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Description
Gossypium Sturtianum, also known as the Sturt Desert Rose or Australian Cotton, is a flowering shrub native to Australia. It belongs to the Malvaceae family, which is known for its showy and fragrant flowers. The plant can grow up to 3 meters tall and 2 meters wide, making it an excellent choice for a garden centerpiece. It has a woody stem and long, narrow leaves that alternate along the stem. The flowers are typically pink or purple and have a trumpet-like shape.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Gossypium |
Appearance
The Gossypium Sturtianum has a striking appearance, making it a popular choice for gardens. The leaves are long, narrow, and alternate along the stem. They are typically green and have a slightly rough texture. The flowers are the main attraction of this plant, and they bloom in abundance during the summer months. They are typically pink or purple and have a trumpet-like shape. The flowers have five petals and a yellow center, making them very attractive to bees and other pollinators. The fruit of the plant is a capsule that splits open when ripe, releasing the seeds.
Care Guide
Gossypium Sturtianum is a relatively low-maintenance plant that requires little care once established. Here are some care tips to keep in mind:
- Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, making sure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun, but it can also tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Gossypium Sturtianum is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to the following:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing yellowing and distortion of the leaves.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves.
- Fungal Diseases: Powdery mildew and leaf spot can affect the plant, causing yellowing and wilting of the leaves.
Habitat
Gossypium Sturtianum is native to the arid regions of Australia, where it can be found growing in rocky outcrops and along dry creek beds. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun, making it a popular choice for gardens in arid regions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Gossypium Sturtianum a drought-tolerant plant?
A: Yes, Gossypium Sturtianum is drought-tolerant and can survive in arid regions with little water.
Q: Can Gossypium Sturtianum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Gossypium Sturtianum can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s size.
Q: How often should I fertilize Gossypium Sturtianum?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Is Gossypium Sturtianum a fast-growing plant?
A: No, Gossypium Sturtianum is a slow-growing plant that can take several years to reach its full height.
Related Plants
- Gossypium arboreum
- Gossypium barbadense
- Gossypium hirsutum
- Gossypium tomentosum
References
- “Gossypium Sturtianum.” Florabase, florabase.dpaw.wa.gov.au/browse/profile/19821.
- “Sturt Desert Rose.” Australian Native Plants Society, anpsa.org.au/gos-stu.html.
- “Gossypium Sturtianum.” PlantNet, plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Gossypium~sturtianum.
