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Description
Crocanthemum Scoparium, commonly known as rockrose or sunrose, is a low-growing evergreen shrub that belongs to the Cistaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in various habitats such as dry rocky outcrops, sandy soils, and open forests. The plant has a unique appearance with its small yellow flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer. It has a long blooming season and can last until fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Cistaceae |
| Genus | Crocanthemum |
Appearance
The Crocanthemum Scoparium plant has a spreading habit and can grow up to 1-2 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide. Its leaves are small, linear, and have a gray-green color with a hairy texture. The plant’s flowers are bright yellow and have a diameter of approximately 1 inch. The petals have a wrinkled texture and are slightly curled at the edges. The plant’s foliage is evergreen, which means that it retains its leaves throughout the year. Its stems are woody and have a reddish-brown color.
Care Guide
Crocanthemum Scoparium is easy to care for and requires minimal maintenance. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The plant is drought-tolerant and requires watering only when the soil is dry.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require regular fertilization. However, you can use a slow-release fertilizer during the spring season.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH level of 5.5 to 7.5.
- Sunlight: The plant requires full sun exposure to bloom properly.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Crocanthemum Scoparium is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant’s leaves and cause them to curl or yellow. You can remove them by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water or using insecticidal soap.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause the foliage to turn yellow or brown. You can control them by using a miticide or by washing the plant with water.
- Root rot: This fungal disease can be caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil. You can prevent it by providing well-draining soil and avoiding overwatering.
Habitat
Crocanthemum Scoparium is native to North America and can be found in various habitats such as dry rocky outcrops, sandy soils, and open forests. It is commonly found in the eastern and central parts of the United States and Canada. The plant is well adapted to drought and can survive in poor soils.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow Crocanthemum Scoparium in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow the plant in a container. However, make sure that the container has good drainage and that you use well-draining soil. Also, the plant may require more frequent watering in a container than in the ground.
Q: Can I prune Crocanthemum Scoparium?
A: Yes, you can prune the plant to maintain its shape or to remove dead or damaged branches. The best time to prune is after the plant has finished blooming.
Q: How often should I fertilize Crocanthemum Scoparium?
A: The plant does not require regular fertilization. You can use a slow-release fertilizer during the spring season to promote growth and blooming.
Q: Is Crocanthemum Scoparium poisonous?
A: No, the plant is not poisonous to humans or animals.
Related Plants
- Crocanthemum Canadense
- Crocanthemum Bicknellii
- Crocanthemum Dumosum
- Crocanthemum Ciliaris
References
- “Crocanthemum scoparium.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e380.
- “Crocanthemum scoparium.” The PLANTS Database, United States Department of Agriculture, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=CRSC.
- “Rockrose.” Better Homes & Gardens, www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/shrub/rockrose/.
