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Description
Bassia Scoparia Subsp. Scoparia, also known as summer cypress or burning bush, is an annual plant native to Eurasia. It belongs to the family Amaranthaceae and is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes. The plant can grow up to 1.5 meters tall and has bright green foliage that turns reddish-brown in autumn. The flowers are small, inconspicuous, and greenish-white in color, blooming from August to October.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus | Bassia |
Appearance
Bassia Scoparia Subsp. Scoparia has a bushy and upright growth habit. It has thin, wiry stems that are green in color and can turn reddish-brown in autumn. The leaves are alternate, simple, and linear, measuring about 1-3 cm long and 1-2 mm wide. They are bright green in color, turning coppery-red in autumn. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, measuring about 2-3 mm in diameter, and are greenish-white in color. The plant blooms from August to October.
Care Guide
Bassia Scoparia Subsp. Scoparia is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to ensure its optimal growth:
Water
The plant prefers well-drained soil that is kept evenly moist. Water it regularly, especially during dry spells, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Bassia Scoparia Subsp. Scoparia does not require frequent fertilization. However, you can add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil during planting to provide the plant with essential nutrients.
Soil
The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a range of soil types, including sandy, rocky, and clay soils.
Sunlight
Bassia Scoparia Subsp. Scoparia prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate hot and dry conditions, making it an ideal choice for xeriscaping.
Hardiness Zones
The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Bassia Scoparia Subsp. Scoparia is generally pest-resistant and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and aphids. Regular monitoring and treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil can help prevent infestations.
Habitat
Bassia Scoparia Subsp. Scoparia is native to Eurasia and can be found in a range of habitats, including fields, roadsides, and waste areas. It prefers dry and sandy soils and can tolerate hot and dry conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Bassia Scoparia Subsp. Scoparia an annual or perennial plant?
A: Bassia Scoparia Subsp. Scoparia is an annual plant.
Q: Can Bassia Scoparia Subsp. Scoparia grow in partial shade?
A: Yes, the plant can grow in partial shade, but it prefers full sun.
Q: How tall can Bassia Scoparia Subsp. Scoparia grow?
A: The plant can grow up to 1.5 meters tall.
Q: Is Bassia Scoparia Subsp. Scoparia drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, the plant can tolerate hot and dry conditions and is drought-tolerant.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Bassia Scoparia Subsp. Scoparia:
- Bassia scoparia
- Kochia scoparia
- Amaranthus retroflexus
- Amaranthus powellii
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Bassia scoparia subsp. scoparia. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280596&isprofile=1&basic=bassia%20scoparia
- University of Wisconsin-Madison. (n.d.). Bassia scoparia subsp. scoparia. Retrieved from https://www.botany.wisc.edu/wisflora/flora/OTIS/Amaranthaceae/Bassia_scoparia_ssp_scoparia.html
- USDA NRCS National Plant Data Team. (2016). Bassia scoparia (L.) A.J. Scott. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=BASC4
