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Description
Eremogone Juncea, commonly known as the Cushion plant or the Rush-like Sandwort, is a hardy flowering plant belonging to the Caryophyllaceae family. It is a low-growing perennial that forms dense cushions, making it an ideal plant for rock gardens or as a ground cover. The plant is native to North America and is found in rocky and sandy areas, from Alaska to California and as far east as Montana.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus | Eremogone |
| Species | E. Juncea |
Appearance
Eremogone Juncea is a small plant that reaches a height of only 2 to 4 inches and a width of 6 to 10 inches. It has narrow, needle-like leaves that are gray-green in color and form dense cushions. The plant produces tiny white flowers that bloom from June to August. The flowers have five petals and are about 0.2 inches in diameter. They are arranged in loose clusters at the tips of the stems.
Care Guide
Eremogone Juncea is a hardy plant that can tolerate poor soil and drought conditions. Here are some tips to care for this plant:
Water: Water the plant deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can cause root rot.
Fertilization: The plant does not require any fertilization, but you can add a slow-release fertilizer in the spring.
Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5. It can tolerate poor soil conditions, but avoid planting it in heavy clay soil.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate hot and dry conditions, but avoid planting it in areas with high humidity.
Hardiness Zones: Eremogone Juncea is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eremogone Juncea is generally disease-resistant and pest-free. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent this, ensure that the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Eremogone Juncea is native to North America and is found in rocky and sandy areas, from Alaska to California and as far east as Montana. It grows in open, sunny areas, on rocky slopes, and in gravelly soils. The plant is well-suited to dry, arid conditions and can tolerate extreme temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Eremogone Juncea be grown indoors?
A: No, Eremogone Juncea is an outdoor plant that requires full sun to grow and thrive.
Q: How often should I water Eremogone Juncea?
A: Water the plant deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Q: Can Eremogone Juncea be used as a ground cover?
A: Yes, Eremogone Juncea is an excellent ground cover and can be used in rock gardens and other sunny areas.
Q: How tall does Eremogone Juncea grow?
A: Eremogone Juncea reaches a height of only 2 to 4 inches.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that belong to the same family as Eremogone Juncea:
- Saponaria ocymoides (Rock Soapwort)
- Dianthus gratianopolitanus (Cheddar Pink)
- Cerastium tomentosum (Snow-in-Summer)
References
- “Eremogone juncea.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281218.
- “Eremogone juncea.” Plant Database, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=ERJU.
- “Eremogone juncea.” Flora of North America, www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=242415086.
