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Description
Cirsium Fontinale Var. Campylon, also known as the Fountain Thistle, is a beautiful plant that is native to the western United States. It is a member of the Asteraceae family and is known for its unique pink flowers that bloom from June to August. This plant typically grows in wet, marshy environments and can grow up to 4 feet tall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Cirsium |
| Species | Fontinale |
| Variety | Campylon |
Appearance
The Fountain Thistle has a unique appearance with its tall, spiky stems and pink flowers. The stems are covered in small, prickly leaves that help protect the plant from predators. The flowers are a vibrant pink color and can grow up to 2 inches in diameter. The petals are narrow and pointed, giving the flower a star-like appearance. The plant blooms from June to August and is a beautiful addition to any garden or wetland area.
Care Guide
The Fountain Thistle is a hardy plant that can thrive in wet, marshy environments. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: The Fountain Thistle requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. Water the plant deeply once or twice a week, depending on how dry the soil is.
- Fertilization: This plant does not require fertilization, as it can thrive in nutrient-poor soil.
- Soil: The Fountain Thistle prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can also grow in sandy or clay soil.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun but can also grow in partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The Fountain Thistle is hardy in USDA zones 6 through 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Fountain Thistle is a hardy plant that is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues to watch out for:
- Aphids: These small, sap-sucking insects can damage the plant by depleting its nutrients. Use insecticidal soap to get rid of them.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can also damage the plant by sucking its sap. Use a miticide to get rid of them.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and use a fungicide to treat the plant.
Habitat
The Fountain Thistle is native to the western United States, where it grows in wet, marshy environments such as meadows, bogs, and streambanks. It can also be found in disturbed areas such as roadsides and ditches. This plant is an important food source for pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Fountain Thistle an invasive species?
A: No, the Fountain Thistle is not considered an invasive species. However, it can spread quickly in wet environments and should be monitored in garden settings.
Q: Can the Fountain Thistle be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Fountain Thistle can be grown in containers as long as the soil is kept moist and the plant receives plenty of sunlight.
Q: Can the Fountain Thistle be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the Fountain Thistle can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the spring or fall. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in moist soil.
Q: Is the Fountain Thistle poisonous?
A: No, the Fountain Thistle is not poisonous to humans or animals.
Related Plants
- Cirsium Occidentale
- Cirsium Arvense
- Cirsium Vulgare
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Cirsium Fontinale
- University of California Agriculture & Natural Resources: Cirsium Fontinale var. Campylon
- Washington Native Plant Society: Cirsium Fontinale var. Campylon Fountain Thistle
