Contents
Description
Ericameria Laricifolia is a perennial shrub belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is commonly known as the Turpentine bush or the Tarbush, and it is native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. The plant can grow up to 5 feet tall and can spread up to 6 feet wide. Ericameria Laricifolia has a strong, resinous aroma and produces small, yellow flowers in the late summer and fall. It is drought-tolerant and can thrive in arid and semi-arid regions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Ericameria |
Appearance
Ericameria Laricifolia has thin, needle-like leaves that are approximately 1 inch long. The leaves are a grayish-green color and are arranged in a spiral pattern along the stems. The shrub produces small, yellow flowers that are approximately 0.5 inches in diameter. The flowers are clustered at the ends of the branches and bloom from late summer to fall.
Care Guide
Ericameria Laricifolia is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. It is drought-tolerant and can thrive in arid and semi-arid regions. The plant prefers well-draining soil and should be watered deeply but infrequently. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of compost in the spring can help promote growth. Ericameria Laricifolia prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is hardy in zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ericameria Laricifolia is generally free from pests and diseases. However, spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies can occasionally infest the plant. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Powdery mildew and rust can also affect the plant, but these diseases can be prevented by providing good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Ericameria Laricifolia is native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. It can be found growing in arid and semi-arid regions, including deserts, prairies, and foothills. The plant is often found growing in sandy or rocky soil and can tolerate extreme temperatures and drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Ericameria Laricifolia poisonous?
A: No, Ericameria Laricifolia is not poisonous.
Q: Can Ericameria Laricifolia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Ericameria Laricifolia can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the plant receives enough sunlight.
Q: How often should Ericameria Laricifolia be watered?
A: Ericameria Laricifolia should be watered deeply but infrequently. Water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Ericameria Laricifolia?
A: Ericameria Laricifolia is hardy in zones 8-11.
Related Plants
- Ericameria nauseosa (Rubber rabbitbrush)
- Ericameria linearifolia (Narrowleaf goldenbush)
- Ericameria discoidea (White-tipped goldenbush)
- Ericameria palmeri (Palmer’s goldenbush)
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Ericameria Laricifolia. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=ERLA
- DesertUSA. (n.d.). Turpentine Bush. Retrieved from https://www.desertusa.com/flora/turpentine-bush.html
- Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. (n.d.). Ericameria Laricifolia. Retrieved from https://www.desertmuseum.org/programs/sandscript/pdf/SS_13_1.pdf
