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Description
Funastrum Utahense, commonly known as Utah milkweed vine, is a beautiful plant that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. It is a perennial, herbaceous vine that can grow up to 6 feet long. This plant is native to the southwestern United States, particularly Utah, Arizona, and Nevada. It is a drought-tolerant plant that can adapt to a wide range of soil types and pH levels.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Funastrum |
Appearance
Funastrum Utahense has a unique appearance with its slender, green stem and lance-shaped leaves. The leaves are arranged alternately along the stem, and they can grow up to 3 inches long. This plant produces small, white or pink flowers that bloom in clusters from May to September. The flowers are followed by long, narrow seed pods that can grow up to 6 inches long. The seed pods contain silky, white hairs that help them disperse in the wind.
Care Guide
To grow and care for Funastrum Utahense, follow these tips:
Water: This plant is drought-tolerant and can survive on little water. Water it sparingly, only when the soil is dry to the touch.
Fertilization: Funastrum Utahense does not require much fertilization. You can fertilize it once a month with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Soil: This plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but it prefers well-draining soil. Make sure the soil is not too compacted so that water can drain easily.
Sunlight: Funastrum Utahense prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Place it in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight a day.
Hardiness Zones: Funastrum Utahense is hardy in zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Funastrum Utahense is relatively pest-free but can be susceptible to spider mites and aphids. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. This plant is also not prone to many diseases, but it can be affected by root rot if it is overwatered. Make sure the soil is well-draining and not too wet.
Habitat
Funastrum Utahense is native to the southwestern United States and can be found in desert regions, rocky slopes, and canyons. It can grow in a wide range of elevations, from 1,500 to 6,000 feet above sea level.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Funastrum Utahense poisonous?
A: No, this plant is not poisonous to humans or animals.
Q: Can Funastrum Utahense be grown in a container?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in a container as long as it has enough room to grow and the soil is well-draining.
Q: Does Funastrum Utahense attract butterflies?
A: Yes, this plant is a host plant for the monarch butterfly and can attract other butterfly species as well.
Q: How often should I prune Funastrum Utahense?
A: You can prune this plant in the spring to control its size and shape. It is not necessary to prune it regularly.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Funastrum Utahense:
- Funastrum Clausum
- Funastrum Hirtellum
- Funastrum Anisophyllum
References
- “Funastrum Utahense” – Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
- “Funastrum Utahense” – Utah State University Extension
- “Funastrum Utahense” – Arizona State University
