Contents
Description
Eremogone Lychnidea, commonly known as “Tufted Sandwort,” is a perennial herb that belongs to the Caryophyllaceae family. It is native to North America, where it grows in dry and rocky places, such as deserts, sagebrush flats, and mountain meadows. This plant has a mat-forming habit and produces numerous small, white flowers from late spring to early summer. Eremogone Lychnidea is a low-maintenance plant that can be grown in rock gardens, borders, and containers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus | Eremogone |
Appearance
Eremogone Lychnidea has a low-growing, mat-forming habit, with stems that can reach up to 15 cm in length. The leaves are narrow and linear, with a bluish-green color and a smooth texture. The flowers are small, white, and star-shaped, with five petals that are deeply notched. They bloom in late spring to early summer and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Eremogone Lychnidea is a hardy plant that can tolerate drought and poor soil conditions.
Care Guide
Water
Eremogone Lychnidea prefers well-drained soil and does not like to be overwatered. It is best to water this plant deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. During the hot summer months, it may need more frequent watering to prevent wilting.
Fertilization
Eremogone Lychnidea does not require fertilization, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote healthy growth and blooming.
Soil
Eremogone Lychnidea prefers well-drained, sandy soil that is slightly alkaline. It can tolerate poor soil conditions and is often found growing in rocky or gravelly areas.
Sunlight
Eremogone Lychnidea prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not bloom as profusely.
Hardiness Zones
Eremogone Lychnidea is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eremogone Lychnidea is generally free of pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered in poorly drained soil.
Habitat
Eremogone Lychnidea is native to North America, where it grows in dry and rocky places, such as deserts, sagebrush flats, and mountain meadows. It can be found in a variety of habitats, from high elevations to sea level.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Eremogone Lychnidea be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Eremogone Lychnidea can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the plant receives enough sunlight.
Q: Does Eremogone Lychnidea attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Eremogone Lychnidea produces small, white flowers that attract bees and butterflies.
Q: What is the best time to plant Eremogone Lychnidea?
A: The best time to plant Eremogone Lychnidea is in the spring or fall, when the weather is cool and moist.
Q: How often should Eremogone Lychnidea be watered?
A: Eremogone Lychnidea prefers to be watered deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. During the hot summer months, it may need more frequent watering to prevent wilting.
Related Plants
- Eremogone capillaris
- Eremogone congesta
- Eremogone fendleri
- Eremogone kingii
References
- USDA Plants Database. Eremogone lychnidea (Eastw.) Ikonn. Tufted sandwort. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=ERLY
- Missouri Botanical Garden. Eremogone lychnidea. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a383
- University of California Agriculture & Natural Resources. Eremogone lychnidea. http://ipm.ucanr.edu/PMG/GARDEN/PLANTS/eremogone.html
