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Description
Gutierrezia Californica, commonly known as the California Matchweed, is a small shrub native to California and Nevada in the United States. It belongs to the Asteraceae family, also known as the daisy family. The plant produces small, yellow flowers that bloom in the late summer and fall. The California Matchweed grows up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide and has a lifespan of about 10 years.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Gutierrezia |
Appearance
The California Matchweed has thin, green stems and small, narrow leaves that grow up to 1 inch long. The plant has a bushy appearance and produces many small, yellow flowers that are about 1/4 inch in diameter. The flowers have a disc-like center and 5-10 ray flowers that surround it. The plant blooms from August to November and produces fruits that are small, dry, and have a feathery appearance. The California Matchweed has a pleasant, aromatic scent that is similar to sagebrush.
Care Guide
The California Matchweed is a relatively easy plant to care for. It can be grown in a variety of soil types and prefers well-drained soil. It requires moderate watering and can tolerate drought conditions. The plant prefers full sun exposure but can also tolerate partial shade. The California Matchweed is hardy in USDA zones 8-10 and can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F.
Common Pests & Diseases
The California Matchweed is generally not susceptible to many pests or diseases. However, it can be affected by spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. The plant can also be affected by root rot if the soil is too wet, so it is important to ensure proper drainage.
Habitat
The California Matchweed is native to California and Nevada and can be found in a variety of habitats including dry valleys, hillsides, and rocky slopes. The plant prefers well-drained soils and can be found at elevations up to 5000 feet.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the California Matchweed a drought-tolerant plant?
A: Yes, the California Matchweed is drought-tolerant and can survive in dry conditions.
Q: What is the lifespan of the California Matchweed?
A: The California Matchweed has a lifespan of about 10 years.
Q: Does the California Matchweed have any medicinal uses?
A: Yes, the plant has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments including coughs, colds, and headaches.
Q: Is the California Matchweed an invasive species?
A: No, the California Matchweed is not considered an invasive species.
Related Plants
- Gutierrezia microcephala
- Gutierrezia sarothrae
- Gutierrezia texana
References
- “Gutierrezia Californica.” Calflora. Accessed 21 Aug. 2021. https://www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-calrecnum=3870
- “Gutierrezia Californica.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed 21 Aug. 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=GUCAL
- “Gutierrezia Californica.” Las Pilitas Nursery. Accessed 21 Aug. 2021. https://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/147–gutierrezia-californica
