used as a food source by indigenous peoples of western North America.
Q: How long does the Bigleaf Balsamroot bloom?
A: The plant blooms in the late spring to early summer, typically for a period of 4-6 weeks.
Q: Can the Bigleaf Balsamroot be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container has adequate drainage and the plant receives enough sunlight.
Q: Is the Bigleaf Balsamroot deer-resistant?
A: While the plant is not completely deer-resistant, it is generally less attractive to deer than other plants and can be used in deer-resistant landscaping.
Related Plants
- Balsamorhiza deltoidea
- Balsamorhiza hookeri
- Balsamorhiza sagittata
- Balsamorhiza incana
References
- “Balsamorhiza macrophylla.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 9, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c995.
- “Balsamorhiza macrophylla.” Plant Database. Accessed September 9, 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=BAMA3.
- “Bigleaf Balsamroot.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed September 9, 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=BAMA3.
