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Description
Centromadia Pungens, commonly known as the “sticky tarweed,” is a species of flowering plant in the sunflower family. It is native to California and Baja California, and can be found in grasslands and chaparral habitats. The plant grows up to 2 feet tall and 1.5 feet wide, with green leaves and yellow flowers that bloom in the summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Centromadia |
Appearance
The sticky tarweed has green, hairy leaves that are deeply lobed and can grow up to 6 inches long. The yellow flowers are small, measuring only about 1/2 inch in diameter, and are arranged in clusters at the top of the stems. The plant is covered in glandular hairs, which give it a sticky, resinous feel. The stem is erect and can be quite branched.
Care Guide
The sticky tarweed is fairly easy to care for and doesn’t require much attention. It can tolerate a variety of soils, but prefers well-drained, sandy or loamy soil. It does best in full sun and can tolerate drought conditions, but will benefit from occasional watering during prolonged dry periods. Avoid fertilizing the plant, as it can encourage excessive growth and make the plant more vulnerable to pests and diseases. The hardiness zones for this plant are 8 through 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The sticky tarweed is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but can be affected by spider mites or aphids. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant may also develop fungal diseases in humid conditions, such as powdery mildew or rust. These can be treated with a fungicide.
Habitat
The sticky tarweed is native to California and Baja California, and can be found in grasslands and chaparral habitats. It is typically found in areas with full sun and well-drained soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the sticky tarweed an annual or perennial plant?
A: The sticky tarweed is an annual plant.
Q: Does the sticky tarweed have any medicinal properties?
A: Yes, the plant has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including coughs, colds, and skin irritations.
Q: Is the sticky tarweed an invasive species?
A: No, the plant is not considered invasive.
Q: Can the sticky tarweed be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers, but it will require regular watering and may not grow as large as it would in the ground.
Related Plants
- Centromadia parryi
- Centromadia pungens
- Centromadia pungens subsp. laevis
- Centromadia pungens subsp. ovata
References
- “Centromadia pungens.” Calflora.
- “Centromadia pungens.” USDA Plants Database.
- “Sticky Tarweed (Centromadia pungens).” Las Pilitas Nursery.
