Beclardia Macrostachya
Contents
Description
Beclardia Macrostachya is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Verbenaceae. It is commonly known as the Texas Skeleton Plant, and it is native to Texas and Mexico. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It has small, white or pink flowers that bloom in the summer and fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Verbenaceae |
| Genus | Beclardia |
Appearance
Beclardia Macrostachya has a unique appearance, which is why it is also known as the Texas Skeleton Plant. The plant has slender stems that are almost black in color, and they are covered with fine hairs. The leaves are small and narrow, and they are also covered with fine hairs. The flowers are small, white, or pink, and they grow in clusters at the top of the stems. The plant blooms in the summer and fall, and it has a bushy, airy appearance.
Care Guide
Beclardia Macrostachya is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some care tips to keep your plant healthy:- Water: The plant prefers well-drained soil, so make sure not to overwater it. Water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil with a neutral pH.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Beclardia Macrostachya is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Beclardia Macrostachya is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues to watch out for:- Spider mites: These tiny pests can be removed with a steady stream of water or by using an insecticidal soap.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.- Root rot: This can be caused by overwatering, so make sure not to let the soil stay wet for too long.
Habitat
Beclardia Macrostachya is native to Texas and Mexico, where it grows in dry, rocky soils. The plant is well-adapted to hot, dry conditions, and it can tolerate drought well.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Beclardia Macrostachya be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers, as long as the container has good drainage.
Q: Does Beclardia Macrostachya attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant attracts butterflies, bees, and other pollinators.
Q: How often should Beclardia Macrostachya be fertilized?
A: The plant should be fertilized once a month during the growing season.
Q: Is Beclardia Macrostachya toxic to pets?
A: There is no information available on whether the plant is toxic to pets, so it is best to keep pets away from it.
Related Plants
– Verbena bonariensis- Verbena canadensis- Lantana camara- Salvia greggii
References
– “Beclardia Macrostachya” – Texas A&M AgriLife Extension- “Beclardia Macrostachya” – Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center- “Beclardia Macrostachya” – Dave’s Garden
