Contents
Description
Downingia Ornatissima is a rare species of flowering plant native to California. It belongs to the Campanulaceae family and is known for its beautiful blue flowers that bloom in the spring. The plant grows up to 10 inches tall and spreads up to 12 inches wide. Downingia Ornatissima is an annual plant that blooms from March to May and is often found growing in meadows and grasslands.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Campanulaceae |
| Genus | Downingia |
Appearance
Downingia Ornatissima has thin, delicate stems that grow up to 10 inches tall. The leaves are small, green, and lanceolate in shape. The plant produces beautiful blue flowers that are about 1 inch in diameter. The flowers have five petals and a yellow center. The plant blooms in the spring, from March to May, and can spread up to 12 inches wide.
Care Guide
Downingia Ornatissima requires regular watering and well-draining soil. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 8-10. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can cause the plant to become leggy and weak.
Common Pests & Diseases
Downingia Ornatissima is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also prone to root rot, especially if overwatered. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Habitat
Downingia Ornatissima is native to California and is often found growing in meadows and grasslands. The plant thrives in well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 8-10 and requires regular watering.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Downingia Ornatissima a perennial or annual plant?
A: Downingia Ornatissima is an annual plant.
Q: What is the blooming season for Downingia Ornatissima?
A: Downingia Ornatissima blooms from March to May.
Q: What type of soil does Downingia Ornatissima require?
A: Downingia Ornatissima requires well-draining soil.
Q: What pests are common on Downingia Ornatissima?
A: Aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies are common pests on Downingia Ornatissima.
Related Plants
- Downingia Bacigalupii
- Downingia Concolor
- Downingia Laeta
- Downingia Monticola
References
- Downingia Ornatissima. (n.d.). Retrieved August 10, 2021, from https://www.calflora.org/app/taxon?crn=2104
- Downingia Ornatissima. (n.d.). Retrieved August 10, 2021, from https://www.inaturalist.org/taxa/167996-Downingia-ornatissima
- Downingia Ornatissima. (n.d.). Retrieved August 10, 2021, from https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=DOOR2
