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Description
Dendromecon is a genus of flowering plants native to California and Baja California. The name Dendromecon comes from the Greek words “dendron,” meaning tree, and “mekon,” meaning poppy. There are two species in this genus: Dendromecon rigida and Dendromecon harfordii. Both species are evergreen shrubs that can grow up to six feet tall and six feet wide.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Papaveraceae |
| Genus | Dendromecon |
Appearance
Dendromecon has glossy, dark green leaves that are three to four inches long and one to two inches wide. In the spring, the shrub produces bright yellow flowers that are two to three inches in diameter. The flowers have four petals and a central boss of stamens. The fruit of Dendromecon is a capsule that splits open when ripe to release small black seeds.
Care Guide
Water: Dendromecon prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought once established. Water deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter.
Fertilization: Fertilize Dendromecon in the spring with a balanced fertilizer formulated for shrubs.
Soil: Dendromecon grows best in well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5.
Sunlight: Dendromecon prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.
Hardiness Zones: Dendromecon is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dendromecon is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if planted in poorly-draining soil.
Habitat
Dendromecon is native to California and Baja California, where it grows in dry, rocky soils in coastal sage scrub and chaparral habitats.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Dendromecon be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Dendromecon can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the shrub’s root system.
Q: Does Dendromecon require pruning?
A: Dendromecon does not require pruning, but can be pruned in the spring to control its size or shape.
Q: How often should I fertilize Dendromecon?
A: Fertilize Dendromecon once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer formulated for shrubs.
Q: Can I propagate Dendromecon from cuttings?
A: Yes, Dendromecon can be propagated from softwood cuttings taken in the summer.
Related Plants
- Eschscholzia californica (California poppy)
- Fremontodendron californicum (California flannelbush)
- Ribes sanguineum (red-flowering currant)
- Sambucus nigra (elderberry)
References
- California Native Plant Society. (2021). Dendromecon. https://www.cnps.org/guide/plants/dendromecon
- University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. (n.d.). Dendromecon. https://selectree.calpoly.edu/tree-detail/dendromecon
- United States Department of Agriculture. (n.d.). Plants Profile for Dendromecon. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=DENDR2
