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Description
Descurainia Incana, commonly known as the grey tansy mustard, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. It is a native plant to North America, found in various regions such as the Great Plains, the Rocky Mountains, and the southwestern United States. The plant is an annual or biennial herb and grows up to a height of 1-2 feet. The leaves of the plant are finely divided and grayish-green in color, while the flowers are small and yellow in color, blooming from April to October. The plant is known for its pungent odor and bitter taste.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Descurainia |
Appearance
The Descurainia Incana plant has a unique appearance that makes it stand out from other plants. The leaves are finely divided and have a grayish-green color that gives it a distinct look. The flowers are small and yellow and bloom from April to October. The stems of the plant are thin and erect, growing up to a height of 1-2 feet. The plant has a pungent odor and bitter taste that is not appealing to many people. Overall, the Descurainia Incana plant has a rugged and wild appearance that adds character to gardens and landscapes.
Care Guide
The Descurainia Incana plant is relatively easy to grow and care for. Here are some tips to help you take care of this plant:
- Water: The plant requires moderate watering, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun exposure, but it can also grow in partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Descurainia Incana plant is relatively pest and disease-free. However, here are some common issues that you may encounter:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They can be controlled by spraying the plant with a solution of water and dish soap.
- Cabbage loopers: Cabbage loopers are green caterpillars that feed on the leaves of the plant. They can be controlled by handpicking or using an organic insecticide.
- Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves of the plant. It can be controlled by spraying the plant with a solution of water and baking soda.
Habitat
The Descurainia Incana plant is a native plant to North America and is found in various regions such as the Great Plains, the Rocky Mountains, and the southwestern United States. The plant is well adapted to dry and arid environments and can grow in rocky and sandy soils. It is often found in disturbed areas such as roadsides, fields, and waste places. The plant is an important food source for insects and wildlife, providing nectar for bees and butterflies and seeds for birds and small mammals.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Descurainia Incana plant poisonous?
A: No, the plant is not poisonous, but it has a bitter taste that is not appealing to many people.
Q: How often should I water the Descurainia Incana plant?
A: The plant requires moderate watering, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Q: Can the Descurainia Incana plant grow in partial shade?
A: Yes, the plant can grow in partial shade, but it prefers full sun exposure.
Q: What is the blooming period of the Descurainia Incana plant?
A: The plant blooms from April to October.
Related Plants
- Descurainia pinnata
- Descurainia sophia
- Descurainia incisa
- Descurainia longipedicellata
References
- USDA Plants Database: Descurainia Incana
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Descurainia Incana
- University of Arizona Cooperative Extension: Descurainia Incana
