Gayophytum Eriospermum

Taxonomic Information

Description: Gayophytum Eriospermum, also known as woolly-podded desert-trumpets, is a perennial plant that is native to North America. It can grow up to 30cm tall and has a woody base with many branches. The leaves are narrow and long, approximately 2-4cm in length, and have a woolly texture. The flowers are trumpet-shaped and grow in clusters at the top of the stems. They are usually pink or purple in color and bloom from April to July.

Appearance

G. Eriospermum is a small, bushy plant that is covered in fine, silky hairs. The stems are thin and wiry, and the leaves are narrow and elongated, giving the plant a delicate appearance. The flowers are showy and trumpet-shaped, with five petals that flare out from a narrow tube. They have a sweet fragrance that attracts pollinators, such as bees and butterflies. The seeds are enclosed in a woolly pod that splits open when mature, dispersing the seeds by wind.

Care Guide

Water: G. Eriospermum prefers well-drained soil and does not tolerate wet feet. Water only when the soil is dry to the touch, and avoid overwatering.

Fertilization: This plant does not require fertilization but benefits from a light application of a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.

Soil: G. Eriospermum grows best in sandy, well-drained soil with a neutral to alkaline pH. Avoid heavy clay soils that can retain water and cause root rot.

Sunlight: This plant thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Ensure it gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.

Hardiness Zones: G. Eriospermum is hardy to USDA zones 7-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

G. Eriospermum is generally a healthy plant that is resistant to most pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soil.

Habitat

G. Eriospermum is found in arid and semi-arid regions of North America, including the Great Basin and Mojave deserts. It prefers sandy soils in open areas with full sun exposure, such as rocky slopes and washes.

Question and Answer

Q: Is G. Eriospermum drought-tolerant?

A: Yes, this plant is adapted to arid and semi-arid conditions and can tolerate drought once established.

Q: How often should I water my G. Eriospermum?

A: Water only when the soil is dry to the touch, usually once a week in the growing season and less frequently in winter.

Q: Can I grow G. Eriospermum in a container?

A: Yes, this plant can be grown in a container as long as it has well-drained soil and receives adequate sunlight.

Q: How do I propagate G. Eriospermum?

A: This plant can be propagated from seeds or cuttings taken in the spring. Sow seeds in sandy soil in the fall or winter, or take stem cuttings and root them in a well-draining soil mix.

Related Plants

• Gayophytum Diffusum
• Gayophytum Racemosum
• Gayophytum Heterozygum

References

• “Gayophytum Eriospermum.” Plant Finder. Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c150
• “Gayophytum Eriospermum.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. University of Texas at Austin. Accessed September 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=GAER4