Contents
Description
Gossypium Thurberi, commonly known as Arizona cotton, is a plant species native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. It belongs to the Malvaceae family, which also includes hibiscus and okra. This species is known for its unique features, such as its ability to grow in desert-like conditions, its small size, and its relatively low yield of cotton compared to other cotton species.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Gossypium |
Appearance
Gossypium Thurberi is a small shrub that grows up to 1 meter in height. Its leaves are green and have a heart or oval shape. Its flowers are white or yellow with a diameter of 2-3 cm. Its fruits are capsules that contain cotton fibers. The fibers are shorter and coarser than those of other cotton species, which makes them less suitable for textile production.
Care Guide
Gossypium Thurberi is a hardy plant that can grow in a wide range of conditions. However, it requires specific care to thrive.
Water
Gossypium Thurberi needs regular watering during the growing season, but it can tolerate drought once established. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization
It is recommended to fertilize Gossypium Thurberi with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. The fertilizer should be applied every 4-6 weeks.
Soil
Gossypium Thurberi prefers well-drained soil with a neutral pH. It can grow in sandy or loamy soil, but it does not tolerate heavy clay soil.
Sunlight
Gossypium Thurberi needs full sun to grow and produce cotton fibers.
Hardiness Zones
Gossypium Thurberi can grow in USDA hardiness zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Gossypium Thurberi is susceptible to various pests and diseases, including:
Pests
- Aphids
- Spider mites
- Whiteflies
Diseases
- Fungal diseases, such as root rot and wilt
- Bacterial diseases, such as blight
- Viral diseases, such as leaf curl
Habitat
Gossypium Thurberi is native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. It grows in desert-like conditions, such as rocky slopes, canyons, and washes. It can also grow in disturbed areas, such as roadsides and fields.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the difference between Gossypium Thurberi and other cotton species?
A: Gossypium Thurberi has shorter and coarser cotton fibers than other cotton species, which makes them less suitable for textile production. It also grows in desert-like conditions, while other cotton species require more water and nutrients.
Q: Can Gossypium Thurberi be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Gossypium Thurberi can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough and have good drainage. However, it may not produce as much cotton as plants grown in the ground.
Q: Is Gossypium Thurberi an endangered species?
A: No, Gossypium Thurberi is not an endangered species. However, its habitat is threatened by human activities, such as urbanization and agriculture.
Q: How long does it take for Gossypium Thurberi to produce cotton?
A: Gossypium Thurberi produces cotton fibers after the flowers have been pollinated. It takes about 2-3 months for the cotton to mature and be ready for harvest.
Related Plants
- Gossypium barbadense
- Gossypium hirsutum
- Gossypium herbaceum
- Gossypium tomentosum
References
- Arizona Native Plant Society. (n.d.). Gossypium thurberi. Retrieved from https://aznps.com/plant/gossypium-thurberi/
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Gossypium thurberi. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c855
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Gossypium thurberi. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=GOTH
