Contents
Description
Dalea Formosa, commonly known as Feathery Dalea, is a flowering shrub native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. This plant belongs to the Fabaceae or legume family and is a drought-tolerant, low-maintenance plant. It grows up to 3 feet tall and 4 feet wide, producing small, feathery leaves and purple flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Leguminosae |
| Genus | Dalea |
Appearance
Dalea Formosa is a deciduous shrub with a rounded shape and a spreading habit. Its small, feathery leaves are silvery-green and grow up to 1 inch long. The plant produces clusters of purple flowers that bloom in late summer and early fall. The flowers are small, tubular, and grow up to 1 inch long. The plant also produces small pods that contain seeds.
Care Guide
Dalea Formosa is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:
Water: This plant is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months.
Fertilization: Dalea Formosa does not require fertilization. However, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring if you want to encourage growth and flowering.
Soil: This plant prefers well-drained, sandy or loamy soil. It can tolerate poor soil and is adapted to dry conditions.
Sunlight: Dalea Formosa prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dalea Formosa is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering the plant.
Habitat
Dalea Formosa is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It grows in dry, rocky areas, and can be found in desert scrub, grasslands, and woodlands. The plant is adapted to hot, dry conditions and is often used in xeriscaping.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Dalea Formosa a good plant for xeriscaping?
A: Yes, Dalea Formosa is a great plant for xeriscaping. It is adapted to hot, dry conditions and requires minimal watering.
Q: How often should I water Dalea Formosa?
A: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months.
Q: Does Dalea Formosa require fertilization?
A: No, Dalea Formosa does not require fertilization. However, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring if you want to encourage growth and flowering.
Q: Can Dalea Formosa tolerate partial shade?
A: Yes, Dalea Formosa can tolerate partial shade.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to Dalea Formosa:
- Dalea Candida
- Dalea Frutescens
- Dalea Glaucophylla
- Dalea Lasiantha
References
- “Dalea formosa.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 30, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=m640.
- “Dalea formosa.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed August 30, 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=DAFO.
- “Dalea formosa.” PlantFiles. Accessed August 30, 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/232951/.
