Contents
Description
Gossypium Darwinii, commonly known as Darwin cotton, is a species of cotton plant that is native to South America. It is a perennial shrub that can reach a height of up to 3 meters. The plant is known for its unique and attractive flowers that bloom in shades of pink, purple, and white. The cotton produced by the plant is of good quality and is used for a variety of purposes, including clothing, textiles, and medical supplies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Gossypium |
Appearance
Gossypium Darwinii has a woody stem with branches that spread out in all directions. The leaves are large, green, and lobed, with a velvety texture on the underside. The flowers are large, showy, and have a distinctive hibiscus-like shape. They bloom in the summer and fall, and the cotton bolls appear shortly after the flowers fade. The cotton fibers are long, soft, and silky, and have a distinctive sheen that makes them highly prized for use in textiles.
Care Guide
Gossypium Darwinii is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun exposure, but can tolerate partial shade. The plant should be watered regularly, but care should be taken not to overwater as this can lead to root rot. Fertilizer can be applied in the spring and summer to promote healthy growth. The plant is hardy in USDA Zones 9-11, but can be grown as an annual in cooler climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Gossypium Darwinii is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Other potential problems include spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Cotton bollworms and boll weevils can also be a problem, but these can be controlled with pesticides.
Habitat
Gossypium Darwinii is native to the South American countries of Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. It grows in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, savannas, and forests. The plant is well adapted to hot, dry conditions and can tolerate periods of drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Gossypium Darwinii be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Gossypium Darwinii can be grown in containers, but it may require more frequent watering and fertilization.
Q: Is Gossypium Darwinii an invasive species?
A: No, Gossypium Darwinii is not considered to be an invasive species.
Q: Can Gossypium Darwinii be grown indoors?
A: No, Gossypium Darwinii requires full sun exposure and is not suitable for indoor growing.
Q: Is Gossypium Darwinii genetically modified?
A: No, Gossypium Darwinii is a naturally occurring species and is not genetically modified.
Related Plants
- Gossypium barbadense
- Gossypium hirsutum
- Gossypium herbaceum
- Gossypium tomentosum
References
- Encyclopedia of Life. (n.d.). Gossypium darwinii. Retrieved from https://eol.org/pages/5849124
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Gossypium darwinii. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c758
- USDA. (n.d.). Gossypium darwinii. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=GODA
