Contents
Description
Flourensia Cernua, also known as tarbush or white bursage, is a species of flowering shrub in the aster family, native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It is a hardy plant that can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide, with a rounded shape and gray-green foliage. Its flowers bloom in the summer and fall, producing small, yellow blooms that attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Flourensia Cernua is a popular plant for xeriscaping due to its drought tolerance and low maintenance needs.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Flourensia |
Appearance
The Flourensia Cernua shrub has a rounded shape and can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide. Its leaves are gray-green, narrow and elongated, measuring about 1-2 inches long. The plant produces small, yellow flowers in the summer and fall, which are about 0.25 inches in diameter. The flowers are clustered at the end of the branches and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. After flowering, the plant produces small, white burs that cling to clothing or fur.
Care Guide
Flourensia Cernua is a hardy plant that is relatively easy to care for. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. The plant is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. However, it is important to water the plant deeply when it is first planted to help establish its roots. Fertilization is not necessary, but can be done sparingly in the spring if desired. Flourensia Cernua is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Flourensia Cernua is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can occasionally be affected by spider mites, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be susceptible to root rot if overwatered, so it is important to ensure that the soil is well-draining.
Habitat
Flourensia Cernua is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, where it grows in arid and semi-arid environments such as deserts, grasslands, and scrublands. It is a hardy plant that is well-adapted to drought conditions and can grow in poor soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Flourensia Cernua toxic to pets?
A: No, Flourensia Cernua is not toxic to pets.
Q: Can Flourensia Cernua be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Flourensia Cernua can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its root system.
Q: How often should Flourensia Cernua be watered?
A: Flourensia Cernua is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. However, it is important to water the plant deeply when it is first planted to help establish its roots.
Q: How can I propagate Flourensia Cernua?
A: Flourensia Cernua can be propagated by seed, stem cuttings, or layering.
Related Plants
- Flourensia Spp.
- Encelia Farinosa
- Chrysactinia Mexicana
- Leucophyllum Frutescens
References
- “Flourensia cernua.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, University of Texas at Austin. www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=FLCE.
- “Flourensia cernua.” Missouri Botanical Garden. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281009.
- “Flourensia cernua – Plant Finder.” www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/1556/tarbush/.
