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Description
Bigelowia Nuttallii, commonly known as Nuttall’s Bigelowa, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to the western part of North America, including the United States and Mexico. The plant is named after Thomas Nuttall, a British botanist who was known for his contributions to North American botany.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Bigelowia |
Appearance
The plant grows up to 1-2 feet tall, with small, daisy-like flowers that bloom in shades of white or pink. The leaves are narrow and long, with a soft texture and grow in a fern-like pattern. The flowers bloom in the summer and fall, attracting bees and butterflies. The plant has a pleasant fragrance, making it an ideal addition to any garden or landscape.
Care Guide
Bigelowia Nuttallii requires well-drained soil and moderate watering. The plant thrives in full sun, but it can tolerate partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 6-10. Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Prune the plant after the flowering season to encourage growth and maintain its shape.
Common Pests & Diseases
The plant is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant may also develop root rot if the soil is too wet, so it is essential to ensure that the soil is well-drained.
Habitat
Bigelowia Nuttallii is native to dry, rocky areas, including desert and mountain slopes. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. The plant is drought-tolerant and can survive in areas with little rainfall. It is an excellent choice for xeriscaping and water-wise landscaping.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Bigelowia Nuttallii an invasive species?
A: No, the plant is not considered invasive.
Q: Can Bigelowia Nuttallii be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers, but it requires well-drained soil and regular watering.
Q: Does Bigelowia Nuttallii attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant attracts bees and butterflies with its flowers.
Q: Can Bigelowia Nuttallii be used for medicinal purposes?
A: There is no evidence to suggest that the plant has any medicinal properties.
Related Plants
- Bigelowia graveolens
- Bigelowia juncea
- Bigelowia reevesiae
References
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/bigelowa_nuttallii.shtml
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/bigelowa-nuttallii-nuttalls-bigelowia
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=BINU
