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Description
Caesalpinia Vesicaria, also known as bladderpod Caesalpinia, is a perennial shrub native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It belongs to the family Fabaceae and is characterized by its yellow flowers and inflated fruit pods. This plant is often used for medicinal purposes and is known to have anti-inflammatory properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Caesalpinia |
Appearance
Caesalpinia Vesicaria grows up to 3-4 feet tall and has a spread of 3-4 feet wide. The leaves are pinnately compound and measure 1-2 inches long. The flowers are bright yellow and bloom in the spring and early summer. The fruit pods are inflated and measure up to 1 inch long.
Care Guide
For optimal growth, Caesalpinia Vesicaria requires well-draining soil and full sun exposure. It is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can improve growth. This plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Caesalpinia Vesicaria is susceptible to spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled using insecticidal soap or neem oil. This plant is also susceptible to fungal diseases such as root rot and powdery mildew, which can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage and air circulation.
Habitat
Caesalpinia Vesicaria is commonly found in dry, rocky soils in desert regions of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It can be found growing in washes, canyons, and rocky slopes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Caesalpinia Vesicaria drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, Caesalpinia Vesicaria is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering.
Q: What are the common pests that affect Caesalpinia Vesicaria?
A: Spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs are common pests that affect Caesalpinia Vesicaria.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Caesalpinia Vesicaria?
A: Caesalpinia Vesicaria is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Q: What is the blooming period for Caesalpinia Vesicaria?
A: Caesalpinia Vesicaria blooms in the spring and early summer.
Related Plants
- Caesalpinia pulcherrima
- Caesalpinia gilliesii
- Caesalpinia mexicana
- Caesalpinia cacalaco
References
- “Caesalpinia Vesicaria.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, Accessed 22 July 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=CAVE3
- “Caesalpinia Vesicaria.” Arizona State University, Accessed 22 July 2021. https://cals.arizona.edu/yavapaiplants/SpeciesDetailForb.php?genus=Caesalpinia&species=vesicaria
- “Caesalpinia Vesicaria.” The Spruce, Accessed 22 July 2021. https://www.thespruce.com/caesalpinia-vesicaria-growing-profile-5079628
