Contents
Description
Eriastrum Eremicum, commonly known as the desert woollystar or woolly star, is a perennial herbaceous plant. It is a member of the Polemoniaceae family and is native to the southwestern United States, particularly in California, Nevada, and Arizona. The plant is characterized by its hairy stems, leaves, and flower buds, which give it a woolly appearance.The desert woollystar is a small plant that typically grows up to 1-2 feet in height. It has numerous branches that grow upward from a central base, forming a bushy appearance. The plant produces numerous small blue or purple flowers that bloom from April to June.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Polemoniaceae |
| Genus | Eriastrum |
| Species | Eriastrum Eremicum |
Appearance
The desert woollystar has hairy stems and leaves that form a woolly appearance. The leaves are narrow and elongated, growing up to 1 inch in length. The plant produces numerous small blue or purple flowers that bloom from April to June. The flowers are arranged in clusters at the ends of the stems and have a star-like shape.
Care Guide
The desert woollystar is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-drained soil and full sunlight. The plant is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. However, it is important to water the plant deeply when first planted to help establish its root system.Fertilization is not necessary for the desert woollystar, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer can be applied in the spring to encourage growth.The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10 and can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°F.
Common Pests & Diseases
The desert woollystar is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if planted in poorly-drained soil. To prevent root rot, ensure that the plant is planted in well-drained soil and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
The desert woollystar is native to the southwestern United States, particularly in California, Nevada, and Arizona. It is commonly found in arid regions, such as desert scrub and rocky slopes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the desert woollystar a perennial or annual plant?
A: The desert woollystar is a perennial plant.
Q: Does the desert woollystar require frequent watering?
A: No, the desert woollystar is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering.
Q: What is the ideal growing zone for the desert woollystar?
A: The desert woollystar is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Q: Does the desert woollystar attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the desert woollystar attracts bees and butterflies.
Related Plants
- Eriastrum Densifolium
- Eriastrum Diffusum
- Eriastrum Harwoodii
- Eriastrum Sparsiflorum
References
- “Eriastrum Eremicum.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, University of Texas at Austin. Accessed September 20, 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=erer4.
- “Eriastrum Eremicum.” Calflora. Accessed September 20, 2021. https://www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-calrecnum=3031.
