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Description
The Collinsia Sparsiflora Var. Collina is a beautiful annual wildflower that belongs to the Plantaginaceae family. It is native to the western parts of North America, particularly in California and Oregon. It is also commonly known as the “Blue Eyed Mary” due to its striking blue blooms that resemble little eyes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Collinsia |
Appearance
The Collinsia Sparsiflora Var. Collina grows up to 1 foot tall and has delicate stems that are usually purple or green. Its leaves are oval-shaped and have a light green color. The flowers bloom in clusters at the end of the stems and have five petals that are blue-purple in color with white or yellow centers. The blooms last from early spring to early summer and attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Care Guide
The Collinsia Sparsiflora Var. Collina is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to keep it healthy:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant needs partial to full sun exposure to thrive.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Collinsia Sparsiflora Var. Collina is not prone to many pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew if grown in overly humid conditions. Other pests that may affect the plant include aphids, spider mites, and leafhoppers. To prevent these issues, keep the plant healthy and well-maintained.
Habitat
The Collinsia Sparsiflora Var. Collina is commonly found in open grasslands, meadows, and woodland areas. It prefers well-draining soil and partial to full sun exposure. The plant is native to the western parts of North America, particularly in California and Oregon.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Collinsia Sparsiflora Var. Collina a perennial or an annual plant?
A: The Collinsia Sparsiflora Var. Collina is an annual plant.
Q: Can the plant grow in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can grow in containers as long as they are deep enough to accommodate the roots and have good drainage.
Q: How often should I water the plant?
A: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. The frequency of watering will depend on the climate and soil conditions.
Q: When is the best time to plant the Collinsia Sparsiflora Var. Collina?
A: The best time to plant the Collinsia Sparsiflora Var. Collina is in early spring, after the last frost.
Related Plants
- Collinsia Grandiflora
- Collinsia Heterophylla
- Collinsia Torreyi
References
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=COSP6
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/collinsia/growing-collinsia-wildflowers.htm
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/collinsia-sparsiflora-var-collina
