Contents
Description
Encelia Resinifera, also known as the Resinbush, is a small evergreen shrub native to the California desert. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is a hardy plant that can withstand drought and high temperatures. The plant blooms in the spring and summer months, producing bright yellow flowers that attract bees and other pollinators.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Encelia |
Appearance
The Resinbush has gray-green leaves covered in a resinous coating, giving the plant its name. The leaves are thick and stiff, with wavy edges, and can grow up to 4 inches long. The plant can reach a height of 3-4 feet and a width of 3-6 feet. The bright yellow flowers are daisy-like and can grow up to 2 inches in diameter. The Resinbush produces a strong fragrance, especially on hot days.
Care Guide
The Resinbush is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in poor soil conditions. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The Resinbush is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. However, it is important to water the plant deeply during the first year of growth to establish a strong root system.
- Fertilization: The Resinbush does not require fertilization, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help stimulate growth.
- Soil: The Resinbush prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, rocky, and clay soils.
- Sunlight: The Resinbush requires full sun exposure to thrive.
- Hardiness Zones: The Resinbush can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Resinbush is a hardy plant that is resistant to most pests and diseases. However, it is susceptible to root rot if over-watered. Here are some common pests and diseases:
- Root Rot: Over-watering can lead to root rot, which can cause the plant to wilt and die.
- Aphids: Aphids can infest the Resinbush, causing yellowing and curling of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.
- Spider Mites: Spider mites can also infest the Resinbush, causing leaves to turn yellow and fall off. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control spider mites.
Habitat
The Resinbush is native to the California desert and can be found growing in dry washes, rocky slopes, and desert flats. The plant can tolerate extreme heat and drought and is well-adapted to the arid conditions of the desert.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Resinbush a good plant for xeriscaping?
A: Yes, the Resinbush is an excellent plant for xeriscaping due to its drought tolerance and low-maintenance requirements.
Q: How often should I water the Resinbush?
A: The Resinbush is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water deeply during the first year of growth to establish a strong root system. After that, water only when the soil is dry to the touch.
Q: How tall does the Resinbush grow?
A: The Resinbush can reach a height of 3-4 feet and a width of 3-6 feet.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Resinbush?
A: The Resinbush can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Encelia Farinosa
- Encelia Californica
- Encelia Virginensis
- Encelia Actoni
References
- “Encelia resinifera.” Calflora. Accessed September 24, 2021. https://www.calflora.org/app/taxon?crn=14152.
- “Encelia resinifera.” DesertUSA. Accessed September 24, 2021. https://www.desertusa.com/flowers/resinbush.html.
- “Resin Bush (Encelia resinifera).” Dave’s Garden. Accessed September 24, 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/64359/.
