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Description
Gutierrezia Sarothrae, commonly known as broom snakeweed or matchweed, is a drought-tolerant shrub that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is native to the western United States and northern Mexico and can be found in arid regions such as deserts, dry plains, and rocky slopes. This plant is known for its yellow flowers that bloom in late summer and fall, which provide a source of food for pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Gutierrezia |
Appearance
The broom snakeweed is a small shrub that can grow up to 2-3 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide. The leaves are small, narrow, and gray-green in color, which helps the plant to conserve water. The flowers are small, yellow, and daisy-like, and they bloom in clusters at the end of the stems. The plant produces a seed head that looks like a small broom, hence its common name, broom snakeweed.
Care Guide
The broom snakeweed is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in hot and dry conditions. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization, but you can add a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season to promote growth.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining, sandy soil.
- Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to thrive.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The broom snakeweed is generally free of pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to spider mites and aphids. To prevent infestation, you can spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Root rot can occur if the plant is overwatered or planted in poorly draining soil.
Habitat
The broom snakeweed is native to the western United States and northern Mexico and can be found in arid regions such as deserts, dry plains, and rocky slopes. It is adapted to hot and dry conditions and can survive in poor soil and low rainfall. The plant is an important source of food and habitat for pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the broom snakeweed poisonous?
A: No, the plant is not toxic, but it can cause skin irritation in some people.
Q: Can I prune the plant?
A: Yes, you can prune the plant in early spring to promote bushier growth and remove any dead or damaged branches.
Q: How often should I water the plant?
A: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months.
Q: Can the broom snakeweed be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as it receives full sun and well-draining soil.
Related Plants
- Gutierrezia microcephala
- Gutierrezia sarothrae
- Gutierrezia texana
References
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/gutierrezia_sarothrae.shtml
- https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=GUSA2
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=GUSA2
