Contents
Description
Cordylanthus Tenuis, commonly known as slender spineflower, is a native annual plant that belongs to the Orobanchaceae family. It is found in California, Nevada, and Oregon in North America. The plant has slender stems that can grow up to 3 feet long with green leaves and small flowers. It is a hemiparasite, meaning that it requires a host plant to grow, but it can also produce its food through photosynthesis.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Orobanchaceae |
| Genus | Cordylanthus |
Appearance
The slender spineflower has thin, erect stems that are green in color and can grow up to 3 feet tall. The leaves are small and oval-shaped, with a length of about 1 inch. The flowers are small, pinkish-purple in color, and grow in clusters at the top of the stems. The plant blooms from July to October, and the seeds are dispersed through wind and water.
Care Guide
For optimal growth, the slender spineflower requires well-drained soil and full sunlight. It is a drought-tolerant plant and does not need frequent watering. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer can be done in the early stages of growth. The plant is hardy to USDA zones 8 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The slender spineflower is not commonly affected by pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, which can be treated with a fungicide. Deer and rabbits may also feed on the plant.
Habitat
The slender spineflower is found in various habitats, including chaparral, sagebrush, and woodland areas. It is also commonly found in disturbed areas, such as roadsides and fields.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the slender spineflower an invasive plant?
A: No, the slender spineflower is a native plant and is not considered invasive.
Q: Can the slender spineflower grow without a host plant?
A: No, the slender spineflower is a hemiparasite and requires a host plant to grow.
Q: How long does the slender spineflower take to bloom?
A: The slender spineflower blooms from July to October.
Q: What is the scientific name for the slender spineflower?
A: The scientific name for the slender spineflower is Cordylanthus Tenuis.
Related Plants
- Cordylanthus Maritimus
- Cordylanthus Parviflorus
- Cordylanthus Nevadensis
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Cordylanthus tenuis (Hook.) Drumm. ex A. Gray. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=COTE6
- California Native Plant Society. (n.d.). Cordylanthus tenuis. Retrieved from https://www.cnps.org/gardening/gardening-with-natives/cordylanthus-tenuis
- Calflora. (n.d.). Cordylanthus tenuis. Retrieved from https://www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-calrecnum=2335
